Elisha's Final Prophecy:

Elisha, the prophet and successor of Elijah, played a significant role in the history of Israel through his ministry, which was marked by numerous miracles and prophetic acts. His final prophecy is recorded in 2 Kings 13:14-19. As Elisha lay on his deathbed, King Jehoash of Israel visited him, expressing concern over the impending threat from the Arameans. Elisha instructed Jehoash to take a bow and arrows, and as the king did so, Elisha placed his hands on the king's hands, symbolizing divine empowerment and guidance.

Elisha then commanded Jehoash to open the east window and shoot an arrow. As the king obeyed, Elisha declared, "The LORD’s arrow of victory, the arrow of victory over Aram! You will completely destroy the Arameans at Aphek" (2 Kings 13:17). This act symbolized the LORD's promise of deliverance and victory over Israel's enemies.

Following this, Elisha instructed Jehoash to strike the ground with the remaining arrows. The king struck the ground three times and stopped. Elisha was angered by Jehoash's lack of persistence, saying, "You should have struck the ground five or six times; then you would have struck down Aram until you had put an end to it. But now you will strike down Aram only three times" (2 Kings 13:19). This prophecy indicated that Israel's victory over Aram would be limited due to the king's half-hearted obedience.

Elisha's Death:

Elisha's death is briefly recorded in 2 Kings 13:20. The passage states, "And Elisha died and was buried." Despite the brevity of this account, Elisha's influence and legacy were profound, as evidenced by the miracles associated with his life and even his death.

A remarkable event occurred after Elisha's burial, demonstrating the enduring power of God through His prophet. In 2 Kings 13:21, it is recorded that during a Moabite raid, some Israelites were burying a man when they saw the raiders. In their haste, they threw the man's body into Elisha's tomb. Upon contact with Elisha's bones, the man was revived and stood up on his feet. This miracle served as a testament to the divine power that had worked through Elisha and continued to affirm God's presence and authority in Israel.

Elisha's life and ministry were characterized by unwavering faithfulness to God and a commitment to guiding Israel according to divine will. His final prophecy and the miraculous event following his death underscore the enduring impact of his prophetic ministry and the sovereignty of God in the affairs of His people.