Biblical Context:
The account of Elisha predicting Hazael's rise to power is found in 2 Kings 8:7-15. This narrative occurs during the prophetic ministry of Elisha, a prominent prophet in the Northern Kingdom of Israel, who succeeded Elijah. The events unfold during the reign of King Joram of Israel and King Ben-Hadad of Aram (Syria).

Narrative Summary:
Elisha travels to Damascus, the capital of Aram, where King Ben-Hadad is gravely ill. Upon hearing of Elisha's presence, Ben-Hadad instructs his servant Hazael to take a gift to the prophet and inquire whether he will recover from his illness. Hazael, a high-ranking official in the Aramean court, approaches Elisha with a lavish gift, seeking divine insight into the king's fate.

Elisha's response is both direct and enigmatic. He tells Hazael, "Go and say to him, ‘You will surely recover.’ But the LORD has shown me that he will surely die" (2 Kings 8:10). This statement indicates that while the illness itself is not fatal, other circumstances will lead to the king's demise.

Elisha then gazes intently at Hazael, and the prophet begins to weep. When Hazael inquires about the reason for his tears, Elisha reveals the future atrocities Hazael will commit against the Israelites, saying, "I know the harm you will do to the Israelites. You will set fire to their fortresses, kill their young men with the sword, dash their little ones to pieces, and rip open their pregnant women" (2 Kings 8:12). This prophecy highlights the impending suffering and destruction that Hazael will bring upon Israel.

Hazael, seemingly taken aback, questions how he, a mere servant, could achieve such power. Elisha responds, "The LORD has shown me that you will become king over Aram" (2 Kings 8:13). This prophetic declaration sets the stage for Hazael's future actions.

Upon returning to Ben-Hadad, Hazael reports that the king will recover. However, the following day, Hazael takes matters into his own hands, smothering Ben-Hadad with a wet cloth and seizing the throne for himself. Thus, Elisha's prophecy is fulfilled as Hazael becomes king of Aram.

Theological Significance:
This passage underscores the sovereignty of God in the affairs of nations and individuals. Elisha's prophecy reveals God's foreknowledge and control over historical events, even those involving foreign nations like Aram. The narrative also highlights the role of prophets as God's messengers, delivering divine revelations that often include both immediate and long-term implications.

The account of Hazael's rise to power serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of unchecked ambition and the fulfillment of divine prophecy. It illustrates the complex interplay between human agency and divine will, as Hazael's actions align with the prophetic word given by Elisha.

Historical and Cultural Context:
Hazael's ascension to the throne marks a significant shift in the political landscape of the ancient Near East. As king, Hazael becomes a formidable adversary to Israel, engaging in military campaigns that fulfill Elisha's grim predictions. His reign is characterized by expansionist policies and aggressive warfare, which have lasting impacts on the region.

In the broader biblical narrative, the rise of Hazael and the subsequent suffering of Israel serve as a backdrop for the unfolding account of God's covenant relationship with His people. Despite the challenges and adversities faced by Israel, the prophetic voices, including that of Elisha, continue to call the nation to faithfulness and repentance.