Gehazi, the servant of the prophet Elisha, is a prominent figure in the narrative found in 2 Kings 4-5. His account serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of greed and deceit, illustrating the severe consequences that can follow such actions.

Background

Gehazi first appears in the biblical narrative as Elisha's attendant, assisting the prophet in his ministry. He is present during several of Elisha's miracles, including the resurrection of the Shunammite woman's son (2 Kings 4:18-37). Gehazi's role as Elisha's servant places him in a position of trust and responsibility, making his later actions all the more grievous.

The Incident with Naaman

The most significant account involving Gehazi is found in 2 Kings 5, where he becomes entangled in the account of Naaman, the commander of the army of the king of Aram. Naaman, a leper, seeks healing from Elisha after hearing of the prophet's miraculous powers. Elisha instructs Naaman to wash in the Jordan River seven times, resulting in his miraculous healing (2 Kings 5:10-14).

In gratitude, Naaman offers Elisha gifts, but the prophet refuses, emphasizing that the healing was an act of God and not a service for profit (2 Kings 5:15-16). Gehazi, however, sees an opportunity for personal gain. Driven by greed, he pursues Naaman and deceitfully claims that Elisha has changed his mind and requests a talent of silver and two sets of clothing for two young prophets (2 Kings 5:20-22).

Naaman, unaware of the deception, generously gives Gehazi two talents of silver and two sets of clothing. Gehazi hides the gifts and returns to Elisha, attempting to conceal his actions. When confronted by Elisha, Gehazi lies, claiming he went nowhere (2 Kings 5:25).

Punishment

Elisha, endowed with prophetic insight, reveals that he knows of Gehazi's deceit. He rebukes Gehazi, saying, "Was not my spirit with you when the man got down from his chariot to meet you? Is this the time to take money or to accept clothes, olive groves, vineyards, flocks, herds, or menservants and maidservants?" (2 Kings 5:26). As a consequence of his greed and dishonesty, Elisha pronounces that Naaman's leprosy will cling to Gehazi and his descendants forever (2 Kings 5:27).

Immediately, Gehazi is struck with leprosy, described as "white as snow" (2 Kings 5:27). This punishment not only affects Gehazi physically but also socially and spiritually, as leprosy in biblical times rendered a person ceremonially unclean and ostracized from the community.

Theological Implications

Gehazi's account underscores the biblical principle that God sees the heart and judges accordingly. His greed led him to prioritize material wealth over integrity and obedience to God. The narrative serves as a stark reminder of the perils of covetousness and the importance of honesty and faithfulness in service to God.

The account of Gehazi also highlights the role of a prophet's servant, who is expected to uphold the same standards of righteousness and humility as the prophet himself. Gehazi's failure to do so resulted in severe consequences, illustrating the biblical truth that sin often carries repercussions that extend beyond the individual to affect future generations.