Topical Encyclopedia Naaman's wife is a figure mentioned briefly in the Old Testament, specifically in the book of 2 Kings. Although her name is not recorded in the biblical text, her role is pivotal in the narrative of Naaman's healing from leprosy. She is the wife of Naaman, a commander of the army of the king of Aram (Syria), a man described as "a great man in the sight of his master and highly regarded, because through him the LORD had given victory to Aram" (2 Kings 5:1). Despite his military success and high status, Naaman suffered from leprosy, a condition that brought both physical suffering and social stigma.The account of Naaman's wife is found in 2 Kings 5:2-3. The text states, "At this time the Arameans had gone out in bands and had taken captive a young girl from the land of Israel. She served Naaman’s wife. She said to her mistress, 'If only my master would go to the prophet who is in Samaria, he would cure him of his leprosy.'" (2 Kings 5:2-3). This young Israelite girl, taken captive during one of the Aramean raids, becomes a servant to Naaman's wife and plays a crucial role in the unfolding events. Naaman's wife, though not directly quoted in the text, is implied to have communicated the servant girl's message to her husband. Her willingness to listen to the advice of a young servant girl and to pass on this information to Naaman demonstrates a level of openness and humility. This act of communication sets in motion the events that lead Naaman to seek healing from the prophet Elisha in Israel. The narrative highlights the interconnectedness of various individuals in God's providential plan. Naaman's wife's role, though indirect, is essential in the chain of events that lead to Naaman's encounter with the God of Israel. Her actions, along with those of the servant girl, illustrate how God can use seemingly minor characters to accomplish His purposes. Naaman's eventual healing, after following Elisha's instructions to wash in the Jordan River seven times, results in his acknowledgment of the God of Israel. He declares, "Now I know that there is no God in all the earth except in Israel" (2 Kings 5:15). This confession underscores the broader theme of God's sovereignty and the reach of His grace beyond the borders of Israel. In summary, while Naaman's wife is a minor character in the biblical narrative, her role is significant in the account of Naaman's healing. Her willingness to heed the advice of her servant girl and to communicate it to her husband demonstrates the importance of faith and obedience in God's redemptive plan. Through her actions, she becomes an integral part of a account that reveals God's power and mercy to those outside the covenant community of Israel. |