The Shunammite woman's husband is a figure mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the book of 2 Kings. He is known primarily through his association with his wife, the Shunammite woman, who is a prominent character in the narrative of the prophet Elisha. The account of the Shunammite woman and her husband is found in 2 Kings 4:8-37 and 2 Kings 8:1-6.

Background and Context

The Shunammite woman and her husband resided in Shunem, a town in the territory of Issachar, located in the northern part of ancient Israel. The couple is described as wealthy and influential, possessing the means to extend hospitality to the prophet Elisha. The Shunammite woman is noted for her initiative and generosity, as she persuades her husband to provide a room for Elisha whenever he passes through their region.

Biblical Account

In 2 Kings 4:8-10, the Shunammite woman suggests to her husband that they prepare a small, furnished room on the roof of their house for Elisha. She recognizes Elisha as a "holy man of God" and desires to support his ministry. Her husband consents to this arrangement, demonstrating his willingness to accommodate the prophet and his respect for his wife's discernment.

The narrative continues with Elisha's gratitude for their hospitality. In 2 Kings 4:11-17, Elisha, desiring to repay their kindness, prophesies that the Shunammite woman will embrace a son within a year, despite her husband's old age. The prophecy is fulfilled, and the couple is blessed with a child.

Tragedy strikes in 2 Kings 4:18-20 when the child, now grown, suffers a sudden illness while working in the fields with his father. The boy is carried to his mother, where he tragically dies on her lap. The Shunammite woman, demonstrating remarkable faith and composure, lays the child on Elisha's bed and sets out to find the prophet.

The husband's role in this part of the narrative is minimal, as the focus shifts to the Shunammite woman's interaction with Elisha. However, his initial response to his wife's request to visit the prophet is recorded in 2 Kings 4:22-23: "And she called to her husband and said, 'Please send me one of the servants and one of the donkeys, so I can hurry to the man of God and return.' But he replied, 'Why would you go to him today? It is not a New Moon or a Sabbath.' 'Everything is all right,' she said."

Character and Significance

The Shunammite woman's husband is portrayed as a supportive and accommodating figure, though he remains somewhat in the background compared to his wife's active role. His willingness to heed his wife's suggestions and his participation in providing for Elisha reflect a harmonious marital relationship and a shared commitment to honoring God's servant.

While the biblical text does not provide extensive details about his character, his actions suggest a man of integrity and faith, willing to support his wife's spiritual insights and the work of the prophet. His presence in the narrative underscores the importance of partnership and mutual respect within marriage, as well as the blessings that come from hospitality and faithfulness to God's messengers.

Later References

The Shunammite woman and her husband reappear in 2 Kings 8:1-6, where Elisha warns them of an impending famine. The couple heeds the prophet's advice and relocates to the land of the Philistines for seven years. Upon their return, the Shunammite woman appeals to the king for the restoration of her property. The king, moved by her account and the testimony of Gehazi, Elisha's servant, grants her request.

In this later account, the husband's role is again understated, but the narrative highlights the enduring impact of their relationship with Elisha and the continued favor they receive as a result of their faithfulness and obedience.