Rediscovering God’s Power: A Verse-by-Verse Commentary on 2 Kings 6

Executive Summary

2 Kings 6, centered around “rediscovering God’s power,” presents a powerful narrative of divine intervention and provision. From the floating axe head, demonstrating God’s concern for even the smallest of needs, to the blinding of the Aramean army, showcasing His overwhelming power against the enemies of Israel, this chapter is replete with spiritual lessons. Elisha, the prophet, acts as the conduit of God’s miraculous acts, revealing the Lord’s commitment to His people and His ability to work beyond the limitations of human understanding. The chapter reminds us that God is always present and active in our lives, ready to intervene when we call upon Him in faith. This chapter not only highlights the importance of trusting in God’s provision and protection but also emphasizes the role of the prophet as a mediator between God and humanity. It’s a call to recognize and rely on God’s omnipresence and omnipotence in every aspect of our lives.

In the ever-turbulent narrative of the Old Testament, 2 Kings 6 shines as a beacon of God’s miraculous intervention and enduring presence. This chapter, teeming with divine power and prophetic insight, recounts two striking miracles: the floating axe head and the blinding of the Aramean army. These events offer profound theological implications, reminding us of God’s intimate involvement in the lives of His people and His unwavering commitment to their protection. Let us delve into the depths of this sacred text, exploring its historical, spiritual, and practical significance within the framework of Coptic Orthodox tradition.

Commentary Section 1: The Floating Axe Head (2 Kings 6:1-7)

2 Kings 6:1-7 (KJV): And the sons of the prophets said unto Elisha, Behold now, the place where we dwell with thee is too strait for us. Let us go, we pray thee, unto Jordan, and take thence every man a beam, and let us make us a place there, where we may dwell. And he answered, Go ye. And one said, Be content, I pray thee, and go with thy servants. And he answered, I will go. So he went with them. And when they came to Jordan, they cut down wood. But as one was felling a beam, the axe head fell into the water: and he cried, and said, Alas, master! for it was borrowed. And the man of God said, Where fell it? And he shewed him the place. And he cut down a stick, and cast it in thither; and the iron did swim. Therefore said he, Take it up to thee. And he put out his hand, and took it.

Spiritual Commentary: The sons of the prophets, feeling constrained by their current dwelling, sought to expand their living space. This act reflects a natural desire for growth and improvement. Elisha’s willingness to accompany them underscores the importance of humility and service, even for a prophet of his stature. When the axe head fell into the water, it represented a loss, a hindrance to their work. The axe head being borrowed amplifies the sense of responsibility and the potential repercussions of its loss. Elisha’s miraculous retrieval of the axe head demonstrates God’s concern for even the smallest of details in our lives. It is a testament to His power to restore what is lost and to provide for our needs, both spiritual and material. This also resonates deeply within the Orthodox understanding of God’s *Oikonomia* (οἰκονομία), His divine plan for salvation and management of all creation.

Patristic Insight: St. Athanasius, in *De Incarnatione*, speaks of Christ’s incarnation as a means of restoring what was lost due to sin. Just as Elisha restored the axe head, Christ restores our broken relationship with God. Αθανάσιος, *Περὶ Ἐνανθρωπήσεως* (Athanasius, *De Incarnatione*), emphasizes the restoration of humanity to its original image through Christ’s incarnation.

Modern Application: How often do we find ourselves bogged down by small, seemingly insignificant problems? The story of the floating axe head reminds us that no problem is too small for God’s attention. We should bring all our concerns to Him, trusting in His ability to provide solutions and restore what we have lost. Consider using tools like website builder to establish your online presence which can help you to establish your goals and to reach out to community.

Commentary Section 2: The Aramean Attack and Elisha’s Prayer (2 Kings 6:8-17)

2 Kings 6:8-17 (KJV): Then the king of Syria warred against Israel, and took counsel with his servants, saying, In such and such a place shall be my camp. And the man of God sent unto the king of Israel, saying, Beware that thou pass not such a place; for thither the Syrians are come down. And the king of Israel sent to the place which the man of God told him and warned him of, and saved himself there, not once nor twice. Therefore the heart of the king of Syria was sore troubled for this thing; and he called his servants, and said unto them, Will ye shew me which of us is for the king of Israel? And one of his servants said, None, my lord, O king: but Elisha, the prophet that is in Israel, telleth the king of Israel the words that thou speakest in thy bedchamber. And he said, Go and spy where he is, that I may send and fetch him. And it was told him, saying, Behold, he is in Dothan. Therefore sent he thither horses, and chariots, and a great host: and they came by night, and compassed the city about. And when the servant of the man of God was risen early, and gone forth, behold, an host compassed the city both with horses and chariots. And his servant said unto him, Alas, my master! how shall we do? And he answered, Fear not: for they that be with us are more than they that be with them. And Elisha prayed, and said, LORD, I pray thee, open his eyes, that he may see. And the LORD opened the eyes of the young man; and he saw: and, behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire round about Elisha.

Spiritual Commentary: The King of Syria’s repeated attempts to ambush Israel were thwarted by Elisha’s prophetic knowledge. This highlights the power of divine revelation and God’s ability to protect His people from hidden dangers. The Aramean king’s frustration underscores the futility of opposing God’s will. The servant’s fear upon seeing the Aramean army is a relatable human response to overwhelming odds. Elisha’s calm reassurance, “Fear not: for they that be with us are more than they that be with them,” reveals a deep trust in God’s power and presence. Elisha’s prayer for his servant to see the heavenly host is a pivotal moment. It demonstrates that spiritual reality is often hidden from our physical senses but can be revealed through divine intervention. The vision of the mountain filled with horses and chariots of fire is a powerful symbol of God’s protection and the overwhelming strength of His angelic armies.

Patristic Insight: St. Cyril of Alexandria, in his commentary on the Psalms, speaks of the angelic hosts as protectors of the faithful. Κύριλλος Αλεξανδρείας, *Εἰς τοὺς Ψαλμούς* (Cyril of Alexandria, *Commentary on the Psalms*), emphasizes the role of angels in defending believers against spiritual enemies. This passage mirrors the Coptic understanding of angelic intercession and protection, as depicted in icons and liturgical hymns.

Modern Application: We often face situations that seem overwhelming, surrounded by challenges that threaten to consume us. Like Elisha’s servant, we may be tempted to despair. However, this passage reminds us to trust in God’s unseen power and protection. We must pray for spiritual sight, to perceive the reality of God’s presence and the strength of His angelic armies who are fighting on our behalf. Learn to trust in divine protection.

Commentary Section 3: The Blinding of the Aramean Army and Elisha’s Mercy (2 Kings 6:18-23)

2 Kings 6:18-23 (KJV): And when they came down to him, Elisha prayed unto the LORD, and said, Smite this people, I pray thee, with blindness. And he smote them with blindness according to the word of Elisha. And Elisha said unto them, This is not the way, neither is this the city: follow me, and I will bring you to the man whom ye seek. But he led them to Samaria. And it came to pass, when they were come into Samaria, that Elisha said, LORD, open their eyes, that they may see. And the LORD opened their eyes, and they saw; and, behold, they were in the midst of Samaria. And the king of Israel said unto Elisha, when he saw them, My father, shall I smite them? And he answered, Thou shalt not smite them: wouldest thou smite those whom thou hast taken captive with thy sword and with thy bow? Set bread and water before them, that they may eat and drink, and go to their master. And he prepared great provision for them: and when they had eaten and drunk, he sent them away, and they went to their master. So the bands of Syria came no more into the land of Israel.

Spiritual Commentary: Elisha’s prayer for the Aramean army to be struck with blindness might seem harsh, but it was a necessary act to protect Israel. This divine blindness highlights the limitations of human understanding when confronted with God’s power. Elisha leading the blinded army into Samaria, the heart of Israel, demonstrates God’s control over the enemy. The king of Israel’s question, “Shall I smite them?” reveals a natural inclination toward revenge. However, Elisha’s response, “Thou shalt not smite them,” is a profound lesson in mercy and forgiveness. Providing food and water to the enemy is an act of radical love and a powerful witness to God’s grace. The result of this act of kindness is significant: “So the bands of Syria came no more into the land of Israel.” Mercy and forgiveness can be more effective than violence in resolving conflict.

Patristic Insight: St. Isaac the Syrian, in his ascetic homilies, emphasizes the transformative power of love and forgiveness. Ἰσαὰκ ὁ Σύρος, *Λόγοι Ασκητικοί* (Isaac the Syrian, *Ascetic Homilies*), speaks extensively on the importance of extending love and compassion, even to our enemies, as a reflection of God’s own mercy. This echoes the Coptic emphasis on *Agape* (ἀγάπη), unconditional love, as the foundation of Christian life.

Modern Application: In our world, filled with conflict and animosity, this passage challenges us to respond with mercy and forgiveness, even towards our enemies. It reminds us that violence is not always the answer, and that kindness can be a powerful tool for reconciliation. Following Christ’s teachings in the Sermon on the Mount, we are called to “love our enemies, bless those who curse us, do good to those who hate us, and pray for those who spitefully use us and persecute us” (Matthew 5:44). This is the path to true peace and lasting reconciliation. It requires faith, humility, and a willingness to see the image of God in every human being. Let us strive to embody this radical love in our daily lives, seeking to build bridges of understanding and forgiveness, rather than walls of division and animosity.

Subtopic Section: The Role of the Prophet in 2 Kings 6

The figure of Elisha in 2 Kings 6 underscores the critical role of the prophet as a mediator between God and humanity. Through his prophetic insight and miraculous acts, Elisha reveals God’s will, provides protection, and demonstrates His power. Here are key reflections on the prophet’s role:

• Prophetic Insight: Elisha’s ability to discern the Aramean king’s plans demonstrates the power of divine revelation and the prophet’s role as a channel of God’s knowledge. He is privy to information unavailable through human means, acting as God’s eyes and ears on earth.
• Intercession: Elisha’s prayers, both for the opening of the servant’s eyes and for the blinding of the Aramean army, highlight the importance of intercessory prayer and the prophet’s ability to mediate between God and humanity. This is a vital element of their ministry.
• Miraculous Power: The miracles performed by Elisha, such as the floating axe head and the blinding of the Aramean army, demonstrate God’s power working through the prophet to accomplish His purposes. These are signs of God’s presence and affirmation of the prophet’s authority.
• Moral Guidance: Elisha’s instruction to the king of Israel to show mercy to the Aramean army underscores the prophet’s role as a moral guide, challenging the king to act with compassion and forgiveness.
• Protection: Through his prophetic insight and miraculous interventions, Elisha provides protection for the people of Israel, safeguarding them from their enemies.
• A Model for Today: While the office of “prophet” in the Old Testament sense has evolved, the core principles of seeking God’s will, speaking truth to power, and acting as a conduit of God’s love remain central to Christian leadership today. Those in positions of spiritual authority are called to emulate Elisha’s faithfulness and dedication.

FAQ ❓

Let’s explore some frequently asked questions regarding the events and lessons in 2 Kings 6:

• Q: Why did Elisha pray for the Aramean army to be blinded?
  A: Elisha’s prayer for blindness was not an act of cruelty, but a strategic intervention to protect Israel from a deadly threat. It served to disorient the enemy and prevent further attacks, ultimately leading to a period of peace.
• Q: What is the significance of the floating axe head?
  A: The floating axe head symbolizes God’s concern for the small details of our lives and His power to restore what is lost. It teaches us to trust in His provision and to bring all our needs to Him, no matter how insignificant they may seem.
• Q: How does the story of 2 Kings 6 relate to the New Testament teachings on forgiveness?
  A: Elisha’s instruction to show mercy to the Aramean army aligns with the New Testament teachings on forgiveness. It demonstrates the transformative power of love and compassion, even towards our enemies, and the importance of seeking reconciliation rather than revenge.
• Q: What can we learn from Elisha’s unwavering faith in the face of danger?
  A: Elisha’s unwavering faith teaches us to trust in God’s protection, even when faced with overwhelming odds. It reminds us that God’s power is greater than any enemy and that we can find strength and courage in His presence.

Conclusion

2 Kings 6, particularly the narrative surrounding “rediscovering God’s power,” offers timeless lessons for our spiritual lives. The floating axe head reminds us that God cares about the minutiae of our existence, while the blinding of the Aramean army demonstrates His formidable protection against those who seek to harm us. Elisha’s actions throughout the chapter highlight the importance of faith, prayer, and mercy. We are called to trust in God’s provision, to seek His guidance in all things, and to extend compassion even to our enemies. By embodying these virtues, we can experience the transformative power of God’s grace and contribute to a world characterized by peace, reconciliation, and love. The ultimate takeaway is a renewed understanding of God’s ever-present power and our call to lean on Him in every circumstance.

Tags

Elisha, 2 Kings 6, Floating Axe Head, Aramean Army, Blindness, Miracle, Prophecy, Coptic Orthodox, Spiritual Commentary, Divine Intervention

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Explore 2 Kings 6 verse-by-verse: the floating axe head, blinding of the Aramean army, and Elisha’s miracles. Discover deeper Coptic Orthodox insights and practical spiritual applications. Rediscover God’s power today!