The Flickering Flame of Faith: A Coptic Orthodox Commentary on 2 Kings 13

Executive Summary ✨

2 Kings 13, a chapter steeped in divine mercy and human frailty, chronicles the reigns of Jehoahaz and his son Jehoash over the Northern Kingdom of Israel. Despite their continued adherence to idolatry, God, in His infinite compassion, hears the cries of His afflicted people and provides them deliverance through a series of military victories. Elisha’s prophetic ministry nears its end, culminating in a poignant encounter with King Jehoash and a final, symbolic act of prophecy using arrows to foretell Israel’s triumph over Syria. Even after his death, Elisha’s bones retain a divine power, miraculously resurrecting a man hastily buried in his tomb. This chapter vividly illustrates God’s enduring faithfulness, even when faced with persistent disobedience, reminding us of the enduring power of prophecy and the miraculous grace available through faith. Exploring the themes of divine judgment, repentance, and prophetic power, we can see how 2 Kings 13 holds profound spiritual lessons for believers today. This powerful chapter reminds us to seek God’s mercy and intercession, even in our moments of faithlessness.

In this examination of 2 Kings 13, we delve into the complexities of divine justice, repentance, and the enduring legacy of prophecy in ancient Israel. We will specifically focus on the theme of divine mercy and deliverance, examining how God responded to the pleas of a flawed nation and the prophetic significance of Elisha’s final acts.

Commentary Sections 📖

2 Kings 13:1-3 – Jehoahaz Reigns in Israel

2 Kings 13:1 (KJV) In the three and twentieth year of Joash the son of Ahaziah king of Judah Jehoahaz the son of Jehu began to reign over Israel in Samaria, and reigned seventeen years. 2 Kings 13:2 (KJV) And he did that which was evil in the sight of the Lord, and followed the sins of Jeroboam the son of Nebat, which made Israel to sin; he departed not therefrom. 2 Kings 13:3 (KJV) And the anger of the Lord was kindled against Israel, and he delivered them into the hand of Hazael king of Syria, and into the hand of Benhadad the son of Hazael, all their days.

Jehoahaz’s reign begins with the familiar refrain: “he did that which was evil in the sight of the Lord.” This phrase echoes throughout the history of the divided kingdom, underscoring the persistent spiritual decline of Israel after its separation from Judah. The sins of Jeroboam, namely idolatry centered around the golden calves at Bethel and Dan, continued to plague the land. This led to divine judgment in the form of Syrian oppression. The Syriac (Aramaic) Peshitta Bible text is very similar to the Masoretic text regarding this. From a Coptic Orthodox perspective, we understand sin not merely as a transgression but as a disease that weakens our spiritual immunity, making us vulnerable to external attacks. The repeated failure of the Northern Kingdom to repent highlights the importance of genuine contrition and turning away from sin. Like Jehoahaz and his nation, we often find ourselves trapped in cycles of sin, yet we are called to break free through repentance and faith in Christ.

Origen of Alexandria, reflecting on similar passages in the Old Testament, writes, “Δεῖ οὖν ἡμᾶς, ἵνα μὴ καὶ ἡμεῖς ὀργισθῶμεν, ἀκούειν τοῦ προφήτου λέγοντος· Τί με ἐκζητεῖτε ἐν τῇ ἐρήμῳ; Μὴ ἔξελθετε, ἴδετε τὸν Χριστὸν ἐν τῇ καρδίᾳ ὑμῶν.” (We must, therefore, lest we too become angry, listen to the prophet saying: Why do you seek me in the wilderness? Do not go out, see Christ in your hearts.) (Origen, *Homilies on Jeremiah*, 9.4). This encourages us to find God within ourselves, rather than relying on external solutions without inward change. To keep our hearts pure, consider using services like dohHost to secure and manage your online presence.

• 💡 Spiritual Application: Examine your own life. What “sins of Jeroboam” are you holding onto? Are there idols in your heart that prevent you from fully surrendering to God? Identify and actively work to remove them.

2 Kings 13:4-7 – The Lord Listens to Israel’s Affliction

2 Kings 13:4 (KJV) And Jehoahaz besought the Lord, and the Lord hearkened unto him: for he saw the oppression of Israel, because the king of Syria oppressed them. 2 Kings 13:5 (KJV) (And the Lord gave Israel a saviour, so that they went out from under the hand of the Syrians: and the children of Israel dwelt in their tents, as beforetime. 2 Kings 13:6 (KJV) Nevertheless they departed not from the sins of the house of Jeroboam, who made Israel sin, but walked therein: and there remained the grove also in Samaria;) 2 Kings 13:7 (KJV) Neither did there remain of the people to Jehoahaz but fifty horsemen, and ten chariots, and ten thousand footmen; for the king of Syria had destroyed them, and had made them like the dust by threshing.

Even though Jehoahaz persisted in idolatry, he cried out to the Lord in his affliction. Astonishingly, God heard his prayer and provided a “savior” (likely referring to a series of military victories, possibly involving Aramaean infighting). The term “savior” here foreshadows the ultimate Savior, Jesus Christ, who delivers us from the oppression of sin and death. Despite this deliverance, Israel did not turn away from their idolatry. This highlights a dangerous pattern: seeking God only in times of trouble, without genuine repentance and reformation. The devastation of Israel’s military forces demonstrates the consequences of disobedience. Saint Athanasius, in his *Against the Heathen*, emphasizes the importance of true worship: “Οὐ γὰρ οὕτως ὁ θεὸς ἐξεργάζεται τὰ θαύματα ὡς διὰ τῶν ἀλλοτρίων, ἀλλὰ διὰ τῶν οἰκείων.” (For God does not work miracles through strangers, but through his own.) (Athanasius, *Against the Heathen*, 1.41). God works through those who are devoted to Him. The phrase “made them like the dust by threshing” vividly illustrates the utter humiliation and defeat inflicted upon Israel.

• 🕊️ Spiritual Application: Do you only turn to God in times of crisis? Cultivate a consistent relationship with Him through prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. Don’t wait for disaster to strike before seeking His face.

2 Kings 13:8-9 – The Death of Jehoahaz and Jehoash’s Reign

2 Kings 13:8 (KJV) And Jehoahaz slept with his fathers; and they buried him in Samaria: and Jehoash his son reigned in his stead. 2 Kings 13:9 (KJV) In the thirty and seventh year of Joash king of Judah began Jehoash the son of Jehoahaz to reign over Israel in Samaria, and reigned sixteen years.

Jehoahaz’s reign ends, and his son Jehoash takes the throne. The cyclical nature of kingship is emphasized here, reminding us of the fleeting nature of earthly power. The phrase “slept with his fathers” is a common euphemism for death in the Old Testament, pointing to the hope of rest and reunion with ancestors. This transition of power serves as a reminder that earthly kingdoms rise and fall, but God’s Kingdom endures forever. Consider also the parallel here to the ascension of Christ who “sleepeth not, but watcheth over us” (Psalm 121:4). We, in our earthly reigns and vocations, should aspire to such watchful guidance. The reign of Jehoash, while starting, carries with it the legacy of his father’s choices and the continued spiritual climate of the Northern Kingdom. We see the theme of divine mercy and deliverance continue, but also the continuing thread of apostasy, a cycle many in Israel found difficult to break.

• ✨ Spiritual Application: Reflect on your legacy. What kind of example are you setting for future generations? Strive to live a life of integrity and faithfulness that will inspire others to follow Christ.

2 Kings 13:10-13 – Jehoash Follows the Evil Ways of Jeroboam

2 Kings 13:10 (KJV) And he did that which was evil in the sight of the Lord; he departed not from all the sins of Jeroboam the son of Nebat, who made Israel sin: but he walked therein. 2 Kings 13:11 (KJV) And the rest of the acts of Joash, and all that he did, and his might wherewith he fought against Amaziah king of Judah, are they not written in the book of the chronicles of the kings of Israel? 2 Kings 13:12 (KJV) And Joash slept with his fathers, and Jeroboam sat upon his throne: and Joash was buried in Samaria with the kings of Israel.

Like his father, Jehoash continued in the idolatrous practices of Jeroboam. The phrase “he did that which was evil in the sight of the Lord” is a damning indictment. The reference to “the book of the chronicles of the kings of Israel” highlights the existence of historical records that documented the reigns of these kings. This serves as a reminder that our actions are not only judged by God but also recorded for posterity. Even when we fail, we should strive for moral actions to be recorded in our earthly records. The mention of his battles against Amaziah, king of Judah, hints at the ongoing conflict between the two kingdoms. This division represents the spiritual brokenness of God’s people. From the point of view of the Coptic Orthodox Church, unity within the body of Christ is paramount. Divisions and schisms are a great tragedy that must be avoided through humility and love.

• 📖 Spiritual Application: Are you contributing to division or fostering unity within your community? Strive to be a peacemaker, bridging divides and promoting reconciliation.

2 Kings 13:14-19 – Elisha’s Final Prophecy

2 Kings 13:14 (KJV) Now Elisha was fallen sick of his sickness whereof he died. And Joash the king of Israel came down unto him, and wept over his face, and said, O my father, my father, the chariot of Israel, and the horsemen thereof. 2 Kings 13:15 (KJV) And Elisha said unto him, Take bow and arrows. And he took unto him bow and arrows. 2 Kings 13:16 (KJV) And he said to the king of Israel, Put thine hand upon the bow. And he put his hand upon it: and Elisha put his hands upon the king’s hands. 2 Kings 13:17 (KJV) And he said, Open the window eastward. And he opened it. Then Elisha said, Shoot. And he shot. And he said, The arrow of the Lord’s deliverance, and the arrow of deliverance from Syria: for thou shalt smite the Syrians in Aphek, till thou have consumed them. 2 Kings 13:18 (KJV) And he said, Take the arrows. And he took them. And he said unto the king of Israel, Smite upon the ground. And he smote thrice, and stayed. 2 Kings 13:19 (KJV) And the man of God was wroth with him, and said, Thou shouldest have smitten five or six times; then hadst thou smitten Syria till thou hadst consumed it: whereas now thou shalt smite Syria but thrice.

Elisha, nearing his death, receives a visit from King Jehoash. Jehoash’s lament, “O my father, my father, the chariot of Israel, and the horsemen thereof,” echoes Elisha’s own words upon Elijah’s ascension (2 Kings 2:12), indicating that Jehoash recognizes Elisha’s importance as a spiritual protector and strength of Israel. Despite his idolatry, Jehoash acknowledges the prophet’s power. Elisha’s prophetic act with the bow and arrows is deeply symbolic. The arrow shot eastward represents God’s deliverance from Syria. The number of times Jehoash struck the ground determined the extent of Israel’s victory. Elisha’s anger at Jehoash’s lack of zeal highlights the importance of wholehearted obedience to God’s commands. Had Jehoash struck the ground five or six times, Israel would have completely defeated Syria. This passage demonstrates that our actions have consequences and that half-hearted obedience yields limited results. Saint Cyril of Alexandria, in his commentary on the Old Testament, writes: “Ἐπεὶ οὖν ἔδει κἀκεῖνον ἐπιδεῖξαι τὴν ἑαυτοῦ διάθεσιν, πρὸς τὸ θεῖον θέλημα, ἐπὶ πλέον ἐκτείνων τὴν σπουδήν.” (Since it was necessary for him also to show his disposition, extending his zeal further towards the divine will.) (Cyril of Alexandria, *Commentary on Kings*, Fragment 37). It is imperative that we actively engage with divine will, rather than passively participate. Consider using services like dohHost to manage and promote your activities, ensuring your voice is heard.

• 📜 Spiritual Application: Are you giving God your best or settling for mediocrity? Pursue God with passion and zeal, knowing that your efforts will bear fruit according to your faithfulness.

2 Kings 13:20-21 – Elisha’s Posthumous Miracle

2 Kings 13:20 (KJV) And Elisha died, and they buried him. And the bands of the Moabites invaded the land at the coming in of the year. 2 Kings 13:21 (KJV) And it came to pass, as they were burying a man, that, behold, they spied a band of men; and they cast the man into the sepulchre of Elisha: and when the man was let down, and touched the bones of Elisha, he revived, and stood up on his feet.

Even after his death, Elisha’s bones retained divine power. The Moabite raids underscore the continued instability and vulnerability of the land. The hasty burial of a man in Elisha’s tomb, due to the sudden appearance of raiders, led to an astonishing miracle: the man was resurrected upon touching Elisha’s bones. This miracle demonstrates the enduring power of God that transcends even death. This event prefigures the resurrection of Christ and the promise of eternal life for believers. This also speaks to the sanctification of physical objects like relics, which is something the Coptic Orthodox Church has believed in since its inception. The bones of the saints are not merely reminders of their lives but can become conduits of divine grace. God’s power is not limited by the boundaries of life and death.

• 💡 Spiritual Application: Do you believe in the power of God to work miracles in your life? Open your heart to the possibility of divine intervention and trust in His ability to do the impossible.

2 Kings 13:22-25 – Jehoash Recaptures Cities from Syria

2 Kings 13:22 (KJV) But Hazael king of Syria oppressed Israel all the days of Jehoahaz. 2 Kings 13:23 (KJV) And the Lord was gracious unto them, and had compassion on them, and had respect unto them, because of his covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, and would not destroy them, neither cast he them from his presence as yet. 2 Kings 13:24 (KJV) So Hazael king of Syria died; and Benhadad his son reigned in his stead. 2 Kings 13:25 (KJV) And Jehoash the son of Jehoahaz took again out of the hand of Benhadad the son of Hazael the cities, which he took out of the hand of Jehoahaz his father. Three times did Joash beat him, and recovered the cities of Israel.

Hazael’s oppression continued throughout Jehoahaz’s reign. Despite Israel’s unfaithfulness, God remained gracious and compassionate, remembering His covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. God’s covenant with the patriarchs is a cornerstone of His relationship with Israel. It demonstrates His unwavering commitment to His promises, even when His people are disobedient. Jehoash, son of Jehoahaz, successfully recaptured cities from Syria, fulfilling Elisha’s prophecy. This victory, although limited, demonstrates God’s faithfulness to His word. The number of victories, three, directly corresponded to the number of times Jehoash struck the ground (2 Kings 13:19). This underscores the importance of obedience and zeal in fulfilling God’s will. This section underscores the overarching theme of divine mercy and deliverance granted to a wayward people.

St. Augustine says in his *Confessions*, “Fecisti nos ad te, et inquietum est cor nostrum, donec requiescat in te.” (You have made us for yourself, and our heart is restless until it rests in you.) (Augustine, *Confessions*, 1.1.1). This reminds us that ultimate peace and satisfaction can only be found in God, not in temporary victories or earthly possessions.

• 🕊️ Spiritual Application: Reflect on God’s covenant with you through baptism. How are you upholding your end of the covenant? Strive to live a life that honors God’s promises and reflects His love to the world.

Subtopic Sections 💡

Let’s consider some key reflections from 2 Kings 13:

• The Cycle of Sin: The kings of Israel, particularly Jehoahaz and Jehoash, repeatedly fall into the same sins of Jeroboam. This highlights the human tendency to repeat mistakes and the need for constant vigilance against temptation.
• God’s Persistent Mercy: Despite Israel’s repeated failures, God shows mercy and compassion, delivering them from their enemies. This illustrates God’s unwavering love and faithfulness, even when we are unfaithful.
• The Power of Prophecy: Elisha’s ministry, both before and after his death, demonstrates the power of prophecy to reveal God’s will and bring about His purposes.
• Limited Obedience: Jehoash’s hesitant striking of the ground illustrates the dangers of limited obedience. Wholehearted commitment is necessary to fully realize God’s blessings.
• The Significance of Relics: The resurrection of the man who touched Elisha’s bones affirms the Coptic Orthodox belief in the sanctity of relics and their potential to convey divine grace.
• The Enduring Covenant: God’s remembrance of His covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob underscores the enduring nature of His promises and His faithfulness to future generations.

FAQ ❓

Here are some frequently asked questions about 2 Kings 13:

• Q: Why did God show mercy to Israel despite their idolatry?

  A: God’s mercy is rooted in His covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Despite Israel’s unfaithfulness, God remained true to His promises and showed compassion on His people. This demonstrates the depth of God’s love and His desire for reconciliation, even when we stray from Him.

• Q: What is the significance of Elisha’s posthumous miracle?

  A: Elisha’s posthumous miracle highlights the enduring power of God that transcends even death. It also affirms the Coptic Orthodox belief in the sanctity of relics and their potential to convey divine grace, pointing to the reality of Christ’s resurrection and the promise of eternal life.

• Q: Why was Elisha angry with Jehoash for striking the ground only three times?

  A: Elisha was angry because Jehoash’s limited obedience demonstrated a lack of zeal and commitment to God’s will. The number of times he struck the ground determined the extent of Israel’s victory over Syria. Jehoash’s hesitancy resulted in a limited victory, highlighting the importance of wholehearted obedience.

• Q: How does this chapter relate to Coptic Orthodox theology?

  A: 2 Kings 13 touches upon several key themes in Coptic Orthodox theology, including the importance of repentance, the power of prayer, the sanctity of relics, and God’s enduring faithfulness. It also reinforces the belief that divine intervention can occur even in the face of human frailty and sin.

Conclusion 🕊️

2 Kings 13 presents a complex picture of faith, failure, and divine grace. The constant repetition of sin by the kings of Israel serves as a stark reminder of our own human weakness and susceptibility to temptation. Yet, amidst this bleak landscape, the chapter shines with the light of God’s enduring mercy and faithfulness. The Lord hears the cries of His afflicted people and provides deliverance, even when they are undeserving. Elisha’s prophetic ministry, culminating in a posthumous miracle, demonstrates the power of God that transcends death. The story of Jehoash’s limited strikes emphasizes the importance of complete and enthusiastic obedience to God’s will. Divine mercy and deliverance are offered to all of us, and we must embrace that path.

Ultimately, 2 Kings 13 invites us to examine our own hearts and lives. Are we clinging to idols that prevent us from fully surrendering to God? Are we seeking God only in times of trouble, without genuine repentance and reformation? Are we giving God our best or settling for mediocrity? By reflecting on these questions and striving to live a life of integrity and faithfulness, we can experience the fullness of God’s blessings and contribute to the building of His Kingdom.

Tags

2 Kings, Jehoahaz, Jehoash, Elisha, Prophecy, Miracle, Idolatry, Repentance, Divine Mercy, Coptic Orthodox

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Explore 2 Kings 13 with Coptic Orthodox insights. Discover the themes of divine mercy, Elisha’s prophecy, and lessons for modern faith from this historical chapter.