This verse from 2 Kings 2:19 sets the stage for a miracle performed by Elisha. Here's a breakdown of what it means:
"The men of the city said to Elisha...": The men of the city, most likely representing the leadership or elders, are approaching Elisha for help. This indicates that they recognize him as a prophet and someone with the power to intercede for them.
"Behold, please, the situation of this city is pleasant, as my lord sees...": They are acknowledging that the city has an appealing location or appearance. "My lord" is a term of respect used to address Elisha. They are basically saying, "From what you can see, the city looks good."
"...but the water is bad, and the land is barren.": This is the crux of their problem. Despite the city's attractive location, the water source is contaminated or of poor quality, rendering it undrinkable or unsuitable for irrigation. As a direct consequence, the land is unproductive, unable to support crops or livestock.
In essence, the verse conveys a contrast: The city has outward appeal but suffers from a critical, hidden issue – a contaminated water supply that's causing infertility in the land. It highlights the need for divine intervention to resolve this fundamental problem. They are acknowledging the problem to Elisha and seeking his help because they see the city as beautiful but flawed, and they believe the problem with the water and the land is making their home unlivable. This will lead to Elisha purifying the water source.
This verse from 2 Kings 2:19 sets the stage for a miracle performed by Elisha. Here's a breakdown of what it means:
"The men of the city said to Elisha...": The men of the city, most likely representing the leadership or elders, are approaching Elisha for help. This indicates that they recognize him as a prophet and someone with the power to intercede for them.
"Behold, please, the situation of this city is pleasant, as my lord sees...": They are acknowledging that the city has an appealing location or appearance. "My lord" is a term of respect used to address Elisha. They are basically saying, "From what you can see, the city looks good."
"...but the water is bad, and the land is barren.": This is the crux of their problem. Despite the city's attractive location, the water source is contaminated or of poor quality, rendering it undrinkable or unsuitable for irrigation. As a direct consequence, the land is unproductive, unable to support crops or livestock.
In essence, the verse conveys a contrast: The city has outward appeal but suffers from a critical, hidden issue – a contaminated water supply that's causing infertility in the land. It highlights the need for divine intervention to resolve this fundamental problem. They are acknowledging the problem to Elisha and seeking his help because they see the city as beautiful but flawed, and they believe the problem with the water and the land is making their home unlivable. This will lead to Elisha purifying the water source.