2 kings 4:8 - One day Elisha went to Shunem, where there was a prominent woman; and she persuaded him to eat bread. So it was, that as often as he passed by, he turned in there to eat bread.
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What does "2 kings 4:8" mean?
This verse from 2 Kings 4:8 introduces a key relationship in the story of Elisha and the Shunammite woman. Here's a breakdown of what it means:
"One day Elisha went to Shunem, where there was a prominent woman...": This establishes the setting as Shunem, a town in Israel. It also introduces the main female character, described as a "prominent woman." This likely means she was wealthy, influential, and respected in her community. Her prominence suggests she had the resources and ability to offer hospitality.
"...and she persuaded him to eat bread.": This is the beginning of their interaction. The woman, seeing Elisha, encourages him to share a meal with her. This is a gesture of hospitality, especially important in a time when travelers relied on the generosity of others. The word "persuaded" implies that Elisha may have initially been reluctant, but she was insistent.
"So it was, that as often as he passed by, he turned in there to eat bread.": This is the crucial part. It signifies that the initial invitation became a regular occurrence. Elisha, when traveling, would consistently stop at the woman's house in Shunem to eat. This shows:
Relationship Development: A bond formed between Elisha and the woman. The woman's hospitality and Elisha's acceptance created a connection based on mutual respect and kindness.
Regular Hospitality: The woman provided consistent hospitality, indicating her genuine kindness and willingness to help the prophet.
Strategic Location: Shunem was likely on a route that Elisha frequently traveled.
Elisha's Trust: Elisha clearly trusted the woman and her household, feeling safe and welcome there.
In essence, this verse sets the stage for the rest of the story by highlighting the Shunammite woman's generous hospitality and Elisha's reliance on it. This established relationship is crucial for the subsequent miracles and events that unfold in the narrative, particularly the birth and resurrection of her son. It emphasizes the importance of kindness, hospitality, and the unexpected blessings that can come from such acts.
2 kings 4:8 - One day Elisha went to Shunem, where there was a prominent woman; and she persuaded him to eat bread. So it was, that as often as he passed by, he turned in there to eat bread.
What does "2 kings 4:8" mean?
This verse from 2 Kings 4:8 introduces a key relationship in the story of Elisha and the Shunammite woman. Here's a breakdown of what it means:
"One day Elisha went to Shunem, where there was a prominent woman...": This establishes the setting as Shunem, a town in Israel. It also introduces the main female character, described as a "prominent woman." This likely means she was wealthy, influential, and respected in her community. Her prominence suggests she had the resources and ability to offer hospitality.
"...and she persuaded him to eat bread.": This is the beginning of their interaction. The woman, seeing Elisha, encourages him to share a meal with her. This is a gesture of hospitality, especially important in a time when travelers relied on the generosity of others. The word "persuaded" implies that Elisha may have initially been reluctant, but she was insistent.
"So it was, that as often as he passed by, he turned in there to eat bread.": This is the crucial part. It signifies that the initial invitation became a regular occurrence. Elisha, when traveling, would consistently stop at the woman's house in Shunem to eat. This shows:
Relationship Development: A bond formed between Elisha and the woman. The woman's hospitality and Elisha's acceptance created a connection based on mutual respect and kindness.
Regular Hospitality: The woman provided consistent hospitality, indicating her genuine kindness and willingness to help the prophet.
Strategic Location: Shunem was likely on a route that Elisha frequently traveled.
Elisha's Trust: Elisha clearly trusted the woman and her household, feeling safe and welcome there.
In essence, this verse sets the stage for the rest of the story by highlighting the Shunammite woman's generous hospitality and Elisha's reliance on it. This established relationship is crucial for the subsequent miracles and events that unfold in the narrative, particularly the birth and resurrection of her son. It emphasizes the importance of kindness, hospitality, and the unexpected blessings that can come from such acts.