2 kings 6:26 - As the king of Israel was passing by on the wall, a woman cried to him, saying, “Help, my lord, O king!”

Generated Verse: 2 kings 6:26

What does "2 kings 6:26" mean?


This verse from 2 Kings 6:26 is a poignant snapshot of the dire situation in Samaria during a siege by the Arameans. Here's a breakdown of its meaning:

"As the king of Israel was passing by on the wall...": This sets the scene. The king (likely Jehoram, though not explicitly named) is walking along the city wall. This suggests he's either inspecting the city's defenses, trying to maintain morale, or simply trying to understand the extent of the suffering. Walking on the wall would make him visible and accessible to the people.

"...a woman cried to him...": This highlights the desperation of the people. The woman is resorting to public begging, likely because she's exhausted all other options. Her crying out emphasizes her distress.

"...saying, 'Help, my lord, O king!' ": This is a direct appeal to the king for assistance. "My lord, O king" is a respectful and submissive way to address him, acknowledging his authority and ability to provide aid. The plea for "help" is a general one, indicating that she's in a desperate situation and needs any assistance the king can offer.

In context of the larger story, the significance is:

Famine and Suffering: The siege has caused a severe famine within the city. This desperation is a precursor to the even more horrific events that follow, where women are driven to cannibalism (as revealed in the verses immediately following).

Responsibility and Failure: The woman's cry is both a plea for help and an implicit accusation. She is holding the king responsible for the well-being of his people. His inability to provide for them reveals the depth of the crisis and the failure of his leadership in protecting his kingdom.

Desperation: The siege and the resulting famine have brought the people of Samaria to the brink of collapse. The woman's cry is a stark reminder of their suffering.

In essence, this verse is a window into the desperate circumstances within the besieged city of Samaria, highlighting the suffering of the people and the king's failure to protect them. It sets the stage for the gruesome events that follow and serves as a commentary on the devastating consequences of war and famine.

What categories does "2 kings 6:26" have?