2 kings 6:28 - The king said to her, “What is your problem?” She answered, “This woman said to me, ‘Give your son, that we may eat him today, and we will eat my son tomorrow.’

Generated Verse: 2 kings 6:28

What does "2 kings 6:28" mean?


This verse is a deeply disturbing and tragic moment in the biblical book of 2 Kings, specifically during the siege of Samaria. It describes a desperate situation of famine within the city. Let's break down what it means:

The Context: Samaria is under siege by the Arameans, cutting off all supplies. The people inside the city are starving, and the famine is so severe that they are resorting to horrific acts for survival.

"The king said to her, 'What is your problem?'": The woman is approaching the king to appeal for justice. He is likely trying to mediate disputes caused by the desperate circumstances of the famine.

"She answered, 'This woman said to me, 'Give your son, that we may eat him today, and we will eat my son tomorrow.''": This is the core of the verse, and it reveals the shocking reality of the famine. The woman is recounting an agreement she had made with another woman: they would kill and eat one woman's child one day, and then kill and eat the other woman's child the next day. The implication is that they ate the first woman's son, but the second woman reneged on the agreement and hid her son.

Meaning and Significance:

The Extreme Desperation of Famine: This verse graphically illustrates the extreme lengths people will go to when facing starvation. It's meant to shock the reader and convey the utter devastation caused by the siege.

Breakdown of Social Order: The act of cannibalism, especially of one's own child, is a severe violation of social norms and moral laws. It shows how the famine has driven the people to a point where all sense of decency and humanity has eroded.

A Reflection on the King's Responsibility: This event is presented as a consequence of the king's (Jehoram's) actions or inactions. It reflects the failure of the king to protect his people and provide for them. The famine is seen as a divine judgment upon the nation.

Horror and Pity: The verse evokes feelings of horror and pity for the people of Samaria. It's meant to be a sobering reminder of the suffering that can result from war, famine, and social breakdown.

In summary, 2 Kings 6:28 is a harrowing depiction of the horrors of famine during the siege of Samaria. It highlights the desperation of the people, the breakdown of social order, and the failure of the king to protect his people. It serves as a stark warning and a reflection on the consequences of disobedience and societal collapse.