2 Kings Chapter 13 · Verse 20
And Elisha died, and they buried him. And the bands of the Moabites invaded the land at the coming in of the year.
Original Language Analysis
וַיָּ֥מָת
died
H4191
וַיָּ֥מָת
died
Strong's:
H4191
Word #:
1 of 9
to die (literally or figuratively); causatively, to kill
מוֹאָ֛ב
of the Moabites
H4124
מוֹאָ֛ב
of the Moabites
Strong's:
H4124
Word #:
5 of 9
moab, an incestuous son of lot; also his territory and descendants
בָּ֥א
at the coming in
H935
בָּ֥א
at the coming in
Strong's:
H935
Word #:
6 of 9
to go or come (in a wide variety of applications)
Cross References
2 Kings 24:2And the LORD sent against him bands of the Chaldees, and bands of the Syrians, and bands of the Moabites, and bands of the children of Ammon, and sent them against Judah to destroy it, according to the word of the LORD, which he spake by his servants the prophets.2 Kings 3:7And he went and sent to Jehoshaphat the king of Judah, saying, The king of Moab hath rebelled against me: wilt thou go with me against Moab to battle? And he said, I will go up: I am as thou art, my people as thy people, and my horses as thy horses.
Historical Context
Historical Setting: 2 Kings 13 takes place during the declining years of the northern kingdom, 8th century BCE, culminating in exile in 722 BCE. The chapter's theme (Decline of Israel and Judah) reflects the historical reality of progressive political instability and external threats, particularly from Aram (Syria) and later Assyria. Archaeological evidence from this period includes royal inscriptions, administrative documents, and material culture that corroborate the biblical account while providing additional context for understanding the political and social dynamics at work.
Questions for Reflection
- How does this verse contribute to understanding the theological message of 2 Kings 13 regarding god's patience with recurring apostasy?
- What does this passage reveal about God's character, particularly His justice, mercy, and faithfulness to covenant promises?
- In what practical ways should this text shape contemporary Christian thinking about faithfulness, worship, and obedience to God?
Analysis & Commentary
And Elisha died, and they buried him. And the bands of the Moabites invaded the land at the coming in of the year.
This verse contributes to the overall theme of chapter 13: God's patience with recurring apostasy. The prophetic ministry served as God's primary means of covenant enforcement, calling both kings and people to faithfulness. This passage occurs during the decline toward Israel's exile, demonstrating how persistent covenant unfaithfulness leads to national disaster.
The narrative demonstrates God's justice in judging covenant unfaithfulness while maintaining His ultimate purposes for redemption.