2 Kings Chapter 2 · Verse 18
And when they came again to him, (for he tarried at Jericho,) he said unto them, Did I not say unto you, Go not?
Original Language Analysis
וַיָּשֻׁ֣בוּ
And when they came again
H7725
וַיָּשֻׁ֣בוּ
And when they came again
Strong's:
H7725
Word #:
1 of 12
to turn back (hence, away) transitively or intransitively, literally or figuratively (not necessarily with the idea of return to the starting point);
וְה֖וּא
H1931
וְה֖וּא
Strong's:
H1931
Word #:
3 of 12
he (she or it); only expressed when emphatic or without a verb; also (intensively) self, or (especially with the article) the same; sometimes (as demo
יֹשֵׁ֣ב
to him (for he tarried
H3427
יֹשֵׁ֣ב
to him (for he tarried
Strong's:
H3427
Word #:
4 of 12
properly, to sit down (specifically as judge. in ambush, in quiet); by implication, to dwell, to remain; causatively, to settle, to marry
הֲלֹֽא
H3808
הֲלֹֽא
Strong's:
H3808
Word #:
8 of 12
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
Historical Context
Historical Setting: 2 Kings 2 takes place during the mid-9th century BCE, around 850 BCE, during the transition from Elijah to Elisha. The chapter's theme (Elijah's Translation and Elisha's Beginning) reflects the historical reality of prophetic succession and divine affirmation of Elisha's ministry following Elijah's remarkable translation. 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 2 regarding prophetic succession and confirmation of divine calling?
- 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 when they came again to him, (for he tarried at Jericho,) he said unto them, Did I not say unto you, Go not?
This verse contributes to the overall theme of chapter 2: Prophetic succession and confirmation of divine calling. The prophetic ministry served as God's primary means of covenant enforcement, calling both kings and people to faithfulness. During this period, Israel and Judah struggled with persistent idolatry, particularly Baal worship introduced under Ahab and Jezebel.
The narrative demonstrates God's justice in judging covenant unfaithfulness while maintaining His ultimate purposes for redemption.