2 Kings Chapter 2 · Verse 22
So the waters were healed unto this day, according to the saying of Elisha which he spake.
Original Language Analysis
וַיֵּֽרָפ֣וּ
were healed
H7495
וַיֵּֽרָפ֣וּ
were healed
Strong's:
H7495
Word #:
1 of 9
properly, to mend (by stitching), i.e., (figuratively) to cure
הַמַּ֔יִם
So the waters
H4325
הַמַּ֔יִם
So the waters
Strong's:
H4325
Word #:
2 of 9
water; figuratively, juice; by euphemism, urine, semen
עַ֖ד
H5704
עַ֖ד
Strong's:
H5704
Word #:
3 of 9
as far (or long, or much) as, whether of space (even unto) or time (during, while, until) or degree (equally with)
הַיּ֣וֹם
unto this day
H3117
הַיּ֣וֹם
unto this day
Strong's:
H3117
Word #:
4 of 9
a day (as the warm hours), whether literal (from sunrise to sunset, or from one sunset to the next), or figurative (a space of time defined by an asso
הַזֶּ֑ה
H2088
כִּדְבַ֥ר
according to the saying
H1697
כִּדְבַ֥ר
according to the saying
Strong's:
H1697
Word #:
6 of 9
a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing; adverbially, a cause
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
So the waters were healed unto this day, according to the saying of Elisha which he spake.
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.