2 Kings Chapter 6 · Verse 9
And the man of God sent unto the king of Israel, saying, Beware that thou pass not such a place; for thither the Syrians are come down.
Original Language Analysis
וַיִּשְׁלַ֞ח
sent
H7971
וַיִּשְׁלַ֞ח
sent
Strong's:
H7971
Word #:
1 of 15
to send away, for, or out (in a great variety of applications)
אִ֣ישׁ
And the man
H376
אִ֣ישׁ
And the man
Strong's:
H376
Word #:
2 of 15
a man as an individual or a male person; often used as an adjunct to a more definite term (and in such cases frequently not expressed in translation)
הָֽאֱלֹהִ֗ים
of God
H430
הָֽאֱלֹהִ֗ים
of God
Strong's:
H430
Word #:
3 of 15
gods in the ordinary sense; but specifically used (in the plural thus, especially with the article) of the supreme god; occasionally applied by way of
יִשְׂרָאֵל֙
of Israel
H3478
יִשְׂרָאֵל֙
of Israel
Strong's:
H3478
Word #:
6 of 15
he will rule as god; jisral, a symbolical name of jacob; also (typically) of his posterity
הִשָּׁ֕מֶר
Beware
H8104
הִשָּׁ֕מֶר
Beware
Strong's:
H8104
Word #:
8 of 15
properly, to hedge about (as with thorns), i.e., guard; generally, to protect, attend to, etc
מֵֽעֲבֹ֖ר
that thou pass
H5674
מֵֽעֲבֹ֖ר
that thou pass
Strong's:
H5674
Word #:
9 of 15
to cross over; used very widely of any transition (literal or figurative; transitive, intransitive, intensive, causative); specifically, to cover (in
הַמָּק֣וֹם
a place
H4725
הַמָּק֣וֹם
a place
Strong's:
H4725
Word #:
10 of 15
properly, a standing, i.e., a spot; but used widely of a locality (general or specific); also (figuratively) of a condition (of body or mind)
כִּי
H3588
כִּי
Strong's:
H3588
Word #:
12 of 15
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
שָׁ֖ם
H8033
Historical Context
Historical Setting: 2 Kings 6 takes place during the Elisha prophetic ministry, approximately 850-800 BCE. The chapter's theme (Miracles and Siege) reflects the historical reality of God's compassionate provision through prophetic miracles while both kingdoms struggled with persistent idolatry. 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 6 regarding god's protection and provision for his servants?
- 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 the man of God sent unto the king of Israel, saying, Beware that thou pass not such a place; for thither the Syrians are come down.
This verse contributes to the overall theme of chapter 6: God's protection and provision for His servants. The divine name emphasizes Yahweh's covenant relationship with Israel and His sovereign control over historical events. The reference to kingship reminds readers that all human authority is subordinate to God's ultimate kingship. 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.