2 Kings 7:20
And so it fell out unto him: for the people trode upon him in the gate, and he died.
Original Language Analysis
וַֽיְהִי
H1961
וַֽיְהִי
Strong's:
H1961
Word #:
1 of 8
to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)
כֵּ֑ן
H3651
כֵּ֑ן
Strong's:
H3651
Word #:
3 of 8
properly, set upright; hence (figuratively as adjective) just; but usually (as adverb or conjunction) rightly or so (in various applications to manner
וַיִּרְמְס֨וּ
trode
H7429
וַיִּרְמְס֨וּ
trode
Strong's:
H7429
Word #:
4 of 8
to tread upon (as a potter, in walking or abusively)
אֹת֥וֹ
H853
אֹת֥וֹ
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
5 of 8
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
הָעָ֛ם
And so it fell out unto him for the people
H5971
הָעָ֛ם
And so it fell out unto him for the people
Strong's:
H5971
Word #:
6 of 8
a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock
Historical Context
Historical Setting: 2 Kings 7 takes place during the Elisha prophetic ministry, approximately 850-800 BCE. The chapter's theme (Deliverance from Famine) 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 7 regarding god's supernatural deliverance and human unbelief judged?
- 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?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
And so it fell out unto him: for the people trode upon him in the gate, and he died.
This verse contributes to the overall theme of chapter 7: God's supernatural deliverance and human unbelief judged. 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.