2 Kings Chapter 6 · Verse 13
And he said, Go and spy where he is, that I may send and fetch him. And it was told him, saying, Behold, he is in Dothan.
Original Language Analysis
לְכ֤וּ
H1980
לְכ֤וּ
Strong's:
H1980
Word #:
2 of 12
to walk (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)
וּרְאוּ֙
and spy
H7200
וּרְאוּ֙
and spy
Strong's:
H7200
Word #:
3 of 12
to see, literally or figuratively (in numerous applications, direct and implied, transitive, intransitive and causative)
ה֔וּא
H1931
ה֔וּא
Strong's:
H1931
Word #:
5 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
וְאֶשְׁלַ֖ח
he is that I may send
H7971
וְאֶשְׁלַ֖ח
he is that I may send
Strong's:
H7971
Word #:
6 of 12
to send away, for, or out (in a great variety of applications)
וְאֶקָּחֵ֑הוּ
and fetch
H3947
וְאֶקָּחֵ֑הוּ
and fetch
Strong's:
H3947
Word #:
7 of 12
to take (in the widest variety of applications)
וַיֻּגַּד
him And it was told
H5046
וַיֻּגַּד
him And it was told
Strong's:
H5046
Word #:
8 of 12
properly, to front, i.e., stand boldly out opposite; by implication (causatively), to manifest; figuratively, to announce (always by word of mouth to
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 he said, Go and spy where he is, that I may send and fetch him. And it was told him, saying, Behold, he is in Dothan.
This verse contributes to the overall theme of chapter 6: God's protection and provision for His servants. 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.