2 Kings 4:20

After the servant had picked him up and carried him to his mother, the boy sat on her lap until noon, and then he died.

Study Bible

After the servant had picked him up
This phrase indicates the immediate response to a crisis. The Hebrew root for "picked up" is "נָשָׂא" (nasa), which means to lift or carry. This action reflects the urgency and care in the servant's response, highlighting the importance of community and service in times of need. In the historical context, servants played crucial roles in households, often acting as extensions of the family's care and concern.

and carried him to his mother
The act of carrying the boy to his mother underscores the natural instinct to seek comfort and solace from a maternal figure. The Hebrew word "אֵם" (em) for "mother" is deeply rooted in the concept of nurturing and protection. This reflects the biblical theme of maternal care as a source of strength and refuge, reminiscent of God's nurturing nature towards His people.

the boy sat on her lap
The image of the boy sitting on his mother's lap is one of intimacy and tenderness. The Hebrew word "יֶלֶד" (yeled) for "boy" emphasizes his youth and vulnerability. Sitting on her lap symbolizes a place of safety and love, a poignant reminder of the close bond between parent and child. This scene evokes the broader biblical narrative of God's children finding rest and security in His presence.

until noon
The mention of "noon" is significant in the biblical context, as it often represents the peak of the day, a time of full light and revelation. The Hebrew word "צָהֳרַיִם" (tzohorayim) for "noon" can symbolize a moment of decision or crisis. This timing suggests a turning point in the narrative, where hope and despair intersect, inviting readers to reflect on the moments in life when faith is most tested.

and then he died
The stark reality of death is captured in this phrase. The Hebrew word "מוּת" (muth) for "died" is a reminder of the fragility of life and the inevitability of mortality. In the scriptural context, death is often a precursor to divine intervention or revelation. This moment sets the stage for the miraculous, encouraging believers to trust in God's power over life and death, and His ability to bring hope from despair.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Shunammite Woman
A notable woman from Shunem who showed hospitality to Elisha, the prophet. She is a figure of faith and perseverance.

2. Elisha
A prophet of God who succeeded Elijah. He performed many miracles, including the eventual resurrection of the Shunammite woman's son.

3. The Shunammite's Son
A miraculous child given to the Shunammite woman as a reward for her kindness to Elisha. His sudden illness and death set the stage for a demonstration of God's power.

4. The Servant
Likely Gehazi, Elisha's servant, who plays a role in the events surrounding the boy's illness and death.

5. Shunem
A town in the territory of Issachar, where the Shunammite woman lived. It serves as the setting for this miraculous event.

Teaching Points

Faith in God's Promises
The Shunammite woman's account encourages believers to trust in God's promises, even when circumstances seem dire.

The Power of God
This passage reminds us of God's sovereignty over life and death, encouraging us to rely on His power in our lives.

Perseverance in Prayer
The Shunammite woman's response to her son's death teaches us the importance of persistent prayer and seeking God's intervention.

Hospitality and Blessing
Her initial act of hospitality towards Elisha led to a blessing, illustrating the principle that God rewards those who honor His servants.

Hope in Resurrection
The account foreshadows the ultimate hope of resurrection through Christ, offering comfort and assurance of eternal life.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the Shunammite woman's response to her son's death demonstrate her faith in God, and how can we apply this in our own lives?

2. In what ways does the account of the Shunammite woman's son parallel the resurrection accounts in the New Testament, and what does this teach us about God's nature?

3. How can we practice hospitality in our own lives, and what blessings might come from it, as seen in the Shunammite woman's account?

4. What does this passage teach us about the importance of seeking God's help in times of crisis, and how can we cultivate a habit of prayerful dependence on Him?

5. How does the theme of resurrection in this account provide hope for believers today, and how can we share this hope with others?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Kings 17:17-24
The account of Elijah raising the widow's son parallels Elisha's miracle, highlighting God's power over life and death.

Luke 7:11-17
Jesus raises the widow's son at Nain, showing continuity in God's compassion and power through His prophets and ultimately through Christ.

Hebrews 11:35
References women receiving their dead back to life, connecting the faith of the Shunammite woman to the broader account of faith in God's promises.