2 Kings 5:21

So Gehazi pursued Naaman. And when Naaman saw him running toward him, he got down from the chariot to meet him and asked, "Is everything all right?"

Study Bible

So Gehazi pursued Naaman
The name "Gehazi" is of Hebrew origin, meaning "valley of vision." Gehazi, the servant of Elisha, represents a contrast to his master’s integrity. His pursuit of Naaman, the Syrian commander, is driven by greed and deceit, which is a significant departure from the prophetic mission of Elisha. This pursuit is not just physical but also symbolic of Gehazi's spiritual decline. The act of pursuing Naaman indicates a deliberate choice to follow a path contrary to the teachings of his master, Elisha, who had just demonstrated God's grace and power by healing Naaman of leprosy without accepting any reward.

When Naaman saw him running toward him
Naaman, whose name means "pleasantness" in Hebrew, had just experienced a miraculous healing from leprosy, a disease that rendered individuals ceremonially unclean and socially ostracized. His willingness to stop and meet Gehazi shows his openness and gratitude, reflecting a heart that has been touched by the divine encounter with Elisha. The act of running signifies urgency and determination on Gehazi's part, which Naaman perceives as a matter of importance. This moment is pivotal, as it sets the stage for the unfolding of Gehazi's deceit.

he got down from the chariot to meet him
In ancient Near Eastern culture, chariots were symbols of power and status. Naaman's act of getting down from his chariot to meet Gehazi is an expression of humility and respect. It demonstrates a significant transformation in Naaman, who, prior to his healing, might have been characterized by pride and self-importance. This gesture of humility is a stark contrast to Gehazi's forthcoming actions, highlighting the moral and spiritual dichotomy between the two characters.

and asked, 'Is everything all right?'
The question "Is everything all right?" in Hebrew is "הֲשָׁלוֹם" (ha-shalom), which literally means "Is there peace?" This common greeting in Hebrew culture goes beyond mere inquiry about physical well-being; it encompasses a holistic sense of peace, welfare, and completeness. Naaman's concern reflects his genuine care and the peace he has recently found through his healing. It also underscores the irony of the situation, as Gehazi's intentions are anything but peaceful. This question sets the stage for Gehazi's deceitful response, which ultimately leads to his downfall.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Gehazi
The servant of Elisha, the prophet. Gehazi's actions in this chapter reveal his greed and deceit, which ultimately lead to his downfall.

2. Naaman
A commander of the army of the king of Aram, who was healed of leprosy by following Elisha's instructions to wash in the Jordan River.

3. Elisha
A prophet in Israel, known for his miracles and as a successor to Elijah. He refused Naaman's gifts, demonstrating the grace of God.

4. Chariot
Represents Naaman's status and wealth. His willingness to get down from the chariot shows respect and urgency in addressing Gehazi.

5. Pursuit
Gehazi's pursuit of Naaman signifies his intent to deceive and gain material wealth under false pretenses.

Teaching Points

The Dangers of Greed
Gehazi's pursuit of Naaman for personal gain serves as a cautionary tale about the destructive nature of greed.

Integrity in Service
As a servant of Elisha, Gehazi's actions remind us of the importance of integrity and honesty, especially when serving others.

Consequences of Deceit
Gehazi's account illustrates that deceit can lead to severe consequences, both spiritually and physically.

Respect and Humility
Naaman's willingness to get down from his chariot shows respect and humility, qualities that are essential in our interactions with others.

God's Grace and Provision
Elisha's refusal of Naaman's gifts highlights that God's grace cannot be bought, and His provision is sufficient.

Bible Study Questions

1. What motivated Gehazi to pursue Naaman, and how can we guard against similar temptations in our own lives?

2. How does Naaman's response to Gehazi reflect his character, and what can we learn from his actions about humility and respect?

3. In what ways does Gehazi's account parallel the account of Ananias and Sapphira in Acts 5, and what lessons can we draw about honesty and integrity?

4. How does the principle found in Proverbs 28:20 apply to Gehazi's situation, and what practical steps can we take to avoid the pitfalls of greed?

5. Reflect on Elisha's refusal of Naaman's gifts. How does this demonstrate the nature of God's grace, and how can we apply this understanding in our daily lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Luke 12:15
This verse warns against greed, emphasizing that life does not consist in the abundance of possessions. Gehazi's actions are a direct violation of this principle.

Proverbs 28:20
This proverb highlights the consequences of hastening to be rich, which aligns with Gehazi's eventual punishment.

Acts 5:1-11
The account of Ananias and Sapphira parallels Gehazi's deceit and the severe consequences of lying and greed.