Topical Bible: Mocking: some Boys Mock Elisha

◄ Mocking: some Boys Mock Elisha ►

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Biblical Account:

The incident of mocking involving the prophet Elisha is recorded in the Old Testament, specifically in 2 Kings 2:23-25. This event occurs shortly after Elisha succeeds Elijah as the leading prophet in Israel. The passage reads:

"From there, Elisha went up to Bethel. As he was walking along the road, some boys came out of the town and mocked him, saying, 'Go up, you baldhead! Go up, you baldhead!' Then he turned around, looked at them, and called down a curse on them in the name of the LORD. So two female bears came out of the woods and mauled forty-two of the boys. And Elisha went on to Mount Carmel and from there returned to Samaria." (2 Kings 2:23-25)

Context and Interpretation:

This narrative takes place during a time when Israel was often straying from the worship of Yahweh, and prophets like Elisha played a crucial role in calling the people back to faithfulness. Bethel, where this incident occurs, was a center of idolatrous worship, which may have contributed to the disrespect shown to Elisha.

The boys' taunt, "Go up, you baldhead!" is significant. "Go up" may be a reference to Elijah's recent ascension to heaven, mocking Elisha's prophetic authority and perhaps suggesting he should disappear as Elijah did. The term "baldhead" was likely a derogatory insult, possibly aimed at Elisha's appearance or as a symbol of disrespect.

Theological Significance:

From a theological perspective, this passage underscores the seriousness of mocking God's appointed servants. Elisha, as a prophet, was a representative of God, and the boys' mockery was not merely an insult to Elisha but an affront to God Himself. The severe consequence—forty-two boys being mauled by bears—serves as a divine judgment, emphasizing the holiness and authority of God's messengers.

This event also highlights the theme of respect for God's chosen leaders, a recurring motif throughout the Bible. The narrative serves as a warning against irreverence and the dangers of dismissing or ridiculing those who carry God's message.

Cultural and Historical Insights:

In ancient Near Eastern culture, respect for elders and authority figures was paramount. The boys' behavior would have been seen as not only disrespectful but also rebellious against societal norms. The harsh response can be understood within the context of maintaining order and reverence for divine authority.

Lessons and Applications:

The account of the boys mocking Elisha offers several lessons for believers. It calls for respect towards those whom God has placed in positions of spiritual leadership. It also serves as a reminder of the consequences of irreverence and the importance of honoring God through our words and actions.

In contemporary application, this passage encourages believers to uphold respect for spiritual leaders and to be mindful of the power of words. It also serves as a reminder of God's justice and the seriousness with which He regards the treatment of His representatives.

Nave's Topical Index

2 Kings 2:23
And he went up from there to Bethel: and as he was going up by the way, there came forth little children out of the city, and mocked him, and said to him, Go up, you bald head; go up, you bald head.
Nave's Topical Index

Library

part ii
... This tranquil, beautiful heaven, studded with stars, will some day present the most ...
Let others mock at you, oppose you, when you are under the influence of any ...
//christianbookshelf.org/calvin/my life in christ/part ii.htm