Gehazi, the servant of the prophet Elisha, is a notable figure in the Old Testament whose actions provide a cautionary tale about the dangers of greed and deceit, which can be seen as a form of profane swearing against the holiness of God. His account is primarily found in 2 Kings 4-5, where his conduct starkly contrasts with the integrity and faithfulness of his master, Elisha.

Background and Context

Gehazi served as the attendant to Elisha, the successor of Elijah, during a time when the prophetic ministry was crucial in guiding the nation of Israel. Elisha was known for his miracles and his unwavering commitment to God, and Gehazi had the privilege of witnessing these divine acts firsthand. However, Gehazi's heart was not aligned with the spiritual mission of his master.

The Incident with Naaman

The most significant account involving Gehazi is found in 2 Kings 5, where Naaman, a commander of the army of the king of Aram, comes to Elisha seeking healing from leprosy. Elisha instructs Naaman to wash in the Jordan River seven times, resulting in his miraculous healing. In gratitude, Naaman offers Elisha gifts, which the prophet refuses, emphasizing that the healing was an act of God and not a transaction.

Gehazi, however, sees an opportunity for personal gain. Driven by greed, he pursues Naaman and deceitfully claims that Elisha has sent him to accept gifts on behalf of two young prophets. Naaman, unaware of the deception, gives Gehazi silver and garments. Gehazi's actions are a form of profane swearing, as he uses the name and authority of Elisha—and by extension, God—for dishonest gain.

Divine Judgment

Upon returning, Gehazi hides the gifts and presents himself before Elisha, who confronts him with the truth. Elisha, through divine insight, reveals that he knows of Gehazi's deceit. The prophet declares that the leprosy that once afflicted Naaman will now cling to Gehazi and his descendants forever. The judgment is immediate, and Gehazi departs from Elisha's presence, leprous and white as snow (2 Kings 5:27).

Moral and Theological Implications

Gehazi's account serves as a powerful reminder of the seriousness with which God views integrity and truthfulness. His actions are a form of profane swearing, as they involve invoking the divine for selfish purposes, thus desecrating the sacred trust placed in him as a servant of a prophet. Gehazi's punishment underscores the biblical principle that God cannot be mocked, and that deceit, especially when it involves the misuse of His name, carries severe consequences.

The narrative of Gehazi warns against the dangers of covetousness and the temptation to exploit spiritual authority for personal benefit. It highlights the importance of aligning one's heart with God's will and maintaining the sanctity of His name in all actions and words.2 Kings 5:20
But Gehazi, the servant of Elisha the man of God, said, Behold, my master has spared Naaman this Syrian, in not receiving at his hands that which he brought: but, as the LORD lives, I will run after him, and take somewhat of him.
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Mr. Bunyan's Last Sermon:
The Works of John Bunyan Volumes 1-3. <. ...
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