2 Kings 4:13

2 Kings 4:13 in Multiple Translations

Berean Standard Bible BSB

and Elisha said to Gehazi, “Now tell her, ‘Look, you have gone to all this trouble for us. What can we do for you? Can we speak on your behalf to the king or the commander of the army?’” “I have a home among my own people,” she replied.

King James Version KJV

And he said unto him, Say now unto her, Behold, thou hast been careful for us with all this care; what is to be done for thee? wouldest thou be spoken for to the king, or to the captain of the host? And she answered, I dwell among mine own people.

American Standard Version ASV

Bible in Basic English BBE

And he said to him, Now say to her, See, you have taken all this trouble for us; what is to be done for you? will you have any request made for you to the king or the captain of the army? But she said, I am living among my people.

Free Bible Version FBV

Elisha said to Gehazi, “Please tell her, ‘You have gone to a lot of trouble on our behalf. Now what can we do for you? Do you want us to speak for you to the king or the army commander?’” “I live with my own people,” she replied.

Geneva Bible 1599 GNV

Then he sayd vnto him, Say vnto her now, Beholde, thou hast had all this great care for vs, what shall we doe for thee? Is there any thing to bee spoken for thee to the King or to the captaine of the hoste? And shee answered, I dwell among mine owne people.

Young's Literal Translation YLT

And he saith to him, 'Say, I pray thee, unto her, Lo, thou hast troubled thyself concerning us with all this trouble; what — to do for thee? is it to speak for thee unto the king, or unto the head of the host?' and she saith, 'In the midst of my people I am dwelling.'

World English Bible WEB

He said to him, “Say now to her, ‘Behold, you have cared for us with all this care. What is to be done for you? Would you like to be spoken for to the king, or to the captain of the army?’” She answered, “I dwell among my own people.”

Noah Webster Bible WBS

And he said to him, Say now to her, Behold, thou hast been careful for us with all this care; what is to be done for thee? wouldst thou be spoken for to the king, or to the captain of the host? And she answered, I dwell among my own people.

Douay-Rheims 1899 DRV

He said to his servant: Say to her Behold thou hast diligently served us in all things, what wilt thou have me to do for thee? hast thou any business, and wilt thou that I speak to the king, or to the general of the army? And she answered: I dwell in the midst of my own people.

Translation for Translators T4T

Elisha said to Gehazi, “Tell her that we both appreciate all the kind things that she has done for us. Then ask her what we can do for her. Ask, ‘Do you want me to go to the king or the army commander, to request something for you?’” Gehazi told her, and she replied, “No, he does not need to do that, because my family/relatives are able to give me what I need.”

Study Highlights

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Berean Amplified Bible — 2 Kings 4:13

BAB

Word Study

Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.

Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.

2 Kings 4:13 Interlinear (Deep Study)

BIB

HEB וַ/יֹּ֣אמֶר ל֗/וֹ אֱמָר נָ֣א אֵלֶי/הָ֮ הִנֵּ֣ה חָרַ֣דְתְּ אֵלֵי/נוּ֮ אֶת כָּל הַ/חֲרָדָ֣ה הַ/זֹּאת֒ מֶ֚ה לַ/עֲשׂ֣וֹת לָ֔/ךְ הֲ/יֵ֤שׁ לְ/דַבֶּר לָ/ךְ֙ אֶל הַ/מֶּ֔לֶךְ א֖וֹ אֶל שַׂ֣ר הַ/צָּבָ֑א וַ/תֹּ֕אמֶר בְּ/ת֥וֹךְ עַמִּ֖/י אָנֹכִ֥י יֹשָֽׁבֶת

וַ/יֹּ֣אמֶר ʼâmar H559 to say Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms

ל֗/וֹ Prep | Suff

אֱמָר ʼâmar H559 to say V-Qal-Impv-2ms

נָ֣א nâʼ H4994 please Part

אֵלֶי/הָ֮ ʼêl H413 to(wards) Prep | Suff

הִנֵּ֣ה hinnêh H2009 behold Part

חָרַ֣דְתְּ chârad H2729 to tremble V-Qal-Perf-2fs

אֵלֵי/נוּ֮ ʼêl H413 to(wards) Prep | Suff

אֶת ʼêth H853 Obj. DirObjM

כָּל kôl H3605 all N-ms

הַ/חֲרָדָ֣ה chărâdâh H2731 trembling Art | N-fs

הַ/זֹּאת֒ zôʼth H2063 this Art | Pron

מֶ֚ה mâh H4100 what? Part

לַ/עֲשׂ֣וֹת ʻâsâh H6213 to make Prep | V-Qal-Inf-a

לָ֔/ךְ Prep | Suff

הֲ/יֵ֤שׁ yêsh H3426 there Part | Part

לְ/דַבֶּר dâbar H1696 to speak Prep | V-Piel-Inf-a

לָ/ךְ֙ Prep | Suff

אֶל ʼêl H413 to(wards) Prep

הַ/מֶּ֔לֶךְ melek H4428 King's Art | N-ms

א֖וֹ ʼôw H176 or Conj

אֶל ʼêl H413 to(wards) Prep

שַׂ֣ר sar H8269 ruler N-ms

הַ/צָּבָ֑א tsâbâʼ H6635 army Art | N-cs

וַ/תֹּ֕אמֶר ʼâmar H559 to say Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3fs

בְּ/ת֥וֹךְ tâvek H8432 midst Prep | N-ms

עַמִּ֖/י ʻam H5971 Amaw N-ms | Suff

אָנֹכִ֥י ʼânôkîy H595 I Pron

יֹשָֽׁבֶת yâshab H3427 to dwell V-Qal

Hebrew Word Study

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Hebrew Word Reference — 2 Kings 4:13

וַ/יֹּ֣אמֶר ʼâmar H559 "to say" Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms

This Hebrew word means to say or speak, and it's used in many different ways in the Bible. It can mean to command, promise, or think, and it's translated in the KJV as 'answer', 'appoint', or 'command'.

Definition: 1) to say, speak, utter 1a) (Qal) to say, to answer, to say in one's heart, to think, to command, to promise, to intend 1b) (Niphal) to be told, to be said, to be called 1c) (Hithpael) to boast, to act proudly 1d) (Hiphil) to avow, to avouch Aramaic equivalent: a.mar (אֲמַר "to say" H0560)

Usage: Occurs in 4337 OT verses. KJV: answer, appoint, avouch, bid, boast self, call, certify, challenge, charge, [phrase] (at the, give) command(-ment), commune, consider, declare, demand, [idiom] desire, determine, [idiom] expressly, [idiom] indeed, [idiom] intend, name, [idiom] plainly, promise, publish, report, require, say, speak (against, of), [idiom] still, [idiom] suppose, talk, tell, term, [idiom] that is, [idiom] think, use (speech), utter, [idiom] verily, [idiom] yet. See also: Genesis 1:3; Genesis 18:23; Genesis 25:32.

ל֗/וֹ "" Prep | Suff

אֱמָר ʼâmar H559 "to say" V-Qal-Impv-2ms

נָ֣א nâʼ H4994 "please" Part

The Hebrew word 'nâ'' is used to express a polite request, like 'please' or 'I pray', and is often added to verbs to make them more polite. In the Bible, it appears in passages like Ezra's reading of the law to the people.

Definition: 1) I (we) pray, now, please 1a) used in entreaty or exhortation

Usage: Occurs in 374 OT verses. KJV: I beseech (pray) thee (you), go to, now, oh. See also: Genesis 12:11; Judges 4:19; 1 Kings 13:6.

אֵלֶי/הָ֮ ʼêl H413 "to(wards)" Prep | Suff

This Hebrew word means 'to' or 'toward', showing direction or movement. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus, to indicate where someone is going. The KJV translates it in various ways, like 'about', 'according to', or 'against'.

Definition: 1) to, toward, unto (of motion) 2) into (limit is actually entered) 2a) in among 3) toward (of direction, not necessarily physical motion) 4) against (motion or direction of a hostile character) 5) in addition to, to 6) concerning, in regard to, in reference to, on account of 7) according to (rule or standard) 8) at, by, against (of one's presence) 9) in between, in within, to within, unto (idea of motion to)

Usage: Occurs in 4205 OT verses. KJV: about, according to, after, against, among, as for, at, because(-fore, -side), both...and, by, concerning, for, from, [idiom] hath, in(-to), near, (out) of, over, through, to(-ward), under, unto, upon, whether, with(-in). See also: Genesis 1:9; Genesis 21:14; Genesis 31:13.

הִנֵּ֣ה hinnêh H2009 "behold" Part

This Hebrew word is an expression that means 'behold' or 'look', often used to draw attention to something. It appears in Genesis and Isaiah, and is translated as 'behold' or 'lo' in the KJV.

Definition: behold, lo, see, if

Usage: Occurs in 799 OT verses. KJV: behold, lo, see. See also: Genesis 1:29; Genesis 42:35; Deuteronomy 19:18.

חָרַ֣דְתְּ chârad H2729 "to tremble" V-Qal-Perf-2fs

This Hebrew word means to tremble with fear or anxiety, like when the Israelites trembled at Mount Sinai. It can also mean to hasten or be careful. In the Bible, it appears in Exodus and other books.

Definition: 1) to tremble, quake, move about, be afraid, be startled, be terrified 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to tremble, quake (of a mountain) 1a2) to tremble (of people) 1a3) to be anxiously careful 1a4) to go or come trembling (with prep) 1b) (Hiphil) 1b1) to cause to tremble 1b2) to drive in terror, rout (an army)

Usage: Occurs in 39 OT verses. KJV: be (make) afraid, be careful, discomfit, fray (away), quake, tremble. See also: Genesis 27:33; Isaiah 17:2; Isaiah 10:29.

אֵלֵי/נוּ֮ ʼêl H413 "to(wards)" Prep | Suff

אֶת ʼêth H853 "Obj." DirObjM

In the original Hebrew, this word points out the object of a verb or preposition, like 'namely' or 'even'. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus. It's not directly translated in English, but helps clarify the meaning of sentences.

Definition: sign of the definite direct object, not translated in English but generally preceding and indicating the accusative Aramaic equivalent: yat (יָת "whom" H3487)

Usage: Occurs in 6782 OT verses. KJV: (as such unrepresented in English). See also: Genesis 1:1; Genesis 10:8; Genesis 19:21.

כָּל kôl H3605 "all" N-ms

The Hebrew word for 'all' or 'everything' is used throughout the Bible, like in Genesis 1:31, where God sees all He has made as very good. It encompasses the entirety of something, whether people, things, or situations.

Definition: 1) all, the whole 1a) all, the whole of 1b) any, each, every, anything 1c) totality, everything Aramaic equivalent: kol (כֹּל "all" H3606)

Usage: Occurs in 4242 OT verses. KJV: (in) all (manner, (ye)), altogether, any (manner), enough, every (one, place, thing), howsoever, as many as, (no-) thing, ought, whatsoever, (the) whole, whoso(-ever). See also: Genesis 1:21; Genesis 17:10; Genesis 41:40.

הַ/חֲרָדָ֣ה chărâdâh H2731 "trembling" Art | N-fs

This Hebrew word refers to fear, anxiety, or trembling. It can describe extreme anxiety or care, like when someone is worried about their safety or well-being.

Definition: 1) fear, anxiety, quaking, trembling, (extreme) anxiety, anxious care 1a) trembling, quaking 1b) anxious care

Usage: Occurs in 8 OT verses. KJV: care, [idiom] exceedingly, fear, quaking, trembling. See also: Genesis 27:33; Isaiah 21:4; Proverbs 29:25.

הַ/זֹּאת֒ zôʼth H2063 "this" Art | Pron

This Hebrew word means this or that, often used to point out something specific. It appears in various forms throughout the Old Testament.

Definition: 1) this, this one, here, which, this...that, the one...the other, such 1a) (alone) 1a1) this one 1a2) this...that, the one...the other, another 1b) (appos to subst) 1b1) this 1c) (as predicate) 1c1) this, such 1d) (enclitically) 1d1) then 1d2) who, whom 1d3) how now, what now 1d4) what now 1d5) wherefore now 1d6) behold here 1d7) just now 1d8) now, now already 1e) (poetry) 1e1) wherein, which, those who 1f) (with prefixes) 1f1) in this (place) here, then 1f2) on these conditions, herewith, thus provided, by, through this, for this cause, in this matter 1f3) thus and thus 1f4) as follows, things such as these, accordingly, to that effect, in like manner, thus and thus 1f5) from here, hence, on one side...on the other side 1f6) on this account 1f7) in spite of this, which, whence, how

Usage: Occurs in 570 OT verses. KJV: hereby (-in, -with), it, likewise, the one (other, same), she, so (much), such (deed), that, therefore, these, this (thing), thus. See also: Genesis 2:23; Numbers 7:88; Judges 1:27.

מֶ֚ה mâh H4100 "what?" Part

This Hebrew word means what or how, often used to ask questions or express surprise, like in Genesis when God asks Adam what he has done. It can also mean why or when, and is used in various ways throughout the Old Testament. It appears in many KJV translations, including how or what.

Definition: interr pron 1) what, how, of what kind 1a) (interrogative) 1a1) what? 1a2) of what kind 1a3) what? (rhetorical) 1a4) whatsoever, whatever, what 1b) (adverb) 1b1) how, how now 1b2) why 1b3) how! (exclamation) 1c) (with prep) 1c1) wherein?, whereby?, wherewith?, by what means? 1c2) because of what? 1c3) the like of what? 1c3a) how much?, how many?, how often? 1c3b) for how long? 1c4) for what reason?, why?, to what purpose? 1c5) until when?, how long?, upon what?, wherefore? indef pron 2) anything, aught, what may

Usage: Occurs in 655 OT verses. KJV: how (long, oft, (-soever)), (no-) thing, what (end, good, purpose, thing), whereby(-fore, -in, -to, -with), (for) why. See also: Genesis 2:19; Numbers 21:5; 1 Samuel 19:5.

לַ/עֲשׂ֣וֹת ʻâsâh H6213 "to make" Prep | V-Qal-Inf-a

This verb means to make or do something, and is used over 2,600 times in the Bible. It is first used in Genesis 1:7 to describe God's creation of the world and is also used in Exodus 31:5 to describe the work of skilled craftsmen.

Definition: : make(OBJECT) 1) to do, fashion, accomplish, make 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to do, work, make, produce 1a1a) to do 1a1b) to work 1a1c) to deal (with) 1a1d) to act, act with effect, effect 1a2) to make 1a2a) to make 1a2b) to produce 1a2c) to prepare 1a2d) to make (an offering) 1a2e) to attend to, put in order 1a2f) to observe, celebrate 1a2g) to acquire (property) 1a2h) to appoint, ordain, institute 1a2i) to bring about 1a2j) to use 1a2k) to spend, pass 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be done 1b2) to be made 1b3) to be produced 1b4) to be offered 1b5) to be observed 1b6) to be used 1c) (Pual) to be made

Usage: Occurs in 2286 OT verses. KJV: accomplish, advance, appoint, apt, be at, become, bear, bestow, bring forth, bruise, be busy, [idiom] certainly, have the charge of, commit, deal (with), deck, [phrase] displease, do, (ready) dress(-ed), (put in) execute(-ion), exercise, fashion, [phrase] feast, (fight-) ing man, [phrase] finish, fit, fly, follow, fulfill, furnish, gather, get, go about, govern, grant, great, [phrase] hinder, hold (a feast), [idiom] indeed, [phrase] be industrious, [phrase] journey, keep, labour, maintain, make, be meet, observe, be occupied, offer, [phrase] officer, pare, bring (come) to pass, perform, pracise, prepare, procure, provide, put, requite, [idiom] sacrifice, serve, set, shew, [idiom] sin, spend, [idiom] surely, take, [idiom] thoroughly, trim, [idiom] very, [phrase] vex, be (warr-) ior, work(-man), yield, use. See also: Genesis 1:7; Genesis 34:19; Exodus 18:24.

לָ֔/ךְ "" Prep | Suff

הֲ/יֵ֤שׁ yêsh H3426 "there" Part | Part

This Hebrew word means 'there is' or 'there are', used to show existence or being. It appears in various forms, like 'to be' or 'to have'. In the Bible, it's used in Genesis and Psalms to describe God's presence.

Definition: 1) being, existence, substance, there is or are 1a) substance 1b) existence 1c) there is or are Aramaic equivalent: i.tay (אִיתַי "there is" H0383)

Usage: Occurs in 129 OT verses. KJV: (there) are, (he, it, shall, there, there may, there shall, there should) be, thou do, had, hast, (which) hath, (I, shalt, that) have, (he, it, there) is, substance, it (there) was, (there) were, ye will, thou wilt, wouldest. See also: Genesis 18:24; Nehemiah 5:2; Psalms 7:4.

לְ/דַבֶּר dâbar H1696 "to speak" Prep | V-Piel-Inf-a

To speak or communicate, like God speaking to Moses in Exodus or a king commanding his people. It can also mean to promise or warn someone.

Definition: : speak/tell/command 1) to speak, declare, converse, command, promise, warn, threaten, sing 1a) (Qal) to speak 1b) (Niphal) to speak with one another, talk 1c) (Piel) 1c1) to speak 1c2) to promise 1d) (Pual) to be spoken 1e) (Hithpael) to speak 1f) (Hiphil) to lead away, put to flight

Usage: Occurs in 1049 OT verses. KJV: answer, appoint, bid, command, commune, declare, destroy, give, name, promise, pronounce, rehearse, say, speak, be spokesman, subdue, talk, teach, tell, think, use (entreaties), utter, [idiom] well, [idiom] work. See also: Genesis 8:15; Exodus 12:25; Leviticus 23:9.

לָ/ךְ֙ "" Prep | Suff

אֶל ʼêl H413 "to(wards)" Prep

הַ/מֶּ֔לֶךְ melek H4428 "King's" Art | N-ms

This word refers to a king or royal person, like King David or King Saul. It can also describe something related to a king, like the King's Valley in Genesis. The Bible often uses this word to talk about the rulers of Israel.

Definition: King's (Valley) (Gen.14.17)

Usage: Occurs in 1919 OT verses. KJV: king, royal. See also: Genesis 14:1; Joshua 10:39; 1 Samuel 16:1.

א֖וֹ ʼôw H176 "or" Conj

Desire can also mean or, and, or if, showing a choice between options, as seen in Proverbs 31:4. It is used to express alternatives or possibilities.

Definition: 1) or, rather 1a) implying that the latter choice is preferred 1b) or if, introducing an example to be seen under a particular principle 1c) (in series) either...or, whether...or 1d) if perchance 1e) except, or else 2) whether, not the least, if, otherwise, also, and, then

Usage: Occurs in 218 OT verses. KJV: also, and, either, if, at the least, [idiom] nor, or, otherwise, then, whether. See also: Genesis 24:49; Leviticus 25:49; Proverbs 30:31.

אֶל ʼêl H413 "to(wards)" Prep

שַׂ֣ר sar H8269 "ruler" N-ms

A leader or person in charge, like a prince or captain, as seen in the Bible with King David and other rulers.

Definition: 1) prince, ruler, leader, chief, chieftain, official, captain 1a) chieftain, leader 1b) vassal, noble, official (under king) 1c) captain, general, commander (military) 1d) chief, head, overseer (of other official classes) 1e) heads, princes (of religious office) 1f) elders (of representative leaders of people) 1g) merchant-princes (of rank and dignity) 1h) patron-angel 1i) Ruler of rulers (of God) 1j) warden

Usage: Occurs in 368 OT verses. KJV: captain (that had rule), chief (captain), general, governor, keeper, lord,(-task-)master, prince(-ipal), ruler, steward. See also: Genesis 12:15; 1 Kings 22:32; 2 Chronicles 32:21.

הַ/צָּבָ֑א tsâbâʼ H6635 "army" Art | N-cs

This Hebrew word means a large group of people or things, often referring to an army or a campaign, and is also used to describe the Lord's hosts. It appears in the Bible as a name for God, emphasizing His power and authority. In the KJV, it's translated as 'host' or 'army'.

Definition: : army 1) that which goes forth, army, war, warfare, host 1a) army, host 1a1) host (of organised army) 1a2) host (of angels) 1a3) of sun, moon, and stars 1a4) of whole creation 1b) war, warfare, service, go out to war 1c) service

Usage: Occurs in 463 OT verses. KJV: appointed time, ([phrase]) army, ([phrase]) battle, company, host, service, soldiers, waiting upon, war(-fare). See also: Genesis 2:1; 1 Samuel 17:55; Psalms 24:10.

וַ/תֹּ֕אמֶר ʼâmar H559 "to say" Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3fs

בְּ/ת֥וֹךְ tâvek H8432 "midst" Prep | N-ms

This word refers to the middle or center of something, such as a group of people or a physical space. It can also mean among or between things, as seen in various Bible translations.

Definition: 1) midst, middle 1a) midst, middle 1b) into, through (after verbs of motion) 1c) among (of a number of persons) 1d) between (of things arranged by twos) 1e) from among (as to take or separate etc)

Usage: Occurs in 390 OT verses. KJV: among(-st), [idiom] between, half, [idiom] (there-, where-), in(-to), middle, mid(-night), midst (among), [idiom] out (of), [idiom] through, [idiom] with(-in). See also: Genesis 1:6; Numbers 35:5; 2 Chronicles 32:4.

עַמִּ֖/י ʻam H5971 "Amaw" N-ms | Suff

A people or nation is what this Hebrew word represents, like the nation of Israel in Exodus 33:13. It can also mean a tribe, troops, or attendants, and is used to describe a group of people gathered together. The word is often used to refer to the people of God.

Definition: This name means nation, people

Usage: Occurs in 1655 OT verses. KJV: folk, men, nation, people. See also: Genesis 11:6; Exodus 16:4; Leviticus 17:9.

אָנֹכִ֥י ʼânôkîy H595 "I" Pron

This simple Hebrew word just means 'I', referring to the speaker, like in Genesis 27 where Esau says 'I' when talking to his father Isaac.

Definition: I (first pers. sing.) Another spelling of a.ni (אֲנִי, אָֽנֹכִ֫י "I" H0589)

Usage: Occurs in 335 OT verses. KJV: I, me, [idiom] which. See also: Genesis 3:10; Deuteronomy 11:26; 2 Samuel 3:39.

יֹשָֽׁבֶת yâshab H3427 "to dwell" V-Qal

This verb means to sit or dwell, and can also mean to remain or abide. It's used in the Bible to describe people living in a place or staying with someone, like in the book of Genesis.

Definition: 1) to dwell, remain, sit, abide 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to sit, sit down 1a2) to be set 1a3) to remain, stay 1a4) to dwell, have one's abode 1b) (Niphal) to be inhabited 1c) (Piel) to set, place 1d) (Hiphil) 1d1) to cause to sit 1d2) to cause to abide, set 1d3) to cause to dwell 1d4) to cause (cities) to be inhabited 1d5) to marry (give an dwelling to) 1e) (Hophal) 1e1) to be inhabited 1e2) to make to dwell Aramaic equivalent: ye.tiv (יְתִב "to dwell" H3488)

Usage: Occurs in 977 OT verses. KJV: (make to) abide(-ing), continue, (cause to, make to) dwell(-ing), ease self, endure, establish, [idiom] fail, habitation, haunt, (make to) inhabit(-ant), make to keep (house), lurking, [idiom] marry(-ing), (bring again to) place, remain, return, seat, set(-tle), (down-) sit(-down, still, -ting down, -ting (place) -uate), take, tarry. See also: Genesis 4:16; Leviticus 25:18; Joshua 13:6.

Study Notes — 2 Kings 4:13

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Context — The Shunammite Woman

11One day Elisha came to visit and went to his upper room to lie down. 12And he said to Gehazi his servant, “Call the Shunammite woman.” And when he had called her, she stood before him,

13and Elisha said to Gehazi, “Now tell her, ‘Look, you have gone to all this trouble for us. What can we do for you? Can we speak on your behalf to the king or the commander of the army?’” “I have a home among my own people,” she replied.

14So he asked, “Then what should be done for her?” “Well, she has no son,” Gehazi replied, “and her husband is old.” 15“Call her,” said Elisha. So Gehazi called her, and she stood in the doorway.

Cross References

	Reference	Text (BSB)
1	2 Timothy 1:16–18	May the Lord grant mercy to the household of Onesiphorus, because he has often refreshed me and was unashamed of my chains. Indeed, when he arrived in Rome, he searched diligently until he found me. May the Lord grant Onesiphorus His mercy on that day. You know very well how much he ministered to me in Ephesus.
2	Philippians 4:18–19	I have all I need and more, now that I have received your gifts from Epaphroditus. They are a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, well-pleasing to God. And my God will supply all your needs according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus.
3	Hebrews 6:10	For God is not unjust. He will not forget your work and the love you have shown for His name as you have ministered to the saints and continue to do so.
4	1 Timothy 6:6–8	Of course, godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, so we cannot carry anything out of it. But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with these.
5	1 Thessalonians 5:12–13	But we ask you, brothers, to acknowledge those who work diligently among you, who preside over you in the Lord and give you instruction. In love, hold them in highest regard because of their work. Live in peace with one another.
6	Hebrews 13:5	Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, for God has said: “Never will I leave you, never will I forsake you.”
7	Romans 16:6	Greet Mary, who has worked very hard for you.
8	Psalms 37:3	Trust in the LORD and do good; dwell in the land and cultivate faithfulness.
9	Romans 16:2	Welcome her in the Lord in a manner worthy of the saints, and assist her with anything she may need from you. For she has been a great help to many people, including me.
10	2 Samuel 19:13	And say to Amasa, ‘Aren’t you my flesh and blood? May God punish me, and ever so severely, if from this time you are not the commander of my army in place of Joab!’”

2 Kings 4:13 Summary

In 2 Kings 4:13, Elisha is trying to thank the Shunammite woman for her kindness by offering to help her in some way. The woman responds by saying she is content with her current situation, which shows her humility and gratitude. This verse teaches us the importance of showing appreciation and gratitude towards others, and being mindful of their needs, just like we see in other biblical accounts, such as in Acts 2:44-47. By following Elisha's example, we can learn to be more thoughtful and considerate towards those around us, and to trust in God's provision, as seen in Matthew 6:25-34.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was Elisha trying to do by asking the Shunammite woman what he could do for her?

Elisha was showing his appreciation for the woman's kindness and hospitality by offering to help her in some way, as seen in 2 Kings 4:13, which reflects the value of gratitude and reciprocity found in biblical relationships, such as in Romans 13:7.

Why did the Shunammite woman respond by saying she had a home among her own people?

The woman's response in 2 Kings 4:13 indicates that she was content with her current situation and did not feel the need for external assistance, demonstrating humility and contentment, similar to the attitude expressed in 1 Timothy 6:6-8.

What can we learn from Elisha's interaction with the Shunammite woman?

We can learn the importance of showing appreciation and gratitude towards others, as well as being mindful of their needs, as seen in Elisha's conversation with the woman in 2 Kings 4:13, and also in other biblical accounts, such as in Luke 10:30-37.

How does this verse relate to the broader biblical theme of hospitality?

This verse illustrates the biblical value of hospitality, as seen in the woman's care for Elisha and his response of gratitude, reflecting the teachings found in Hebrews 13:2 and other passages that emphasize the importance of showing kindness to others.

Reflection Questions

What are some ways I can show gratitude and appreciation towards those who have helped me, just like Elisha did in this verse?
How can I cultivate a sense of contentment and humility, like the Shunammite woman, in my own life and circumstances?
What are some needs in my community or among my friends and family that I can help meet, just as Elisha offered to help the woman?
How can I balance the desire to help others with the need to respect their autonomy and decisions, as Elisha did in this conversation?

Gill's Exposition on 2 Kings 4:13

And he said unto him,...., To Gehazi, before he went to call her: say now unto her, behold, thou hast been careful for us with all this care; in building a chamber, and furnishing it with proper

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on 2 Kings 4:13

And he said unto him, Say now unto her, Behold, thou hast been careful for us with all this care; what is to be done for thee? wouldest thou be spoken for to the king, or to the captain of the host?

Matthew Poole's Commentary on 2 Kings 4:13

What is to be done for thee? wherewith shall I recompense all thy care and kindness to me and my servant? To the king, or to the captain of the host; with whom he justly had great power for his eminent service, 2 Kings 3. I dwell among mine own people; I live in love and peace among my kindred and friends; nor have I any cause to complain of them, or to seek relief from higher powers.

Trapp's Commentary on 2 Kings 4:13

2 Kings 4:13 And he said unto him, Say now unto her, Behold, thou hast been careful for us with all this care; what [is] to be done for thee? wouldest thou be spoken for to the king, or to the captain of the host? And she answered, I dwell among mine own people.Ver. 13. Behold thou hast been careful for us.] A gracious man is a grateful man, and studieth retribution. I dwell among mine own people.] Privately and peaceably, having no business at court; not affecting great friendships, nor groaning under great oppressions. All this was well, if it might have held. The old Greeks gave this grave counsel, saith Suidas, “αλευαπομειζονοςανδρος.” - Suidas. i.e., Keep aloof from great ones. And the Latin poets say well, “ Dulcis inexpertis cultura potentis amici, Expertus metuet … - Horat. “ Vive tibi, quantumque potes, praelustria vita. ” - Ovid. But what hold is there of these earthly things? saith another; how long is the Shunammite thus blessed with peace? Stay but a while, you shall see her come on her knees to the king of Israel, pitifully complaining that she was stripped of house and land: and how Gehazi is fain to do that good office for her, which was not accepted from his master. Those that stand fastest upon earth, have but slippery footing. No man can say that he shall not need friends. Bp. Hall.

Ellicott's Commentary on 2 Kings 4:13

(13) And he said unto him—i.e., Elisha, as he lay on the bed (2 Kings 4:11), had charged Gehazi to say this when he called their hostess. It is hardly likely that Elisha communicated with her through his servant in order to save his own dignity. He may have thought she would express her wishes more freely to Gehazi than to himself. Thou hast been careful . . . with all this care.—Literally, trembled all this trembling. Comp. Luke 10:41 (τυρβάζῃ ?). Wouldest thou be spoken for to the king?—Literally, is it to speak for thee to the king? that is, dost thou stand in need of an advocate at court? Is there any boon thou desirest from the king? This shows what influence Elisha enjoyed at the time: but it does not prove that Jehu, whom he anointed, was already on the throne, for Jehoram respected and probably feared the prophet. The captain of the host.—The commander-in- chief, who was the most powerful person next the king. I dwell among mine own people.—Literally, In the midst of my people I am dwelling—scil., far from the court and courtly interests. I have nothing to seek from such exalted personages; I am a mere commoner living quietly in the country.

Adam Clarke's Commentary on 2 Kings 4:13

Verse 13. Wouldest thou be spoken for to the king] Elisha must have had considerable influence with the king, from the part he took in the late war with the Moabites. Jehoram had reason to believe that the prophet, under God, was the sole cause of his success, and therefore he could have no doubt that the king would grant him any reasonable request. Or to the captain of the host?] As if he had said, Wilt thou that I should procure thee and thy husband a place at court, or get any of thy friends a post in the army? I dwell among mine own people.] I am perfectly satisfied and contented with my lot in life; I live on the best terms with my neighbours, and am here encompassed with my kindred, and feel no disposition to change my connections or place of abode. How few are there like this woman on the earth! Who would not wish to be recommended to the king's notice, or get a post for a relative in the army, c.? Who would not like to change the country for the town, and the rough manners of the inhabitants of the villages for the polished conversation and amusements of the court? Who is so contented with what he has as not to desire more? Who trembles at the prospect of riches or believes there are any snares in an elevated state, or in the company and conversation of the great and honourable? How few are there that will not sacrifice every thing-peace, domestic comfort, their friends, their conscience, and their God-for money, honours, grandeur, and parade?

Cambridge Bible on 2 Kings 4:13

13. And he said unto him] i.e. Elisha to Gehazi. The prophet does not himself address the woman. Most likely, in all things which he required, Gehazi was his messenger to the house, and so the woman would more readily reply to him than to his master. It is clear from what follows that Gehazi was acquainted with the family concerns. There may have been also in Elisha’s mind somewhat of the feeling which the disciples of Christ had (John 4:27) when ‘they marvelled that their Master was speaking with a woman’. thou hast been careful for us with all this care] Both the noun and verb in the original are used of ‘fear’ and ‘trembling’. (Cf. Martha’s care and trouble, Luke 10:41.) Hence R.V. in margin gives ‘hast shewed us all this reverence’. The use of such words bears out what has just been said of the distance kept between Elisha and the family at Shunem, though they were his entertainers. The verb is used for that fear which came over the guests of Adonijah (1 Kings 1:49) when they found that David had caused Solomon to be proclaimed king. The LXX. recognises the strong meaning of the verb and gives ἐξέστησαςἡμῖνπᾶσαντὴνἔκστασινταύτην. wouldest thou be spoken for, &c.] The prophet offers to use his influence, if it can be of any service to his hostess, with the powers of the land. And we cannot but be struck all through his history with the close intimacy which existed between Elisha and the royal family. This was more likely to occur in the reign of Jehoram, than under his brother’s rule or his father’s. But even of him it is recorded (2 Kings 3:2) that he did that which was evil in the sight of the Lord, and in the expedition against Moab, Elisha declares (2 Kings 3:14) that but for the sake of Jehoshaphat he would not waste even a look on Jehoram. There must have been still a great deal of zeal for Jehovah in the northern kingdom to support the prophet, or after such a declaration he would have had little influence with the king, whereas it is the first thing that comes to his mind as a means of rewarding the attention of the Shunammite. On this Bp Hall remarks: ‘It is a good hearing that an Elisha is in such grace at the court, that he can promise himself access to the king, in a friend’s suit. It was not ever thus. The time was when his master heard, “Hast thou found me, O mine enemy?” Now the late miracle which Elisha wrought, in gratifying the three kings with water and victory, hath endeared him to the king of Israel; and now, Who but Elisha?’ or to the captain of the host] If we may take Joab, in David’s time, as an example, this officer possessed immense influence.

Barnes' Notes on 2 Kings 4:13

Thou hast been careful for us - For the prophet and his servant, who must have been lodged as well as his master. I dwell among mine own people - The woman declines Elisha’s offer.

Whedon's Commentary on 2 Kings 4:13

13. Wouldest thou be spoken for to the king — Hast thou any difficulty or concern in which the interference of the king or the captain of the host would be of service to thee?

Sermons on 2 Kings 4:13

	Sermon	Description
	Spiritual Insights 05 Acts 10:36 by William MacDonald	In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of not just hearing the word of God, but also putting it into action. He states that the true test of a good sermon is not si
	Of Contentedness. What It Is. the Grounds of Contentedness. by William Gouge	William Gouge preaches on the importance of contentedness, highlighting how it distinguishes between contentedness and covetousness, emphasizing that a contented mind is never unsa
	(Costa Rica) the Ministry of Refreshing Others by David Wilkerson	In this sermon, the speaker discusses the concept of refreshment and how it can come in times of rejection and despair. He uses the example of David, who was feeling rejected and h
	2 Timothy - Part 2 by William MacDonald	In this sermon, the preacher discusses the spiritual lesson found in the progression of music notes from F sharp to F natural to F flat. He emphasizes the importance of truth in th
	2 Timothy - Part 7 by John Hunter	In this sermon, the preacher discusses the events surrounding Paul's arrival in Rome during a time of chaos and destruction caused by a fire. A man named Onesiphorus diligently see
	Onesiphorus: The New Testament Ebedmelech. by Andrew Bonar	Andrew Bonar emphasizes the profound impact of Onesiphorus on the Apostle Paul, illustrating how this faithful friend provided support and encouragement during Paul's imprisonment.
	The Beatitudes the Fifth Beatitude by A.W. Pink	A.W. Pink emphasizes the significance of the fifth Beatitude, 'Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy,' highlighting that true mercifulness is a reflection of the me