King James Version
What Does 2 Kings 6:4 Mean?
“So he went with them. And when they came to Jordan, they cut down wood.”
2 Kings 6:4 · KJV
Context
2
Let us go, we pray thee, unto Jordan, and take thence every man a beam, and let us make us a place there, where we may dwell. And he answered, Go ye.
3
And one said, Be content, I pray thee, and go with thy servants. And he answered, I will go.
4
So he went with them. And when they came to Jordan, they cut down wood.
5
But as one was felling a beam, the axe head fell into the water: and he cried, and said, Alas, master! for it was borrowed. axe head: Heb. iron
6
And the man of God said, Where fell it? And he shewed him the place. And he cut down a stick, and cast it in thither; and the iron did swim.
Commentary
KJV Study CommentarySo he went with them. And when they came to Jordan, they cut down wood.
This verse contributes to the overall theme of chapter 6: God's protection and provision for His servants. The prophetic ministry served as God's primary means of covenant enforcement, calling both kings and people to faithfulness. During this period, Israel and Judah struggled with persistent idolatry, particularly Baal worship introduced under Ahab and Jezebel.
The narrative demonstrates God's justice in judging covenant unfaithfulness while maintaining His ultimate purposes for redemption.
This verse contributes to the overall theme of chapter 6: God's protection and provision for His servants. The prophetic ministry served as God's primary means of covenant enforcement, calling both kings and people to faithfulness. During this period, Israel and Judah struggled with persistent idolatry, particularly Baal worship introduced under Ahab and Jezebel.
The narrative demonstrates God's justice in judging covenant unfaithfulness while maintaining His ultimate purposes for redemption.
KJV Study — Public Domain
Historical & Cultural Context
Historical Setting: 2 Kings 6 takes place during the Elisha prophetic ministry, approximately 850-800 BCE. The chapter's theme (Miracles and Siege) reflects the historical reality of God's compassionate provision through prophetic miracles while both kingdoms struggled with persistent idolatry. Archaeological evidence from this period includes royal inscriptions, administrative documents, and material culture that corroborate the biblical account while providing additional context for understanding the political and social dynamics at work.
Reflection Questions
- How does this verse contribute to understanding the theological message of 2 Kings 6 regarding god's protection and provision for his servants?
- What does this passage reveal about God's character, particularly His justice, mercy, and faithfulness to covenant promises?
- In what practical ways should this text shape contemporary Christian thinking about faithfulness, worship, and obedience to God?
Original Language Analysis
Hebrew · 6 wordsאִתָּ֑ם2 of 6
H854properly, nearness (used only as a preposition or an adverb), near; hence, generally, with, by, at, among, etc
וַיָּבֹ֙אוּ֙3 of 6
“with them And when they came”
H935to go or come (in a wide variety of applications)
וַֽיִּגְזְר֖וּ5 of 6
“they cut down”
H1504to cut down or off; (figuratively) to destroy, divide, exclude, or decide
Study Guide
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of 2 Kings. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
2 Kings 6:4 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to 2 Kings 6:4 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge