King James Version
What Does 2 Kings 6:8 Mean?
“Then the king of Syria warred against Israel, and took counsel with his servants, saying, In such and such a place shall be my camp. camp: or, encamping”
2 Kings 6:8 · KJV
Context
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.
7
Therefore said he, Take it up to thee. And he put out his hand, and took it.
8
Then the king of Syria warred against Israel, and took counsel with his servants, saying, In such and such a place shall be my camp. camp: or, encamping
9
And the man of God sent unto the king of Israel, saying, Beware that thou pass not such a place; for thither the Syrians are come down.
10
And the king of Israel sent to the place which the man of God told him and warned him of, and saved himself there, not once nor twice.
Commentary
KJV Study CommentaryThen the king of Syria warred against Israel, and took counsel with his servants, saying, In such and such a place shall be my camp.
This verse contributes to the overall theme of chapter 6: God's protection and provision for His servants. The reference to kingship reminds readers that all human authority is subordinate to God's ultimate kingship. 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 reference to kingship reminds readers that all human authority is subordinate to God's ultimate kingship. 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 · 14 wordsאֲרָ֔ם2 of 14
“of Syria”
H758aram or syria, and its inhabitants; also the name of the son of shem, a grandson of nahor, and of an israelite
הָיָ֥ה3 of 14
H1961to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)
בְּיִשְׂרָאֵ֑ל5 of 14
“against Israel”
H3478he will rule as god; jisral, a symbolical name of jacob; also (typically) of his posterity
מְק֛וֹם11 of 14
“a place”
H4725properly, a standing, i.e., a spot; but used widely of a locality (general or specific); also (figuratively) of a condition (of body or mind)
אַלְמֹנִ֖י13 of 14
“and such”
H492some one (i.e., so and so, without giving the name of the person or place)
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 6:8 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 6:8 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge