King James Version
What Does 2 Kings 8:11 Mean?
“And he settled his countenance stedfastly, until he was ashamed: and the man of God wept. stedfastly: Heb. and set it”
Context
9
So Hazael went to meet him, and took a present with him, even of every good thing of Damascus, forty camels' burden, and came and stood before him, and said, Thy son Benhadad king of Syria hath sent me to thee, saying, Shall I recover of this disease? with: Heb. in his hand
10
And Elisha said unto him, Go, say unto him, Thou mayest certainly recover: howbeit the LORD hath shewed me that he shall surely die.
11
And he settled his countenance stedfastly, until he was ashamed: and the man of God wept. stedfastly: Heb. and set it
12
And Hazael said, Why weepeth my lord? And he answered, Because I know the evil that thou wilt do unto the children of Israel: their strong holds wilt thou set on fire, and their young men wilt thou slay with the sword, and wilt dash their children, and rip up their women with child.
13
And Hazael said, But what, is thy servant a dog, that he should do this great thing? And Elisha answered, The LORD hath shewed me that thou shalt be king over Syria.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(11) **And he settled his countenance stedfastly.**—Literally, *and he* (Elisha) *made his face stand, and set* (it upon Hazael).
**Until he was ashamed.**—Literally, *unto being ashamed*. This may mean either *in shameless fashion or until Hazael was disconcerted*. We prefer the latter. Hazael, conscious that Elisha had read his; thoughts aright, shrank from that piercing gaze. (Comp. 2Kings 2:17.)
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
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 8:11 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 8:11
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge