King James Version
What Does 2 Kings 9:4 Mean?
“So the young man, even the young man the prophet, went to Ramothgilead .”
Context
2
And when thou comest thither, look out there Jehu the son of Jehoshaphat the son of Nimshi, and go in, and make him arise up from among his brethren, and carry him to an inner chamber; inner: Heb. chamber in a chamber
3
Then take the box of oil, and pour it on his head, and say, Thus saith the LORD, I have anointed thee king over Israel. Then open the door, and flee, and tarry not.
4
So the young man, even the young man the prophet, went to Ramothgilead .
5
And when he came, behold, the captains of the host were sitting; and he said, I have an errand to thee, O captain. And Jehu said, Unto which of all us? And he said, To thee, O captain.
6
And he arose, and went into the house; and he poured the oil on his head, and said unto him, Thus saith the LORD God of Israel, I have anointed thee king over the people of the LORD, even over Israel.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(4) **Even the young man the prophet.**—Rather, the *young man of the prophet—i.e.*, Elisha’s minister. The construction, however, is unusual, and some MSS., the LXX. and the Syriac, omit *the young man* in the second place. This gives the suitable reading: “So the young man, the prophet, went,” &c.
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 9:4 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.