“Take a bow and some arrows.”
The bow and arrows symbolize warfare and deliverance. In the ancient Near East, these were common weapons, representing military strength and readiness. The act of taking them signifies preparation for battle, both physically and spiritually. This instruction foreshadows the impending conflict with Aram (Syria) and serves as a prophetic act, similar to other symbolic actions performed by prophets, such as Jeremiah's yoke (Jeremiah 27:2).

So Jehoash took a bow and some arrows.
Jehoash, also known as Joash, was the king of Israel at this time. His compliance with Elisha's command indicates his recognition of the prophet's authority and the seriousness of the situation. This act of obedience is crucial, as it sets the stage for the subsequent prophetic declaration. The narrative highlights the importance of following divine instructions, a recurring theme in the Bible, where obedience often leads to divine intervention and victory, as seen in the story of Joshua at Jericho (Joshua 6).

• Here the prophet stands as God’s mouthpiece, giving a clear, actionable word. Much as Elijah once said to the widow of Zarephath, “Do not fear. Go and do as you have said” (1 Kings 17:13), Elisha’s command carries the weight of divine authority.

• Jehoash is the king, yet he submits to the prophet’s voice. This mirrors earlier moments when Naaman obeyed Elisha’s simple directions and was healed (2 Kings 5:10–14).

• The scene reminds us that victory for God’s people begins with listening to the Lord, whether through prophets of old or through the written Word today (Psalm 119:105).

• The bow is a tool of warfare—tangible, practical. God often ties His promises to physical means: a staff lifted over the Red Sea (Exodus 14:16) or five smooth stones in David’s pouch (1 Samuel 17:40).

• By naming the bow first, Elisha spotlights the upcoming battle with Aram. Psalm 18:34 says, “He trains my hands for battle; my arms can bend a bow of bronze,” pointing to the Lord as the true trainer behind human skill.

• The instruction invites faith that God can work through ordinary instruments to bring extraordinary deliverance.

• Arrows imply repeated action, not a one-time shot. Elisha is preparing Jehoash for more than a symbolic gesture; each arrow will matter (as vv. 18–19 soon reveal).

• The plural recalls Psalm 45:5, “Your arrows pierce the hearts of the king’s foes,” portraying decisive, multiple strikes.

• Zechariah 9:14 pictures the Lord Himself as the archer: “His arrow will flash like lightning.” Jehoash’s arrows will become extensions of that divine power.

• The king responds without delay or debate—an example of prompt obedience akin to Joshua’s quick action when the Lord said, “Take up the Ark… and move on ahead” (Joshua 3:6).

• Obedience precedes explanation; Jehoash still does not know the full lesson, yet he acts. This echoes Peter’s words, “But at Your word I will let down the nets” (Luke 5:5), revealing trust that steps first and understands later.

• Jehoash gathers exactly what was ordered—nothing more, nothing less. Complete compliance positions him to receive the promised victory.

• Having the right equipment matters, but having it in humble reliance on God matters more. David carried Goliath’s sword later on, yet said, “The battle is the Lord’s” (1 Samuel 17:47).

• In New-Testament terms, these weapons anticipate the believer’s readiness to wield “the shield of faith” and “the sword of the Spirit” (Ephesians 6:16–17): human hands holding instruments empowered by God.

2 Kings 13:15 captures a moment where God, through Elisha, invites King Jehoash to partner with Him in victory over Aram. The prophet’s simple command and the king’s immediate obedience show that divine deliverance often begins with listening and acting on God’s Word, even before all the details are clear. The bow and arrows symbolize the means God provides; faith-filled use of those means leads to triumph, because the battle ultimately belongs to the Lord.