What is the meaning of 2 Kings 5:21? So Gehazi pursued Naaman • The servant of Elisha chooses to chase after the Syrian commander, revealing a heart already set on personal gain (compare 1 Timothy 6:10; Acts 8:18–20). • Gehazi’s action contrasts sharply with Elisha’s earlier refusal of gifts (2 Kings 5:16), underscoring the danger of coveting what God has declined. • Pursuit here is more than physical; it is moral descent—just as Achan “saw,” “coveted,” and “took” (Joshua 7:20–21). And when Naaman saw him running toward him • Naaman, newly cleansed, perceives Gehazi’s approach and immediately assumes goodwill (1 Corinthians 13:7; Titus 1:15). • The image of the healed man watching the prophet’s aide signals how quickly trust can be won—or betrayed. • Running implies urgency; Naaman expects some prophetic message, not manipulation (Proverbs 3:27–28). He got down from the chariot to meet him • Dismounting shows Naaman’s humility, a striking change from his earlier pride (2 Kings 5:11); see also Luke 18:13 for a humbled petitioner. • In near-Eastern culture, stepping down concedes honor to the one approached (Philippians 2:3). • Naaman’s gesture mirrors the Ethiopian eunuch who invites Philip into his chariot for deeper truth (Acts 8:31). And asked, “Is everything all right?” • The question (literally, “Is there shalom?”) reveals Naaman’s concern for relational peace (Romans 12:18). • This greeting of welfare emphasizes that grace had softened the warrior’s heart (Ephesians 4:32). • Tragically, Gehazi will answer deceitfully, echoing Cain’s denial of responsibility (Genesis 4:9). summary 2 Kings 5:21 records a moment pregnant with contrast: Naaman, the once-leprous outsider, now walks in humility and goodwill, while Gehazi, insider to prophetic truth, sprints toward sin. The verse warns that unchecked covetousness can overtake even those close to holy things, yet it also showcases how God’s grace can transform a pagan commander into a man of courtesy and peace. |
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