What is the meaning of 2 Kings 6:5? as one of them was cutting down a tree – The “sons of the prophets” had outgrown their meeting place and, with Elisha’s blessing, went to the Jordan to fell trees for a larger house (2 Kings 6:1-3). – They were doing practical work in faith, reminding us that ministry often involves ordinary tasks (cf. Nehemiah 4:17, where builders both worked and watched). – The scene underscores responsible stewardship of creation; they are not idle dreamers but diligent laborers (Proverbs 14:23). the iron axe head fell into the water – Iron was costly (1 Samuel 13:19-22), so an iron blade represented significant value. – The Jordan’s swift current would make recovery impossible by human means, amplifying the crisis (Joshua 3:15). – Moments like this illustrate how unforeseen trouble can strike even while serving God (Ecclesiastes 9:11). – Deuteronomy 19:5 foresaw a similar accident, showing Scripture’s realism: “as when a man goes into the forest with his neighbor to cut wood, and his hand swings the axe to fell the tree, and the head slips from the handle.” “oh, my master,” he cried out – The worker instantly turns to Elisha, acknowledging spiritual authority and seeking help (cf. 2 Kings 4:1; 4:40). – His cry mirrors the instinctive prayers of believers who run to the Lord in crisis (Psalm 34:6; Mark 4:38). “it was borrowed!” – Borrowing tools was common; few owned expensive iron. The man feels the weight of Exodus 22:14: “If a man borrows an animal from his neighbor and it is injured or dies… he shall surely make restitution.” – Scripture stresses integrity with another’s property (Proverbs 22:26-27; Romans 13:8). – His remorse shows a tender conscience; ministry never excuses negligence. – The stage is now set for God to display mercy through Elisha’s miracle, proving divine concern for everyday losses (2 Kings 6:6-7). summary 2 Kings 6:5 presents a real accident during faithful labor: a borrowed iron axe head plunges into the Jordan, and the powerless borrower appeals to Elisha. The verse teaches that God cares about small, practical setbacks; He honors integrity and responsible stewardship; and He invites His people to cry out when they are in need. The literal event prepares us for the subsequent miracle, underscoring that even mundane problems are within the Lord’s compassionate reach. |
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