2 Kings 13:17

"Open the east window," said Elisha. So he opened it and Elisha said, "Shoot!" So he shot. And Elisha declared: "This is the LORD's arrow of victory, the arrow of victory over Aram, for you shall strike the Arameans in Aphek until you have put an end to them."

Study Bible

“Open the east window,” said Elisha.
Elisha, the prophet, instructs the king of Israel to open the east window. The east direction is significant as it faces Aram (modern-day Syria), the enemy of Israel at the time. This act symbolizes preparation for battle and divine intervention. In biblical symbolism, the east often represents the direction from which God's glory appears (Ezekiel 43:2).

So he opened it and Elisha said, “Shoot!”
The king obeys Elisha's command, demonstrating faith and submission to God's prophetic word. Shooting an arrow was a common ancient practice to symbolize the commencement of war. This act signifies the beginning of God's deliverance for Israel from their enemies.

So he shot.
The king's action of shooting the arrow represents his active participation in God's plan. It is a physical manifestation of faith, similar to other biblical instances where actions accompany faith, such as Moses lifting his staff over the Red Sea (Exodus 14:16).

And Elisha declared: “This is the LORD’s arrow of victory,
Elisha interprets the act as a prophetic sign. The arrow symbolizes God's promise of victory. The phrase "LORD's arrow" emphasizes that the victory will be divinely orchestrated, not by human might, aligning with passages like Zechariah 4:6, which states that victory comes by God's Spirit.

the arrow of victory over Aram,
The specific mention of Aram identifies the immediate enemy. Historically, Aram was a persistent adversary of Israel, often engaging in warfare. This prophecy assures Israel of triumph over a formidable foe, reflecting God's ongoing protection and fulfillment of His covenant promises.

for you shall strike the Arameans in Aphek
Aphek was a strategic location in Israel's military history, previously a site of conflict with the Philistines (1 Samuel 4:1). The prophecy indicates a decisive battle at Aphek, suggesting a complete and significant victory, reminiscent of past deliverances.

until you have put an end to them.”
This phrase promises total victory, implying the complete subjugation of Aram. It reflects God's power to deliver His people fully, as seen in other biblical narratives where God grants overwhelming victory to Israel, such as in the conquest of Canaan (Joshua 10:40). This assurance of victory also prefigures the ultimate triumph of Christ over sin and death.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Elisha
A prophet in Israel, successor of Elijah, known for his miracles and guidance to the kings of Israel.

2. Jehoash (Joash) of Israel
The king of Israel during this time, seeking guidance and deliverance from the prophet Elisha.

3. Aram (Syria)
A neighboring nation and frequent adversary of Israel, often at war with them.

4. Aphek
A location where significant battles occurred between Israel and Aram, symbolizing conflict and victory.

5. The Arrow
Symbolizes God's deliverance and victory over Israel's enemies, as directed by the prophet Elisha.

Teaching Points

Divine Guidance and Obedience
Elisha's instructions to Jehoash highlight the importance of seeking and following God's guidance in our battles.

Symbolism of Victory
The arrow represents God's promise of victory. We must trust in His promises and act in faith.

Faith in Action
Jehoash's act of shooting the arrow demonstrates faith in action. Our faith should lead to obedient actions that align with God's will.

God's Sovereignty in Battles
The victory over Aram is attributed to God, reminding us that our struggles are ultimately under His control.

Prophetic Assurance
Elisha's declaration assures us that God's word through His prophets is reliable and powerful, encouraging us to trust in His promises.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the act of shooting the arrow symbolize faith and obedience in our own lives?

2. In what ways can we seek and recognize God's guidance in our personal battles today?

3. How does the concept of divine victory in 2 Kings 13:17 encourage us in facing our own challenges?

4. What are some modern "arrows" of faith that we can "shoot" in obedience to God's direction?

5. How can we apply the assurance of God's promises, as seen in Elisha's prophecy, to our daily walk with Christ?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Psalm 18:34
This verse speaks of God training hands for battle, which connects to the idea of divine empowerment for victory.

Isaiah 49:2
Describes God's word as a polished arrow, symbolizing His precise and powerful intervention.

Ephesians 6:16
Discusses the shield of faith, which can be related to the faith required to trust in God's deliverance as symbolized by the arrow.

1 Samuel 17:47
Reminds us that the battle belongs to the Lord, similar to how the victory over Aram is attributed to God's intervention.

Zechariah 9:14
Speaks of the Lord appearing over His people and His arrow going forth like lightning, symbolizing divine victory.