2 Kings 7:16

Then the people went out and plundered the camp of the Arameans. It was then that a seah of fine flour sold for a shekel, and two seahs of barley sold for a shekel, according to the word of the LORD.

Study Bible

Then the people went out and plundered the camp of the Arameans.
This phrase describes the fulfillment of Elisha's prophecy that the siege of Samaria would end and provisions would become available. The Arameans, also known as Syrians, had besieged Samaria, leading to severe famine. The sudden departure of the Arameans, caused by divine intervention, left their camp abandoned and full of supplies. This event demonstrates God's power to deliver His people and fulfill His promises, as seen in 2 Kings 7:6-7, where the Lord caused the Arameans to hear the sound of chariots and horses, prompting their flight.

It was then that a seah of fine flour sold for a shekel,
A seah is a unit of measure for dry goods, approximately 7.3 liters or 1.9 gallons. The sale of fine flour at this price indicates a dramatic reversal of the famine conditions. Previously, food was so scarce that a donkey's head and dove's dung were sold at exorbitant prices (2 Kings 6:25). The shekel, a standard unit of currency, suggests a return to normalcy and economic stability. This fulfillment of Elisha's prophecy (2 Kings 7:1) underscores the reliability of God's word.

and two seahs of barley sold for a shekel,
Barley, often considered a less desirable grain than wheat, was a staple food for the poor. The availability of barley at this price further illustrates the abundance that followed the lifting of the siege. The economic turnaround highlights God's provision and the miraculous nature of the event, as the city moved from extreme scarcity to surplus overnight.

according to the word of the LORD.
This phrase emphasizes the divine origin and authority of the prophecy given by Elisha. The fulfillment of the prophecy serves as a testament to God's sovereignty and faithfulness. Throughout Scripture, God's word is shown to be powerful and true, as seen in Isaiah 55:11, where it is stated that God's word will not return void but will accomplish His purposes. This event also prefigures the ultimate provision and deliverance found in Jesus Christ, who fulfills God's promises and provides spiritual sustenance to His people.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The People of Samaria
The inhabitants of the city who were suffering from a severe famine due to the Aramean siege.

2. The Arameans
The enemy army that besieged Samaria, causing the famine, but fled after hearing the sound of a great army, leaving their camp abandoned.

3. Elisha
The prophet of God who foretold the end of the famine and the abundance of food.

4. The Camp of the Arameans
The location where the Arameans had set up their siege, which was later plundered by the people of Samaria.

5. The Word of the LORD
The prophecy given by Elisha that the famine would end and food would be plentiful.

Teaching Points

God's Faithfulness to His Word
The fulfillment of Elisha's prophecy demonstrates that God is faithful to His promises. Believers can trust that what God has spoken will come to pass.

Divine Provision in Desperate Times
Just as God provided for the people of Samaria, He is able to provide for us in our times of need. We should look to Him as our ultimate source of provision.

The Power of God's Intervention
The sudden change in circumstances for the people of Samaria shows that God can intervene in powerful and unexpected ways. We should remain hopeful and expectant for God's intervention in our lives.

The Importance of Obedience and Faith
The people acted on the word of the LORD through Elisha. Our faith should lead us to action, trusting in God's promises even when circumstances seem dire.

The Consequences of Unbelief
The officer who doubted Elisha's prophecy (2 Kings 7:2) serves as a warning against unbelief. We should guard our hearts against doubt and trust in God's word.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the fulfillment of Elisha's prophecy in 2 Kings 7:16 encourage you to trust in God's promises today?

2. In what ways can you relate the miraculous provision for Samaria to God's provision in your own life?

3. How can the account of the Arameans' sudden departure inspire you to have faith in God's ability to change your circumstances?

4. What are some areas in your life where you need to act in faith, trusting in God's word, as the people of Samaria did?

5. How does the account of the officer who doubted Elisha's prophecy challenge you to examine your own faith and trust in God's promises?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Kings 7:1
Elisha's prophecy about the end of the famine, which sets the stage for the events in verse 16.

Exodus 16
The provision of manna in the wilderness, showing God's ability to provide miraculously for His people.

Matthew 6:25-34
Jesus' teaching on not worrying about material needs, emphasizing trust in God's provision.

Philippians 4:19
Paul's assurance that God will supply all needs according to His riches in glory.