Topical Encyclopedia Biblical Context: Elisha's room is a significant location mentioned in the narrative of the prophet Elisha, found in the Old Testament. The account is primarily located in 2 Kings 4:8-37. Elisha, a prophet and successor to Elijah, frequently traveled through the region of Shunem. A notable Shunammite woman, recognizing Elisha as a holy man of God, extended hospitality to him by providing a place to stay whenever he passed through. Scriptural Reference: The Berean Standard Bible recounts this account in 2 Kings 4:8-10: "One day Elisha went to Shunem, and a prominent woman who lived there persuaded him to have a meal. So whenever he would pass by, he would stop there to eat. Then she said to her husband, 'Behold, now I know that this man who often comes our way is a holy man of God. Please let us make a small room upstairs and put in it a bed, a table, a chair, and a lamp for him. Then whenever he comes to us, he can stay there.'" Significance of the Room: The room provided by the Shunammite woman and her husband was more than just a physical space; it was a testament to their faith and recognition of God's work through Elisha. The room was furnished with basic necessities—a bed, a table, a chair, and a lamp—indicating a place of rest and study for the prophet. This act of hospitality and reverence for God's servant reflects the couple's devotion and respect for the divine mission of Elisha. Miraculous Events: The room became the setting for significant miraculous events. In gratitude for their kindness, Elisha prophesied that the barren Shunammite woman would have a son, which came to pass as foretold (2 Kings 4:16-17). Later, when the child tragically died, the Shunammite woman laid him on Elisha's bed in the room, symbolizing her faith in God's power to restore life. Elisha returned to the room, prayed to the Lord, and miraculously revived the child (2 Kings 4:32-35). Theological Implications: Elisha's room serves as a symbol of divine presence and intervention. It underscores the importance of hospitality and faith in God's prophets, as well as the belief in God's power to perform miracles. The Shunammite woman's actions demonstrate a profound trust in God's promises and His ability to work through His chosen servants. The room, therefore, is not merely a physical space but a testament to the intersection of human faith and divine action. Cultural and Historical Context: In the ancient Near Eastern culture, hospitality was a highly valued virtue. Providing a room for Elisha was an expression of this cultural norm, but it also went beyond mere custom. The Shunammite woman's initiative to create a dedicated space for Elisha highlights her spiritual insight and recognition of the sacred. This narrative reflects the broader biblical theme of God rewarding those who honor His messengers and participate in His work. Legacy and Influence: The account of Elisha's room has been a source of inspiration for many, illustrating the blessings that come from supporting God's work and His servants. It serves as a reminder of the power of faith and the importance of creating space—both physically and spiritually—for God's presence in one's life. The narrative continues to be a powerful example of the miraculous possibilities that arise from faith and hospitality. Subtopics Elisha: Bones of, Restore a Dead Man to Life Elisha: Causes the King to Restore the Property of the Hospitable Shunammite Woman Elisha: Elijah Instructed to Anoint Elisha: Instructs That Jehu be Anointed As King of Israel Elisha: Life of, Sought by Jehoram Elisha: Miracles of Brings Blindness Upon the Army of Syria Elisha: Miracles of Divides the Jordan Elisha: Miracles of Heals Naaman the Leper Elisha: Miracles of Increases the Bread to Feed One-Hundred Men Elisha: Miracles of Increases the Oil of the Woman Whose Sons Were to be Sold for Her Debt Elisha: Miracles of Neutralizes the Poison of the Stew Elisha: Miracles of Opens the Eyes of his Servant to See the Hosts of the Lord Elisha: Miracles of Purifies the Waters of Jericho by Casting Salt Into the Fountain Elisha: Miracles of Raises the Son of the Shunammite Woman from the Dead Elisha: Miracles of Recovers the Ax That had Fallen Into a Stream by Causing It to Float Elisha: Miracles of Reveals the Counsel of the King of Syria Elisha: Miracles of Sends Naaman's Leprosy Upon Gehazi As a Judgment Elisha: Mocked by the Young Men of Beth-El Elisha: Prophecies of Bounty to the Starving People in Samaria Elisha: Prophecies of Elevation of Hazael to the Throne Elisha: Prophecies of Seven Years of Famine in the Land of Canaan Elisha: Prophecies of The Birth of a Son to the Shunammite Woman Elisha: Prophecies of The Death of Ben-Hadad, King of Syria Elisha: Prophecies of The Death of the Unbelieving Prince Elisha: Prophecies of The Victory of Jehoash Over Syria Elisha: Witnesses Elijah's Transporting, Receives a Double Portion of his Spirit Select Readings: Elisha and the Widow's Oil Related Terms |