Topical Encyclopedia The account of Joash shooting an arrow as a prophetic sign against the Syrians is found in 2 Kings 13:14-19. This event occurs during the reign of Joash (also known as Jehoash), king of Israel, and involves the prophet Elisha, who was nearing the end of his life.Context and Background Joash, the son of Jehoahaz, reigned over Israel in Samaria for sixteen years. His reign was marked by the ongoing threat of the Syrians, who had been a persistent adversary to Israel. The spiritual climate of Israel during Joash's reign was one of partial reform, as he continued in the sins of Jeroboam, the son of Nebat, who led Israel into idolatry. Despite this, Joash recognized the power and authority of the prophet Elisha, who had been a significant spiritual leader in Israel. The Prophetic Act As Elisha lay on his deathbed, Joash visited him, expressing concern over the future of Israel's military struggles. In 2 Kings 13:14, Joash's lament, "My father, my father, the chariots and horsemen of Israel!" reflects his recognition of Elisha's role as a spiritual protector and guide for the nation. Elisha instructed Joash to perform a symbolic act involving a bow and arrows. In 2 Kings 13:15-17 , Elisha said to him, "Take a bow and some arrows." So he took a bow and some arrows. Then Elisha said to the king of Israel, "Put your hand on the bow." So the king put his hand on it, and Elisha put his hands on the king's hands. "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." Significance of the Arrow The arrow shot by Joash symbolized the LORD's deliverance and victory over the Syrians. The act of shooting the arrow eastward, toward the territory of the enemy, was a prophetic declaration of God's intention to grant Israel victory in battle. Elisha's laying of hands on Joash's hands signified divine empowerment and guidance, indicating that the forthcoming victory would be orchestrated by God Himself. Further Instructions and Outcome Following the initial act, Elisha instructed Joash to strike the ground with the remaining arrows. In 2 Kings 13:18-19 , Joash struck the ground three times and stopped. Elisha was angry with him and said, "You should have struck the ground five or six times; then you would have struck Aram until you had put an end to it. But now you will strike Aram only three times." This part of the narrative highlights the importance of faith and obedience in the prophetic process. Joash's limited response demonstrated a lack of full commitment or understanding of the prophetic act's significance, resulting in a partial victory rather than complete deliverance from the Syrian threat. Theological Implications The account of Joash and the arrow serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and the role of prophetic acts in conveying divine will. It underscores the necessity of faith and obedience in receiving God's promises. The narrative also illustrates the importance of spiritual leadership, as seen in Elisha's influence over the king and the nation. Through this event, the LORD reaffirmed His commitment to Israel, even amidst their spiritual shortcomings, and provided a glimpse of His power to deliver and protect His people. Nave's Topical Index 2 Kings 13:14-19Now Elisha was fallen sick of his sickness whereof he died. And Joash the king of Israel came down to him, and wept over his face, and said, O my father, my father, the chariot of Israel, and the horsemen thereof. Nave's Topical Index Library Introduction. Resources What was the leviathan? | GotQuestions.orgIs there any validity to the Zeitgeist movie? | GotQuestions.org What is the meaning of pestilence in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Arrow: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |