Topical Encyclopedia The account of the Shunammite woman and the prophet Elisha is a profound biblical example of hospitality, illustrating the virtues of generosity, faith, and divine reward. This narrative is found in 2 Kings 4:8-37 and provides insight into the cultural and spiritual significance of hospitality in ancient Israel.Context and Setting The account unfolds in Shunem, a town in the territory of Issachar, during the time of the divided kingdom of Israel. Elisha, the successor of Elijah, frequently traveled through this region as he carried out his prophetic ministry. The Shunammite woman, whose name is not recorded, is described as a "prominent woman" (2 Kings 4:8), indicating her social standing and influence within the community. Acts of Hospitality Recognizing Elisha as a "holy man of God" (2 Kings 4:9), the Shunammite woman extends her hospitality by inviting him to dine at her home whenever he passes through Shunem. Her hospitality goes beyond mere provision of food; she perceives Elisha's need for rest and comfort during his journeys. Consequently, she persuades her husband to build a small, furnished upper room for Elisha on their roof, providing him with a bed, table, chair, and lamp (2 Kings 4:10). This act of kindness ensures that Elisha has a place of refuge and refreshment. Spiritual Significance The Shunammite woman's hospitality is not merely an act of cultural obligation but a reflection of her spiritual discernment and reverence for God's work through Elisha. Her actions demonstrate a heart attuned to the needs of others and a willingness to serve God's purposes. In the biblical context, hospitality is often seen as a tangible expression of faith and obedience to God's commandments, as it reflects the love and care that God shows to His people. Divine Reward In response to her generosity, Elisha desires to bless the Shunammite woman. Despite her contentment and lack of personal requests, Elisha, through his servant Gehazi, learns that she is childless and her husband is old. Elisha prophesies that she will embrace a son within a year (2 Kings 4:16). The prophecy is fulfilled, and she bears a son, highlighting the theme of divine reward for acts of faith and kindness. Trial and Faith The narrative takes a dramatic turn when the child, now grown, suddenly falls ill and dies. The Shunammite woman's response is marked by faith and determination. She lays the child on Elisha's bed and sets out to find the prophet at Mount Carmel, refusing to disclose the tragedy to anyone else (2 Kings 4:21-23). Her unwavering faith in Elisha's ability to intercede with God is evident as she clings to hope for her son's restoration. Miraculous Restoration Upon reaching Elisha, the Shunammite woman expresses her distress. Elisha returns with her to Shunem, where he prays to the LORD and stretches himself upon the child. After a series of actions, the child is miraculously revived (2 Kings 4:32-35). This miracle underscores the power of God working through His prophet and the profound impact of faith and hospitality. Legacy of the Shunammite Woman The Shunammite woman's account is a testament to the blessings that flow from genuine hospitality and faith. Her actions exemplify the biblical principle that those who honor God's servants and extend kindness to others will themselves be blessed. Her legacy is one of faith, perseverance, and the transformative power of divine grace in response to human hospitality. Nave's Topical Index 2 Kings 4:8And it fell on a day, that Elisha passed to Shunem, where was a great woman; and she constrained him to eat bread. And so it was, that as oft as he passed by, he turned in thither to eat bread. Nave's Topical Index Library The Secret of Success. A Prophet of Peace Further Incidents of the Journey to Jerusalem - the Mission and ... The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus Resources What does the Bible say about hospitality? | GotQuestions.orgSummary of the Book of 3 John - Bible Survey | GotQuestions.org What is the story of Elisha and the Shunammite woman? | GotQuestions.org Hospitality: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Hospitality: A Test of Christian Character Hospitality: Abimelech to Abraham Hospitality: Abraham to the Angels Hospitality: David to Mephibosheth Hospitality: Elisha to the Syrian Spies Hospitality: General Scriptures Concerning Hospitality: Isaac to Abimelech Hospitality: Joseph to his Brothers Hospitality: Laban to Abraham's Servant Hospitality: Lydia to Paul and Silas Hospitality: Man of Gibeah to the Levite Hospitality: Melchizedek to Abraham Hospitality: Onesiphorus to Paul Hospitality: Pharaoh to Abraham Hospitality: Pharisees to Jesus Hospitality: Rahab to the Spies Hospitality: Required in Ministers Hospitality: Rewarded: Rahab's Hospitality: Rewarded: Widow of Zarephath's Hospitality: Simon the Tanner to Peter Hospitality: Sons of Heth to Abraham Hospitality: Specially to be Shown to Enemies Hospitality: Specially to be Shown to Strangers Hospitality: Specially to be Shown to The Poor Hospitality: The Shunammite Woman to Elisha Hospitality: The Widow of Zarephath to Elijah Hospitality: Zacchaeus to Jesus Inhospitableness: Ammonites and Moabites Inhospitableness: Men of Gibeah Toward a Levite Inhospitableness: Nabal Toward David Inhospitableness: some Samaritans Toward Jesus Related Terms |
    |