In the biblical narrative, leprosy is often depicted as a severe skin disease that rendered individuals ceremonially unclean and socially ostracized. One notable account involving leprosy is the account of the four lepers outside Samaria, found in 2 Kings 7. This passage provides a unique perspective on how God can use even those marginalized by society to fulfill His divine purposes.

Context and Setting

The account takes place during a time of great distress for the city of Samaria, which was under siege by the Arameans. The siege led to a severe famine within the city walls, causing desperation among the inhabitants. The situation was so dire that the king of Israel, Joram, blamed the prophet Elisha for their plight, seeking his life in frustration.

The Four Lepers

Outside the city gates, four leprous men found themselves in a dire predicament. As lepers, they were excluded from the community and forced to live in isolation. Their condition made them outcasts, yet it also placed them in a unique position to act during this crisis. The lepers reasoned among themselves, saying, "Why should we sit here until we die? If we say, ‘Let us go into the city,’ we will die there because the famine is in the city. But if we stay here, we will die as well. So come now, let us go over to the camp of the Arameans. If they let us live, we will live; if they kill us, we will die" (2 Kings 7:3-4).

Divine Intervention and Discovery

In a remarkable turn of events, God intervened by causing the Aramean army to hear the sound of chariots, horses, and a great army, leading them to flee in panic, abandoning their camp. Unaware of this divine intervention, the four lepers approached the Aramean camp, expecting to surrender. Instead, they discovered the camp deserted, with food, drink, and riches left behind.

The Lepers' Decision

Initially, the lepers began to enjoy the spoils of the abandoned camp, but soon they realized the importance of sharing the good news with the starving city. They said to one another, "We are not doing right. This is a day of good news, but we are keeping silent. If we wait until morning light, we will be punished. So now, come, let us go and tell the king’s household" (2 Kings 7:9).

Impact on Samaria

The lepers returned to the city and reported their findings to the gatekeepers, who relayed the message to the king's household. Skeptical at first, the king sent scouts to verify the lepers' report. Upon confirmation, the people of Samaria rushed out and plundered the Aramean camp, thus alleviating the famine and fulfilling Elisha's prophecy that food would become plentiful (2 Kings 7:16).

Significance

The account of the four lepers outside Samaria highlights several key themes. It demonstrates God's sovereignty and ability to deliver His people in unexpected ways. Despite their marginalized status, the lepers played a crucial role in the salvation of Samaria, illustrating how God can use anyone, regardless of their societal standing, to accomplish His purposes. This account also underscores the importance of sharing good news and acting selflessly for the benefit of others, even when one is in a position of vulnerability.2 Kings 7:3
And there were four leprous men at the entering in of the gate: and they said one to another, Why sit we here until we die?
Nave's Topical Index

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