Topical Bible: Miracles: Catalogue of The Panic of the Syrians

◄ Miracles: Catalogue of The Panic of the Syrians ►

Topical Encyclopedia

The Panic of the Syrians is a miraculous event recorded in the Old Testament, specifically in 2 Kings 7. This event is a testament to God's divine intervention and His ability to deliver His people from seemingly insurmountable circumstances. The account takes place during a time of severe famine in Samaria, caused by the siege of the city by the Arameans (Syrians).

Context and Background

The city of Samaria, the capital of the Northern Kingdom of Israel, was under siege by the Aramean army, leading to extreme famine within the city walls. The situation was dire, with the people resorting to desperate measures for survival. The king of Israel, in his distress, sought the counsel of the prophet Elisha.

Prophetic Declaration

Elisha, the prophet of God, made a bold declaration in the midst of the crisis. He proclaimed that within a day, the famine would end, and food would be abundant and affordable in Samaria. This prophecy is recorded in 2 Kings 7:1 : "Hear the word of the LORD. This is what the LORD says: 'About this time tomorrow at the gate of Samaria, six quarts of fine flour will sell for a shekel, and twelve quarts of barley will sell for a shekel.'"

The Miracle Unfolds

The miraculous deliverance began with an unexpected turn of events. Four lepers, who were outside the city gates due to their condition, decided to surrender to the Arameans, reasoning that they had nothing to lose. As they approached the Aramean camp, they discovered it abandoned. The Lord had caused the Arameans to hear the sound of chariots, horses, and a great army, leading them to flee in panic, leaving behind their tents, horses, donkeys, and provisions.

2 Kings 7:6-7 describes the divine intervention: "For the Lord had caused the Arameans to hear the sound of chariots, horses, and a great army, so that they said to one another, 'Look, the king of Israel must have hired the kings of the Hittites and Egyptians to attack us.' So they got up and fled at dusk, abandoning their tents and horses and donkeys. They left the camp as it was and ran for their lives."

The Fulfillment of Prophecy

The lepers reported their discovery to the city, and the people of Samaria went out and plundered the Aramean camp. As Elisha had prophesied, the famine ended, and food became plentiful and affordable. The miraculous nature of this event is underscored by the precise fulfillment of Elisha's prophecy, demonstrating God's sovereignty and faithfulness.

Significance

The Panic of the Syrians serves as a powerful reminder of God's ability to deliver His people in unexpected ways. It highlights the importance of faith in God's promises, even when circumstances seem impossible. This miracle also underscores the role of prophetic voices in guiding and encouraging God's people during times of crisis.

The event is a testament to the divine orchestration of circumstances, where God uses the natural and supernatural to accomplish His purposes. It serves as an enduring example of God's provision and protection for those who trust in Him.

Nave's Topical Index

2 Kings 7:6,7
For the LORD had made the host of the Syrians to hear a noise of chariots, and a noise of horses, even the noise of a great host: and they said one to another, See, the king of Israel has hired against us the kings of the Hittites, and the kings of the Egyptians, to come on us.
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