The concept of liberality, or generous giving, is exemplified in the account of the Shunammite woman found in the Old Testament. Her account is primarily recorded in 2 Kings 4:8-37 and 2 Kings 8:1-6. The Shunammite woman is a notable figure for her hospitality and generosity towards the prophet Elisha, which serves as a model of liberality in the biblical narrative.

Biblical Account

The Shunammite woman lived in the town of Shunem, located in the territory of Issachar. She is described as a "prominent woman" (2 Kings 4:8), indicating her social standing and possibly her wealth. Her liberality is first demonstrated when she urges Elisha to dine at her home whenever he passes through Shunem. Recognizing Elisha as a "holy man of God" (2 Kings 4:9), she goes beyond mere hospitality by suggesting to her husband that they build a small upper room for Elisha to stay in whenever he visits. This act of generosity provides Elisha with a place of rest and refreshment, reflecting her willingness to use her resources for the service of God's prophet.

Divine Reward

In response to her kindness, Elisha seeks to repay her generosity. Despite her contentment and lack of requests, Elisha prophesies that she will embrace a son within a year (2 Kings 4:16). This promise is fulfilled, and she bears a son, highlighting the biblical principle that God rewards those who give generously and selflessly.

Trial and Faith

The Shunammite woman's faith and character are further tested when her son suddenly falls ill and dies. Demonstrating remarkable faith and composure, she lays her son on Elisha's bed and sets out to find the prophet. Her determination and trust in God's power through Elisha are evident as she insists, "As surely as the LORD lives and as you yourself live, I will not leave you" (2 Kings 4:30). Elisha's subsequent miracle of raising her son from the dead underscores the divine favor and blessing upon her life due to her liberality and faith.

Continued Generosity

The Shunammite woman's account continues in 2 Kings 8:1-6, where Elisha warns her of an impending seven-year famine. She heeds his advice and relocates with her family to the land of the Philistines. Upon her return, she appeals to the king for the restoration of her property. Her case is presented at the very moment Gehazi, Elisha's servant, is recounting Elisha's miracles to the king. The king, moved by her account and the timing of her appeal, orders the restoration of all her property and the produce of her fields from the day she left until her return (2 Kings 8:6).

Theological Implications

The Shunammite woman's account illustrates the biblical virtue of liberality, characterized by selfless giving and hospitality. Her actions demonstrate a heart aligned with God's purposes, willing to support His servants without seeking personal gain. Her narrative also highlights the reciprocal nature of divine generosity, where God honors and blesses those who give freely and trust in His provision. Through her example, believers are encouraged to practice liberality, trusting in God's faithfulness to provide and reward.2 Kings 4:8,10
And 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.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

A Discourse of Mercifulness
... 5 We are to extend our liberality by virtue of a membership: That thou hide ... in the
golden oil of salvation unto you (Matthew 7:2). The Shunammite woman showed ...
/.../15 a discourse of mercifulness.htm

The Sixth Commandment
... Love, like a full vessel, will have vent; it vents itself in acts of liberality. ...
The Shunammite woman was kind to the prophet, she welcomed him to her house ...
/.../watson/the ten commandments/2 6 the sixth commandment.htm

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