Topical Bible: Syria: The Israelites: Heard the Secrets of, from Elisha

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In the biblical narrative, Syria, often referred to as Aram, plays a significant role in the history of Israel, particularly during the time of the prophet Elisha. The interactions between Israel and Syria during this period are marked by conflict, divine intervention, and prophetic insight.

One of the most remarkable accounts involving Syria and Israel is found in 2 Kings 6. The king of Syria was at war with Israel and made plans to ambush the Israelite army. However, each time he devised a strategy, the Israelites seemed to be one step ahead. This was due to the divine revelation given to the prophet Elisha, who was in Israel. Elisha, through the power of God, was able to hear the secrets of the Syrian king and relay them to the king of Israel, thus thwarting the Syrian plans.

The Berean Standard Bible captures this event in 2 Kings 6:8-12:

> "Now the king of Aram was at war with Israel. After conferring with his servants, he said, 'My camp will be in such and such a place.' But the man of God sent word to the king of Israel: 'Be careful passing by this place, for the Arameans are going down there.' So the king of Israel sent word to the place the man of God had pointed out. Time and again Elisha warned the king, so that he was on his guard in such places. For this reason, the king of Aram became enraged and summoned his servants, demanding of them, 'Tell me, which one of us is on the side of the king of Israel?' But one of his servants replied, 'No one, my lord the king. Elisha, the prophet in Israel, tells the king of Israel the very words you speak in your bedroom.'"

This passage highlights the supernatural insight granted to Elisha, which served as a protective measure for Israel against its enemies. The ability of Elisha to hear the secrets of the Syrian king underscores the theme of divine omniscience and the protective hand of God over His people. It also illustrates the role of prophets in Israel as intermediaries who conveyed God's will and guidance to the nation.

The account further demonstrates the frustration and confusion of the Syrian king, who initially suspected treachery among his own ranks. The revelation that it was Elisha, through divine means, who was revealing his plans, emphasizes the power and sovereignty of God over the affairs of nations.

This episode is a testament to the belief in God's active involvement in the world and His ability to protect and guide His chosen people through the wisdom and insight granted to His prophets. It serves as a reminder of the spiritual warfare that often underlies physical conflicts and the importance of seeking divine guidance in times of trouble.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

2 Kings 6:8-12
Then the king of Syria warred against Israel, and took counsel with his servants, saying, In such and such a place shall be my camp.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

General Index.
... Dragon, of Revelation twelve, 438, 439, 658. voice of, heard in early persecutions,
77. ... see also Israelites; Jerusalem. ... Syria, travels of Wolff in, 360. ...
/.../white/the great controversy between christ and satan /general index.htm

The Pharisee and the Publican
... the riches of his mercy in its extension to sinners: "Two men went up into the temple
to pray; the one a Pharisee:" such a brave man as you have heard. ...
/.../bunyan/the pharisee and publican/the pharisee and the publican.htm

A Discourse Upon the Pharisee and the Publican
... the riches of his mercy in its extension to sinners: "Two men went up into the temple
to pray, the one a Pharisee." The one such a brave man as you have heard. ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/a discourse upon the pharisee.htm