Topical Bible: the Domestic Donkey: Miracles Connected With: Eaten During Famine in Samaria

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Topical Encyclopedia

The domestic donkey, a humble and enduring creature, holds a significant place in biblical narratives, often symbolizing service, humility, and peace. In the context of miracles and divine intervention, the donkey is notably mentioned during a severe famine in Samaria, as recorded in the Old Testament.

Famine in Samaria

The account of the famine in Samaria is found in 2 Kings 6:24-30. This event occurred during the reign of King Jehoram of Israel when Ben-Hadad, the king of Aram, laid siege to Samaria. The siege resulted in a dire famine, causing extreme scarcity of food and leading to desperate measures among the inhabitants.

Eaten During Famine

The severity of the famine is illustrated by the high price of a donkey's head, which was sold for eighty shekels of silver. The text states: "So there was a great famine in Samaria, and they besieged it until a donkey’s head sold for eighty shekels of silver, and a quarter cab of dove’s dung for five shekels of silver" (2 Kings 6:25). This exorbitant price underscores the desperation and the extent of the famine, as the donkey, typically a beast of burden, became a source of sustenance in the absence of other food.

Miraculous Deliverance

In the midst of this dire situation, the prophet Elisha prophesied a miraculous deliverance. He declared that within a day, the famine would end, and food would be plentiful and affordable: "Elisha replied, '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'" (2 Kings 7:1).

Skepticism met Elisha's prophecy, particularly from an officer of the king who doubted the possibility of such a rapid change. However, the prophecy was fulfilled when the LORD caused the Aramean army to hear the sound of chariots and horses, leading them to flee in panic, leaving behind their supplies. The people of Samaria plundered the camp, and the abundance of food fulfilled Elisha's prophecy, demonstrating God's power and faithfulness.

Symbolism and Lessons

The account of the donkey's head being sold during the famine serves as a poignant reminder of the desperation that can arise in times of crisis. It also highlights the miraculous provision of God, who can transform situations of hopelessness into abundance. The donkey, in this context, symbolizes the extremities to which people may go when faced with dire need, yet it also stands as a testament to the divine intervention that can bring about deliverance and restoration.

In the broader biblical narrative, the donkey often represents humility and service, as seen in other accounts such as Balaam's donkey and Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem on a donkey. In the account of the famine in Samaria, the donkey's role underscores the themes of human desperation and divine provision, inviting believers to trust in God's promises even in the most challenging circumstances.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

2 Kings 6:25
And there was a great famine in Samaria: and, behold, they besieged it, until an ass's head was sold for fourscore pieces of silver, and the fourth part of a cab of dove's dung for five pieces of silver.
Torrey's Topical Textbook