2 Kings 6:22 – “‘Do not kill them,’ he answered. ‘Would you kill those you have captured with your own sword or bow? Set food and water before them so that they may eat and drink and then go back to their master.’”
Extended Explanation
In this verse, Elisha answers the king of Israel, who had asked if he should kill the captured Aramean soldiers. Elisha’s response is unexpected, as he tells the king not to kill the soldiers, who had been blinded and led into Samaria. Instead of treating them like prisoners of war, Elisha instructs the king to provide them with food and water and then send them back to their master, the king of Aram. This act of mercy not only spares their lives but also demonstrates the principle of overcoming hostility with kindness and generosity.
Historical Context
At this point in history, Israel and Aram were frequently at war, with Aram often launching raids into Israel’s territory. The soldiers who had come to capture Elisha had been blinded by God and were led directly into Samaria, the capital of Israel. In the context of ancient warfare, captured soldiers were often executed or enslaved. The king of Israel’s instinct to kill them would have been a common military response. However, Elisha’s instruction to feed and release them was radically different, reflecting God’s higher ways of dealing with enemies. This act of mercy likely surprised both the Israelites and the Aramean soldiers.
Theological Implications
This verse speaks to the theme of mercy and the concept of responding to enemies in ways that reflect God’s grace, rather than human retribution. Elisha’s command to feed and release the soldiers reflects a deep trust in God’s justice and provision. Instead of taking revenge, Elisha teaches the king to show compassion, turning an act of potential violence into an opportunity for peace. Theologically, this mirrors God’s mercy toward humanity—rather than giving us the punishment we deserve, He offers us grace and kindness. It also reflects the biblical principle of overcoming evil with good, pointing to the transformative power of mercy.
Literary Analysis
Elisha’s command to “set food and water before them” contrasts sharply with the king’s expectation of executing the soldiers. The verse uses a rhetorical question, “Would you kill those you have captured with your own sword or bow?” to emphasize the point that these soldiers were not captured by human effort but by God’s intervention. This highlights the idea that God’s victories should be handled in God’s way, which often involves mercy instead of vengeance. The peaceful tone of the verse, with its emphasis on hospitality and care, stands in contrast to the violent context of warfare, making Elisha’s response all the more powerful.
Biblical Cross-References
- Romans 12:20 – “If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink.” This New Testament teaching reflects exactly what Elisha told the king to do for the captured soldiers, showing kindness in the face of enmity.
- Proverbs 25:21 – “If your enemy is hungry, give him food to eat; if he is thirsty, give him water to drink.” This Old Testament proverb reinforces the same principle of showing mercy to enemies, mirroring Elisha’s command.
- Matthew 5:44 – “But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.” Jesus’ command to love enemies echoes the mercy and generosity that Elisha demonstrated in this story.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, this verse challenges us to think about how we treat those who oppose us. While the world often teaches that we should strike back at those who wrong us, Elisha’s example encourages us to respond with mercy and generosity. By choosing not to retaliate but instead showing kindness, we reflect God’s character and open the door to reconciliation. This verse also reminds us that God’s ways are higher than our ways, and sometimes He calls us to act in ways that go against our instincts for revenge or justice. By trusting in God’s plan and showing mercy, we participate in His greater purpose of peace and restoration.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
This verse shows the depth of God’s love and mercy. Instead of allowing the Israelites to kill their enemies, God, through Elisha, provides an opportunity for peace. This act of kindness reflects God’s heart, which is slow to anger and abounding in love. God’s love is not just for His people but also for those who oppose them, offering opportunities for change and reconciliation. By feeding the soldiers and sending them back unharmed, God demonstrates His desire for mercy over judgment, showing that His love extends even to those who are against Him and His people.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus’ teachings on loving enemies and turning the other cheek are perfectly illustrated in this passage. Just as Elisha commanded the king of Israel to show mercy to the Aramean soldiers, Jesus taught His followers to love their enemies and do good to those who hate them. In Luke 6:27-28, Jesus says, “Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you.” Elisha’s actions foreshadow Jesus’ call for a higher standard of love, one that seeks peace and reconciliation rather than revenge. This story points forward to the ultimate example of mercy shown by Jesus on the cross, where He forgave those who crucified Him.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does Elisha’s response to the captured soldiers challenge your view of how to treat your enemies or those who wrong you?
- In what ways can you practice mercy and kindness toward those who have wronged or opposed you?
- How does this story help you understand God’s heart for mercy and His desire for reconciliation, even in difficult situations?
- How can you apply Jesus’ teaching on loving your enemies in your everyday life, particularly in situations where you might be tempted to seek revenge?