Definition: 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.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this Bible verse together. It’s a really powerful and poignant passage from the Book of Kings. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Story: Elisha, a man who was already struggling with his own problems, is traveling through the wilderness when he encounters a woman named Shunem. She’s incredibly desperate – she’s so hungry that she’s forcing Elisha to eat bread just as he passes by. Here's a breakdown of what’s happening: “And it fell on a day…” : This sets the scene - it’s a specific, difficult time for Elisha. “…that Elisha passed to Shunem…” : Elisha was traveling and found himself in a place where he had to stop. He ended up near a woman named Shunem. “…where [was] a great woman…” : This tells us she’s wealthy and has a lot of need. “and she constrained him to eat bread.” : This is the key part. Shunem isn't begging for food; she forces Elisha to eat. She’s essentially controlling his actions. “[So] it was, [that] as oft as he passed by, he turned in thither to eat bread.” : This explains why she’s doing this. As Elisha walks past her, he always stops and eats a piece of bread. He's compelled to do this repeatedly. What does it mean? This verse is incredibly symbolic and speaks to several important themes: The Power of Poverty & Need: It highlights the extreme desperation that can result from hunger and lack. It’s about the overwhelming need for food, and how even a small act of control can be devastating. Control & Manipulation: The verse suggests a power imbalance – Shunem is in a position to dictate Elisha's actions. It hints at a potential manipulation or perhaps even coercion. God's Mercy & Compassion: It also speaks to God’s concern for those who are suffering. While Shunem isn't begging, her desperation shows the depth of her need and the gravity of the situation. Overall Interpretation: This verse is a dramatic snapshot of hardship and a glimpse into a moment of profound suffering. It's a story about a woman's desperate need for food, and how even a small act can have immense consequences – especially when it's controlled by someone else. --- Would you like me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Explore the context of the book it comes from (the Book of Kings)? Discuss the possible interpretations within a theological framework?