Definition: Then Elisha said, Hear ye the word of the LORD; Thus saith the LORD, To morrow about this time [shall] a measure of fine flour [be sold] for a shekel, and two measures of barley for a shekel, in the gate of Samaria.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 2 Kings 7:1. It's a really important passage about God’s provision during a time of hardship. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Situation: A Time of Need: The story is set during a time when the Israelites were facing a difficult situation, likely related to famine or scarcity. God's Provision: God decides to provide food for his people – specifically, flour and barley – as a way to help them through this tough period. What’s Being Sold? Fine Flour & Barley: It’s not just any kind of grain. The Lord instructs Elisha (who is the narrator) to sell fine flour and two measures of barley. “Fine” suggests it’s a high-quality, precious grain. For a Shekel: This is key! A shekel was a very important Jewish unit of currency – roughly equivalent to $20 USD today. So, the Lord is telling them to sell these grains for 2 silver coins (a shekel). The Message – What it Means About God's Care: God’s Concern for His People: The verse emphasizes that God is concerned about his people and their well-being. He’s actively intervening to help them survive. Practical Provision: It’s not a grand, elaborate event. It's a simple, practical need – selling grain. It shows that God doesn’t just care about big gestures; he cares about the everyday needs of his people. In essence, this verse is a reminder that God is always watching over us and providing for us when we face challenges. Important Note: This text was written in a very specific historical context – during the reign of King Jehosaphat during the time of the Assyrian conquest of Israel. It’s important to understand that it's rooted in this ancient situation, not necessarily a literal instruction given by God to a specific event. --- Do you want me to: Explain any part of this verse in more detail? Connect it to a specific biblical story or theme?

Definition: So they came and called unto the porter of the city: and they told them, saying, We came to the camp of the Syrians, and, behold, [there was] no man there, neither voice of man, but horses tied, and asses tied, and the tents as they [were].

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this Bible verse together. It’s a pretty dramatic and unsettling passage from Kings 2:10. Here’s what it means in simple terms: The Basic Situation: The Travelers are at a camp: The story is about a group of travelers (we don’t know exactly who they are) who arrive at a place called “the camp of the Syrians.” No One There: There was absolutely no one present in the camp. Horses and Asses Tied Up: The most striking part is that all the horses and asses were tied up, locked, and secured. It looked like they were completely immobilized. What it Suggests – A Warning & a Sense of Danger: This verse paints a picture of a dangerous situation. The message is likely one of warning about impending trouble or danger. Here's what it could imply: Syrian Threat: The Syrians are the ones who are involved in this situation. They are likely hostile and might be planning something. Immobilization as a Sign: The fact that everything is tied up suggests they’re deliberately trying to prevent someone from approaching or moving. It's a tactic of intimidation. Potential for Violence: The lack of anyone present could mean the Syrians are waiting for someone to enter and become a target. Overall Interpretation – A Moment of Anxiety: This verse doesn’t tell us what is happening, but it creates an atmosphere of fear and uncertainty. It's a moment of heightened tension because the travelers are in a vulnerable position. It’s a clear sign that something serious is about to occur. Important Note: The exact context of this verse within the larger story of the book of Kings is debated among scholars, but it’s generally understood as a crucial moment where the travelers were placed under threat and warned to leave quickly. --- Do you want me to: Explain any specific part of the verse in more detail? Discuss the historical context surrounding this passage? Explore possible interpretations of what it might mean for the future events described in the book of Kings?

Definition: And he called the porters; and they told [it] to the king’s house within.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 2 Kings 7:11. It’s a really important piece of information about how the King was managing the aftermath of a disaster. Here's what it means in simple terms: Basically, this verse tells us that after a big event – likely a fire or some kind of destruction – the King asked his servants to bring people into the royal palace. Let’s unpack it a little further: “And he called the porters…” : This refers to people who were responsible for carrying things, like supplies, messages, or perhaps even people. “Porters” in this context are likely skilled and trusted individuals. “…and they told [it] to the king’s house within.” : This is the key part. "The king's house" refers to the royal palace – the seat of power for the King. The “they” are telling the porters to the King’s house. So, what does this suggest? It means that after a significant event, the King was essentially putting his trust in his servants to handle the logistics and organization of the situation. They were tasked with bringing people into the palace as part of a process of recovery, rebuilding, or dealing with the aftermath. Context is important: This verse comes from the Book of Kings, which tells us about a time when the King was dealing with a terrible loss – the death of his wife, Susanna. It’s a moment of grief and responsibility for him to take care of things in a practical way. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Give you some context about the story surrounding this verse?

Definition: And the king arose in the night, and said unto his servants, I will now shew you what the Syrians have done to us. They know that we [be] hungry; therefore are they gone out of the camp to hide themselves in the field, saying, When they come out of the city, we shall catch them alive, and get into the city.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 2 Kings 7:12. It’s a really important passage about a serious threat to the king’s kingdom. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Core Story: A Syrian Invasion: The story begins with the Syrians, a neighboring people, attacking the kingdom. They are clearly invading and causing trouble. King’s Observation: The king, feeling threatened, decides to investigate what's happening. He sends his servants to see what’s going on. The Syrians’ Actions: The Syrian soldiers discover that the people in the kingdom – specifically, the Israelites – are starving. They're so hungry they’ve left the camp and gone to hide in the fields. A Plan to Trap Them: They then tell the king that if the Israelites do leave the city, they will come back and catch them alive and take them into the city. Putting it All Together – A Simple Explanation: The king is worried because the Syrians are attacking and taking food from his people. He sees that the Syrians are deliberately leaving the camp to hide, hoping to ambush and capture the Israelites. He’s essentially saying, "If you leave the city, we'll come for you!" Key Themes & Significance: Threat of War: This verse is a warning about war and potential conflict. It highlights a hostile force trying to destabilize the kingdom. Justice & Protection: The king’s concern shows that he understands his people are vulnerable and needs protection. The Importance of Vigilance: It emphasizes the need for vigilance and preparedness – to be aware of potential threats before they escalate into full-blown war. In short, it's a story about a king recognizing a dangerous situation and taking steps to protect his people from an invading force. --- Do you want me to: Explain another Bible verse? Discuss the historical context of this passage? Explore the significance of this verse in the broader biblical narrative?

Definition: And one of his servants answered and said, Let [some] take, I pray thee, five of the horses that remain, which are left in the city, (behold, they [are] as all the multitude of Israel that are left in it: behold, [I say], they [are] even as all the multitude of the Israelites that are consumed:) and let us send and see.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from 2 Kings 7:13. It’s a really important passage about how to handle a massive crowd of people who are fleeing a city – likely during a time of war or disaster. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Situation: A Massive Crowd is Escaping: The verse describes a huge group of people leaving a city, and they’re running away because of conflict or danger. Think of it like a massive exodus happening quickly. They Are Scattered & Overwhelming: These people are so numerous that they've become almost the entire population of Israel – all crammed together in one place. It's a huge number! The Request from a Servant: “Let Some Take…” : A servant (likely a leader or someone tasked with managing the situation) is asking for help to take five horses (which are large, sturdy animals used for transportation). "Behold, They Are as All the Multitude of Israel that are Left in It..." : This is the key part. The servant is saying that these five horses represent all the people who are still left in the city – like a massive group of Israelites who have fled. He’s comparing them to the entire population of Israel, which is a significant number. "...And let us send and see." : The servant wants to investigate these people and determine what they're doing. They need to understand how to handle this large group of people – to protect them and ensure their safety. Overall Meaning & Context: This verse is about managing a crisis . It’s a call for caution and proactive action when dealing with a large, potentially dangerous crowd. It's a reminder that when things get chaotic, it’s important to be prepared and have a plan to deal with the situation effectively. Why is this Verse Important? Historical Significance: It's part of a larger story in the Old Testament that speaks about God’s protection and care for his people during times of hardship. Leadership & Responsibility: The verse highlights the responsibility of leadership to act with wisdom and consider the well-being of others, especially those who are vulnerable. In short, it's a plea for careful observation and a plan to deal with a large, potentially overwhelming crowd. --- Would you like me to: Explain any particular part in more detail? Provide context about the story surrounding this verse?

Definition: They took therefore two chariot horses; and the king sent after the host of the Syrians, saying, Go and see.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from the Book of 2 Kings, chapter 7. It’s a pretty dramatic scene! Here's what it means in simple terms: The Basic Situation: King David was leading a large group of people – his army – to a specific location. Think of it as a big, important event. They were sending a host – meaning a large and prepared group – after them. This shows they were serious about the event. Two chariots (which are essentially large, powerful vehicles) and horses were taken with them. This is key - it’s not just any horses; these are specifically for warfare. What Did They Do? They sent after the host. This means they were actively following the group of people. Saying, “Go and see.” – This was a command to the group to investigate, to look at what’s happening. The Significance & Possible Meaning (It's not always straightforward): This verse is often interpreted as a warning about a potential threat. It suggests that the King David’s forces were caught off guard and facing a dangerous enemy – likely the Syrians. It implies: They were preparing for a battle. The "seeing" part suggests they were investigating something significant or perhaps a sign of trouble. The army was vulnerable. Being followed by a large, prepared host could make them easy targets. Important Note: Biblical interpretations can vary over time and across different traditions. This verse is rich with symbolism and meaning, and it’s not always about a single, clear event. --- Do you want me to: Explain another Bible verse? Discuss the context of this verse within the larger story of the book of 2 Kings? Explore what biblical scholars think this verse might mean?

Definition: And they went after them unto Jordan: and, lo, all the way [was] full of garments and vessels, which the Syrians had cast away in their haste. And the messengers returned, and told the king.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse together. It’s a little bit complex, but we can understand it easily. Here’s what it means in simple terms: The Basic Story: This verse describes a scene after a significant event – likely a battle or a disaster. It tells us that the people who were involved in this event (we don't know exactly who they are) went to Jordan River, which is a large body of water. They were incredibly prepared and decked out in luxurious clothing and lots of equipment - think gold and jewels! Let’s unpack it: “2 Kings 7:15” : This is the title of the verse – it's from the Book of Judges in the Bible. It’s a specific passage about a major event. “And they went after them unto Jordan…” : They were heading towards the Jordan River. It was a very important and dangerous place to travel! “…and, lo, all the way [was] full of garments and vessels…” : This is where it gets a little tricky. "Full of garments" means they were wearing a lot of beautiful, expensive clothing – like robes and crowns. “Vessels” means they had lots of equipment, tools, and wagons to carry things. It paints a picture of a very lavish and prepared procession. “And the messengers returned, and told the king.” : The people who were following this procession were sending messages to the King. They probably wanted to know what happened and if everything was okay. Overall Meaning: Basically, it describes a large group of people going to Jordan River in impressive clothing and equipment – perhaps as a sign of celebration or preparedness for something important. The message is that they had left behind a considerable amount of possessions and preparations. Important Note: This verse is part of a larger story about the Israelites' history, and it’s often interpreted as a reminder to be careful and prepared for potential dangers. --- Do you want me to: Explain any specific parts in more detail? Provide context (like what the event might have been)? Discuss the possible meaning of the imagery (the clothing and equipment)?

Definition: And the people went out, and spoiled the tents of the Syrians. So a measure of fine flour was [sold] for a shekel, and two measures of barley for a shekel, according to the word of the LORD.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse together! It’s a pretty important story from the Old Testament that speaks about a serious situation. Here's what it means in simple terms: The Basic Story: In ancient Israel, there were Syrians who were constantly raiding and attacking Jewish settlements. They were causing significant trouble and disrupting peace. God decided to take action. What Happened Next: The People Went Out: The people of Israel, feeling threatened, started leaving their homes and settlements. Spoiled Tents: They began taking tents – the homes and places for storage – and ruining them. This was a big deal because tents were important for protection and possessions. Selling Grain for a Shekel: The authorities (leaders) then decided to sell these ruined tents for a small amount of grain – essentially, a shekel (a unit of Jewish currency). It’s like selling a piece of furniture at a low price. Barley and Flour: They also sold two measures of barley and two measures of wheat (another type of grain) for a shekel each. What the Verse is Saying – It's about Protection & Justice: This verse is essentially saying: “God is protecting his people by punishing those who disturb peace and causing harm.” It’s a message of justice, reminding us that God will intervene when there's wrongdoing. Key Takeaway: The story highlights that God isn't just concerned with punishing bad actors; He also takes action to protect His people from trouble. --- Important Context (Briefly): This event happened during a time of conflict and instability in Israel. It shows how God’s judgment could be swift when people defy him. Do you want me to: Explain why this story is important? Talk about the significance of the "shekel" as a symbol of something more meaningful (like sacrifice or reward)? Give you some related verses from the Bible that discuss God's judgment or protection?

Definition: And the king appointed the lord on whose hand he leaned to have the charge of the gate: and the people trode upon him in the gate, and he died, as the man of God had said, who spake when the king came down to him.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 2 Kings 7:17 together. It’s a really important and somewhat dramatic passage about leadership and obedience. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse describes a king appointing a specific man to be the gatekeeper of a city or place. The king then instructs the people to follow this man, and when the king comes to see him, he dies – likely in a way that symbolizes death for the king’s position and authority. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “And the king appointed the lord on whose hand he leaned to have the charge of the gate…” This means the king was giving this man a special responsibility – to watch over the entrance or way into a place. “…and the people trode upon him in the gate…” This is key. The people walked or traveled through the gate. It's a direct reference to a pathway or boundary. “and he died, as the man of God had said, who spake when the king came down to him.” This is where it gets really significant. The king was instructing this man to speak (to warn, advise, or provide guidance) when the king came down to see him . This man was essentially acting as a messenger or advisor, and his actions – his words - were considered important because they were given by God. What’s the significance? This verse is often interpreted as a symbolic representation of: The Importance of Obedience: It emphasizes that obedience to authority, especially from those entrusted with leadership, is crucial for maintaining order and stability. God's Guidance: It suggests that God is actively involved in guiding and protecting His people through the leaders they choose. Accountability: The king’s death signifies that this man’s role and responsibilities were complete, and he was now accountable to God. In short, it’s a story about a king’s trust placed in a specific person, and the consequences of that trust – both for the king and for those who follow his lead. --- Do you want me to: Explain any part of this verse in more detail? Discuss its historical context (what was happening in the kingdom at the time)? Connect it to other stories or themes in the Bible?

Definition: And it came to pass as the man of God had spoken to the king, saying, Two measures of barley for a shekel, and a measure of fine flour for a shekel, shall be to morrow about this time in the gate of Samaria:

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 2 Kings 7:18. It's a really important piece of history that tells us about a serious situation in ancient Israel. Here’s what it means in simple terms: Basically, God is telling the King to prepare food for a large group of people – likely refugees or travelers – who are traveling through Samaria. Let’s unpack it further: “And it came to pass as…” : This phrase introduces a story that's happening now. It’s like saying “This is what is happening.” “…the man of God had spoken to the king…” : This refers to King David, and he was speaking to him. “Man of God” means someone who follows God's laws and principles. “saying, Two measures of barley for a shekel, and a measure of fine flour for a shekel…” : This is the crucial part! He’s asking the King to prepare food with specific amounts of grain. Two measures of barley: This means two standard-sized bushels (a large pile) of barley. Barley was a staple crop for the Israelites and was used in bread and beer. A shekel: A shekel was a unit of Jewish currency, roughly equivalent to 1 Roman sestertius (a silver coin). It represented a significant amount – think about 60 silver coins! A measure of fine flour: This is another standard-sized pile of flour. Flour was used for bread and other baked goods. So, what’s the big picture? David is telling the King that he needs to provide a substantial amount of food – enough to feed a large group – for people traveling through Samaria. This likely happened because of a crisis or disaster – possibly a siege or a plague – that was affecting the region. He needed a way to support those fleeing or displaced people. Important Context: This is from a very significant part of the Old Testament, and it’s considered one of the earliest examples of a king's pronouncements regarding provisions for his people during times of hardship. It shows King David’s concern for the well-being of his kingdom and its citizens. --- Do you want me to: Explain why this verse was important in biblical history? Discuss the symbolism behind the barley and flour? Or is there anything else you'd like me to clarify about this passage?