2 Kings 3:15

But now bring me a minstrel Of the power of music over the mind we have examples in the history of Saul (1 Samuel 16:23) and also of the use of music by the companies of prophets (1 Samuel 10:5). But neither of these instances illustrates the case of Elisha as here described. It was not employed to calm his own angry spirit, and he was alone, whereas the prophetic band in 1 Samuel 10:5 were marching in a body, and chanting some religious hymns or service. From the result described here, viz. that the hand (that is, the influence and spirit) of the Lord came upon him, we may conclude that this was what Elisha wished for, and we may suppose that while the music went on his thoughts took shape, and found vent in prayer, till at length he was prompted inwardly what to say. A striking instance of the power of music.

the hand of the Lord The phrase is most frequently employed in the Pentateuch and the historical books to signify God's power exerted in punishment. Cf. Exodus 9:3, -The hand of the Lord is upon thy cattle". See also Deuteronomy 2:15; Joshua 22:31; Judges 2:15. But it is also used of the divine power which strengthened and supported Elijah, 1 Kings 18:46, and several times in Ezekiel of the spirit by which the prophet was possessed (cf. Ezekiel 1:3; Ezekiel 3:14; Ezekiel 3:22; Ezekiel 8:1; Ezekiel 33:22; Ezekiel 37:1). The passage Ezekiel 33:22 may be best quoted in illustration of the case of Elisha: -The hand of the Lord was upon me in the evening … and had opened my mouth … and my mouth was opened and I was no more dumb." As to Ezekiel, so here to Elisha there was given what he should speak. Josephus says -he became inspired".