2 Kings 4:16

according to the time of life R.V. when the time cometh round. The literal sense of the verb is explained on the margin of R.V. = liveth, or reviveth. The phrase is the same which is used Genesis 18:14 to the childless Sarah before the birth of Isaac.

thou man of God She appeals to him in the character which she felt to be most sacred; the character which had at first (see verse 9) made her desirous to entertain him.

do not lie unto thine handmaid The verb in all its directness is common in Hebrew in very solemn expressions. Thus Numbers 23:19, -God is not a man that he should lie", and of God's word (Habakkuk 2:3), -It shall speak and not lie". The blessing promised was so great, and appeared so unlikely of fulfilment, that the woman implores Elisha not to raise false expectations in such a matter.