2 Kings 6:14

a great host Greatness is comparative. Here was a company such as could be led by Elisha to Samaria, and fed easily when they reached that city. But no doubt they were formidable when employed for the capture of a single man of peace like Elisha, and they had taken up their position by night.

compassed the city about i.e. beset all the gates, so that none could escape without their knowledge.