2 Kings 6:1

CHAPTER VI

The sons of the prophets wish to enlarge their dwelling-place,

and go to the banks of Jordan to cut down wood, when one of

them drops his axe into the water, which Elisha causes to

swim. 1-7.

Elisha, understanding all the secret designs of the king of

Syria against Israel, informs the king of Israel of them,

8-10.

The king of Syria, finding that Elisha had thus penetrated his

secrets and frustrated his attempts, sends a great host to

Dothan, to take the prophet; the Lord strikes them with

blindness; and Elisha leads the whole host to Samaria, and

delivers them up to the king of Israel, 11-19.

The Lord opens their eyes, and they see their danger, 20.

But the king of Israel is prevented from destroying them; and,

at the order of the prophet, gives them meat and drink, and

dismisses them to their master, 21-23.

Ben-hadad besieges Samaria, and reduces the city to great

distress, of which several instances are given, 24-30.

The king of Israel vows the destruction of Elisha, and sends

to have him beheaded, 31-33.

NOTES ON CHAP. VI

Verse 2 Kings 6:1. The place - is too strait for us.] Notwithstanding the general profligacy of Israel, the schools of the prophets increased. This was no doubt owing to the influence of Elisha.