2 Kings 13:21 (KJV)

What does 2 Kings 13:21 mean?

2 Kings 13:21 describes a surprising event where, during a hurried burial, a dead man is placed in the tomb of the prophet Elisha, and when the body touches Elisha’s bones, the man comes back to life and stands up. This moment is presented as a miraculous sign connected to Elisha even after his death.

The verse takes place during a time of unrest in Israel, when groups of raiders threatened the people. The men burying their companion act quickly because they see a band of men approaching. The story highlights the enduring power associated with Elisha, a prophet known for many miracles, and shows that even his remains are linked with God’s power to give life.

The Hebrew behind 2 Kings 13:21

• "band" (חֵיל, ḥēl): This word refers to a group of armed men or raiders, which explains why the burial is rushed and why the men act out of fear.
• "sepulchre" (קֶבֶר, qeber): This is the word for a tomb or grave, making it clear that Elisha’s body had been buried in a traditional resting place, not just left in the open.
• "touched" (נָגַע, naga‘): This verb means to physically come into contact with something. The detail that the dead man’s body actually touches Elisha’s bones is important for understanding the cause of the miracle.
• "revived" (חָיָה, ḥayah): This word means to come back to life, emphasizing that the man was truly dead and then restored to life upon contact with Elisha’s bones.

Why 2 Kings 13:21 matters

• The verse clears up any idea that Elisha’s influence ended with his death; instead, it shows that God’s power can work through him even after he is gone.
• The story connects to the larger theme in 2 Kings of God’s ongoing involvement with Israel through the prophets, even in times of national trouble.
• This moment stands out as a rare Old Testament example of someone being raised from the dead, highlighting the extraordinary nature of Elisha’s prophetic ministry.