2 Kings 6:21 (KJV)

What does 2 Kings 6:21 mean?

2 Kings 6:21 shows the king of Israel asking Elisha if he should kill the enemy soldiers who have been delivered into his hands. The king calls Elisha "my father," showing respect and seeking guidance on whether to strike the captives.

The scene takes place after Elisha, a prophet, has led the blinded Aramean army into Samaria, the capital of Israel. When the king of Israel sees the enemy soldiers helpless before him, he turns to Elisha for direction, repeating his question about whether he should "smite" them, which highlights his eagerness or uncertainty about how to treat these captives.

The Hebrew behind 2 Kings 6:21

• "king" (מֶלֶךְ, melekh): This word refers to the ruler of Israel, emphasizing his authority but also his dependence on Elisha's spiritual guidance in this moment.
• "father" (אָב, av): The king addresses Elisha with this term, which is often used as a title of respect for a spiritual leader or elder, showing the prophet's influence over the king's decisions.
• "smite" (נָכָה, nakah): This verb means to strike or kill. The king repeats it, underlining his uncertainty and the seriousness of the decision about whether to execute the captured soldiers.

Why 2 Kings 6:21 matters

• This verse highlights the unusual power dynamic, where the king of Israel defers to Elisha, showing the prophet's authority even over the king in matters of war and mercy.
• The king’s repeated question reveals his inner conflict—he is eager but unsure, and he looks to spiritual guidance rather than acting on impulse.
• The verse sets up the contrast between expected violence and the surprising mercy that Elisha will soon advocate, which is a key theme in the surrounding passage.