2 Kings 1:4
Now therefore thus saith the LORD, Thou shalt not come down from that bed on which thou art gone up, but shalt surely die. And Elijah departed.
2 Kings 1:4 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse, the prophet Elijah is delivering a message from the LORD to King Ahaziah. The LORD instructs Ahaziah that he will not come down from the bed on which he has climbed but will surely die. This declaration is a warning of the impending judgment that Ahaziah will face for his actions or the decisions he has made. Elijah's departure signifies the completion of his task as the messenger of the LORD. It is a solemn reminder that no one can escape the consequences of their wrongdoing, as God's judgment will ultimately prevail. This verse serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of heeding God's warnings and living a life guided by righteousness and obedience to His will. By including this verse on our website, we aim to provide readers with a deeper understanding of the biblical narrative and the timeless truths it conveys.
Theological Overview
In this verse, we see the prophet Elijah delivering a message from the LORD to King Ahaziah, declaring that the king will not recover from his illness but will die. The theological interpretation of this verse highlights the sovereignty and authority of God over life and death. It serves as a reminder of the consequences of disobedience and the importance of heeding the word of the LORD. The word "die" in this context emphasizes the finality and severity of the judgment pronounced by God. The departure of Elijah signifies the completion of his mission and the fulfillment of the prophecy given to the king. Through this verse, we are reminded of the power of God's word and the certainty of His judgments. It prompts reflection on our own obedience to God's commands and the consequences of walking in disobedience.
2 Kings 1:4 in other translations
American Standard Version
Now therefore thus saith Jehovah, Thou shalt not come down from the bed whither thou art gone up, but shalt surely die. And Elijah departed.
World English Bible
Now therefore thus says Yahweh, “You shall not come down from the bed where you have gone up, but shall surely die.”’” Elijah departed.
Douay-Rheims
Wherefore, thus saith the Lord: From the bed, on which thou art gone up, thou shalt not come down, but thou shalt surely die. And Elias went away.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Wherefore thus saith the Lord, Thou shalt not come downe from the bed on which thou art gone vp, but shalt die the death. So Eliiah departed.