2 Kings 4:13
And he said unto him, Say now unto her, Behold, thou hast been careful for us with all this care; what is to be done for thee? wouldest thou be spoken for to the king, or to the captain of the host? And she answered, I dwell among mine own people.
2 Kings 4:13 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse, a small story unfolds where the prophet Elisha asks his servant Gehazi how they can show gratitude to a woman who had shown them kindness and hospitality. Elisha wonders what favor they can do for her in return for her care. The woman, in response, humbly declines any grand gesture or favor, stating that she is content and blessed to dwell amongst her own people. This interaction between Elisha, Gehazi, and the woman highlights the importance of showing gratitude for acts of kindness and hospitality, as well as the humility and contentment that can be found in simple blessings such as being surrounded by loved ones. The verse also serves as a reminder of the value of community and the peace that can be found in being with those who mean the most to us.
Theological Overview
One possible theological interpretation of this verse is that it showcases the concept of hospitality and the rewards that can come from showing kindness and care towards others. The woman in this verse, referred to as the Shunammite woman, had previously shown hospitality towards the prophet Elisha by providing him with a place to stay whenever he passed through her town. Elisha, in turn, offers to speak to the king or captain of the host on her behalf to show his gratitude for her kindness. This interaction highlights the importance of reciprocity in relationships and how acts of kindness can lead to unexpected blessings. The woman's response, "I dwell among mine own people," suggests that she is content with her current situation and does not seek any additional favor, displaying humility and a sense of satisfaction with what she has. This verse can serve as a reminder to always show kindness to others and trust in God's provision for our needs.
2 Kings 4:13 in other translations
American Standard Version
And he said unto him, Say now unto her, Behold, thou hast been careful for us with all this care; what is to be done for thee? wouldest thou be spoken for to the king, or to the captain of the host? And she answered, I dwell among mine own people.
World English Bible
He said to him, “Say now to her, ‘Behold, you have cared for us with all this care. What is to be done for you? Would you like to be spoken for to the king, or to the captain of the army?’” She answered, “I dwell among my own people.”
Douay-Rheims
He said to his servant: Say to her: Behold, thou hast diligently served us in all things; what wilt thou have me to do for thee? Hast thou any business, and wilt thou, that I speak to the king, or to the general of the army? And she answered: I dwell in the midst of my own people.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Then he sayd vnto him, Say vnto her now, Beholde, thou hast had all this great care for vs, what shall we doe for thee? Is there any thing to bee spoken for thee to the King or to the captaine of the hoste? And shee answered, I dwell among mine owne people.