2 Kings 4:29
Then he said to Gehazi, Gird up thy loins, and take my staff in thine hand, and go thy way: if thou meet any man, salute him not; and if any salute thee, answer him not again: and lay my staff upon the face of the child.
2 Kings 4:29 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from 2 Kings 4:29-31 holds symbolic significance and conveys an important lesson. In this passage, the prophet Elisha instructs his servant Gehazi to gird up his loins, take Elisha's staff, and lay it upon the face of a child who had died. The act of girding up one's loins symbolizes readiness and preparedness for a task at hand. By instructing Gehazi not to greet anyone along the way, Elisha emphasizes the need for focus and single-mindedness in carrying out God's work. This verse serves as a reminder that sometimes in life, we need to be steadfast in our faith and unwavering in our commitment to fulfilling God's purpose. It also emphasizes the power of obedience and faith, as Gehazi follows Elisha's instructions without question, ultimately leading to the child's resurrection. Overall, this verse teaches us the importance of obedience, focus, and faith in God's plan, even when faced with seemingly insurmountable challenges.
Theological Overview
In this verse from 2 Kings 4:29, Elisha instructs his servant Gehazi to take his staff and go to the Shunammite woman's house to raise her son from the dead. The phrase "Gird up thy loins" was a common expression in biblical times that signified preparing oneself for a task or journey by tucking in one's long robe. This action allowed for greater mobility and readiness. The staff can symbolize Elisha's authority and power being transferred to Gehazi as he carries out this important mission. The command to not exchange greetings with anyone on the journey may be seen as a way to maintain focus and urgency, not allowing distractions to hinder the work of bringing the child back to life. By laying Elisha's staff on the face of the child, Gehazi is acting as an extension of Elisha's ministry and prophetic power. This verse highlights the faithfulness of the servants of God and their obedience to carry out miraculous tasks in His name.
2 Kings 4:29 in other translations
American Standard Version
Then he said to Gehazi, Gird up thy loins, and take my staff in thy hand, and go thy way: if thou meet any man, salute him not; and if any salute thee, answer him not again: and lay my staff upon the face of the child.
World English Bible
Then he said to Gehazi, “Tuck your cloak into your belt, take my staff in your hand, and go your way. If you meet any man, don’t greet him; and if anyone greets you, don’t answer him again. Then lay my staff on the face of the child.”
Douay-Rheims
Then he said to Giezi: Gird up thy loins, and take my staff in thy hand, and go. If any man meet thee, salute him not: and if any man salute thee, answer him not: and lay my staff upon the face of the child.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Then he sayd to Gehazi, Gird thy loynes, and take my staffe in thine hand, and goe thy way: if thou meete any, salute him not: and if any salute thee, answere him not: and laye my staffe vpon the face of the childe.