2 Kings 5:6
And he brought the letter to the king of Israel, saying, Now when this letter is come unto thee, behold, I have therewith sent Naaman my servant to thee, that thou mayest recover him of his leprosy.
2 Kings 5:6 · King James Version
Meaning
When Naaman, a powerful Syrian commander, sought a cure for his leprosy, he was directed to the prophet Elisha in Israel. Recognizing Elisha's connection to God, Naaman journeyed to Israel with a letter from the king of Syria, which stated the purpose of his visit. The letter was a formal request for assistance in healing Naaman's condition. The king of Israel, upon receiving the letter, was alarmed and felt powerless to help. However, Elisha intervened and instructed Naaman to wash seven times in the Jordan River, which ultimately led to his healing.
This verse highlights the power of faith and obedience in seeking healing and redemption. It also demonstrates the importance of humility, as Naaman, a foreigner and enemy of Israel, had to humble himself in order to receive the miracle of healing. The exchange of letters between the kings and the journey of Naaman to Israel serve as a reminder of the intricate ways in which God works to bring about His plans and purposes. Overall, this verse emphasizes the transformative power of God's intervention in the lives of those who trust in Him.
Theological Overview
The theological interpretation of this verse highlights the theme of healing and faith. In this passage, the king of Syria sends a letter to the king of Israel, requesting that Naaman, his servant, be healed of leprosy. The act of sending Naaman to Israel demonstrates a shift in belief, as the king of Syria acknowledges that the God of Israel has the power to heal. Additionally, the letter symbolizes a form of intercession, as Naaman seeks healing through the king of Israel. This story emphasizes the importance of trusting in God's ability to bring about miraculous healing, even in circumstances where it may seem unlikely. Furthermore, the mention of leprosy in this verse serves as a symbolic representation of sin and its effects on individuals. Through this lens, Naaman's physical healing can be seen as a metaphor for spiritual restoration and redemption, further underscoring the theme of faith and God's power to heal both body and soul.
2 Kings 5:6 in other translations
American Standard Version
And he brought the letter to the king of Israel, saying, And now when this letter is come unto thee, behold, I have sent Naaman my servant to thee, that thou mayest recover him of his leprosy.
World English Bible
He brought the letter to the king of Israel, saying, “Now when this letter has come to you, behold, I have sent Naaman my servant to you, that you may heal him of his leprosy.”
Douay-Rheims
And brought the letter to the king of Israel, in these words: When thou shalt receive this letter, know that I have sent to thee Naaman, my servant, that thou mayst heal him of his leprosy.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And brought the letter to the King of Israel to this effect, Now when this letter is come vnto thee, vnderstand, that I haue sent thee Naaman my seruant, that thou maiest heale him of his leprosie.