2 Kings 6:20
And it came to pass, when they were come into Samaria, that Elisha said, LORD, open the eyes of these men, that they may see. And the LORD opened their eyes, and they saw; and, behold, they were in the midst of Samaria.
2 Kings 6:20 · King James Version
Meaning
Upon entering Samaria, Elisha the prophet prayed to the Lord for the eyes of his enemies to be opened. The Lord answered his prayer, and the men suddenly saw that they were surrounded by the city of Samaria. This miraculous event demonstrates the power of God and His ability to reveal hidden truths to those who seek Him. Elisha's prayer highlights the importance of spiritual vision and understanding beyond what is visible to the natural eye. By opening their eyes, the Lord not only exposed the physical reality of their situation but also revealed His sovereignty over all things. This verse serves as a reminder of the transformative power of God to grant insight and revelation to those who call upon Him in faith. It also emphasizes the protection and guidance that God provides to His people even in the midst of danger or uncertainty.
Theological Overview
One theological interpretation of this verse is that it demonstrates how God can open the spiritual eyes of individuals to see things beyond the physical realm. In this case, Elisha prays for the eyes of the men accompanying him to be opened, and the Lord grants his request, revealing to them the spiritual reality of the situation in Samaria. This event underscores the importance of seeking spiritual discernment and understanding, as well as the power of God to reveal hidden truths to those who trust in Him. The word "see" in this context can symbolize not just physical sight, but also spiritual perception and understanding. Through this miracle, God not only protects Elisha and his companions but also demonstrates His sovereignty over all situations, even those that seem dire or hopeless.
2 Kings 6:20 in other translations
American Standard Version
And it came to pass, when they were come into Samaria, that Elisha said, Jehovah, open the eyes of these men, that they may see. And Jehovah opened their eyes, and they saw; and, behold, they were in the midst of Samaria.
World English Bible
When they had come into Samaria, Elisha said, “Yahweh, open the eyes of these men, that they may see.” Yahweh opened their eyes, and they saw; and behold, they were in the midst of Samaria.
Douay-Rheims
And when they were come into Samaria, Eliseus said: Lord, open the eyes of these men, that they may see. And the Lord opened their eyes, and they saw themselves to be in the midst of Samaria.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And when they were come to Samaria, Elisha saide, Lord, open their eyes that they may see. And the Lord opened their eyes, and they saw, and beholde, they were in the mids of Samaria.