2 Kings 7:12
And the king arose in the night, and said unto his servants, I will now shew you what the Syrians have done to us. They know that we be hungry; therefore are they gone out of the camp to hide themselves in the field, saying, When they come out of the city, we shall catch them alive, and get into the city.
2 Kings 7:12 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from the book of 2 Kings reveals a cunning plan devised by the Syrians to catch the people of Israel off guard. In the dead of night, the king of Israel discovered that the Syrians had left their camp to hide in the fields, waiting for the people of Israel to come out of the city. The Syrians knew that the Israelites were hungry and vulnerable, so they planned to ambush them and catch them alive in order to gain access to the city. The king, aware of this treacherous scheme, decided to reveal the Syrians' plan to his servants and strategize a counterattack. This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance and understanding the intentions of our adversaries, as well as the necessity of taking action to protect ourselves and our people against potential threats.
Theological Overview
Interpreting this passage in a theological context sheds light on the character of the king and the circumstances of the Syrian siege. The king's decision to address his servants in the dead of night reveals his sense of urgency and concern for his people's well-being. His willingness to personally investigate the situation exemplifies leadership, showing that he not only cares for his subjects but also takes responsibility for their welfare. Furthermore, the king's revelation about the Syrians' cunning plan demonstrates the importance of vigilance and discernment in times of hardship. By uncovering the enemy's tactics, the king displays wisdom and strategic thinking, qualities that are essential for overcoming challenges. Thus, this verse not only illustrates the political and military dynamics of the ancient world but also provides valuable lessons in leadership, discernment, and facing adversity with determination and courage.
2 Kings 7:12 in other translations
American Standard Version
And the king arose in the night, and said unto his servants, I will now show you what the Syrians have done to us. They know that we are hungry; therefore are they gone out of the camp to hide themselves in the field, saying, When they come out of the city, we shall take them alive, and get into the city.
World English Bible
The king arose in the night, and said to his servants, “I will now show you what the Syrians have done to us. They know that we are hungry. Therefore are they gone out of the camp to hide themselves in the field, saying, ‘When they come out of the city, we shall take them alive, and get into the city.’”
Douay-Rheims
And he arose in the night, and said to his servants: I tell you what the Syrians have done to us: They know that we suffer great famine, and therefore they are gone out of the camp, and lie hid in the fields, saying: When they come out of the city, we shall take them alive, and then we may get into the city.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Then the King arose in the night, and saide vnto his seruants, I wil shew you now, what the Aramites haue done vnto vs. They know that we are affamished, therefore they are gone out of the campe to hide them selues in the fielde, saying, When they come out of the citie, we shall catch them aliue, and get into the citie.