2 Kings 7:13
And one of his servants answered and said, Let some take, I pray thee, five of the horses that remain, which are left in the city, (behold, they are as all the multitude of Israel that are left in it: behold, I say, they are even as all the multitude of the Israelites that are consumed:) and let us send and see.
2 Kings 7:13 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse, one of the servants of King Jehoram suggests sending five horses to investigate a situation in the city. The servant compares the five horses to the remaining Israelites in the city, emphasizing how dire the situation is. The servant's urgency is reflected in the description of the horses being as significant as the multitude of Israelites left in the city. The comparison highlights the severity of the circumstances and the importance of taking swift action. By sending some horses to assess the situation, the servant is advocating for a proactive approach to dealing with the crisis. This verse serves as a reminder of the necessity of being vigilant and proactive in times of trouble, as well as the importance of seeking information before making decisions.
Theological Overview
One interesting theological interpretation of this verse is that it reveals a sense of urgency and desperation in the midst of a besieged city. The servant is suggesting that they take five of the remaining horses to go and explore the situation outside the city walls, emphasizing the dire circumstances they are in. The comparison between the horses and the people of Israel left in the city highlights the vulnerable position they are in, being compared to those who have already been consumed by the enemy. This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of taking action in times of crisis, even when the odds seem stacked against us. It also showcases the faith and determination of the servants of the king, who are willing to do whatever it takes to secure the safety of those within the city walls. Through a closer examination of the words used in this verse, scholars can gain insight into the historical context and the deeper meanings behind the actions and decisions made by the characters in this narrative.
2 Kings 7:13 in other translations
American Standard Version
And one of his servants answered and said, Let some take, I pray thee, five of the horses that remain, which are left in the city (behold, they are as all the multitude of Israel that are left in it; behold, they are as all the multitude of Israel that are consumed); and let us send and see.
World English Bible
One of his servants answered, “Please let some take five of the horses that remain, which are left in the city. Behold, they are like all the multitude of Israel who are left in it. Behold, they are like all the multitude of Israel who are consumed. Let us send and see.”
Douay-Rheims
And one of his servants answered: Let us take the five horses that are remaining in the city (because there are no more in the whole multitude of Israel, for the rest are consumed), and let us send and see.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And one of his seruants answered, and said, Let me take now fiue of the horses that remaine, and are left in the citie, (behold, they are euen as all the multitude of Israel that are left therein: beholde, I say, they are as the multitude of the Israelites that are consumed) and we wil send to see.