2 Kings 7:4
If we say, We will enter into the city, then the famine is in the city, and we shall die there: and if we sit still here, we die also. Now therefore come, and let us fall unto the host of the Syrians: if they save us alive, we shall live; and if they kill us, we shall but die.
2 Kings 7:4 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from the book of 2 Kings describes a situation where a group of people are faced with a desperate choice. They are caught between two dangerous options: staying where they are and starving to death, or trying to enter a city where there is a famine and facing the same fate. In their dilemma, they come up with a third option - surrendering to the enemy, the Syrians, and hoping for mercy. This verse highlights the fear and hopelessness that can come with difficult circumstances, where every choice seems to lead to a negative outcome. It can serve as a reminder of the importance of making tough decisions in the face of adversity and trusting in a higher power for guidance and protection. Ultimately, the verse conveys a message of resilience and courage in the face of seemingly insurmountable challenges.
Theological Overview
In this verse from 2 Kings 7:4, we see a powerful theological lesson about the consequences of indecision and the importance of taking action in times of crisis. The context of this verse is a city under siege with severe famine, leaving the inhabitants facing death whether they stay inside the city or go out to the besieging army. The choice presented here is stark: either stay and die or take a risk by surrendering to the enemy. The word "famine" in this verse can also be seen as a metaphor for spiritual famine, emphasizing the need for faith and action in times of trial. The choice to surrender to the Syrians represents a turning point where the characters choose to trust in God's providence rather than relying solely on their own strength. This verse serves as a powerful reminder that in the face of adversity, faith and action are essential for survival.
2 Kings 7:4 in other translations
American Standard Version
If we say, We will enter into the city, then the famine is in the city, and we shall die there; and if we sit still here, we die also. Now therefore come, and let us fall unto the host of the Syrians: if they save us alive, we shall live; and if they kill us, we shall but die.
World English Bible
If we say, ‘We will enter into the city,’ then the famine is in the city, and we shall die there. If we sit still here, we also die. Now therefore come, and let us surrender to the army of the Syrians. If they save us alive, we will live; and if they kill us, we will only die.”
Douay-Rheims
If we will enter into the city, we shall die with the famine: and if we will remain here, we must also die: come therefore, and let us run over to the camp of the Syrians. If they spare us, we shall live: but if they kill us, we shall but die.
Geneva Bible (1599)
If we say, We will enter into the citie, the famine is in the citie, and we shall die there: and if we sit here, we dye also. Nowe therefore come, and let vs fall into the campe of the Aramites: if they saue our liues, we shall liue: and if they kill vs, we are but dead.