2 Kings 4:11

KJV

And it fell on a day, that he came thither, and he turned into the chamber, and lay there.

KJV (with Strong's)

And it fell on a day {H3117}, that he came {H935} thither, and he turned {H5493} into the chamber {H5944}, and lay {H7901} there.

Complete Jewish Bible

One day Elisha came to visit there, and he went into the upper room to lie down.

Berean Standard Bible

One day Elisha came to visit and went to his upper room to lie down.

American Standard Version

And it fell on a day, that he came thither, and he turned into the chamber and lay there.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
2 Kings 4:11 marks a pivotal moment in the narrative of Elisha and the Shunammite woman, detailing the prophet's first recorded use of the dedicated "prophet's chamber" built by the woman and her husband. This seemingly simple act of Elisha entering the room and resting there underscores the successful provision of exceptional hospitality, setting the stage for God's miraculous intervention and reciprocal blessings in the life of the generous Shunammite woman.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is embedded within the broader narrative of Elisha's ministry, specifically focusing on the account of the Shunammite woman in [2 Kings 4:8-37](/2_kings/4 "2 Kings 4 - Elisha and the Shunammite Woman"). Prior to this verse, the woman, described as a "wealthy woman" ([2 Kings 4:8](/2_kings/4-8 "2 Kings 4:8 - The Shunammite Woman's Hospitality")), observes Elisha frequently passing through Shunem. Her spiritual discernment leads her to recognize him as a "holy man of God" ([2 Kings 4:9](/2_kings/4-9 "2 Kings 4:9 - Recognition of Elisha's Holiness")). Motivated by this recognition and a spirit of profound hospitality, she proposes to her husband that they build a small, private room on their rooftop for Elisha's use whenever he passes by. [2 Kings 4:10](/2_kings/4-10 "2 Kings 4:10 - Construction of the Prophet's Chamber") details the construction and furnishing of this "prophet's chamber" with essential items: a bed, a table, a stool, and a lampstand. Verse 11 then describes the immediate practical outcome of this provision, showing Elisha's acceptance and utilization of the space, thereby validating the woman's thoughtful initiative and preparing the reader for the divine response that follows.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The practice of building an "upper room" or "roof chamber" (Hebrew: _'aliyah'_) was common in ancient Israelite homes, particularly among the more affluent. These rooms, often accessible by an external staircase, provided privacy, offered cooler air during warm seasons, and were frequently used as guest quarters or secluded retreats. The hospitality extended to travelers and religious figures was a deeply ingrained cultural value in the ancient Near East, often considered a sacred duty. Providing a dedicated space for a prophet like Elisha was an act of significant honor and devotion, reflecting not just social custom but also spiritual reverence. Prophets, often itinerants, relied on such generosity for their sustenance and shelter, allowing them to focus on their divine calling without the burden of daily provision. The simplicity of the furnishings in the chamber (bed, table, stool, lampstand) suggests a functional, humble space, yet one that met the essential needs for rest and study.
* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes to several overarching themes within the book of 2 Kings and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it powerfully illustrates the theme of **Exceptional Hospitality and Generosity**, showcasing the Shunammite woman's selfless and discerning provision for God's servant, which goes beyond mere obligation to a genuine act of reverence. Secondly, it highlights **Divine Provision for God's Servants**, demonstrating how God often orchestrates the support for His ministers through the faithfulness of His people, enabling them to continue their work. This act of care for Elisha directly precedes God's miraculous intervention on the woman's behalf, underscoring the principle that "whoever gives one of these little ones even a cup of cold water because he is a disciple, truly, I say to you, he will by no means lose his reward" ([Matthew 10:42](/matthew/10-42 "Matthew 10:42 - Reward for Hospitality")). Lastly, the simple act of Elisha entering the chamber "and lay there" subtly introduces the theme of **The Prophet's Need for Rest**, acknowledging the human limitations and need for rejuvenation even for those engaged in profound spiritual work, a theme echoed in the New Testament with Jesus's own need for rest ([Mark 4:38](/mark/4-38 "Mark 4:38 - Jesus Asleep in the Boat")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Chamber (Hebrew, _'aliyah'_):** This term specifically denotes an "upper room" or "roof chamber." Its use here is significant because it implies a distinct, specially constructed, and private space, not merely an existing room within the house. Such rooms were often built on the flat rooftops of ancient Israelite homes, offering privacy, quiet, and cooler air. The fact that the Shunammite woman and her husband built this specific _'aliyah'_ for Elisha underscores the intentionality, effort, and expense involved in their act of hospitality, elevating it beyond a casual gesture to a dedicated provision for the prophet.
* **Lay (Hebrew, _shakháv'_):** The verb "lay" (שָׁכַב, _shakháv_) simply means to lie down, often implying rest or sleep. In this context, it signifies Elisha's acceptance of the woman's provision and his ability to find rest and peace in the dedicated space. It is a quiet, unassuming action that nonetheless represents the fulfillment of the woman's purpose in building the chamber. This simple act of resting is a necessary precursor to the subsequent divine interactions and miracles, highlighting the human need for respite even amidst a life of extraordinary divine service.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And it fell on a day, that he came thither":** This opening clause establishes the routine nature of Elisha's visits to Shunem and the regularity with which he would pass through the town. "It fell on a day" suggests a typical occurrence, emphasizing that the prophet's use of the chamber was not a one-off event but part of his established travel pattern. This highlights the practical utility and ongoing benefit of the Shunammite woman's foresight and generosity.
* **"and he turned into the chamber":** This phrase directly describes Elisha's action of entering the newly prepared "upper room." It signifies his acceptance of the hospitality offered and his recognition of the space as his designated lodging. The turning "into the chamber" implies a deliberate movement towards a specific, private space, indicating that the room served its intended purpose of providing a dedicated retreat for the prophet.
* **"and lay there":** This final, concise clause reveals the ultimate purpose and outcome of the woman's provision: Elisha found rest. The simplicity of the statement belies its significance, highlighting the prophet's need for physical repose after his travels and ministry. It also subtly conveys a sense of peace and comfort found in the space, validating the Shunammite woman's thoughtful and generous act of service. This act of resting is foundational to the subsequent interactions where Elisha will seek to bless his benefactress.

#### Literary Devices
The verse, though brief, employs several subtle literary devices. **Simplicity** is paramount, as the straightforward declarative sentences convey a mundane yet significant action. This unadorned reporting allows the reader to focus on the practical outcome of the woman's hospitality without distraction. There is also an element of **Symbolism** present; the "chamber" itself becomes a symbol of discerning hospitality, faithful provision, and the sacred space prepared for God's anointed. It represents not just a physical room but a spiritual act of service that invites divine blessing. Furthermore, the verse functions as a form of **Foreshadowing**. The quiet act of Elisha resting in the chamber sets the stage for the dramatic events that follow in the chapter, particularly the miraculous promise of a son and his subsequent resurrection. The peace and acceptance conveyed in this verse subtly hint at the profound peace and blessing that will soon be bestowed upon the Shunammite woman's household as a direct consequence of her actions.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
2 Kings 4:11 serves as a profound illustration of the biblical principle that acts of selfless generosity and hospitality, especially towards God's servants, are not overlooked by the Lord. The Shunammite woman's discerning recognition of Elisha as a "holy man of God" ([2 Kings 4:9](/2_kings/4-9 "2 Kings 4:9 - Recognition of Elisha's Holiness")) motivated her to provide a dedicated, comfortable space, demonstrating a faith that expresses itself through practical service. This verse, showing Elisha's acceptance of this provision, underscores the divine economy where such acts of love and support for ministry are met with divine reciprocity, often in unexpected and miraculous ways. It teaches us that supporting God's work and His people is a form of worship that God honors, leading to a deeper experience of His faithfulness and power in our own lives.

* [Hebrews 13:2](/hebrews/13-2 "Hebrews 13:2 - Do Not Neglect Hospitality")
* [Matthew 10:41](/matthew/10-41 "Matthew 10:41 - Reward for Receiving a Prophet")
* [Proverbs 19:17](/proverbs/19-17 "Proverbs 19:17 - Lending to the Lord")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The quiet scene in 2 Kings 4:11, where Elisha simply enters his chamber and rests, offers a powerful yet understated call to reflection for believers today. It challenges us to consider the quality and intentionality of our own hospitality, not just as a social courtesy but as a spiritual discipline. Are we discerning enough to recognize those whom God has sent, whether they be ministers, missionaries, or simply those in need, and are we willing to extend ourselves in practical ways to meet their needs, even at personal cost? This verse also reminds us of the importance of supporting those in ministry, enabling them to focus on their calling without undue burden. Furthermore, Elisha's act of resting serves as a gentle reminder that even for those deeply engaged in God's work, rest is not a luxury but a necessity for sustained service and spiritual well-being. It encourages us to embrace rhythms of rest and rejuvenation, trusting that God can work through our limitations as much as through our efforts.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the Shunammite woman's hospitality challenge my own understanding and practice of generosity towards others, especially those serving God?**
* **In what practical ways can I support and provide for those in ministry or those in need within my community?**
* **What does Elisha's act of resting teach me about the importance of rest and self-care in my own life, even amidst my responsibilities and service?**
* **How might acts of seemingly small, consistent kindness lead to greater divine blessings in my life or the lives of others?**

### FAQ
**What is the significance of the "chamber" in 2 Kings 4:11?**

Answer: The "chamber" (Hebrew: _'aliyah'_, an upper room or roof chamber) is highly significant because it represents the Shunammite woman's exceptional and discerning hospitality. It was not just any room but a specially constructed, dedicated, and private space built on the rooftop of her house specifically for the prophet Elisha. This act demonstrated her deep reverence for Elisha as a "holy man of God" ([2 Kings 4:9](/2_kings/4-9 "2 Kings 4:9 - Recognition of Elisha's Holiness")) and her willingness to invest significant effort and resources to provide for his comfort and privacy. Its provision allowed Elisha to have a consistent, peaceful place to rest during his travels, facilitating his ministry and setting the stage for the miraculous blessings that God would bestow upon her household in return for her faithfulness.

**What does this verse teach us about God's response to acts of kindness and hospitality?**

Answer: While 2 Kings 4:11 itself only describes Elisha's acceptance of the chamber, it is the immediate precursor to God's profound response to the Shunammite woman's kindness. The subsequent verses detail how Elisha, prompted by her generosity, asks what he can do for her, leading to the miraculous promise of a son ([2 Kings 4:16](/2_kings/4-16 "2 Kings 4:16 - Promise of a Son")) and, later, the resurrection of that son from the dead ([2 Kings 4:35](/2_kings/4-35 "2 Kings 4:35 - Resurrection of the Shunammite's Son")). This narrative powerfully illustrates that God takes notice of and richly rewards acts of selfless hospitality and support for His servants. It aligns with New Testament teachings that even a cup of cold water given in the name of a disciple will not lose its reward ([Matthew 10:42](/matthew/10-42 "Matthew 10:42 - Reward for Hospitality")), and that genuine love expressed through service is pleasing to God ([Hebrews 13:2](/hebrews/13-2 "Hebrews 13:2 - Do Not Neglect Hospitality")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The quiet scene of Elisha entering his chamber to rest in 2 Kings 4:11, while seemingly ordinary, points forward to the ultimate Prophet, Jesus Christ, and the profound themes of divine provision and rest. Just as Elisha, a man of God, relied on the generosity of others for his physical needs and found a place of rest, so too did Jesus, in His humanity, experience weariness and depend on the provision of others during His earthly ministry ([Matthew 8:20](/matthew/8-20 "Matthew 8:20 - Jesus Has Nowhere to Lay His Head") states He had "nowhere to lay His head," yet [Luke 8:3](/luke/8-3 "Luke 8:3 - Women Who Provided for Jesus") shows women providing for Him out of their means). This foreshadows Christ's identification with human need and dependence, even as He is fully divine. Ultimately, the "rest" Elisha finds in the Shunammite's chamber points to the greater rest that Christ provides. His finished work on the cross, His cry "It is finished!" ([John 19:30](/john/19-30 "John 19:30 - Jesus's Last Words")), signifies the ultimate spiritual rest and provision for humanity, a rest from the burden of sin and striving. Through His sacrifice, Christ has prepared a "chamber" of eternal rest and peace for all who believe, fulfilling the shadow of physical provision with the substance of spiritual salvation and inviting us into His eternal Sabbath rest ([Hebrews 4:9-10](/hebrews/4-9 "The Sabbath Rest for the People of God")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.