2 Kings 4:38

KJV

¶ And Elisha came again to Gilgal: and [there was] a dearth in the land; and the sons of the prophets [were] sitting before him: and he said unto his servant, Set on the great pot, and seethe pottage for the sons of the prophets.

KJV (with Strong's)

And Elisha {H477} came again {H7725} to Gilgal {H1537}: and there was a dearth {H7458} in the land {H776}; and the sons {H1121} of the prophets {H5030} were sitting {H3427} before {H6440} him: and he said {H559} unto his servant {H5288}, Set {H8239} on the great {H1419} pot {H5518}, and seethe {H1310} pottage {H5138} for the sons {H1121} of the prophets {H5030}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Elisha went back to Gilgal. At the time, there was a famine in the land. The guild prophets were sitting before him, and he said to his servant, "Put the big pot on the fire, and boil some soup for the prophets."

Berean Standard Bible

When Elisha returned to Gilgal, there was a famine in the land. As the sons of the prophets were sitting at his feet, he said to his attendant, “Put on the large pot and boil some stew for the sons of the prophets.”

American Standard Version

And Elisha came again to Gilgal. And there was a dearth in the land; and the sons of the prophets were sitting before him; and he said unto his servant, Set on the great pot, and boil pottage for the sons of the prophets.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Second Kings 4:38 initiates a compelling narrative of divine provision amidst scarcity, detailing the prophet Elisha's return to Gilgal during a severe famine. Encountering the assembled "sons of the prophets," a community of his disciples, Elisha immediately addresses their physical need by instructing his servant to prepare a large pot of pottage. This verse sets the stage for a miraculous demonstration of God's care, not only highlighting Elisha's compassionate leadership but also underscoring God's attentiveness to the practical sustenance of those dedicated to His service, even in dire circumstances.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is strategically placed within a series of miracles performed by Elisha, showcasing his prophetic authority and God's active involvement in the lives of His people. Preceding this account are the miraculous provision of oil for the widow ([2 Kings 4:1-7](/2_kings/4-1 "2 Kings 4:1-7 - The Widow's Oil")), the raising of the Shunammite's son ([2 Kings 4:8-37](/2_kings/4-8 "2 Kings 4:8-37 - The Shunammite's Son Raised")), and the healing of Naaman ([2 Kings 5:1-19](/2_kings/5-1 "2 Kings 5:1-19 - Naaman Healed")). The narrative in [2 Kings 4](/2_kings/4 "2 Kings 4 - Elisha's Miracles of Provision") consistently portrays Elisha as a conduit for God's life-giving power and practical care. Immediately following [2 Kings 4:38](/2_kings/4-38 "2 Kings 4:38 - Elisha Prepares Pottage"), the story continues with the miraculous purification of this very pottage, which had been inadvertently poisoned ([2 Kings 4:39-41](/2_kings/4-39 "2 Kings 4:39-41 - The Poisoned Pottage Purified")), and then the feeding of one hundred men with twenty loaves ([2 Kings 4:42-44](/2_kings/4-42 "2 Kings 4:42-44 - Feeding of One Hundred Men")). Thus, [2 Kings 4:38](/2_kings/4-38 "2 Kings 4:38 - Elisha Prepares Pottage") serves as the initial setup for another display of divine intervention related to sustenance, emphasizing God's continuous provision for His servants.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The setting of Gilgal holds significant historical and religious weight. It was the first encampment of the Israelites after crossing the Jordan River ([Joshua 4:19-20](/joshua/4-19 "Joshua 4:19-20 - Israel Enters Canaan at Gilgal")), a place of covenant renewal ([Joshua 5:9](/joshua/5-9 "Joshua 5:9 - The Reproach of Egypt Rolled Away")), and a center for prophetic activity, notably for Samuel ([1 Samuel 7:16](/1_samuel/7-16 "1 Samuel 7:16 - Samuel Judges Israel")) and later Elijah and Elisha ([2 Kings 2:1-2](/2_kings/2-1 "2 Kings 2:1-2 - Elijah and Elisha at Gilgal")). The "dearth in the land" refers to a severe famine, a common and devastating occurrence in ancient Israel, often resulting from drought or warfare. Such famines were frequently interpreted as divine judgment or a test of faith. The "sons of the prophets" were not biological offspring but rather communities or guilds of prophetic disciples who lived together, studied under a master prophet like Elisha, and served as his assistants or messengers. They were dedicated to learning and practicing the prophetic ministry, often living simply and relying on divine or communal provision. Their presence before Elisha indicates their reliance on his leadership and, implicitly, on God's provision through him.
* **Key Themes:** [2 Kings 4:38](/2_kings/4-38 "2 Kings 4:38 - Elisha Prepares Pottage") introduces and reinforces several prominent themes within the book of Kings and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it highlights **Divine Provision**, demonstrating God's faithfulness to sustain His people, especially His devoted servants, even in times of widespread scarcity. This echoes earlier instances of God's miraculous provision, such as the manna in the wilderness ([Exodus 16:1-36](/exodus/16 "Exodus 16 - Manna and Quail")) or Elijah's sustenance by ravens ([1 Kings 17:1-7](/1_kings/17-1 "1 Kings 17:1-7 - Elijah Fed by Ravens")). Secondly, the verse underscores **Pastoral Care and Compassionate Leadership**, as Elisha, true to his role as God's representative, immediately recognizes and addresses the physical needs of his disciples, moving beyond spiritual instruction to practical well-being. This models a holistic approach to ministry. Thirdly, the gathering of the "sons of the prophets" emphasizes the importance of **Community and Fellowship** within the prophetic tradition, where mutual support and shared life were vital, particularly during hardship. Lastly, it illustrates the **Practicality of Prophetic Ministry**, showing that the prophet's role extended beyond delivering divine oracles to include tangible acts of care and intervention in daily life, reflecting God's concern for every aspect of human existence.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **dearth (Hebrew, _ra'av'_):** This term (רָעָב) unequivocally signifies a severe "famine" or "hunger." Its use here immediately establishes the dire circumstances facing the land and, specifically, the community of prophets. It is not merely a shortage but a widespread lack of food, indicating a period of significant hardship and potential starvation. This word sets the stage for the miraculous intervention that follows, emphasizing the severity of the need that God is about to meet.
* **sons of the prophets (Hebrew, _b'nei han'vi'im'_):** This phrase (בְּנֵי הַנְּבִיאִים) refers to a distinct community or guild of prophetic disciples. They were not necessarily biological children but rather individuals who had dedicated themselves to prophetic training and service under a leading prophet like Elisha. These groups were known to live communally, often in simple dwellings, and to engage in study, prayer, and practical service to the prophet. Their presence highlights the existence of organized prophetic schools or brotherhoods in ancient Israel, serving as centers for spiritual formation and the perpetuation of prophetic ministry.
* **pottage (Hebrew, _nazid'_):** The word (נָזִיד) denotes a common stew or broth, typically made from vegetables, grains, or lentils. It was a staple, often humble, food in the ancient Near East, prepared by boiling ingredients together. The instruction to "seethe pottage" means to boil or cook this stew. The mention of "great pot" suggests a large quantity was needed to feed the numerous "sons of the prophets," underscoring the scale of the communal meal and setting up the subsequent narrative of its miraculous purification.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And Elisha came again to Gilgal:"** This clause establishes Elisha's presence at Gilgal, a location with deep historical and spiritual significance in Israel. The phrase "came again" suggests a prior visit or a regular circuit of Elisha's prophetic ministry, indicating his ongoing engagement with various prophetic centers. His arrival sets the scene for the unfolding events, placing him at the heart of the community's need.
* **"and [there was] a dearth in the land;"** This parenthetical yet crucial statement immediately informs the reader of the prevailing crisis: a severe famine. This detail provides the critical context for Elisha's subsequent actions, highlighting the desperate circumstances that necessitate divine intervention. It underscores the severity of the challenge faced by the inhabitants, including the prophetic community.
* **"and the sons of the prophets [were] sitting before him:"** This describes the gathering of Elisha's disciples, indicating their posture of attentiveness and submission to his teaching and leadership. Their presence before him signifies a communal setting, likely for instruction or fellowship, but also reveals their vulnerability to the widespread famine, as they too are affected by the "dearth."
* **"and he said unto his servant, Set on the great pot, and seethe pottage for the sons of the prophets."** This is Elisha's direct command, revealing his immediate and practical concern for the physical well-being of his disciples. The instruction to "Set on the great pot" implies the need to prepare a substantial meal for a large group, demonstrating Elisha's awareness of their hunger. The phrase "seethe pottage" specifies the type of food, a common and relatively simple stew, setting the stage for the subsequent miraculous purification of this very meal.

#### Literary Devices
The passage employs several literary devices to enhance its narrative impact and theological depth. **Foreshadowing** is evident as Elisha's command to prepare pottage, immediately following the mention of "dearth," subtly hints at a forthcoming miraculous intervention concerning food, which is indeed realized in the subsequent verses. There is a degree of **Irony** in the situation: despite a widespread famine, the prophet of God, rather than being helpless, takes the initiative to prepare a meal, setting the stage for God's abundance in the midst of scarcity. The "great pot" itself can be seen as **Symbolism**, representing not just a vessel for cooking but also a container for potential divine provision, a focal point for the miracle to come. The entire scene creates a stark **Contrast** between the "dearth in the land"—a natural disaster and a sign of human vulnerability—and Elisha's confident, proactive response, which points to God's supernatural ability to provide beyond natural limitations. This contrast underscores the power and compassion of God working through His prophet.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This passage powerfully illustrates God's unwavering commitment to providing for His people, particularly those who dedicate their lives to His service. In a time of severe famine, Elisha's immediate concern for the physical needs of the "sons of the prophets" reflects God's own pastoral heart. It teaches us that God's care is holistic, extending beyond spiritual nourishment to encompass tangible, daily sustenance. This divine provision is not limited to grand, public displays but often manifests in the practical, mundane aspects of life, ensuring that His servants are sustained to continue their work. The narrative reinforces the truth that even when natural resources fail, God remains the ultimate source of provision, capable of meeting needs in miraculous ways. It also highlights the role of human instruments, like Elisha, in facilitating God's care, demonstrating that faith often expresses itself through practical acts of love and service within the community.

* [Philippians 4:19](/philippians/4-19 "Philippians 4:19 - God Will Supply All Your Needs")
* [Matthew 6:25-34](/matthew/6-25 "Matthew 6:25-34 - Do Not Worry About Your Life")
* [Psalm 37:25](/psalm/37-25 "Psalm 37:25 - The Righteous Not Forsaken")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The scene in [2 Kings 4:38](/2_kings/4-38 "2 Kings 4:38 - Elisha Prepares Pottage") offers profound lessons for contemporary believers. In a world often marked by various forms of "dearth"—whether literal hunger, emotional emptiness, spiritual dryness, or financial insecurity—this verse calls us to remember God's faithful provision. It challenges us to trust that God is mindful of our daily needs and capable of supplying them, often through unexpected means or through the hands of His servants. Elisha's example of compassionate leadership encourages us, whether in formal ministry or daily life, to be attentive to the practical needs of those around us, demonstrating God's love in tangible ways. It reminds us that true spiritual care often begins with addressing basic human necessities. Furthermore, the gathering of the "sons of the prophets" underscores the vital role of Christian community, where believers can find mutual support, share resources, and collectively experience God's sustaining grace during times of challenge. We are called to be both recipients and channels of God's provision, fostering environments where no one is left in want.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life are you currently experiencing a "dearth," and how might you trust God for provision in those areas?**
* **How can you, like Elisha, be more attentive to the practical needs of those in your community or sphere of influence?**
* **What role does Christian community play in sustaining you during times of scarcity or hardship?**
* **How does recognizing God's provision in the mundane aspects of life deepen your faith?**

### FAQ

**Who were the "sons of the prophets" and what was their significance?**

Answer: The "sons of the prophets" were not biological descendants but rather a collective term for groups or guilds of prophetic disciples and students. They were individuals who had committed themselves to learning and serving under a leading prophet, such as Elijah or Elisha. These communities often lived communally, engaged in spiritual training, and assisted their master prophet in various capacities, including delivering messages or performing tasks. Their significance lies in their role as centers for prophetic education and the perpetuation of prophetic ministry in Israel, ensuring the continuity of God's voice among His people. They represented a dedicated segment of society focused on spiritual matters and often relied on the provision of God and the community.

**Why was Gilgal a significant location for this event?**

Answer: Gilgal held immense historical and spiritual significance for ancient Israel. It was the first encampment site for the Israelites after crossing the Jordan River into the Promised Land ([Joshua 4:19-20](/joshua/4-19 "Joshua 4:19-20 - Israel Enters Canaan at Gilgal")), where they renewed their covenant with God through circumcision ([Joshua 5:9](/joshua/5-9 "Joshua 5:9 - The Reproach of Egypt Rolled Away")). It later became a prominent center for Samuel's judicial and prophetic ministry ([1 Samuel 7:16](/1_samuel/7-16 "1 Samuel 7:16 - Samuel Judges Israel")) and was a key location in the prophetic circuit of Elijah and Elisha ([2 Kings 2:1-2](/2_kings/2-1 "2 Kings 2:1-2 - Elijah and Elisha at Gilgal")). Its historical association with God's miraculous provision (e.g., manna ceasing there, [Joshua 5:12](/joshua/5-12 "Joshua 5:12 - Manna Ceases at Gilgal")) and covenant renewal makes it an apt setting for another demonstration of divine care and sustenance, reinforcing the continuity of God's faithfulness in a place deeply embedded in Israel's spiritual memory.

**What does "dearth in the land" imply for the narrative that follows?**

Answer: The phrase "dearth in the land" (famine) is crucial for setting the context and heightening the drama of the narrative. It immediately establishes a situation of severe crisis and widespread suffering, indicating a lack of basic necessities. For the "sons of the prophets," who likely lived simply and communally, a famine would pose an immediate threat to their survival. This dire circumstance underscores the urgency of Elisha's command to prepare food and magnifies the subsequent miracle of the poisoned pottage being purified ([2 Kings 4:39-41](/2_kings/4-39 "2 Kings 4:39-41 - The Poisoned Pottage Purified")). The "dearth" serves as the backdrop against which God's power to provide and sustain, even in the most desperate times, is vividly displayed, transforming a situation of potential death into one of life and nourishment.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The account of Elisha providing pottage in a time of famine, culminating in the purification of the poisoned stew, powerfully foreshadows the ultimate provision found in Jesus Christ. Elisha, as God's prophet, acts as a mediator of divine sustenance, addressing the physical hunger of his disciples. This points forward to Jesus, who not only miraculously fed thousands with a few loaves and fish ([Matthew 14:13-21](/matthew/14-13 "Matthew 14:13-21 - Feeding the Five Thousand"); [John 6:1-15](/john/6-1 "John 6:1-15 - Feeding the Five Thousand")) but also declared Himself to be the "Bread of Life" ([John 6:35](/john/6-35 "John 6:35 - Jesus, the Bread of Life")), offering eternal spiritual nourishment that truly satisfies. Just as the physical "dearth" in Elisha's time necessitated a miraculous intervention for physical life, humanity's spiritual "dearth" due to sin necessitates the life-giving provision of Christ's sacrifice. He is the one who purifies not just a pot of pottage, but our very souls from the poison of sin, offering true life through His body and blood ([John 6:53-58](/john/6-53 "John 6:53-58 - Eat My Flesh and Drink My Blood")). Elisha's compassionate care for his disciples reflects the Good Shepherd's ultimate care for His flock, ensuring their sustenance both physically and spiritually, leading them to green pastures and still waters ([Psalm 23:1-2](/psalm/23-1 "Psalm 23:1-2 - The Lord is My Shepherd")). Thus, [2 Kings 4:38](/2_kings/4-38 "2 Kings 4:38 - Elisha Prepares Pottage") serves as a historical type, pointing to the greater reality of Christ as the ultimate Provider, Sustainer, and Purifier of life.

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.

Cross-References

2 Kings 2:3

And the sons of the prophets that [were] at Bethel came forth to Elisha, and said unto him, Knowest thou that the LORD will take away thy master from thy head to day? And he said, Yea, I know [it]; hold ye your peace.

2 Kings 8:1

¶ Then spake Elisha unto the woman, whose son he had restored to life, saying, Arise, and go thou and thine household, and sojourn wheresoever thou canst sojourn: for the LORD hath called for a famine; and it shall also come upon the land seven years.

2 Kings 2:1

¶ And it came to pass, when the LORD would take up Elijah into heaven by a whirlwind, that Elijah went with Elisha from Gilgal.

Acts 22:3

¶ I am verily a man [which am] a Jew, born in Tarsus, [a city] in Cilicia, yet brought up in this city at the feet of Gamaliel, [and] taught according to the perfect manner of the law of the fathers, and was zealous toward God, as ye all are this day.

Luke 10:39

And she had a sister called Mary, which also sat at Jesus' feet, and heard his word.

Leviticus 26:26

[And] when I have broken the staff of your bread, ten women shall bake your bread in one oven, and they shall deliver [you] your bread again by weight: and ye shall eat, and not be satisfied.

1 Samuel 7:16

And he went from year to year in circuit to Bethel, and Gilgal, and Mizpeh, and judged Israel in all those places.