2 Kings 4:8

KJV

¶ And it fell on a day, that Elisha passed to Shunem, where [was] a great woman; and she constrained him to eat bread. And [so] it was, [that] as oft as he passed by, he turned in thither to eat bread.

KJV (with Strong's)

And it fell on a day {H3117}, that Elisha {H477} passed {H5674} to Shunem {H7766}, where was a great {H1419} woman {H802}; and she constrained {H2388} him to eat {H398} bread {H3899}. And so it was, that as oft {H1767} as he passed by {H5674}, he turned {H5493} in thither to eat {H398} bread {H3899}.

Complete Jewish Bible

One day Elisha visited Shunem, and a well-to-do woman living there pressed him to stay and eat a meal. After this, whenever he came through, he stopped there for a meal.

Berean Standard Bible

One day Elisha went to Shunem, and a prominent woman who lived there persuaded him to have a meal. So whenever he would pass by, he would stop there to eat.

American Standard Version

And it fell on a day, that Elisha passed to Shunem, where was a great woman; and she constrained him to eat bread. And so it was, that as oft as he passed by, he turned in thither to eat bread.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Second Kings 4:8 introduces the remarkable Shunammite woman, initiating a pivotal narrative within the prophetic ministry of Elisha. This verse details Elisha's regular travels through Shunem, where he consistently encountered a "great woman" who, through her proactive and persistent hospitality, compelled him to partake of her meals. This foundational act of generosity establishes a deep and enduring relationship between the prophet and the woman, setting the stage for a series of extraordinary divine interventions and blessings that profoundly unfold throughout the chapter.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse serves as the opening of a significant narrative block (2 Kings 4:8-37) within the broader account of Elisha's prophetic ministry, which commences following the ascension of Elijah and Elisha's assumption of his prophetic mantle. Chapters 2 and 3 detail Elisha's initial miracles, such as healing the waters of Jericho and his role in a military campaign against Moab. Chapter 4 then shifts focus to Elisha's interactions with individuals and families, showcasing God's compassionate provision and life-giving power in various domestic and personal settings. The episode of the Shunammite woman is one of the most extensive and detailed, beginning with her act of hospitality and culminating in the miraculous birth and subsequent resurrection of her son. This narrative immediately follows the account of Elisha multiplying a widow's oil to pay her debts and save her sons from slavery, highlighting a consistent pattern of divine intervention in the lives of the vulnerable and those who demonstrate faith and generosity, as seen in [the story of the widow's oil](/2_kings/4-1-7 "2 Kings 4:1-7 - The Widow's Oil Multiplied").

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Shunem was a town located in the fertile Jezreel Valley, strategically positioned along common travel routes between Samaria and Mount Carmel, making it a natural and frequent stop for travelers like Elisha. In the ancient Near East, hospitality was not merely a social custom but a profound moral, ethical, and religious obligation. Welcoming strangers, especially revered figures like prophets, was considered a sacred duty, offering protection, sustenance, and a place of rest. This act of hospitality was deeply embedded in the social fabric and carried significant communal and spiritual weight. The consistent nature of the Shunammite woman's invitation, transforming a singular offer into a regular practice, speaks to a cultural expectation of ongoing care for those who travel for God's work, reflecting a societal value that permeated daily life and was often seen as a direct service to God Himself.

* **Key Themes:** This initial encounter immediately introduces and develops several key themes that permeate the narrative of the Shunammite woman and indeed the broader book of 2 Kings. Firstly, **Hospitality and Generosity** are central, as the Shunammite woman's proactive and persistent offering of food and shelter exemplifies a core biblical virtue, seen as a direct service to God's messenger. This act of welcoming the prophet foreshadows New Testament teachings on hospitality as a fundamental expression of Christian love, as seen in [Romans 12:13](/romans/12-13 "Romans 12:13 - Practicing Hospitality"). Secondly, the theme of **Divine Initiative and Human Responsiveness** is profoundly evident; while Elisha is merely "passing by" on his prophetic circuit, God orchestrates this encounter, and the woman's willing and persistent response opens the door for extraordinary divine intervention. Finally, the verse subtly introduces the theme of **Reciprocity of Blessing**, demonstrating how acts of selfless generosity towards God's servants often precede and facilitate miraculous provision and restoration. This foundational act of kindness sets the stage for the remarkable blessings that will unfold later in [the chapter](/2_kings/4 "2 Kings 4 - Elisha's Miracles"), including the gift of a son and his subsequent resurrection.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **great (Hebrew, _gâdôwl'_):** From H1419, this word signifies more than mere material wealth or social standing, though the Shunammite woman likely possessed considerable means. Here, it implies a person of significant influence, high respect, and perhaps even spiritual stature within her community. Her "greatness" is immediately demonstrated not by her possessions, but by her character, proactive generosity, and discerning spirit, which recognizes Elisha's true identity as a man of God. It sets her apart as a woman of substance, integrity, and commendable character.
* **constrained (Hebrew, _châzaq'_):** From H2388, this verb means "to be strong, to prevail, to hold fast, to strengthen." In this context, it conveys more than a polite invitation; it suggests a strong, earnest urging, a persistent insistence, or even a compelling persuasion. The Shunammite woman did not merely offer; she pressed Elisha to accept her hospitality, indicating a genuine, perhaps even spiritually motivated, desire to care for the prophet, overcoming any initial reluctance on his part. This highlights her determination and the depth of her hospitality.
* **oft (Hebrew, _day'_):** From H1767, this word means "enough" or "sufficient," and in this context, it is used adverbially to indicate frequency. The phrase "as oft as he passed by" emphasizes the consistent and regular nature of Elisha's visits and the woman's hospitality. It highlights that her generosity was not a one-time event but a sustained pattern, demonstrating her unwavering commitment and the establishment of an ongoing relationship.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And it fell on a day, that Elisha passed to Shunem":** This opening clause establishes the setting and the routine nature of Elisha's prophetic travels. It highlights the divine orchestration of the encounter, as Elisha's regular route providentially brings him into contact with the Shunammite woman, indicating that this meeting was not accidental but part of God's plan.
* **"where [was] a great woman":** This introduces the central human character of the narrative, immediately identifying her with a title that denotes her significant status, influence, and commendable character within her community. This description sets the stage for her pivotal role in the unfolding events, signaling that she is a person of substance and spiritual discernment.
* **"and she constrained him to eat bread":** This is the pivotal action of the verse, showcasing the woman's proactive and persistent hospitality. Her "constraining" of Elisha emphasizes her earnest and determined invitation, indicating a genuine desire to provide for and care for the prophet, moving beyond mere politeness to a compelling act of service.
* **"And [so] it was, [that] as oft as he passed by, he turned in thither to eat bread":** This final clause underscores the consistency and regularity of her hospitality. What began as a singular, earnest act became an ongoing pattern, demonstrating her sustained commitment to supporting the prophet and solidifying the relationship between them into a regular arrangement of mutual respect and care.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several effective literary techniques to introduce the narrative and its key characters. **Repetition** is subtly used in the phrase "as oft as he passed by, he turned in thither to eat bread," which emphasizes the consistent and ongoing nature of the Shunammite woman's hospitality, transforming a singular event into a habitual practice. This consistency highlights her unwavering dedication and sets a precedent for the relationship. The immediate description of the woman as "a great woman" functions as a powerful **character introduction**, immediately establishing her significance and setting expectations for her prominent role in the unfolding narrative. Furthermore, this initial act of hospitality serves as clear **foreshadowing**, indicating that this seemingly simple gesture will lay the groundwork for profound divine interventions and blessings that will follow, establishing the foundation for the extraordinary miracles to come through Elisha's ministry in her life.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The Shunammite woman's unreserved and consistent hospitality in 2 Kings 4:8 embodies a profound theological principle: the honor and blessing that accompany the welcoming and support of God's servants. Her actions reflect an understanding that caring for the prophet is, in essence, an act of devotion to God Himself, recognizing Elisha as God's representative. This resonates deeply with Old Testament commands to care for the stranger, the sojourner, and the vulnerable, and it foreshadows New Testament teachings on hospitality as a fundamental expression of Christian love and a spiritual gift. Her willingness to share her resources, even to the point of "constraining" Elisha, demonstrates a heart aligned with divine generosity, setting the stage for God's reciprocal outpouring of blessing in her life, illustrating the truth that those who honor God's messengers will themselves be honored.

* [Matthew 10:41](/matthew/10-41 "Matthew 10:41 - Receiving a Prophet's Reward")
* [Romans 12:13](/romans/12-13 "Romans 12:13 - Practicing Hospitality")
* [Hebrews 13:2](/hebrews/13-2 "Hebrews 13:2 - Do Not Forget Hospitality")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The Shunammite woman's example in 2 Kings 4:8 serves as a powerful and enduring model for believers today, challenging us to cultivate a spirit of proactive, persistent, and discerning hospitality. Her willingness to not just offer, but to "constrain" Elisha, speaks to a genuine and earnest desire to serve, moving beyond mere politeness to a heartfelt commitment. This verse encourages us to be observant of the needs of others, particularly those who labor in ministry or are on a journey, and to respond with open hands and hearts, recognizing that every person is an image-bearer of God. It reminds us that seemingly small acts of kindness, like offering a meal or a place of rest, can open doors for God to work in extraordinary ways, demonstrating His care through our generosity. Ultimately, her actions teach us that supporting God's servants is an act of worship, an investment in His kingdom, and a pathway to experiencing divine blessing and provision in our own lives, as God often uses human kindness as a channel for His miraculous grace.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the Shunammite woman's "constraining" of Elisha challenge our own approach to hospitality, moving beyond passive invitation to proactive and persistent generosity?**
* **In what practical ways can we better discern and support those whom God has called to serve, even through seemingly small acts of kindness and provision, recognizing them as extensions of Christ's body?**
* **What "bread" (whether it be time, resources, encouragement, or a listening ear) might God be calling you to share consistently with others in your sphere of influence, mirroring the Shunammite woman's sustained care?**

### FAQ
**What does "a great woman" mean in this context?**

Answer: The phrase "a great woman" (Hebrew: _ishshah gedolah_) in 2 Kings 4:8 signifies more than just her material wealth or high social standing, though she likely possessed both. It primarily indicates a woman of considerable influence, respect, and moral character within her community. This "greatness" is immediately demonstrated by her proactive and persistent hospitality towards Elisha, suggesting a spiritual discernment and a heart inclined towards righteousness and service to God's prophet. She was a woman of substance, whose actions reflected her esteemed reputation and spiritual depth.

**Why was Elisha "constrained" to eat bread?**

Answer: The term "constrained" (Hebrew: _ḥāzaq_) does not imply force or coercion, but rather a strong, earnest, and persistent insistence on the part of the Shunammite woman. It suggests that Elisha may have initially declined or hesitated, perhaps out of humility or a desire not to impose upon her. However, her compelling invitation, born of genuine hospitality and possibly a recognition of his prophetic office and the spiritual significance of welcoming him, was so persistent that Elisha eventually yielded. This highlights her deep commitment to providing for him and her determined generosity, transforming a casual encounter into a regular practice of care and support for the man of God.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The Shunammite woman's profound hospitality towards Elisha, a prophet of God, serves as a beautiful Old Testament foreshadowing of the ultimate hospitality and provision offered by Jesus Christ. Her act of welcoming and nourishing the prophet points to Christ, who is the [Bread of Life](/john/6-35 "John 6:35 - Jesus, the Bread of Life"), offering ultimate spiritual nourishment and eternal sustenance to all who come to Him. Just as her persistent generosity towards Elisha led to miraculous life (the birth and resurrection of her son), so too does Christ's radical self-giving on the cross lead to [abundant life](/john/10-10 "John 10:10 - Abundant Life") and resurrection for those who believe in Him. Furthermore, Jesus Himself taught that hospitality shown to His disciples and servants is, in essence, hospitality shown to Him directly, as He identifies with the least of these, declaring, "whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me" ([Matthew 25:35-40](/matthew/25-35-40 "Matthew 25:35-40 - Serving the Least of These")). The reciprocal blessing experienced by the Shunammite woman finds its ultimate and eternal fulfillment in the boundless grace and life that flow from Christ, who welcomes us into His eternal home and provides for all our needs, both temporal and spiritual.

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

Joshua 19:18

And their border was toward Jezreel, and Chesulloth, and Shunem,

Genesis 19:3

And he pressed upon them greatly; and they turned in unto him, and entered into his house; and he made them a feast, and did bake unleavened bread, and they did eat.

Job 32:9

Great men are not [always] wise: neither do the aged understand judgment.

Luke 24:29

But they constrained him, saying, Abide with us: for it is toward evening, and the day is far spent. And he went in to tarry with them.

2 Kings 4:11

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

2 Kings 4:12

And he said to Gehazi his servant, Call this Shunammite. And when he had called her, she stood before him.

Job 1:3

His substance also was seven thousand sheep, and three thousand camels, and five hundred yoke of oxen, and five hundred she asses, and a very great household; so that this man was the greatest of all the men of the east.