2 Kings 5:24

KJV

And when he came to the tower, he took [them] from their hand, and bestowed [them] in the house: and he let the men go, and they departed.

KJV (with Strong's)

And when he came {H935} to the tower {H6076}, he took {H3947} them from their hand {H3027}, and bestowed {H6485} them in the house {H1004}: and he let the men {H582} go {H7971}, and they departed {H3212}.

Complete Jewish Bible

On reaching the hill, he took the bags from them and put them away in the house. Then he let the men go, and they left.

Berean Standard Bible

When Gehazi came to the hill, he took the gifts from the servants and stored them in the house. Then he dismissed the men, and they departed.

American Standard Version

And when he came to the hill, he took them from their hand, and bestowed them in the house; and he let the men go, and they departed.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
2 Kings 5:24 details Gehazi's furtive actions immediately after his deceitful pursuit of Naaman. Having acquired illicit gifts by fabricating a story to Naaman, Gehazi returns to the vicinity of Elisha's dwelling. This verse describes his meticulous efforts to conceal the ill-gotten gains, bringing them to a secluded "tower" or hidden place, then storing them within the house, and finally dismissing Naaman's servants to eliminate witnesses. This act of concealment underscores his guilt and sets the stage for the inevitable exposure of his sin and the severe divine judgment that follows.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is the climactic moment of Gehazi's personal narrative within the broader story of Naaman's healing and Elisha's prophetic ministry. Earlier in the chapter, Naaman, a Syrian commander, was miraculously cured of leprosy by following Elisha's instruction to [wash seven times in the Jordan River](/2_kings/5-14 "2 Kings 5:14 - Naaman's Healing"). Overwhelmed with gratitude, Naaman offered Elisha lavish gifts, but the prophet steadfastly refused, emphasizing that God's power is freely given and not for sale, a principle highlighted in [2 Kings 5:15-16](/2_kings/5-15 "2 Kings 5:15-16 - Elisha Refuses Gifts"). However, Gehazi, Elisha's servant, driven by covetousness, secretly pursued Naaman. He fabricated a lie, claiming Elisha needed two talents of silver and two changes of garments for two young prophets who had supposedly just arrived, as seen in [2 Kings 5:21](/2_kings/5-21 "2 Kings 5:21 - Gehazi's Deception"). Naaman, still grateful, not only gave him what he asked but insisted on providing double, even sending two of his servants to carry the heavy load. Verse 24 describes Gehazi's calculated return, where he meticulously hides his newly acquired wealth before facing his master, demonstrating his intent to deceive and conceal.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In the ancient Near East, the exchange of gifts was a significant aspect of diplomatic relations, expressions of gratitude, and displays of honor. Naaman's generous offer to Elisha was culturally appropriate as a token of immense thanks for his healing. However, Elisha's refusal, which Gehazi undermines, was a powerful theological statement, distinguishing the true God's free grace from the transactional nature of pagan worship or human-driven magic. Prophets like Elisha often had servants, who were expected to embody the integrity and values of their masters. Gehazi's actions thus represent a significant cultural and spiritual breach of trust. The "tower" mentioned in the verse could refer to a common architectural feature of the time—a watchtower, a fortified dwelling, or even a secluded outbuilding—providing a discreet location for Gehazi to manage the heavy load of silver and garments away from immediate observation, highlighting his careful planning to ensure secrecy.

* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several key themes within the book of 2 Kings and the broader prophetic narrative. Firstly, it highlights the destructive nature of **deception and secrecy**. Gehazi's elaborate efforts to hide his illicit gains underscore his guilt and fear of exposure, directly contrasting with the transparency and integrity expected of a prophet's servant. Secondly, the entire episode is a stark illustration of **greed and covetousness**. Gehazi's overwhelming desire for material wealth stands in sharp opposition to Elisha's selfless refusal of gifts, emphasizing the spiritual danger of prioritizing personal gain over divine principles, a theme echoed in the commandment against coveting found in [Exodus 20:17](/exodus/20-17 "Exodus 20:17 - The Tenth Commandment"). Finally, Gehazi's actions of concealment in this verse serve as a potent **foreshadowing of consequences**. While he believes his actions are hidden, the narrative implicitly assures the reader that divine knowledge penetrates all secrets, setting the stage for the inevitable exposure of his sin and the severe divine judgment pronounced by Elisha in [2 Kings 5:27](/2_kings/5-27 "2 Kings 5:27 - Gehazi's Punishment").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Tower (Hebrew, _migdal_):** This term (מִגְדַּל) typically refers to a fortified structure, a watchtower, or an elevated place. In this context, it likely denotes a specific, perhaps less visible, location near Elisha's dwelling, such as an outbuilding, a secluded part of the property, or even a designated storage area. Its mention emphasizes Gehazi's deliberate choice of a discreet spot to unload and manage the heavy gifts, highlighting his meticulous planning to avoid immediate detection by Elisha or others. It suggests a place where he could momentarily be out of sight before bringing the items into the main house.
* **Bestowed (Hebrew, _vayyifq'dem_):** The verb "bestowed" (וַיִּפְקְדֵם) comes from the root פָּקַד (paqad), which can mean to visit, inspect, appoint, or, as here, to deposit or store. The use of this verb implies a deliberate and careful act of placing or hiding the items. It's not a casual dropping but a purposeful arrangement, further emphasizing Gehazi's intent to conceal the gifts securely within the house, away from prying eyes, especially Elisha's. This verb choice underscores the premeditated nature of his deception.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And when he came to the tower,"**: This phrase marks Gehazi's return from his pursuit of Naaman, indicating his arrival at a specific, pre-determined, and likely secluded location near Elisha's home. The "tower" serves as a waypoint, a place where he can discreetly handle the heavy load of silver and garments before bringing them into the main dwelling, thus avoiding immediate scrutiny.
* **"he took [them] from their hand,"**: This refers to Gehazi taking the two talents of silver and two changes of garments from the two servants whom Naaman had sent with him. This action signifies Gehazi's assumption of full control over the illicit gains, relieving Naaman's servants of the burden and preparing to manage the concealment himself.
* **"and bestowed [them] in the house:"**: This is the core act of concealment. Gehazi deliberately and carefully placed or hid the silver and garments within Elisha's house. This act demonstrates his intent to keep his acquisition secret from Elisha, believing he could hide his sin within the very place of prophetic integrity.
* **"and he let the men go, and they departed."**: By dismissing Naaman's servants, Gehazi eliminates any potential witnesses to his clandestine actions. This final step in his meticulous plan ensures that no one else could report his movements or the presence of the gifts to Elisha, reinforcing his desire for absolute secrecy.

#### Literary Devices
The narrative of 2 Kings 5:24 employs several literary devices to heighten its impact. **Irony** is prominent, as Gehazi meticulously attempts to hide his ill-gotten gains from Elisha, yet the reader is aware that Elisha, through divine revelation, already knows or will soon know everything. Gehazi's efforts to conceal are ultimately futile in the face of God's omniscience. This verse also functions as a strong piece of **Foreshadowing**, building tension and anticipation for the inevitable exposure of Gehazi's sin and the severe judgment that will follow in [2 Kings 5:27](/2_kings/5-27 "2 Kings 5:27 - Gehazi's Punishment"). The act of hiding implies a fear of discovery, which indeed comes to pass. Furthermore, there is a powerful **Contrast** established between Elisha's selfless integrity in refusing Naaman's gifts and Gehazi's covetous deceit. This contrast highlights the moral and spiritual chasm between the true prophet of God and his compromised servant, emphasizing the purity required in divine service.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
2 Kings 5:24 serves as a potent theological lesson on the futility of hidden sin and the pervasive nature of divine knowledge. Gehazi's meticulous efforts to conceal his ill-gotten gains underscore the human tendency to believe that actions performed in secret can escape consequence or detection. However, the biblical narrative consistently affirms that nothing is hidden from God. This verse highlights the destructive power of covetousness, which leads to deception, betrayal of trust, and ultimately, severe judgment. It reinforces the principle that while humans may attempt to hide their transgressions from others, or even from themselves, God sees and knows all. The story of Gehazi stands as a timeless warning against the allure of material wealth gained through dishonest means, and a reminder that true integrity involves living transparently before God and man.

* [Numbers 32:23](/numbers/32-23 "Numbers 32:23 - Your Sin Will Find You Out")
* [Proverbs 28:13](/proverbs/28-13 "Proverbs 28:13 - Confession and Mercy")
* [Hebrews 4:13](/hebrews/4-13 "Hebrews 4:13 - All Things Open Before God")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Gehazi's story in 2 Kings 5:24 offers profound lessons for contemporary believers. His meticulous efforts to hide his sin—the secret meeting, the careful stowing away of goods, the dismissal of witnesses—mirror the ways we often attempt to conceal our own compromises, greed, or dishonest actions. This verse reminds us that such efforts are ultimately futile, especially in the eyes of an omniscient God. It calls us to a radical transparency and integrity in all areas of our lives, recognizing that true freedom comes not from successfully hiding our misdeeds, but from confessing them and seeking God's forgiveness and transformation. Gehazi's covetousness led him down a path of deceit, demonstrating how unchecked desires can corrupt our character and lead to devastating consequences. We are challenged to cultivate contentment, to trust in God's provision, and to prioritize spiritual integrity over material gain, understanding that our true wealth lies in our relationship with God, not in earthly possessions.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life might I be tempted to act in secret, believing my actions will go unnoticed by God or others?**
* **How does Gehazi's covetousness serve as a warning against the dangers of unchecked desire for material wealth in my own life?**
* **What steps can I take to cultivate greater transparency and integrity in my daily interactions and decisions?**
* **How does the knowledge of God's omniscience (that He sees everything) impact my motivation for righteous living?**

### FAQ
**Why did Gehazi go to a "tower" to unload the gifts?**

Answer: Gehazi went to a "tower" (Hebrew: _migdal_) to unload the gifts because it provided a secluded and discreet location away from the immediate view of Elisha's main dwelling. This was a deliberate tactical move to ensure secrecy. The "tower" could have been an outbuilding, a watchtower on the property, or simply a less visible spot where he could handle the heavy load of silver and garments without attracting attention. His goal was to manage the illicit gains privately before bringing them into the house, thereby eliminating any witnesses or immediate discovery by Elisha. This action underscores his premeditated intent to deceive his master and hide his sin.

**What was the significance of Gehazi hiding the gifts "in the house"?**

Answer: Hiding the gifts "in the house" signifies Gehazi's attempt to fully integrate his illicit gains into his personal possessions and conceal them within what should have been a place of integrity and prophetic purity. This act reveals his deep-seated covetousness and his belief that he could successfully hide his transgression from Elisha. It contrasts sharply with Elisha's earlier refusal of Naaman's gifts, highlighting Gehazi's betrayal of the prophetic standard. The irony is that while he successfully hid them from human eyes for a brief period, his actions were fully known to God, leading to his eventual exposure and severe punishment in [2 Kings 5:27](/2_kings/5-27 "2 Kings 5:27 - Gehazi's Punishment").

**How does this verse foreshadow Gehazi's ultimate punishment?**

Answer: 2 Kings 5:24 powerfully foreshadows Gehazi's punishment by emphasizing his deliberate acts of concealment and deceit. His efforts to hide the silver and garments, and his dismissal of Naaman's servants, reveal his guilt and his fear of discovery. This meticulous attempt to cover up his sin sets up the dramatic revelation that follows, where Elisha, by divine insight, exposes Gehazi's every step and every thought, as seen in [2 Kings 5:25-26](/2_kings/5-25 "2 Kings 5:25-26 - Elisha Confronts Gehazi"). The very act of hiding implies a truth that needs to be concealed, and the narrative demonstrates that no secret can be kept from God. Thus, Gehazi's careful concealment in this verse directly anticipates the divine judgment that brings his hidden sin into the light, resulting in him being afflicted with Naaman's leprosy, as detailed in [2 Kings 5:27](/2_kings/5-27 "2 Kings 5:27 - Gehazi's Punishment").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Gehazi's failure in 2 Kings 5:24, marked by covetousness, deceit, and the futile attempt to hide sin, stands in stark contrast to the perfect integrity and selflessness of Jesus Christ. While Gehazi sought personal gain and earthly treasures, even at the cost of his spiritual calling, Christ, though rich, for our sake became poor, so that by his poverty we might become rich, as described in [2 Corinthians 8:9](/2_corinthians/8-9 "2 Corinthians 8:9 - Christ's Self-Impoverishment"). Gehazi's actions exemplify the human tendency to grasp and hoard, but Jesus consistently taught against storing up treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, encouraging instead the laying up of treasures in heaven ([Matthew 6:19-20](/matthew/6-19 "Matthew 6:19-20 - Treasures in Heaven")). Furthermore, Gehazi's attempt to hide his sin from Elisha, a man of God, highlights the pervasive nature of sin and its desire for darkness. Yet, Christ is the light of the world, who came to expose sin and offer true freedom and forgiveness to those who walk in the light ([John 8:12](/john/8-12 "John 8:12 - Jesus, the Light of the World"); [John 3:19-21](/john/3-19 "John 3:19-21 - Light and Darkness")). Unlike Gehazi, who served for personal profit, Jesus came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many ([Matthew 20:28](/matthew/20-28 "Matthew 20:28 - The Son of Man Came to Serve")). His life perfectly fulfills the standard of integrity and self-sacrificial love that Gehazi so tragically failed, offering a new covenant where believers are called to purity of heart and a life lived openly before God ([Matthew 5:8](/matthew/5-8 "Matthew 5:8 - Blessed are the Pure in Heart")).

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 7:11

Israel hath sinned, and they have also transgressed my covenant which I commanded them: for they have even taken of the accursed thing, and have also stolen, and dissembled also, and they have put [it] even among their own stuff.

Joshua 7:12

Therefore the children of Israel could not stand before their enemies, [but] turned [their] backs before their enemies, because they were accursed: neither will I be with you any more, except ye destroy the accursed from among you.

Joshua 7:21

When I saw among the spoils a goodly Babylonish garment, and two hundred shekels of silver, and a wedge of gold of fifty shekels weight, then I coveted them, and took them; and, behold, they [are] hid in the earth in the midst of my tent, and the silver under it.

Joshua 7:1

¶ But the children of Israel committed a trespass in the accursed thing: for Achan, the son of Carmi, the son of Zabdi, the son of Zerah, of the tribe of Judah, took of the accursed thing: and the anger of the LORD was kindled against the children of Israel.

1 Kings 21:16

And it came to pass, when Ahab heard that Naboth was dead, that Ahab rose up to go down to the vineyard of Naboth the Jezreelite, to take possession of it.

Isaiah 29:15

Woe unto them that seek deep to hide their counsel from the LORD, and their works are in the dark, and they say, Who seeth us? and who knoweth us?

Zechariah 5:3

Then said he unto me, This [is] the curse that goeth forth over the face of the whole earth: for every one that stealeth shall be cut off [as] on this side according to it; and every one that sweareth shall be cut off [as] on that side according to it.