2 Kings 5:25

KJV

But he went in, and stood before his master. And Elisha said unto him, Whence [comest thou], Gehazi? And he said, Thy servant went no whither.

KJV (with Strong's)

But he went in {H935}, and stood {H5975} before his master {H113}. And Elisha {H477} said {H559} unto him, Whence {H370} comest thou, Gehazi {H1522}? And he said {H559}, Thy servant {H5650} went {H1980} no whither {H575}.

Complete Jewish Bible

He went in and stood before his master. Elisha asked, "Where have you been, Geichazi?" "Your servant hasn't gone anywhere," he said.

Berean Standard Bible

When Gehazi went in and stood before his master, Elisha asked him, “Gehazi, where have you been?” “Your servant did not go anywhere,” he replied.

American Standard Version

But he went in, and stood before his master. And Elisha said unto him, Whence comest thou, Gehazi? And he said, Thy servant went no whither.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
This verse captures the immediate aftermath of Gehazi's deceitful pursuit of Naaman, where he stands before Elisha, his master. It records Elisha's penetrating question, which implies divine knowledge of Gehazi's actions, and Gehazi's subsequent bold, yet futile, denial of his secret journey and covetous acquisition. This moment sets the stage for the swift revelation of his sin and the severe consequences that follow.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** 2 Kings 5:25 is the climactic moment in the narrative of Naaman's healing and Gehazi's subsequent deception. The preceding verses detail the miraculous healing of Naaman, the Syrian commander, from leprosy by the prophet Elisha, not through any ritual or human power, but through a simple act of obedience to God's command to wash seven times in the Jordan River ([2 Kings 5:10-14](/2_kings/5-10 "2 Kings 5:10-14 - Naaman's Healing")). Following his healing, Naaman, overwhelmed with gratitude, offered lavish gifts to Elisha, which the prophet resolutely refused, emphasizing that God's grace and power are not commodities to be bought or sold ([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, fabricating a story that Elisha had changed his mind and needed silver and garments ([2 Kings 5:20-24](/2_kings/5-20 "2 Kings 5:20-24 - Gehazi's Deception")). Verse 25 captures Gehazi's return, presenting him before Elisha, seemingly innocent, but immediately confronted by his master, setting the stage for the divine exposure of his sin and the pronouncement of judgment.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The historical setting is the Northern Kingdom of Israel during the ministry of Elisha, likely in the 9th century BC. Prophets like Elisha held significant spiritual and often political influence, acting as God's spokespersons. The relationship between a master and servant, especially a prophet and his attendant, was one of trust and loyalty, where the servant represented the master's integrity. Gifts were a common practice in the ancient Near East, often signifying gratitude, tribute, or a binding covenant. Naaman's offering was a genuine expression of thanks, but Elisha's refusal upheld the purity of God's work, distinguishing it from pagan practices where divine favor might be 'purchased.' Gehazi's actions, therefore, were not merely a personal failing but a profound betrayal of his master's integrity and a misrepresentation of God's character to a newly converted Gentile. Leprosy, in this cultural context, was not only a debilitating physical disease but also carried significant social and ritual impurity, leading to ostracization. Its miraculous cure was a powerful testament to God's sovereign power, and Gehazi's subsequent affliction with it would have been understood as a deeply symbolic divine judgment.

* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several key themes within the book of 2 Kings and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it highlights the theme of **Divine Omniscience and Accountability**. Elisha's immediate, divinely-inspired question to Gehazi underscores that no deed, however secretly done, is hidden from God's sight. This echoes the biblical truth that God sees and knows all ([Hebrews 4:13](/hebrews/4-13 "Hebrews 4:13 - God's All-Seeing Nature")). Secondly, the passage starkly contrasts **Integrity versus Greed**. Elisha's principled refusal of Naaman's gifts exemplifies integrity and faith in God's provision, while Gehazi's covetousness leads him to deception and moral compromise. This tension serves as a warning against the corrupting influence of material desires, a theme seen throughout the wisdom literature, such as in [Proverbs 28:25](/proverbs/28-25 "Proverbs 28:25 - The Greedy Stir Up Conflict")). Finally, it emphasizes the **Consequences of Deception and Sin**. Gehazi's bold lie, 'Thy servant went no whither,' is swiftly exposed, leading to immediate and severe judgment. This reinforces the principle that sin has consequences and that attempts to cover up wrongdoing are futile before God, as seen in [Numbers 32:23](/numbers/32-23 "Numbers 32:23 - Your Sin Will Find You Out").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Whence [comest thou] (Hebrew, מֵאַ֣יִן בֹּ֔אֲךָ _me'ayin bo'akha_):** This phrase literally translates to "from where your coming?" or "from where are you coming?" It is a direct, penetrating question that, in the context of Elisha's prophetic office, implies not mere curiosity but a divinely-imparted awareness of Gehazi's recent movements. The question is rhetorical in the sense that Elisha already knows the answer, serving instead as an invitation for Gehazi to confess his sin. It highlights the prophet's supernatural insight, demonstrating that God's knowledge transcends human attempts at secrecy and deception. The question itself is a moment of divine confrontation, designed to bring hidden sin to light.
* **no whither (Hebrew, לֹא־הָלַכְתִּי֙ אָ֣נָה וָאָ֔נָה _lo'-halakhti 'anah wa'anah_):** This phrase translates literally to "I did not go here and there" or "I did not go anywhere." It is a categorical, unequivocal denial, an outright fabrication intended to conceal Gehazi's pursuit of Naaman and his illicit acquisition of gifts. The repetition implied by "here and there" (אָנָה וָאָנָה) emphasizes the totality of his denial, suggesting he remained completely stationary and innocent. This bold lie, spoken directly to a prophet of God, underscores Gehazi's hardened heart, his underestimation of Elisha's spiritual discernment, and his desperate attempt to escape accountability, despite the clear evidence of his recent activity.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"But he went in, and stood before his master."**: This opening clause describes Gehazi's physical return and posture. The "But" (וַיָּבֹא֙ _vayyavo_ - "and he came") marks a shift, indicating his re-entry into Elisha's presence after his secret errand. His act of "standing before his master" is a conventional posture of a servant awaiting instruction or reporting, outwardly signaling submission and readiness. However, this outward appearance sharply contrasts with his inward deceit and the illicit actions he has just committed, creating immediate dramatic tension. He presents himself as if nothing untoward has occurred, attempting to resume his normal duties as Elisha's trusted attendant.
* **"And Elisha said unto him, Whence [comest thou], Gehazi?"**: Elisha's question is the turning point of the verse and the narrative. It is not a question born of ignorance but of divine revelation. The direct address, "Gehazi," personalizes the confrontation. Elisha's tone, though not explicitly stated, carries the weight of prophetic authority and divine knowledge. This question immediately shatters Gehazi's facade of innocence, forcing him into a corner and demanding an explanation for actions he believed were hidden. It serves as a test of Gehazi's character, offering him a final opportunity to confess before his sin is fully exposed.
* **"And he said, Thy servant went no whither."**: Gehazi's response is a categorical and unreserved lie. Instead of confessing, he doubles down on his deception, asserting that he did not leave Elisha's immediate vicinity. The phrase "Thy servant" is ironic, as his actions have been anything but loyal or serving of his master's integrity. This blatant falsehood reveals the depth of his moral corruption and his desperate attempt to evade responsibility, demonstrating a profound lack of fear of God or respect for his prophet. It is a stark example of how covetousness can lead to outright dishonesty and a hardened heart.

#### Literary Devices
The passage in 2 Kings 5:25 is rich with several significant **literary devices** that heighten its dramatic and theological impact. Foremost is **Irony**, particularly **Dramatic Irony**. The audience is fully aware of Gehazi's secret journey and his deceitful acquisition of gifts from Naaman, while Gehazi attempts to present himself as innocent before Elisha. His declaration, "Thy servant went no whither," is profoundly ironic, as he has indeed gone "hither and thither" for ill-gotten gain. This creates a palpable **Suspense** as the reader anticipates Elisha's response, knowing the prophet's divine insight. Elisha's question, "Whence [comest thou], Gehazi?", functions as a form of **Rhetorical Question**, not seeking information but rather prompting confession and exposing the lie. The entire scene is a powerful **Contrast** between Elisha's integrity and spiritual discernment and Gehazi's greed and deceit. Finally, the verse employs **Foreshadowing**, as Gehazi's bold lie immediately sets the stage for the swift and severe divine judgment that follows in the subsequent verses, where his sin is fully exposed and punished.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This pivotal verse underscores profound theological truths about God's character and the nature of sin. It powerfully affirms God's **omniscience**; no action, however secret, escapes His notice, and He uses His prophets to bring hidden deeds to light. Gehazi's attempt to deceive Elisha is, by extension, an attempt to deceive God, revealing a fundamental misunderstanding of divine presence and knowledge. The narrative also highlights the corrupting power of **covetousness**, demonstrating how unchecked desire for material gain can lead to a cascade of sins, including deception, betrayal, and ultimately, severe judgment. It serves as a stark warning against allowing worldly desires to compromise spiritual integrity and the call to selfless service. The contrast between Elisha's unwavering commitment to God's honor and Gehazi's self-serving ambition is a timeless lesson on the importance of **integrity** and **accountability** in the life of a believer, especially those in positions of spiritual leadership.

* [Proverbs 12:22](/proverbs/12-22 "Proverbs 12:22 - Lying Lips are Abomination to the Lord")
* [Luke 12:2-3](/luke/12-2 "Luke 12:2-3 - Nothing Hidden That Will Not Be Revealed")
* [1 Timothy 6:9-10](/1_timothy/6-9 "1 Timothy 6:9-10 - The Love of Money is a Root of All Kinds of Evil")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The narrative of Gehazi's deception in 2 Kings 5:25 offers timeless lessons for contemporary believers. It serves as a potent reminder that our actions, whether in public or in secret, are always known to God. Gehazi's failed attempt to conceal his greed and dishonesty underscores the futility of trying to hide sin from an omniscient God or His discerning Spirit. This should prompt us to cultivate a life of radical honesty and transparency, not out of fear of exposure, but out of reverence for God and a desire to live in alignment with His truth. Furthermore, Gehazi's story is a sobering warning against the insidious nature of covetousness. The desire for material gain, left unchecked, can erode integrity, lead to outright deception, and ultimately result in devastating consequences, both spiritual and temporal. We are called to examine our hearts for any hidden desires that might compromise our witness or lead us away from selfless service. Instead, we are challenged to embrace contentment and trust in God's provision, reflecting the integrity of Elisha rather than the deceit of Gehazi. This passage encourages a deep introspection into our motives and actions, knowing that true freedom and blessing come from living authentically before God and others.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life might I be tempted to act deceptively, believing my actions are hidden from God or others?**
* **How does the story of Gehazi challenge my understanding of accountability, both to God and to those in authority over me?**
* **What hidden desires or covetous tendencies might be subtly influencing my decisions and potentially compromising my integrity?**
* **How can I cultivate a greater sense of transparency and honesty in my daily interactions and spiritual walk?**

### FAQ
**Why did Elisha refuse Naaman's gifts in the first place, and why was Gehazi's acceptance so wrong?**

Answer: Elisha refused Naaman's gifts to demonstrate that God's healing power and grace are freely given and cannot be bought or sold. This was crucial for Naaman, a Gentile, to understand that the God of Israel operates differently from pagan deities, whose favor often required costly sacrifices or payments. Elisha's refusal upheld the purity and freeness of God's salvation. Gehazi's acceptance was profoundly wrong because he undermined this crucial theological lesson. By secretly taking gifts, he not only contradicted his master's principled stand but also misrepresented the character of God to a new convert, implying that divine service could be exploited for personal gain. His actions were driven by greed and brought dishonor to God's name and Elisha's ministry, as highlighted by the severe judgment that followed in [2 Kings 5:27](/2_kings/5-27 "2 Kings 5:27 - Gehazi's Punishment").

**Did Elisha know Gehazi was lying immediately, or did God reveal it to him?**

Answer: Elisha knew Gehazi was lying immediately, and this knowledge was clearly a divine revelation, not a result of natural observation. His question, "Whence [comest thou], Gehazi?", implies a prior knowledge of Gehazi's movements and intentions. The subsequent verses confirm this, as Elisha reveals not only that he knew Gehazi went to Naaman but also the specific details of what Gehazi acquired, even stating, "Went not my heart with thee, when the man turned again from his chariot to meet thee?" ([2 Kings 5:26](/2_kings/5-26 "2 Kings 5:26 - Elisha's Divine Knowledge")). This supernatural discernment underscores Elisha's role as a true prophet of God, through whom God's omniscience was made manifest, ensuring that Gehazi's sin would not remain hidden.

**What are the lasting consequences of Gehazi's sin beyond his personal punishment?**

Answer: Gehazi's sin had significant lasting consequences beyond his personal affliction with leprosy. Firstly, it brought shame and dishonor to the prophetic office and to the name of the God of Israel, especially in the eyes of Naaman, a newly converted Gentile. This could have potentially undermined Naaman's burgeoning faith and his perception of the true God. Secondly, the curse of leprosy was pronounced not only upon Gehazi but also upon his "seed forever" ([2 Kings 5:27](/2_kings/5-27 "2 Kings 5:27 - Gehazi's Punishment")), indicating a generational consequence for his profound moral failure and greed. This serves as a stark warning about the far-reaching impact of sin, particularly for those in spiritual leadership, where personal failings can have wider implications for the community and for future generations. It emphasizes the seriousness with which God views integrity and purity in ministry.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The narrative of Gehazi's deception, culminating in 2 Kings 5:25, finds profound Christ-centered fulfillment in several ways. While Gehazi's greed led him to misrepresent God's grace and seek personal gain, Jesus Christ perfectly embodied the selfless, unmercenary nature of divine service. Unlike Gehazi, who coveted earthly treasures, Jesus consistently refused worldly power and riches, declaring that His kingdom was "not of this world" ([John 18:36](/john/18-36 "John 18:36 - Jesus' Kingdom is Not of This World")). He freely gave His life, healing, and teachings, never demanding payment, embodying the true spirit of God's grace ([Matthew 10:8](/matthew/10-8 "Matthew 10:8 - Freely You Have Received, Freely Give")). Furthermore, Gehazi's attempt to hide his sin from Elisha, who possessed divine insight, foreshadows the ultimate truth that nothing is hidden from Christ. Jesus, the **Lamb of God**, is also the **Light of the World**, who exposes all darkness and deceit ([John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"); [John 3:19-21](/john/3-19 "John 3:19-21 - Light Has Come Into the World")). His omniscience means that all our thoughts, motives, and actions are laid bare before Him ([Hebrews 4:13](/hebrews/4-13 "Hebrews 4:13 - God's All-Seeing Nature")). Gehazi's leprosy, a physical manifestation of divine judgment for sin, points forward to Christ's ultimate victory over the spiritual disease of sin. Jesus not only healed physical leprosy during His ministry ([Matthew 8:2-3](/matthew/8-2 "Matthew 8:2-3 - Jesus Heals a Leper")) but, more significantly, offers cleansing from the far more devastating spiritual leprosy of sin through His atoning sacrifice on the cross ([1 John 1:7](/1_john/1-7 "1 John 1:7 - The Blood of Jesus Cleanses Us")). Thus, Gehazi's failure highlights Christ's perfect integrity, His divine knowledge, and His ultimate provision of cleansing and grace, offered freely to all who believe.

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 5:22

And he said, All [is] well. My master hath sent me, saying, Behold, even now there be come to me from mount Ephraim two young men of the sons of the prophets: give them, I pray thee, a talent of silver, and two changes of garments.

Genesis 3:8

And they heard the voice of the LORD God walking in the garden in the cool of the day: and Adam and his wife hid themselves from the presence of the LORD God amongst the trees of the garden.

Genesis 3:9

¶ And the LORD God called unto Adam, and said unto him, Where [art] thou?

Ezekiel 33:31

And they come unto thee as the people cometh, and they sit before thee [as] my people, and they hear thy words, but they will not do them: for with their mouth they shew much love, [but] their heart goeth after their covetousness.

Genesis 4:9

¶ And the LORD said unto Cain, Where [is] Abel thy brother? And he said, I know not: [Am] I my brother's keeper?

2 Kings 20:14

Then came Isaiah the prophet unto king Hezekiah, and said unto him, What said these men? and from whence came they unto thee? And Hezekiah said, They are come from a far country, [even] from Babylon.

Matthew 26:21

And as they did eat, he said, Verily I say unto you, that one of you shall betray me.