2 Kings 8:8

KJV

And the king said unto Hazael, Take a present in thine hand, and go, meet the man of God, and enquire of the LORD by him, saying, Shall I recover of this disease?

KJV (with Strong's)

And the king {H4428} said {H559} unto Hazael {H2371}, Take {H3947} a present {H4503} in thine hand {H3027}, and go {H3212}, meet {H7125} the man {H376} of God {H430}, and enquire {H1875} of the LORD {H3068} by him, saying {H559}, Shall I recover {H2421} of this disease {H2483}?

Complete Jewish Bible

The king said to Haza'el, "Take with you a gift, go meet the man of God and consult ADONAI through him; ask if I will recover from this illness."

Berean Standard Bible

So the king said to Hazael, “Take a gift in your hand, go to meet the man of God, and inquire of the LORD through him, ‘Will I recover from this illness?’”

American Standard Version

And the king said unto Hazael, Take a present in thy hand, and go, meet the man of God, and inquire of Jehovah by him, saying, Shall I recover of this sickness?

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Second Kings 8:8 captures a pivotal moment where Ben-hadad, the gravely ill king of Aram (Syria), dispatches his trusted servant Hazael to the prophet Elisha in Damascus. Despite being a foreign monarch and an adversary of Israel, Ben-hadad acknowledges Elisha's profound spiritual authority as a "man of God" and seeks divine insight concerning his recovery from a life-threatening illness. This encounter not only highlights the widespread recognition of Elisha's prophetic power but also subtly underscores the sovereign reach of the God of Israel, whose influence transcends national and political boundaries, compelling even powerful gentile rulers to seek His counsel through His chosen servant.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within a broader narrative arc detailing Elisha's ministry, particularly his interactions with both Israelite and foreign leaders. Immediately preceding this event, Elisha had been in Shunem and Gilgal, performing miracles like healing Naaman, the Aramean commander, and restoring the Shunammite woman's son to life. His presence in Damascus, the capital of Aram, is significant, signaling God's active involvement even in the affairs of nations hostile to Israel. The king's inquiry sets the stage for Elisha's subsequent, chilling prophecy to Hazael, which will dramatically alter the political landscape of Aram and Israel, as detailed in [2 Kings 8:11-15](/2_kings/8-11 "2 Kings 8:11-15 - Elisha's Prophecy to Hazael"). This interaction thus serves as a crucial narrative pivot, linking Elisha's miraculous past to a prophetic future.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** King Ben-hadad II was a significant adversary of Israel, often engaging in military conflicts with the northern kingdom, as seen in earlier accounts like [1 Kings 20](/1_kings/20 "1 Kings 20 - Ben-hadad's Wars with Ahab"). His illness, likely a severe and debilitating condition, rendered him vulnerable and desperate. In the ancient Near East, it was common for rulers and individuals to consult prophets, seers, or diviners, often from other nations, when facing crises, especially illness or impending war. The reputation of a "man of God" like Elisha, renowned for powerful miracles and direct communication with Yahweh, would have spread widely, even into hostile territories. The "present" (Hebrew: _minchah_) was a customary diplomatic gesture, a tribute or offering intended to show respect and curry favor, emphasizing the gravity of the king's request and his recognition of Elisha's elevated status, even if he did not worship Yahweh.
* **Key Themes:** Several profound themes emerge from this verse. First, it powerfully illustrates the **universal human vulnerability and mortality**, demonstrating that even the most powerful monarchs are subject to sickness and the fragility of life. Second, it highlights the **pervasive recognition of prophetic authority**, as Elisha's reputation as a genuine "man of God" capable of revealing divine will transcends national and religious boundaries, compelling a foreign king to seek his counsel. Third, the king's action underscores the **human desire to seek divine counsel** in times of crisis, reflecting an innate yearning for answers beyond human capacity. Finally, and perhaps most significantly, the narrative subtly but powerfully asserts **God's sovereignty beyond borders**, showcasing Yahweh's influence and ability to reveal His plans and purposes even to nations and leaders who do not explicitly acknowledge Him, a theme also evident in narratives like [Daniel's interpretations for King Nebuchadnezzar](/daniel/2-28 "Daniel 2:28 - God Reveals Mysteries to Nebuchadnezzar").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Sha'al (Hebrew, _שָׁאַל'_):** This verb, translated as "enquire" or "ask," carries significant weight. It implies more than a casual question; it suggests seeking an oracle, a definitive answer, or a divine revelation. In a cultic or prophetic context, it means to consult a deity or a divine representative for guidance or information, often regarding future events or the outcome of a situation. Ben-hadad's use of this word indicates his expectation of a divinely inspired response, not merely Elisha's personal opinion.
* **Ish Ha'Elohim (Hebrew, _אִישׁ הָאֱלֹהִים'_):** Translated as "man of God," this title is a recurring designation for prophets in the Old Testament, particularly Elisha and Elijah. It signifies someone uniquely chosen, empowered, and commissioned by God, serving as His direct representative and mouthpiece. The title conveys immense authority and spiritual power, implying that the individual speaks with divine backing. Ben-hadad's use of this title for Elisha demonstrates his profound respect for the prophet's spiritual connection and his belief that Elisha could indeed mediate a word from Yahweh.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And the king said unto Hazael,"**: This opening clause immediately establishes the authority and desperation of Ben-hadad, the Aramean king. His direct address to Hazael, a high-ranking official, underscores the urgency and importance of the mission.
* **"Take a present in thine hand, and go, meet the man of God,"**: This command outlines the initial steps of the mission. The "present" (Hebrew: _minchah_) signifies a substantial offering, a diplomatic gesture of respect and a means to gain favor, reflecting the king's acknowledgment of Elisha's status and the gravity of the request. The instruction to "meet the man of God" highlights Elisha's recognized authority and the king's need to approach him with proper protocol.
* **"and enquire of the LORD by him, saying,"**: This is the core of the king's instruction. It clarifies that the inquiry is not merely to Elisha as a wise man, but specifically "of the LORD" (Yahweh) "by him" (Elisha). This underscores Elisha's role as a prophetic intermediary, a conduit through whom the divine will of Israel's God could be accessed, even by a foreign king.
* **"Shall I recover of this disease?"**: This direct question reveals the king's immediate and desperate concern: his own mortality. It encapsulates the universal human fear of death and the desire for assurance in the face of life-threatening illness, regardless of one's power or position.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several impactful literary devices. **Irony** is prominent, as Ben-hadad, a king of Aram, a nation frequently hostile to Israel, finds himself in a position of humble dependence, seeking a word from the God of Israel through His prophet. This stark contrast highlights God's sovereign reach even over His adversaries. There is also an element of **foreshadowing**, as this seemingly simple inquiry sets the stage for Elisha's subsequent, more complex and disturbing prophecy to Hazael, which will reveal Hazael's dark future and his role in Israel's suffering. The narrative also employs **contrast** between the immense earthly power of King Ben-hadad and his ultimate vulnerability to sickness and death, underscoring the universal reality of human mortality.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This passage profoundly illustrates the reality of God's universal sovereignty, demonstrating that His influence and knowledge extend far beyond the geographical and religious boundaries of Israel. Even a powerful foreign king, an adversary of God's people, instinctively recognizes the authentic spiritual authority of Yahweh's prophet and seeks divine counsel from Him. This highlights a foundational theological truth: God is not confined to one nation or people, but His power and knowledge are supreme over all creation and all rulers. The king's desperate inquiry also speaks to the enduring human need for divine guidance and assurance, especially in moments of extreme vulnerability and uncertainty. It reminds us that humanity, regardless of status, ultimately faces limitations that only a transcendent power can address.

* [1 Samuel 9:9](/1_samuel/9-9 "1 Samuel 9:9 - Consulting a Seer")
* [1 Kings 22:5](/1_kings/22-5 "1 Kings 22:5 - Jehoshaphat Seeks a Prophet of the Lord")
* [Isaiah 45:5-6](/isaiah/45-5 "Isaiah 45:5-6 - God is Sovereign Over All")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
King Ben-hadad's desperate plea to Elisha resonates deeply with the human experience of confronting illness, uncertainty, and the fragility of life. In moments of crisis, the natural inclination is to seek answers, comfort, and assurance from a higher power. While we no longer have prophets like Elisha to consult directly, the principle of seeking God's will and guidance remains paramount for believers today. We are called to approach God with humility and earnestness, recognizing our limitations and His boundless wisdom. This involves diligent prayer, immersing ourselves in His inspired Word, which is a lamp to our feet and a light to our path ([Psalm 119:105](/psalms/119-105 "Psalm 119:105 - God's Word as a Lamp")), and seeking wise counsel from godly mentors and community. The fact that God's truth reached even a hostile foreign king also serves as a powerful reminder of God's pervasive presence and influence, extending His reach to all people, demonstrating His ultimate control over all things and His desire for all to know Him.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How do you typically respond when faced with significant uncertainty or a life-threatening crisis? Where do you first turn for answers and comfort?**
* **What does King Ben-hadad's action teach us about the universal human need for divine guidance, even among those who do not explicitly worship God?**
* **In what ways can we "enquire of the LORD" today, and how do we discern His will for our lives?**
* **How does the recognition of God's sovereignty over all nations, even those hostile to His people, impact your understanding of His character and mission?**

### FAQ
**Why would a powerful foreign king like Ben-hadad seek out an Israelite prophet?**

Answer: King Ben-hadad, despite his political and military power, was facing a severe, life-threatening illness that neither his own physicians nor his national deities could apparently resolve. In the ancient Near East, it was common for rulers to seek out powerful prophets or diviners from other nations if their reputation for divine connection was strong. Elisha had a well-established reputation for performing powerful miracles and speaking directly for Yahweh, a reputation that had clearly spread beyond Israel's borders (e.g., the healing of Naaman, the Aramean commander, in [2 Kings 5](/2_kings/5 "2 Kings 5 - The Healing of Naaman")). Ben-hadad's action was a pragmatic recognition of Elisha's genuine spiritual authority and the power of the God he served, rather than an act of conversion. He was desperate for an answer that only a true "man of God" could provide.

**What was the significance of the "present" Hazael was instructed to take?**

Answer: The "present" (Hebrew: _minchah_) was a significant and customary diplomatic gesture in the ancient world. It was not merely a gift but a substantial offering or tribute, often consisting of valuable goods, as seen later in [2 Kings 8:9](/2_kings/8-9 "2 Kings 8:9 - Hazael's Present to Elisha"), where it is described as "forty camels' burden." Its significance was multifaceted: it demonstrated the king's respect for Elisha's status and power, honored the prophet, and served as a means to gain favor and ensure the seriousness of the king's request was conveyed. It underscored the gravity of the situation and Ben-hadad's desperate hope for a favorable word from the Lord through Elisha.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The encounter between King Ben-hadad and the prophet Elisha, where a powerful foreign ruler seeks divine counsel from a "man of God" concerning sickness and mortality, powerfully foreshadows the universal reach and authority of Jesus Christ. Elisha, as God's prophet, served as a conduit for divine revelation and healing, extending God's influence beyond Israel's borders. In Christ, we find the ultimate "Man of God," who is not merely a messenger but the very embodiment of God's presence and power among humanity ([John 1:14](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh")). Just as Ben-hadad sought Elisha for healing and insight into his fate, so too does humanity, universally afflicted by the disease of sin and the certainty of death, seek a deliverer. Jesus, the Great Physician, demonstrates absolute authority over all sickness and disease, performing countless miracles of healing during His earthly ministry ([Matthew 4:23-24](/matthew/4-23 "Matthew 4:23-24 - Jesus Heals Many")). More profoundly, He conquers death itself through His resurrection, offering eternal life and spiritual healing to all who believe ([John 11:25-26](/john/11-25 "John 11:25-26 - Jesus, the Resurrection and the Life")). The fact that Ben-hadad, a gentile king, sought Elisha anticipates the New Testament truth that salvation in Christ is not limited to one nation but extends to "every tribe and language and people and nation" ([Revelation 5:9](/revelation/5-9 "Revelation 5:9 - The Lamb Redeems All Nations")), fulfilling God's ancient promise to Abraham that all the families of the earth would be blessed through his offspring ([Genesis 12:3](/genesis/12-3 "Genesis 12:3 - The Abrahamic Covenant")). Jesus is the ultimate Prophet, Priest, and King, through whom all humanity can "enquire of the Lord" and find true, lasting recovery from the deepest human ailments.

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 1:2

And Ahaziah fell down through a lattice in his upper chamber that [was] in Samaria, and was sick: and he sent messengers, and said unto them, Go, enquire of Baalzebub the god of Ekron whether I shall recover of this disease.

1 Kings 19:15

And the LORD said unto him, Go, return on thy way to the wilderness of Damascus: and when thou comest, anoint Hazael [to be] king over Syria:

1 Samuel 9:7

Then said Saul to his servant, But, behold, [if] we go, what shall we bring the man? for the bread is spent in our vessels, and [there is] not a present to bring to the man of God: what have we?

1 Kings 14:1

¶ At that time Abijah the son of Jeroboam fell sick.

1 Kings 14:4

And Jeroboam's wife did so, and arose, and went to Shiloh, and came to the house of Ahijah. But Ahijah could not see; for his eyes were set by reason of his age.

2 Kings 1:6

And they said unto him, There came a man up to meet us, and said unto us, Go, turn again unto the king that sent you, and say unto him, Thus saith the LORD, [Is it] not because [there is] not a God in Israel, [that] thou sendest to enquire of Baalzebub the god of Ekron? therefore thou shalt not come down from that bed on which thou art gone up, but shalt surely die.

Luke 13:23

¶ Then said one unto him, Lord, are there few that be saved? And he said unto them,