2 Kings 6 1

2 Kings 6:1 kjv

And the sons of the prophets said unto Elisha, Behold now, the place where we dwell with thee is too strait for us.

2 Kings 6:1 nkjv

And the sons of the prophets said to Elisha, "See now, the place where we dwell with you is too small for us.

2 Kings 6:1 niv

The company of the prophets said to Elisha, "Look, the place where we meet with you is too small for us.

2 Kings 6:1 esv

Now the sons of the prophets said to Elisha, "See, the place where we dwell under your charge is too small for us.

2 Kings 6:1 nlt

One day the group of prophets came to Elisha and told him, "As you can see, this place where we meet with you is too small.

2 Kings 6 verses

2 Kings 6 1 Meaning

2 Kings 6:1 presents the "sons of the prophets"—disciples and members of prophetic schools—approaching Elisha, their spiritual leader, to convey that their communal living space has become inadequate due to their increasing numbers. This verse highlights the growth and flourishing of the prophetic ministry under Elisha's leadership, necessitating an expansion of their physical quarters. It sets the stage for a miraculous demonstration of God's provision for His growing community.

2 Kings 6 1 Context

This verse is situated within a broader narrative showcasing the prophetic ministry of Elisha following the departure of Elijah. The preceding chapters emphasize Elisha's authority as a prophet of Yahweh, demonstrated through various miracles (e.g., healing the waters of Jericho, curse on the mocking youths, healing Naaman). Chapter 6 begins a new phase, highlighting not only Elisha's personal power but also his engagement with and leadership of the "sons of the prophets." This immediate context sets the scene for the subsequent miracle of the floating axe head (2 Ki 6:2-7), which directly addresses the problem stated in this verse. Historically and culturally, the "sons of the prophets" were groups or guilds of prophetic disciples who often lived and studied together under a master prophet. Their presence in the narrative points to an established prophetic institution in Israel, serving as a counterpoint to the prevailing idolatry during the reigns of Israelite kings. The request for more space signifies that this righteous community, devoted to Yahweh's instruction, was growing in numbers, a positive sign of God's blessing and continued work in a challenging spiritual environment.

2 Kings 6 1 Word analysis

• And (וַיֹּאמְרוּ, vay·yo'mĕ·rū): This common Hebrew conjunction connects the statement to previous events, indicating a flow of narrative.
• the sons of the prophets (בְנֵי הַנְּבִיאִים, bĕnê han·nĕḇî'îm):
  • Literally "sons of the prophets," this term refers to disciples or members of a prophetic guild or school, not necessarily literal offspring. These communities served as centers of spiritual learning and training for those called to prophetic ministry.
  • Their existence reflects an organized prophetic movement active in Israel during the monarchical period, a crucial institution for maintaining devotion to Yahweh amidst Baal worship.
  • Their communal living signifies a dedication to shared learning and mutual support under spiritual guidance.
• said unto Elisha (אֶל-אֱלִישָׁע, ʾel ʾĕlîšāʿ):
  • This direct address highlights Elisha's leadership and authority within these prophetic schools, having inherited Elijah's mantle (2 Ki 2).
  • The act of approaching Elisha underscores their reliance on him for guidance, provision, and problem-solving, indicative of the disciples' trust and respect.
• Behold now (הִנֵּה-נָא, hin·nê-nāʾ):
  • Behold (הִנֵּה, hin·nê): An interjection used to draw immediate attention to what follows, emphasizing the importance or urgency of the statement.
  • now (נָא, nāʾ): A particle that can soften a request or impart a sense of urgency, politeness, or immediacy. Here, it makes the request more respectful.
• the place where we dwell (הַמָּקוֹם אֲשֶׁר אֲנַחְנוּ יֹשְׁבִים שָׁם, ham·mā·qôm ʾă·šer ʾă·naḥ·nû yō·šə·ḇîm šām):
  • This phrase specifically denotes their current communal living quarters or dormitory, implying a shared, rather than individual, dwelling.
  • The verb "dwell" (יֹשְׁבִים, yō·šə·ḇîm) points to a stable residence for study and community life.
• with thee (אִתָּךְ, ʾit·tāḵ):
  • This short but significant phrase indicates that Elisha resided with them or was closely associated with their particular school, signifying his personal presence and active leadership within their community.
  • It reinforces their reliance on him, not just as a prophet in general, but as their direct mentor and guardian.
• is too strait for us (צַר מִמֶּנּוּ, ṣar mim·men·nû):
  • strait (צַר, tzar): Derived from a root meaning "to narrow, bind, compress." It literally means confined, cramped, narrow, or restricted. It describes a lack of physical space, not necessarily poverty or destitution.
  • for us (מִמֶּנּוּ, mim·men·nû): Identifies the recipients of this "straitness."
  • This phrase clearly communicates a practical problem: their physical space cannot accommodate their growing numbers. This "problem" is a positive sign, reflecting the expansion and vibrancy of Yahweh's prophetic work. It implies growth has outpaced their resources, leading to the need for expansion.

2 Kings 6 1 Bonus section

• This verse subtly highlights the ongoing nature of prophetic ministry in Israel beyond singular prophetic figures like Elijah. It indicates an organized, communal aspect of learning and living, providing structure and continuity for divine revelation and teaching.
• The communal nature of their request underscores shared responsibility and humility within the prophetic ranks. They approach Elisha as a united body, not individual supplicants.
• This statement serves as a setup for the miracle in 2 Kings 6:2-7, where God demonstrates His care even for small, practical problems encountered by His servants, illustrating His providence over mundane affairs.
• The fact that they ask to go to the Jordan to gather wood for expansion demonstrates initiative and willingness to work, rather than simply demanding a solution, showing a spirit of diligence among the prophets.

2 Kings 6 1 Commentary

2 Kings 6:1 provides a seemingly mundane observation—the prophetic students need more room—yet it profoundly speaks to the vibrancy and divine blessing upon Elisha's ministry and the prophetic communities. The growing numbers of "sons of the prophets" indicate a spiritual awakening or revival during a time when idolatry was rampant. This growth is a tangible sign that Yahweh's presence and power were actively at work through His chosen prophet, drawing individuals into dedicated service and study of His word. The prophets' respectful approach to Elisha, their leader, signifies not only a practical need but also a profound trust in his ability to seek God's provision. It establishes a powerful picture of a community seeking to expand its capacity for serving God, laying the groundwork for the subsequent demonstration of God's miraculous intervention, reinforcing His attentiveness even to the practical needs of His servants. This interaction serves as a testament to the fact that spiritual flourishing often demands practical adjustments and reliance on divine provision.