Biblical Verses Biblical Verses & Resources

Book of 2 Kings - Chapter 4 - Verse 2

4:2
And Elisha said unto her, What shall I do for thee? tell me, what hast thou in the house? And she said, Thine handmaid hath not any thing in the house, save a pot of oil.

Meaning

When Elisha asks the woman in this verse what he can do for her, he is illustrating a crucial point about faith and miracles. By asking her what she already has in the house, he is prompting her to consider the resources she may have overlooked or underestimated. The woman's response that she only has a pot of oil may seem insignificant, but it serves as a reminder that even the smallest asset can be a catalyst for a divine intervention. Elisha's question challenges us to take inventory of our own lives and recognize the potential for miracles within our grasp, even when it seems like we have very little to offer. This verse showcases the power of faith and belief in God's ability to provide abundance from scarcity, if only we have the courage to see the possibilities before us.

Theological Overview

In this verse from the book of 2 Kings, the prophet Elisha encounters a widow who has fallen on hard times. Elisha's response to her dire situation provides a powerful lesson in faith and God's provision. When he asks her what she has in her house, she replies that she only has a small pot of oil. This seemingly insignificant item becomes the key to the widow's miraculous deliverance from debt and poverty. Through a theological interpretation, this verse can be seen as a reminder of God's ability to take the little we have and multiply it beyond our imagination. It speaks to the importance of trusting in God's provision, even when our circumstances seem hopeless. The word study in this verse can focus on the significance of the oil, which symbolizes anointing, blessing, and abundance throughout the Bible. By delving deeper into the theological implications and word meanings of this verse, readers can gain a deeper understanding of God's faithfulness and provision in times of need.

American Standard Version

And Elisha said unto her, What shall I do for thee? tell me; what hast thou in the house? And she said, Thy handmaid hath not anything in the house, save a pot of oil.
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