Book of 2 Kings - Chapter 9 - Verse 35

This verse comes from the book of 2 Kings in the Old Testament and is part of a story about a woman who sought help from the prophet Elisha. The woman's husband had died and she was in debt, with creditors threatening to take her two sons as payment. In desperation, she turned to Elisha for assistance. In response to her plea, Elisha performed a miracle by multiplying a small amount of oil that the woman had, enabling her to sell it to pay off her debts and secure her sons' future.

The specific verse in question describes a later part of the story, where the woman has passed away, and her sons are now dealing with her burial. They make a surprising discovery when they find that only her skull, feet, and palms of her hands remain. The exact meaning of this detail is not explicitly stated in the text, leaving room for interpretation. Some scholars suggest that it could symbolize the impermanence of life and the physical body, while others see it as a supernatural phenomenon underscoring the miraculous nature of Elisha's powers. Overall, this verse adds a mysterious and intriguing element to the narrative in 2 Kings, inviting readers to ponder its deeper significance.

In examining the theological interpretation of the verse "And they went to bury her: but they found no more of her than the skull, and the feet, and the palms of her hands," we can see a solemn depiction of the transient nature of human life. This verse highlights the reality of mortality and the fragility of the human body. The imagery of only finding the skull, feet, and palms of the hands serves as a stark reminder of the fleeting nature of physical existence. This verse prompts us to reflect on the brevity of life and the inevitability of death. It also serves as a reminder of the importance of preparing for the afterlife and focusing on spiritual matters rather than solely on worldly pursuits. Through this verse, we are reminded of our ultimate destination and the need to live a life in accordance with divine will.