What happensPermalink
Jehoahaz, son of Jehu, reigns over Israel but continues in idolatry. God therefore allows Hazael of Syria and his son Ben-hadad to crush Israel’s army until only a small force remains. When Jehoahaz dies, his son Jehoash becomes king. As Elisha lies dying, Jehoash seeks his help, and Elisha prophesies that Israel will defeat Syria three times. After Elisha’s death, a dead man whose body is thrown into Elisha’s tomb and touches his bones comes back to life. Jehoash defeats Ben-hadad three times and recovers cities Israel had lost.
Why it mattersPermalink
God had promised Jehu a four-generation dynasty, so despite the continued sins of Jehoahaz and Jehoash, their line remains on the throne. Yet Israel suffers severe military losses because of its idolatry. Even so, God shows mercy and allows Israel partial recovery. The miracle at Elisha’s tomb confirms that God’s power still operates through His prophet, even after his death.
Key versePermalink
As soon as the man touched the bones of Elisha, he revived and stood on his feet.