What happensPermalink
Naaman, the commander of Syria’s army, suffers from leprosy. A captive Israelite girl says that a prophet in Samaria could heal him. When Naaman brings gifts to Israel, Elisha sends word for Naaman to wash seven times in the Jordan. Offended by the simplicity of the command, Naaman nearly refuses, but his servants persuade him. When he obeys, he is healed and confesses that Yahweh alone is God. Elisha refuses payment, but his servant Gehazi secretly takes gifts and is struck with Naaman’s leprosy.
Why it mattersPermalink
The healing of Naaman shows that Yahweh rules not only Israel but the nations. A powerful foreign general must humble himself and obey the word of God to receive healing. The story contrasts humility and greed: Naaman is cleansed when he submits, but Gehazi is cursed when he tries to profit from God’s work.
Key versePermalink
“Behold, I know that there is no God in all the earth but in Israel; so accept now a present from your servant.”