“Have some men take five of the horses that are left in the city. Their plight will be like that of all the Israelites left here—yes, they will only be like all these Israelites who are doomed. So let us send them to find out what happened?”
The full verse · 2 Kings 7:13 · KJV
And of his and , Let some , I pray thee, of the that , which are in the city, (behold, they are as all the of that are in it: behold, I say, they are even as all the of the that are :) and let us and .
Why It Was Asked
The purpose behind the questionThe officers sought to verify the sudden change in circumstances—the disappearance of the enemy forces—before making strategic decisions. Their inquiry was genuine, aiming to assess the situation accurately to avoid rash action. This reflects human prudence in moments of uncertainty (2 Kings 7:13).
The Response
What Scripture recordsThe king’s officers proposed sending scouts to investigate the mysterious disappearance of the Aramean army (2 Kings 7:13). Their suggestion was practical, aiming to confirm the situation before acting. This measured response reflects cautious leadership amid crisis, aligning with the narrative’s tension.
The Bigger Picture
Where this fits in God's storyWiersbe emphasizes the officers’ practical wisdom in proposing to send scouts, reflecting human prudence amid divine deliverance. Henry highlights the tension between fear and faith—the officers’ cautious inquiry contrasts with the lepers’ boldness. The question reveals a natural human response to uncertainty, teaching believers to balance trust in God with responsible action (2 Kings 7:13). This passage encourages faith that seeks understanding and readiness to act on God’s providence.
Believers today can learn the value of seeking wise counsel and verifying information before acting (Proverbs 20:18). In times of crisis, patience and prudence are vital (James 1:5). Trusting God’s deliverance while responsibly assessing situations equips Christians to respond faithfully to challenges (Psalm 37:39).
Built from the biblical text and checked against trusted commentaries and lexicons. References & Sources
Keep questioning
“I will tell you what the Arameans have done to us. They know we are starving; so they have left the camp to hide in the countryside, thinking, ‘They will surely come out, and then we will take them alive and get into the city.’?”
“Why sit we here until we die?”
“If the LORD would make windows in heaven, might this thing be?”
“Take an horseman, and send to meet them, and let him say, Is it peace?”