2 Kings 3:11

2 Kings 3:11 in Multiple Translations

Berean Standard Bible BSB

But Jehoshaphat asked, “Is there no prophet of the LORD here? Let us inquire of the LORD through him.” And one of the servants of the king of Israel answered, “Elisha son of Shaphat is here. He used to pour water on the hands of Elijah. ”

King James Version KJV

But Jehoshaphat said, Is there not here a prophet of the LORD, that we may enquire of the LORD by him? And one of the king of Israel’s servants answered and said, Here is Elisha the son of Shaphat, which poured water on the hands of Elijah.

American Standard Version ASV

But Jehoshaphat said, Is there not here a prophet of Jehovah, that we may inquire of Jehovah by him? And one of the king of Israel’s servants answered and said, Elisha the son of Shaphat is here, who poured water on the hands of Elijah.

Bible in Basic English BBE

But Jehoshaphat said, Is there no prophet of the Lord here, through whom we may get directions from the Lord? And one of the king of Israel's men said in answer, Elisha, the son of Shaphat, is here, who was servant to Elijah.

Free Bible Version FBV

But Jehoshaphat asked, “Isn't there a prophet of the Lord here with us? Let us consult the Lord through him.” One of the king of Israel's officers answered, “Elisha, son of Shaphat, is here. He was Elijah's assistant.”

Geneva Bible 1599 GNV

But Iehoshaphat saide, Is there not here a Prophet of the Lord, that we may inquire of the Lord by him? And one of the King of Israels seruants answered, and said, Here is Elisha the sonne of Shaphat, which powred water on the handes of Eliiah.

Young's Literal Translation YLT

And Jehoshaphat saith, 'Is there not here a prophet of Jehovah, and we seek Jehovah by him?' And one of the servants of the king of Israel answereth and saith, 'Here [is] Elisha son of Shaphat, who poured water on the hands of Elijah.'

World English Bible WEB

But Jehoshaphat said, “Isn’t there a prophet of the LORD here, that we may inquire of the LORD by him?” One of the king of Israel’s servants answered, “Elisha the son of Shaphat, who poured water on the hands of Elijah, is here.”

Noah Webster Bible WBS

But Jehoshaphat said, Is there not here a prophet of the LORD, that we may inquire of the LORD by him? And one of the king of Israel's servants answered and said, Here is Elisha the son of Shaphat, who poured water on the hands of Elijah.

Douay-Rheims 1899 DRV

And Josaphat said: Is there not here a prophet of the Lord, that we may beseech the Lord by him? And one of the servants of the king of Israel answered: Here is Eliseus the son of Saphat, who poured water on the hands of Elias.

Translation for Translators T4T

Jehoshaphat said, “Is there a prophet here who can ask Yahweh for us what we should do?” One of Joram’s army officers said, “Elisha, the son of Shaphat, is here. He was Elijah’s assistant.” [IDM]

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Berean Amplified Bible — 2 Kings 3:11

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Word Study

Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.

Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.

2 Kings 3:11 Interlinear (Deep Study)

BIB

HEB וַ/יֹּ֣אמֶר יְהוֹשָׁפָ֗ט הַ/אֵ֨ין פֹּ֤ה נָבִיא֙ לַֽ/יהוָ֔ה וְ/נִדְרְשָׁ֥ה אֶת יְהוָ֖ה מֵ/אוֹת֑/וֹ וַ֠/יַּעַן אֶחָ֞ד מֵ/עַבְדֵ֤י מֶֽלֶךְ יִשְׂרָאֵל֙ וַ/יֹּ֔אמֶר פֹּ֚ה אֱלִישָׁ֣ע בֶּן שָׁפָ֔ט אֲשֶׁר יָ֥צַק מַ֖יִם עַל יְדֵ֥י אֵלִיָּֽהוּ

וַ/יֹּ֣אמֶר ʼâmar H559 to say Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms

יְהוֹשָׁפָ֗ט Yᵉhôwshâphâṭ H3092 Jehoshaphat N-proper

הַ/אֵ֨ין ʼayin H369 nothing Part | Part

פֹּ֤ה pôh H6311 here Adv

נָבִיא֙ nâbîyʼ H5030 prophet N-ms

לַֽ/יהוָ֔ה Yᵉhôvâh H3068 The Lord Prep | N-proper

וְ/נִדְרְשָׁ֥ה dârash H1875 to seek Conj | V-Qal-1cp

אֶת ʼêth H853 Obj. DirObjM

יְהוָ֖ה Yᵉhôvâh H3068 The Lord N-proper

מֵ/אוֹת֑/וֹ ʼêth H853 Obj. Prep | DirObjM | Suff

וַ֠/יַּעַן ʻânâh H6030 to dwell Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms

אֶחָ֞ד ʼechâd H259 one Adj

מֵ/עַבְדֵ֤י ʻebed H5650 servant/slave Prep | N-mp

מֶֽלֶךְ melek H4428 King's N-ms

יִשְׂרָאֵל֙ Yisrâʼêl H3478 Israel N-proper

וַ/יֹּ֔אמֶר ʼâmar H559 to say Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms

פֹּ֚ה pôh H6311 here Adv

אֱלִישָׁ֣ע ʼĔlîyshâʻ H477 Elisha N-proper

בֶּן bên H1121 son N-ms

שָׁפָ֔ט Shâphâṭ H8202 Shaphat N-proper

אֲשֶׁר ʼăsher H834 which Rel

יָ֥צַק yâtsaq H3332 to pour V-Qal-Perf-3ms

מַ֖יִם mayim H4325 Water (Gate) N-mp

עַל ʻal H5921 upon Prep

יְדֵ֥י yâd H3027 hand N-cd

אֵלִיָּֽהוּ ʼÊlîyâh H452 Elijah N-proper

Hebrew Word Study

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Hebrew Word Reference — 2 Kings 3:11

וַ/יֹּ֣אמֶר ʼâmar H559 "to say" Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms

This Hebrew word means to say or speak, and it's used in many different ways in the Bible. It can mean to command, promise, or think, and it's translated in the KJV as 'answer', 'appoint', or 'command'.

Definition: 1) to say, speak, utter 1a) (Qal) to say, to answer, to say in one's heart, to think, to command, to promise, to intend 1b) (Niphal) to be told, to be said, to be called 1c) (Hithpael) to boast, to act proudly 1d) (Hiphil) to avow, to avouch Aramaic equivalent: a.mar (אֲמַר "to say" H0560)

Usage: Occurs in 4337 OT verses. KJV: answer, appoint, avouch, bid, boast self, call, certify, challenge, charge, [phrase] (at the, give) command(-ment), commune, consider, declare, demand, [idiom] desire, determine, [idiom] expressly, [idiom] indeed, [idiom] intend, name, [idiom] plainly, promise, publish, report, require, say, speak (against, of), [idiom] still, [idiom] suppose, talk, tell, term, [idiom] that is, [idiom] think, use (speech), utter, [idiom] verily, [idiom] yet. See also: Genesis 1:3; Genesis 18:23; Genesis 25:32.

יְהוֹשָׁפָ֗ט Yᵉhôwshâphâṭ H3092 "Jehoshaphat" N-proper

Jehoshaphat was a king of Judah who ruled for 25 years and was known for his piety and prosperity. His name means Jehovah has judged, and he is mentioned in 2 Kings 9:2 as the son of King Asa. He was one of the best kings of Judah in the Bible.

Definition: A man of the Kingdom of Israel, living at the time of Divided Monarchy, first mentioned at 2Ki.9.2; son of: Nimshi (H5250); father of: Jehu (H3058H) § Jehoshaphat = "Jehovah has judged" 1) son of king Asa and himself king of Judah for 25 years; one of the best, most pious, and prosperous kings of Judah 2) son of Nimshi and father of king Jehu of the northern kingdom of Israel 3) son of Ahilud and chronicler under David and Solomon 4) son of Paruah and one of the 12 commissary officers under Solomon 5) a priest and trumpeter in the time of David 6) symbolical name of a valley near Jerusalem which is the place of ultimate judgment; maybe the deep ravine which separates Jerusalem from the Mount of Olives through which the Kidron flowed

Usage: Occurs in 75 OT verses. KJV: Jehoshaphat. Compare H3146 (יוֹשָׁפָט). See also: 2 Samuel 8:16; 2 Chronicles 17:5; Joel 4:12.

הַ/אֵ֨ין ʼayin H369 "nothing" Part | Part

This word means nothing or not, often used to indicate the absence of something, as in Genesis 1:2 where the earth was without form. It emphasizes the idea of something lacking or non-existent.

Definition: 1) nothing, not, nought n 1a) nothing, nought neg 1b) not 1c) to have not (of possession) adv 1d) without w/prep 1e) for lack of

Usage: Occurs in 686 OT verses. KJV: else, except, fail, (father-) less, be gone, in(-curable), neither, never, no (where), none, nor, (any, thing), not, nothing, to nought, past, un(-searchable), well-nigh, without. Compare H370 (אַיִן). See also: Genesis 2:5; Deuteronomy 14:27; 1 Kings 15:22.

פֹּ֤ה pôh H6311 "here" Adv

This Hebrew word means 'here' or 'this place', and is used to indicate a specific location. It can also mean 'from here' or 'hither', showing movement or direction from a certain spot.

Definition: 1) here, from here, hither 1a) here 1b) hither

Usage: Occurs in 57 OT verses. KJV: here, hither, the one (other, this, that) side. See also: Genesis 19:12; 2 Kings 3:11; Psalms 132:14.

נָבִיא֙ nâbîyʼ H5030 "prophet" N-ms

A prophet is someone who speaks for God, like a spokesperson. This word is used in the Bible to describe true and false prophets, like those in 1 and 2 Kings.

Definition: 1) spokesman, speaker, prophet 1a) prophet 1b) false prophet 1c) heathen prophet Aramaic equivalent: ne.vi (נְבִיא "prophet" H5029)

Usage: Occurs in 288 OT verses. KJV: prophecy, that prophesy, prophet. See also: Genesis 20:7; 2 Kings 24:2; Psalms 51:2.

לַֽ/יהוָ֔ה Yᵉhôvâh H3068 "The Lord" Prep | N-proper

Yehovah is another name for God, often translated as 'the Lord'. It is a national name for God in the Jewish faith. This name is used throughout the Old Testament.

Definition: Another name of ye.ru.sha.laim (יְרוּשָׁלִַ֫ם, יְרוּשְׁלֵם "Jerusalem" H3389)

Usage: Occurs in 5522 OT verses. KJV: Jehovah, the Lord. Compare H3050 (יָהּ), H3069 (יְהֹוִה). See also: Genesis 2:4; Genesis 24:42; Exodus 8:8.

וְ/נִדְרְשָׁ֥ה dârash H1875 "to seek" Conj | V-Qal-1cp

To seek or ask is the meaning of this Hebrew word, often used to describe seeking God or worshiping him. It can also mean to investigate or enquire about something.

Definition: 1) to resort to, seek, seek with care, enquire, require 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to resort to, frequent (a place), (tread a place) 1a2) to consult, enquire of, seek 1a2a) of God 1a2b) of heathen gods, necromancers 1a3) to seek deity in prayer and worship 1a3a) God 1a3b) heathen deities 1a4) to seek (with a demand), demand, require 1a5) to investigate, enquire 1a6) to ask for, require, demand 1a7) to practice, study, follow, seek with application 1a8) to seek with care, care for 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to allow oneself to be enquired of, consulted (only of God) 1b2) to be sought, be sought out 1b3) to be required (of blood)

Usage: Occurs in 152 OT verses. KJV: ask, [idiom] at all, care for, [idiom] diligently, inquire, make inquisition, (necro-) mancer, question, require, search, seek (for, out), [idiom] surely. See also: Genesis 9:5; Ezra 10:16; Psalms 9:11.

אֶת ʼêth H853 "Obj." DirObjM

In the original Hebrew, this word points out the object of a verb or preposition, like 'namely' or 'even'. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus. It's not directly translated in English, but helps clarify the meaning of sentences.

Definition: sign of the definite direct object, not translated in English but generally preceding and indicating the accusative Aramaic equivalent: yat (יָת "whom" H3487)

Usage: Occurs in 6782 OT verses. KJV: (as such unrepresented in English). See also: Genesis 1:1; Genesis 10:8; Genesis 19:21.

יְהוָ֖ה Yᵉhôvâh H3068 "The Lord" N-proper

Yehovah is another name for God, often translated as 'the Lord'. It is a national name for God in the Jewish faith. This name is used throughout the Old Testament.

Definition: Another name of ye.ru.sha.laim (יְרוּשָׁלִַ֫ם, יְרוּשְׁלֵם "Jerusalem" H3389)

Usage: Occurs in 5522 OT verses. KJV: Jehovah, the Lord. Compare H3050 (יָהּ), H3069 (יְהֹוִה). See also: Genesis 2:4; Genesis 24:42; Exodus 8:8.

מֵ/אוֹת֑/וֹ ʼêth H853 "Obj." Prep | DirObjM | Suff

Definition: sign of the definite direct object, not translated in English but generally preceding and indicating the accusative Aramaic equivalent: yat (יָת "whom" H3487)

Usage: Occurs in 6782 OT verses. KJV: (as such unrepresented in English). See also: Genesis 1:1; Genesis 10:8; Genesis 19:21.

וַ֠/יַּעַן ʻânâh H6030 "to dwell" Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms

This verb means to sing or make music, but also to respond or give an answer. In the Bible, it is used to describe praising God in song or responding to a question. The KJV translates it as 'sing' or 'answer'.

Definition: (Qal) to dwell

Usage: Occurs in 316 OT verses. KJV: give account, afflict (by mistake for H6031 (עָנָה)), (cause to, give) answer, bring low (by mistake for H6031 (עָנָה)), cry, hear, Leannoth, lift up, say, [idiom] scholar, (give a) shout, sing (together by course), speak, testify, utter, (bear) witness. See also H1042 (בֵּית עֲנוֹת), H1043 (בֵּית עֲנָת). See also: Genesis 18:27; 2 Samuel 14:19; Job 40:2.

אֶחָ֞ד ʼechâd H259 "one" Adj

In the Bible, this Hebrew word means one or united, and is used to describe something that is single or unique. It is often translated as one, first, or alone. For example, in Genesis 1:5, God calls the light day and the darkness night, and separates them into one thing from another.

Definition: 1) one (number) 1a) one (number) 1b) each, every 1c) a certain 1d) an (indefinite article) 1e) only, once, once for all 1f) one...another, the one...the other, one after another, one by one 1g) first 1h) eleven (in combination), eleventh (ordinal)

Usage: Occurs in 739 OT verses. KJV: a, alike, alone, altogether, and, any(-thing), apiece, a certain, (dai-) ly, each (one), [phrase] eleven, every, few, first, [phrase] highway, a man, once, one, only, other, some, together, See also: Genesis 1:5; Exodus 36:26; Numbers 7:70.

מֵ/עַבְדֵ֤י ʻebed H5650 "servant/slave" Prep | N-mp

This word refers to a servant or slave, often in the context of serving God or a human master. It can also describe a prophet or Levite. The KJV translates it as bondage, bondman, or servant.

Definition: 1) slave, servant 1a) slave, servant, man-servant 1b) subjects 1c) servants, worshippers (of God) 1d) servant (in special sense as prophets, Levites etc) 1e) servant (of Israel) 1f) servant (as form of address between equals) Aramaic equivalent: a.vad (עֲבַד "servant/slave" H5649)

Usage: Occurs in 714 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] bondage, bondman, (bond-) servant, (man-) servant. See also: Genesis 9:25; Exodus 11:3; 1 Samuel 8:16.

מֶֽלֶךְ melek H4428 "King's" N-ms

This word refers to a king or royal person, like King David or King Saul. It can also describe something related to a king, like the King's Valley in Genesis. The Bible often uses this word to talk about the rulers of Israel.

Definition: King's (Valley) (Gen.14.17)

Usage: Occurs in 1919 OT verses. KJV: king, royal. See also: Genesis 14:1; Joshua 10:39; 1 Samuel 16:1.

יִשְׂרָאֵל֙ Yisrâʼêl H3478 "Israel" N-proper

Israel is the symbolic name of Jacob, also referring to his descendants. Jacob, son of Isaac and Rebekah, had 12 sons who became the tribes of Israel, as told in Genesis 25:26. His story is crucial to the Bible's narrative.

Definition: A man living at the time of the Patriarchs, first mentioned at Gen.25.26; son of: Isaac (H3327) and Rebekah (H7259); brother of: Esau (H6215); married to Rachel (H7354), Leah (H3812), Zilpah (H2153) and Bilhah (H1090A); father of: Reuben (H7205), Simeon (H8095), Levi (H3878), Judah (H3063), Dan (H1835H), Naphtali (H5321), Gad (H1410), Asher (H0836), Issachar (H3485), Zebulun (H2074), Dinah (H1783), Joseph (H3130) and Benjamin (H1144); also called Jacob frequently § Israel = "God prevails" 1) the second name for Jacob given to him by God after his wrestling with the angel at Peniel 2) the name of the descendants and the nation of the descendants of Jacob 2a) the name of the nation until the death of Solomon and the split 2b) the name used and given to the northern kingdom consisting of the 10 tribes under Jeroboam; the southern kingdom was known as Judah 2c) the name of the nation after the return from exile

Usage: Occurs in 2231 OT verses. KJV: Israel. See also: Genesis 32:29; Exodus 13:18; Exodus 40:38.

וַ/יֹּ֔אמֶר ʼâmar H559 "to say" Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms

פֹּ֚ה pôh H6311 "here" Adv

This Hebrew word means 'here' or 'this place', and is used to indicate a specific location. It can also mean 'from here' or 'hither', showing movement or direction from a certain spot.

Definition: 1) here, from here, hither 1a) here 1b) hither

Usage: Occurs in 57 OT verses. KJV: here, hither, the one (other, this, that) side. See also: Genesis 19:12; 2 Kings 3:11; Psalms 132:14.

אֱלִישָׁ֣ע ʼĔlîyshâʻ H477 "Elisha" N-proper

Elisha was a famous prophet in the Bible who lived during the time of the divided kingdom. His name means God is salvation, and he is first mentioned in 1 Kings 19:16. Elisha succeeded Elijah as a great prophet.

Definition: A prophet living at the time of Divided Monarchy, first mentioned at 1Ki.19.16; son of: Shaphat (H8202H) Also named: Elissaios (Ἐλισσαῖος "Elisha" G1666) § Elisha = "God is salvation" the great prophet who succeeded Elijah

Usage: Occurs in 52 OT verses. KJV: Elisha. See also: 1 Kings 19:16; 2 Kings 5:20; 2 Kings 13:21.

בֶּן bên H1121 "son" N-ms

In the Bible, this word means a son or descendant, and can also refer to a grandson, nation, or quality. It appears in 1 Chronicles 24, describing a Levite named Beno. The word is used to show family relationships and inheritance.

Definition: : child/son

Usage: Occurs in 3653 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] afflicted, age, (Ahoh-) (Ammon-) (Hachmon-) (Lev-) ite, (anoint-) ed one, appointed to, ([phrase]) arrow, (Assyr-) (Babylon-) (Egypt-) (Grec-) ian, one born, bough, branch, breed, [phrase] (young) bullock, [phrase] (young) calf, [idiom] came up in, child, colt, [idiom] common, [idiom] corn, daughter, [idiom] of first, [phrase] firstborn, foal, [phrase] very fruitful, [phrase] postage, [idiom] in, [phrase] kid, [phrase] lamb, ([phrase]) man, meet, [phrase] mighty, [phrase] nephew, old, ([phrase]) people, [phrase] rebel, [phrase] robber, [idiom] servant born, [idiom] soldier, son, [phrase] spark, [phrase] steward, [phrase] stranger, [idiom] surely, them of, [phrase] tumultuous one, [phrase] valiant(-est), whelp, worthy, young (one), youth. See also: Genesis 3:16; Genesis 23:3; Genesis 34:18.

שָׁפָ֔ט Shâphâṭ H8202 "Shaphat" N-proper

Shaphat was the name of several Israelites, including a prince of Simeon and the father of the prophet Elisha. The name means 'judged' or 'he hath judged', and these individuals played important roles in biblical history, including in 1 Chronicles and 2 Kings.

Definition: A man living at the time of Divided Monarchy, only mentioned at 1Ch.27.29; son of: Adlai (H5724) § Shaphat = "judged" or "he hath judged" 1) son of Hori and the prince of Simeon chosen to spy out the promised land 2) father of the prophet Elisha 3) a Judaite, son of Shemaiah and descendant of Zerubbabel in the royal line of Judah 4) a chief of the tribe of Gad 5) son of Adlai and chief herdsman for David over the herds in the valleys

Usage: Occurs in 8 OT verses. KJV: Shaphat. See also: Numbers 13:5; 2 Kings 6:31; 1 Chronicles 27:29.

אֲשֶׁר ʼăsher H834 "which" Rel

This Hebrew word is a conjunction that connects ideas and events in the Bible, like in the book of Genesis, where it's used to describe the relationship between God and His creation.

Definition: A: 1) (relative part.) 1a) which, who 1b) that which 2) (conj) 2a) that (in obj clause) 2b) when 2c) since 2d) as 2e) conditional if B: Beth+ 1) in (that) which 2) (adv) 2a) where 3) (conj) 3a) in that, inasmuch as 3b) on account of C: Mem+ 1) from (or than) that which 2) from (the place) where 3) from (the fact) that, since D: Kaph+ 1) (conj.), according as, as, when 1a) according to that which, according as, as 1b) with a causal force: in so far as, since 1c) with a temporal force: when

Usage: Occurs in 4440 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] after, [idiom] alike, as (soon as), because, [idiom] every, for, [phrase] forasmuch, [phrase] from whence, [phrase] how(-soever), [idiom] if, (so) that ((thing) which, wherein), [idiom] though, [phrase] until, [phrase] whatsoever, when, where ([phrase] -as, -in, -of, -on, -soever, -with), which, whilst, [phrase] whither(-soever), who(-m, -soever, -se). As it is indeclinable, it is often accompanied by the personal pronoun expletively, used to show the connection. See also: Genesis 1:7; Genesis 20:9; Genesis 31:16.

יָ֥צַק yâtsaq H3332 "to pour" V-Qal-Perf-3ms

This verb means to pour something out, like liquid or metal, and can also imply making something firm or hard. It's used in books like Isaiah 44:3 and Jeremiah 10:14.

Definition: : pour 1) to pour, flow, cast, pour out 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to pour, pour out 1a2) to cast 1a3) to flow 1b) (Hiphil) to pour, pour out 1c) (Hophal) 1c1) to be poured 1c2) cast, molten (participle) 1c3) being firmly established (participle)

Usage: Occurs in 49 OT verses. KJV: cast, cleave fast, be (as) firm, grow, be hard, lay out, molten, overflow, pour (out), run out, set down, stedfast. See also: Genesis 28:18; 1 Kings 7:24; Psalms 41:9.

מַ֖יִם mayim H4325 "Water (Gate)" N-mp

This word means water, referring to a liquid or a source of refreshment. It appears in the Bible as a literal and figurative term, including references to wasting or urine. The word is used in various contexts, such as in Genesis and Leviticus.

Definition: This name means water, refreshment

Usage: Occurs in 525 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] piss, wasting, water(-ing, (-course, -flood, -spring)). See also: Genesis 1:2; Leviticus 14:9; Joshua 18:15.

עַל ʻal H5921 "upon" Prep

This Hebrew word means on or above something, like a physical object or a situation. It can also imply a sense of responsibility or accountability, as in being on behalf of someone.

Definition: prep 1) upon, on the ground of, according to, on account of, on behalf of, concerning, beside, in addition to, together with, beyond, above, over, by, on to, towards, to, against 1a) upon, on the ground of, on the basis of, on account of, because of, therefore, on behalf of, for the sake of, for, with, in spite of, notwithstanding, concerning, in the matter of, as regards 1b) above, beyond, over (of excess) 1c) above, over (of elevation or pre-eminence) 1d) upon, to, over to, unto, in addition to, together with, with (of addition) 1e) over (of suspension or extension) 1f) by, adjoining, next, at, over, around (of contiguity or proximity) 1g) down upon, upon, on, from, up upon, up to, towards, over towards, to, against (with verbs of motion) 1h) to (as a dative)

Usage: Occurs in 4493 OT verses. KJV: above, according to(-ly), after, (as) against, among, and, [idiom] as, at, because of, beside (the rest of), between, beyond the time, [idiom] both and, by (reason of), [idiom] had the charge of, concerning for, in (that), (forth, out) of, (from) (off), (up-) on, over, than, through(-out), to, touching, [idiom] with. See also: Genesis 1:2; Genesis 24:13; Genesis 41:33.

יְדֵ֥י yâd H3027 "hand" N-cd

In the Bible, 'yad' refers to an open hand, symbolizing power or direction. It can also mean strength or a part of something, like a side or a share. The word is used in many contexts, including anatomy and everyday life.

Definition: : hand/arm[anatomy] 1) hand 1a) hand (of man) 1b) strength, power (fig.) 1c) side (of land), part, portion (metaph.) (fig.) 1d) (various special, technical senses) 1d1) sign, monument 1d2) part, fractional part, share 1d3) time, repetition 1d4) axle-trees, axle 1d5) stays, support (for laver) 1d6) tenons (in tabernacle) 1d7) a phallus, a hand (meaning unsure) 1d8) wrists

Usage: Occurs in 1446 OT verses. KJV: ([phrase] be) able, [idiom] about, [phrase] armholes, at, axletree, because of, beside, border, [idiom] bounty, [phrase] broad, (broken-) handed, [idiom] by, charge, coast, [phrase] consecrate, [phrase] creditor, custody, debt, dominion, [idiom] enough, [phrase] fellowship, force, [idiom] from, hand(-staves, -y work), [idiom] he, himself, [idiom] in, labour, [phrase] large, ledge, (left-) handed, means, [idiom] mine, ministry, near, [idiom] of, [idiom] order, ordinance, [idiom] our, parts, pain, power, [idiom] presumptuously, service, side, sore, state, stay, draw with strength, stroke, [phrase] swear, terror, [idiom] thee, [idiom] by them, [idiom] themselves, [idiom] thine own, [idiom] thou, through, [idiom] throwing, [phrase] thumb, times, [idiom] to, [idiom] under, [idiom] us, [idiom] wait on, (way-) side, where, [phrase] wide, [idiom] with (him, me, you), work, [phrase] yield, [idiom] yourselves. See also: Genesis 3:22; Exodus 7:19; Leviticus 14:22.

אֵלִיָּֽהוּ ʼÊlîyâh H452 "Elijah" N-proper

Elijah means my God is Jehovah, referring to the famous prophet who lived during King Ahab's reign. He is also the name of two other Israelites mentioned in the Bible. Elijah is known for his bravery and faith in God.

Definition: A man living at the time of Exile and Return, only mentioned at Ezr.10.26 § Elijah or Eliah = "my God is Jehovah" or "Yah(u) is God" 1) the great prophet of the reign of Ahab 2) Benjamite son of Jeroham 3) a son of Elam with foreign wife during exile 4) a son of Harim, and priest, with foreign wife during exile

Usage: Occurs in 65 OT verses. KJV: Elijah, Eliah. See also: 1 Kings 17:1; 1 Kings 19:19; Malachi 3:23.

Study Notes — 2 Kings 3:11

Show Verse Quote Highlights

Context
Cross References
2 Kings 3:11 Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Reflection Questions
Gill's Exposition on 2 Kings 3:11
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on 2 Kings 3:11
Matthew Poole's Commentary on 2 Kings 3:11
Trapp's Commentary on 2 Kings 3:11
Ellicott's Commentary on 2 Kings 3:11
Adam Clarke's Commentary on 2 Kings 3:11
Cambridge Bible on 2 Kings 3:11
Barnes' Notes on 2 Kings 3:11
Whedon's Commentary on 2 Kings 3:11
Sermons on 2 Kings 3:11

Context — Moab’s Rebellion

9So the king of Israel, the king of Judah, and the king of Edom set out, and after they had traveled a roundabout route for seven days, they had no water for their army or for their animals. 10“Alas,” said the king of Israel, “for the LORD has summoned these three kings to deliver them into the hand of Moab!”

11But Jehoshaphat asked, “Is there no prophet of the LORD here? Let us inquire of the LORD through him.” And one of the servants of the king of Israel answered, “Elisha son of Shaphat is here. He used to pour water on the hands of Elijah. ”

12Jehoshaphat affirmed, “The word of the LORD is with him.” So the king of Israel and Jehoshaphat and the king of Edom went down to him. 13Elisha, however, said to the king of Israel, “What have we to do with each other? Go to the prophets of your father and of your mother!” “No,” replied the king of Israel, “for it is the LORD who has summoned these three kings to deliver them into the hand of Moab.”

Cross References

	Reference	Text (BSB)
1	1 Kings 22:7	But Jehoshaphat asked, “Is there not still a prophet of the LORD here of whom we can inquire?”
2	1 Kings 19:21	So Elisha turned back from him, took his pair of oxen, and slaughtered them. With the oxen’s equipment, he cooked the meat and gave it to the people, and they ate. Then he set out to follow and serve Elijah.
3	2 Kings 3:3	Nevertheless, he clung to the sins that Jeroboam son of Nebat had caused Israel to commit; he did not turn away from them.
4	1 Chronicles 15:13	It was because you Levites were not with us the first time that the LORD our God burst forth in anger against us. For we did not consult Him about the proper order.”
5	1 Chronicles 14:10	So David inquired of God, “Should I go up against the Philistines? Will You deliver them into my hand?” “Go,” replied the LORD, “for I will deliver them into your hand.”
6	Amos 3:7	Surely the Lord GOD does nothing without revealing His plan to His servants the prophets.
7	John 13:4–5	So He got up from the supper, laid aside His outer garments, and wrapped a towel around His waist. After that, He poured water into a basin and began to wash the disciples’ feet and dry them with the towel that was around Him.
8	2 Kings 2:25–1	—
9	1 Chronicles 14:14	So David again inquired of God, who answered him, “Do not march up after them, but circle around them and attack them in front of the balsam trees.
10	Psalms 74:9	There are no signs for us to see. There is no longer any prophet. And none of us knows how long this will last.

2 Kings 3:11 Summary

This verse shows us that when we're faced with difficult situations, we should look to God for help and guidance. Jehoshaphat's question about a prophet of the LORD being present indicates his desire to hear from God, which is something we can learn from. Just like Jehoshaphat, we can seek God's guidance in our own lives by praying and looking to His word for direction, as encouraged in Psalm 119:105 and Jeremiah 29:13. By doing so, we can trust that God will provide us with the wisdom and strength we need to navigate life's challenges.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did Jehoshaphat ask if there was a prophet of the LORD present?

Jehoshaphat asked this question because he recognized the desperate situation they were in and knew that seeking God's guidance through a prophet was their best hope for a solution, as seen in 2 Kings 3:9-10 and supported by Proverbs 3:5-6 which encourages trusting in the Lord for direction.

What is the significance of Elisha being mentioned as the one who used to pour water on the hands of Elijah?

This detail highlights Elisha's connection to Elijah, a renowned prophet, indicating that Elisha was trained by Elijah and had a significant spiritual heritage, similar to how Joshua was trained by Moses in Deuteronomy 31:7-8.

Why did the servant of the king of Israel respond by mentioning Elisha?

The servant responded by mentioning Elisha because he knew of Elisha's prophetic role and his potential to provide the guidance they needed, reflecting the importance of recognizing and respecting spiritual leaders as seen in 1 Corinthians 12:28-29.

How does this verse demonstrate the importance of seeking God's guidance?

This verse shows that even in times of crisis, seeking God's guidance should be the first response, rather than relying solely on human wisdom or strength, a principle also found in Psalm 119:105 which talks about God's word being a lamp to our feet.

Reflection Questions

What are some situations in my life where I need to seek God's guidance, and how can I apply the principle from this verse to those situations?
How can I cultivate a deeper trust in God's provision and guidance, just like Jehoshaphat did in this verse?
In what ways can I support and respect the spiritual leaders in my life, recognizing their role in guiding me towards God's will?
What does this verse teach me about the importance of humility and recognizing my limitations, leading me to seek God's help and guidance?

Gill's Exposition on 2 Kings 3:11

But Jehoshaphat said, is there not here a prophet of the Lord, that we may inquire of the Lord by him?.... This the good king should have done before be set out, but had neglected it; however, it was

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on 2 Kings 3:11

But Jehoshaphat said, Is there not here a prophet of the LORD, that we may inquire of the LORD by him?

Matthew Poole's Commentary on 2 Kings 3:11

Is there not here a prophet? this he should have asked before, when they first undertook the expedition, as he did in a like case, , and for that neglect he now suffers; but better late than never. His affliction brings him to the remembrance of his former sin and present duty. Which poured water on the hands of Elijah, i.e. who was his servant; this being one office of a servant; and this office was the more necessary among the Israelites, because of the frequent washings which their law required.

Trapp's Commentary on 2 Kings 3:11

2 Kings 3:11 But Jehoshaphat said, [Is there] not here a prophet of the LORD, that we may enquire of the LORD by him? And one of the king of Israel’ s servants answered and said, Here [is] Elisha the son of Shaphat, which poured water on the hands of Elijah.Ver. 11. Is there not here a prophet of the Lord?] Jehoram in this distress doth only quarrel and complain; but good Jehoshaphat bethinketh himself, though late first, of a prophet. Had this been done time enough, these straits had been avoided; but Nunquam sero, si serio. Who poured water.] Was his household servant.

Ellicott's Commentary on 2 Kings 3:11

(11) But (and) Jehoshaphat . . . by him?—The same question is asked by Jehoshaphat in 1 Kings 22:7. By him.—Heb., from with him (mç’ôthô for mç’ittô, both here and in the parallel place—a mark of the same hand). Jehoshaphat is for “seeking Jehovah” through a prophet, in contrast with Jehoram, who at once despairs. (Comp. Amos 5:4; Amos 5:8; and Note on 1 Chronicles 13:3; 2 Chronicles 15:2.) One of the king of Israel’s servants.—One of the king’s staff, who, like Obadiah (1 Kings 18:3), was perhaps a friend of the prophets of Jehovah. Here is Elisha.—The prophet must have followed the army of his own accord, or rather, as Keil suggests, under a Divine impulse, in order that, when the hour of trial came, he might point Jehoram to Jehovah as the only true God. Which poured water on the hands of Elijah.—Was the personal attendant of that greatest of prophets. The phrase alludes to the well-known Oriental custom of the servant pouring water from a ewer on his master’s hands to wash them.

Adam Clarke's Commentary on 2 Kings 3:11

Verse 11. Is there not here a prophet of the Lord] The kings of Judah still acknowledged the true God, and him only. Poured water on the hands of Elijah] That is, was his constant and confidential servant.

Cambridge Bible on 2 Kings 3:11

11. Jehoshaphat said, Is there not here a prophet of the Lord] He made the same enquiry before the march to Ramoth-Gilead (1 Kings 22:7). The prophets who would be in attendance on Jehoram would be those connected with the worship of the calves. It is however interesting to note that Jehoram ascribes to the Lord Jehovah the calling together of the armies for this expedition. We see from this how the calf-worship was not felt to be in direct opposition to the true worship. The presence of Elisha with the host shews also that there was something which a prophet of the Lord found to warrant his presence with the army. The promptness too with which he is mentioned indicates that he was well known and honoured by some who were about the king’s person. Elisha the son of Shaphat, which poured water on the hands of Elijah] The sort of service here indicated marks one who had been in constant attendance on his master, who therefore understood his feelings, and had thus grown to understand on what occasions Jehovah might be appealed to. Hence the confidence of Jehoshaphat, ‘The word of the Lord is with him’.

Barnes' Notes on 2 Kings 3:11

A prophet of the Lord - i. e. of Yahweh. It was necessary to inquire thus definitely, as there were still plenty of prophets who were only prophets of Baal 2 Kings 3:13.

Whedon's Commentary on 2 Kings 3:11

11. A prophet of the Lord — Observe the different disposition of the two kings. Jehoram despairs; Jehoshaphat inquires of Jehovah.

Sermons on 2 Kings 3:11

	Sermon	Description
	(Needed-Men of God) 3. a Servant by Zac Poonen	Zac Poonen preaches on the importance of being servants of others, drawing from the example of Elisha who was introduced as a servant despite performing remarkable miracles. He emp
	Elisha's Faithfulness by Zac Poonen	Zac Poonen emphasizes Elisha's faithfulness and persistence in following Elijah, illustrating how God tests His servants at various stages of spiritual development. Elisha, initial
	(Men Who Met God): Elijah - "The Lord Leviticus Before Whom I Stand" by A.W. Tozer	In this sermon, the preacher discusses the concept of finding reality and how sin often prevents us from experiencing it. He explores the inner conflict within humans, where the di
	(2006 Conference) 2.authority and Respect by Zac Poonen	This sermon emphasizes the importance of respecting authority and the consequences of rebellion. It highlights examples from the Bible where individuals like Joshua and Elisha hono
	The Ark of God by Leonard Ravenhill	This sermon delves into the story of David and the ark of God, highlighting the consequences of mishandling holy things, the importance of obedience over sacrifice, and the need fo
	(The Ark of the Covenant) 5. Entering Jerusalem by Roy Hession	In this sermon, the speaker discusses how often Christians rely on worldly methods and strategies to promote their faith and achieve success. He emphasizes that these methods are o
	Uzzah and the Ark of God by Richard Owen Roberts	This sermon emphasizes the importance of doing things God's way and humbling ourselves before Him. It highlights the need for true preaching that moves hearts, not just teaching, a