And there came a man from Baalshalisha, and brought the man of God bread of the firstfruits, twenty loaves of barley, and full ears of corn in the husk thereof. And he said, Give unto the people, that they may eat.
A man came from Baal-shalishah and brought the man of God some food as a firstfruits offering, twenty loaves of barley bread and fresh grain still in its husks. Elisha said, 'Give this to the people so they can eat.'
The writer is showing how someone brought food to the prophet Elisha as an offering, and Elisha immediately decided to share it with others who needed it.
📚 Historical Context
In the 9th century BC, during the divided kingdom of Israel under King Joram, the prophet Elisha was actively performing miracles to show God's care for His people amidst famine and hardship. The man from Baalshalisha was following the ancient Israelite custom of offering firstfruits, which were the initial yields of the harvest dedicated to God or His servants like prophets, as a sign of gratitude and obedience to the Law. This event sets the stage for Elisha's miraculous feeding, echoing God's provision in times of scarcity.
Explore Similar Verses
Ask the AI Assistant
Have a question about this chapter or verse? Ask below for a clear explanation.