2 Kings 6:22

And he answered, Thou shalt not smite them: wouldest thou smite those whom thou hast taken captive with thy sword and with thy bow? set bread and water before them, that they may eat and drink, and go to their master.

2 Kings 6:22 (KJV)

Context

The book of 2 Kings records the history of the divided kingdoms of Israel and Judah. In this chapter, the prophet Elisha is the central figure. The king of Syria had been plotting against Israel, but God repeatedly revealed his plans to Elisha. When the Syrian army surrounded the city, Elisha’s servant was terrified. Elisha prayed, and the Lord opened the servant’s eyes to see the mountains full of horses and chariots of fire protecting them.

As the Syrian army approached, Elisha prayed for God to strike them with blindness. God answered, and Elisha led the blinded army to Samaria, the capital of Israel. When the king of Israel saw them, he asked Elisha, “My father, shall I smite them? shall I smite them?” (2 Kings 6:21).

Meaning

Elisha’s answer in this verse is unexpected. He forbids the king from killing the captured soldiers. His question, “Wouldest thou smite those whom thou hast taken captive with thy sword and with thy bow?” reminds the king that Israel did not capture these men by their own military strength. God alone had delivered them. Therefore, the king had no right to execute them as spoils of war.

Instead, Elisha commands, “Set bread and water before them, that they may eat and drink, and go to their master.” This is not merely a gesture of kindness; it is a deliberate act of mercy that reflects God’s character. The king obeyed, preparing great provision for them, and after they ate and drank, he sent them back to their master (2 Kings 6:23). The immediate result was that the Syrian raiding bands stopped coming into the land of Israel.

Application

This verse challenges us to examine our response to those who oppose us. When God grants victory—whether in a conflict, a relationship, or a difficult situation—we are called to respond with compassion, not retaliation. Elisha’s mercy was not weakness; it was a powerful witness that displayed trust in God’s deliverance. The peace that followed shows that mercy can be more effective than revenge.

Reflection

Elisha’s earlier prayer for his servant’s eyes to be opened revealed God’s supernatural power and protection. That same power is at work when we choose to extend grace to our enemies. We can leave judgment to God, knowing that He sees all and will act justly in His time.