## Ebc12 - 2 Kings

2 Kings 2:1

When the LORD -- Elijah had a specially protected life; he was wholly under divine control; true also of the antitypical Elijah class. R3415:3

Would take up -- A parallel to the taking away of the last members of Christ. R5845:2

Elijah -- Type of the true Church in the flesh. B256; R557:3, R4757:2, R5771:3; Q305:2

John the Baptist, as the forerunner of Jesus in the flesh, typified the greater Elijah. R4757:3; B250; R557:1

Into heaven -- Into the air; "No man hath ascended up to heaven." (John 3:13) R3378:4, R558:5, R3417:4, R5772:3, R4757:1; Q259:4

By a whirlwind -- Uniformly used in the Scriptures to represent great confusion and strife. R4757:6

A symbol of trouble; fiery trials. B260; R5773:1, 4, R2341:6

Severe persecutions, ecclesiastical commotions. R3417:2,3

Anarchy. R5845:6, R5867:4

Elijah went -- His closing experiences parallel the closing experiences of the last members of the Christ Body in the flesh. R5845:1; B255, B256; R557:2, 3

With Elisha -- Possibly a picture of the Great Company. R5771:6, R4757:5, R3429:2, R3417:1, R1132:1, R558:2

He may typify two classes: those who now are associated with the Elijah class, and those in whose charge will be the dispensing of restitution blessings. R5780:1, R3429:2,3, R3417:2; Q260:3, Q305:2

We may not be quite so sure that Elisha represented a secondary class of God's people, a great company. R5771:6, R4757:5, R4758:2; Q260:3, Q259:2

Gilgal -- Gilgal means "rolling away the reproach." (Josh. 5:9) HG70:1

Elijah's movements from leaving Gilgal to crossing Jordan have their exact parallels under the midnight cry movement. HG69:6

Site of a "school of the prophets." R3416:1

Would seem to represent the beginning of the harvest time--October, 1874. R5772:4, R5845:2

2 Kings 2:2

Tarry here -- The stopping places foreshadowed various points in the time proofs where it was thought that the translation of the saints might be due. R558:1

Implying that Elisha was discouraged and had lost faith in the journey; but they went on. R5772:4

Representing the trials and difficulties in the pathway of the Church, a sifting or separating work. R4757:5, R558:1; Q305:2; R1132:3

October 1874 (Gilgal) was looked forward to as the possible time when the Church would be completed. Some measure of disappointment was felt when expectations were not realized. R5772:5

Beth-el -- Where Jacob's ladder stood, receiving its name in consequence of that vision. HG70:2

The Spring of 1878 corresponded to Bethel, a parallel to the Lord's assuming his kingly office in the end of the Jewish age. R5772:5, R5845:2

I will not leave thee -- He understood that the degree of his blessing would depend upon the closeness of his company with Elijah. R2341:4

A blessing came to all those who received their disappointment in the proper spirit and went on. R5772:5

If Elisha typifies the Great Company this would prove no outward separation between the Church and the Great Company. Q305:2

Those who are sifted out by the way will be neither of the Elijah nor of the Elisha classes. R2431:4

Elisha represents a persevering and faithful company. R558:1

2 Kings 2:3

Sons of the prophets -- Schools of the prophets, gatherings of young men desirous of studying the Law and appreciating the divine will. R3415:1, R3416:1, R2341:1

Apparently these schools were started in the time of Samuel as "summer schools," not a monastic order. R3430:3

If types, they would seem to represent a third class, acquainted with Elijah and Elisha, yet not particularly associated with them. R5772:1; Q666:2,4 The theologians of that day. B266

Now, as then, some come together as schools for the study of prophecy; and now, as then, these schools are on the increase. R2341:2

That were at Beth-el -- Exercising a wholesome influence for righteousness and the worship of God, the operation of the "still small voice." (1 Kings 19:12) R2341:1

Said unto him -- In confidential whispers. R3416:2

2 Kings 2:4

Tarry here -- See comments on 2 Kings 2:2. Although not promises, it was not unreasonable to think of the Scripturally-marked date of Spring, 1878 as the time for the Church's glorification. R5772:5

Came to Jericho -- Which means "his month," or "moon." HG70:2

Corresponded to 1881, parallel to the door being opened to the Gentiles. R5772:5, R5845:2

2 Kings 2:6

Tarry, I pray thee -- See comments on 2 Kings 2:2. We assumed that 1881 might mean a change of dispensation and the glorification of the Church; but we were mistaken and went on. R5772:5

Sent me to Jordan -- Which is judgment. HG70:4 The word Jordan has the significance of "judged down"; thus would seem to represent the peoples of earth, judged by the truth. R5846:2

To the Royal Priesthood, Jordan represents consecration unto death. R3087:1

Corresponding to October 1914, the close of the Times of the Gentiles. R5772:5, R5845:2

2 Kings 2:7

Fifty ... sons of the prophets -- While refraining from following, they were deeply interested, and witnessed what transpired. R3416:3

They two stood by Jordan -- At very nearly the same point the Lord wrought through Joshua the miraculous crossing of the Israelites. The steep hillside beyond Jordan was quite possibly Mt. Nebo, where Moses died. (Deut. 32:49, 50) R3416:3, R3429:2

So the Lord's people have been standing for some time since 1914. R5845:3; Q387:2

2 Kings 2:8

Elijah took his mantle -- An outward indication, or sign, of God's power with Elijah; representing God's power and blessing with the Church. R5846:4, R5950:2; Q387:2

Wrapped it together -- Concentration of forces for the smiting. R5950:2

Evidently referring to some special power given to the Elijah class. Q387:2

It may mean a great deal of money. Q387:2

And smote the waters -- In Bible symbolic language, water represents both truth and peoples. R5846:2

Pictures a mighty work yet to be accomplished, and apparently in the very near future. R5950:2

As Elijah did the smiting, so all those who belong to the Elijah class will have a share in it. R5988:4

The Church will use what is in their hand, the power and authority of the truth, the power of God, in smiting the waters, peoples, who will be judged by the truth. R5846:2,4

The smiting will probably affect the whole civilized world. Q387:2

Apparently the consuming of the tares will correspond very closely with the division of Jordan. The smiting will reveal the truth in respect to what is the real Church of Christ and what are imitations. R5951:4

They were divided -- People are to be separated from people, the truth being received by some and rejected by others. R5846:2, R5950:2

The division of the waters may require either years or months. R5888:4

2 Kings 2:9

Elisha -- See comments on 2 Kings 2:1.

I pray thee -- Elisha's special desire, above all things, was to have a large measure of the spirit of the Lord. R2431:5

A double portion -- Not twice as much as Elijah possessed, but twice as much as given to any other. R3416:4, R3428:6

The portion of the first-born. R4771:1

Of thy spirit -- Energy, force, power to teach. R558:2

An extra share of his spirit of consecration and power. R1132:4

2 Kings 2:10

A hard thing -- It will be a very difficult matter, even for those expecting the event, to recognize the change of the Elijah class. R558:2

If thou see me -- If you continue steadfast and follow on, and are not separated by the trials by the way. Q305:2; R5772:6, R3417:2, R2341:5

Only in proportion as they discern the completion of the Elijah class will they become recipients of a large measure of Elijah's spirit and zeal. R3416:5

Only such as recognize the change of the Elijah class can fill the teaching position. R558:3

When I am taken -- To some the thought of being taken away from the present life suddenly, violently, in fiery troubles, would be a terrible prospect; not so for the Elijah class. R5773:4

It shall be so -- After the Elijah class has been glorified, the Elisha class will be energized by the change of dispensation and evidences of the fulfilling of the divine plan, to be practically as devoted and zealous as the Elijah class. R3416:6

2 Kings 2:11

They still went on -- Not that they are necessarily personally acquainted in the antitype, but they walk the same road. R1132:2

Not disconcerted, Bible Students, since 1914, are going on, not headed for any particular date, even as Elijah was not directed to go to any other place. R5772:6

And talked -- In sympathy and interest, friendship profitable and encouraging to both. R1132:3

A chariot -- The Elijah class caught up in power and great glory; the spiritual exaltation of the Church. B254; R968:5, R2341:5, R5845:5, R2341:5; B260

A figure of victory and glorious escape from the whirlwind of trouble. B260

Ours is the real deliverance by chariots of victory and divine power from death. R3429:1

Of fire -- May signify that the last members of the Church will be separated under very trying circumstances, fiery trials, persecutions, violence. R2341:5, R3417:2, R5569:5, R5772:6, R5845:5, R5950:2; Q259:4

Horses of fire -- Spiritual doctrines. R1132:6

And parted them both -- Separating the Elijah and the Elisha classes, the Little Flock and the Great Company. R5845:3, R5950:2, R4757:6, R5773:1

Already (1889) the fiery chariot begins to separate the classes. R1132:2

Elijah went up -- The close of the Church's career in the flesh will come suddenly, abruptly. R4757:6

We expect that the Church, the antitypical Elijah, will all have passed beyond the veil before the anarchy predicted in the Bible. R5794:5

The transfiguration of Elijah was a picture, or vision, of the change of the Church at the end of this age. Q259:4

By a whirlwind -- See comments on 2 Kings 2:1. Many of the Lord's people will be taken from the present life in some anarchistic movement. R5845:6, R5773:1, R5950:3, R5867:4, R2341:6; Q259:4

Fierce trouble, agitating the heavens or ecclesiastical powers. R3417:3

And not by the chariots. R3417:2, R1132:4

Further trouble to the chariot experience. R5773:1

Into heaven -- No doubt buried somewhere by the Lord, as Moses was buried secretly. R2342:4

Possibly to some other world, to return in due time to impress certain lessons on mankind. R3417:4

If still alive, still under the death sentence, not escaped from the bondage of corruption. R3417:5

See comments on 2 Kings 2:1.

2 Kings 2:12

Elisha -- See comments on 2 Kings 2:1.

Saw it -- Holding back from the persecution, but not drawing back to sin, or to a repudiation of the Lord. R5950:3

Rent them in two pieces -- An act, in that day, symbolic of grief, sorrow and mourning. R3429:2

2 Kings 2:13

He took up also -- Representing that Elisha had become Elijah's successor, to receive a special blessing of the Elijah spirit. R5771:6; B265

Continuing for a while the work that Elijah had been doing. R3416:6, R5771:6

The mantle -- The power and spirit of fuller consecration. R1132:5

Elijah's mantle of power and authority as the Lord's representative (See 2 Kings 2:8). R5780:1; Q260:3, Q305:2

The receiving by Elisha of power seems to correspond to the "foolish virgins" getting their oil. (Matt. 25) R3416:6

Elijah -- See comments on 2 Kings 2:1.

2 Kings 2:14

Smote the waters -- The Elisha class passes through death in much the same way as the Elijah class does. Q260:3, Q305:2; R3417:1

Where is the LORD God of Elijah? -- That is to say, Is not the Lord God of Elijah with me? Showing faith that the same power of God exercised through Elijah would be exercised through him. R2341:6

Elisha -- Our thought is that he typified two classes: first that he typified those associated with the Elijah class (the Great Company); and that after the taking of Elijah and re-crossing the Jordan (picturing the death of the Great Company) he became a type of those associated with the dispensing of restitution blessings (the Ancient Worthies). R5780:1, R4758:2; Q305:2; R3429:3, R3417:1; Q260:3

2 Kings 2:15

Sons of the prophets -- See comments on 2 Kings 2:3.

Doth rest on Elisha -- See comments on 2 Kings 2:1. The meaning of the name Elisha is "mighty deliverer," and the career of Elisha was one of restitution work. B266

2 Kings 2:16

Seek thy master -- Illustrating how the world will be as ignorant of the glorification of the true Church as they were of the glorification of its head at the commencement of the age. R558:3

2 Kings 2:17

And they sought -- Certain classes of Christian people may doubt that the Church has really gone to glory, but afterwards they are thoroughly convinced. R5772:1, R3429:4

Three days -- May be symbolic, representing three years. R5772:1, R3429:4

2 Kings 2:18

Tarried at Jericho -- The word "Jericho" signifies "His moon" or "month." There is a hint in this that Jericho typifies fleshly Israel, which will be the first to recognize the Elisha class, the Ancient Worthies. R3429:5

2 Kings 2:19

The water is naught -- Brackish, representing impure doctrines. R5780:2; B266; R4758:4

2 Kings 2:20

A new cruse -- Representing the new institutions, new conditions, new views of the Jews respecting Christ and the glorified spiritual Israel. R3429:6

Put salt therein -- "Ye are the salt of the earth." (Matt. 5:13) R3429:6

2 Kings 2:21

Unto the spring -- Representing the Word of God. B266

Representing the Law. R3429:5

Of the waters -- Representing the waters of truth, now brackish with error. B266, R4758:4, R5780:2, R2345:3

And cast the salt -- The purifying property of salt is here referred to. R2099:2

"Ye are the salt of the earth." (Matt. 5:13) It will be in and through the glorified salt of the earth that the blessing will come, the streams of truth for human refreshment. R5780:2, R4758:4

The Law was in itself just, perfect, good, yet it lacked something necessary to make it a blessing to Israel--the work of Christ fulfilling the Law and removing its condemnation. R3429:5

Healed these waters -- Cleansing from untruth and error, by the glorified Church, through the Ancient Worthies, to the world, through the Jews. This is also what St. Paul calls to our attention in Rom. 11:25-33. R4758:4, R5780:2

2 Kings 2:23

Little children -- Not babies, but young hoodlums, from 10 to 20 years of age. R4758:2, R5780:2, R3429:6

Out of the city -- Indicating that amongst natural Israel will be some who will not appreciate the healing work done by the Elisha class. R3429:6

These will disregard the instructions of the earthly representatives of the Kingdom. R3429:6

Go up -- Your master, Elijah, went up to heaven in a whirlwind. Why do not you go also? R4758:1

Thou bald head -- You are a bald head, or one who has lost his master. R4758:1

A particularly opprobrious epithet in those days. R3429:6

Failing to render a proper appreciation of the dignity of the office of the Ancient Worthies as chosen agents of the heavenly Kingdom. R3430:1

2 Kings 2:24

Cursed -- Declared them "evil in the name of Jehovah" (Young's translation). R3429:6

He did not swear at them, but denounced their conduct as wrong and declared that it would have a punishment. R5780:2, R4758:1

And tare -- Tore them, wounded them; there is no suggestion that the bears ate them or killed them. R5780:2, R4758:2

"When thy judgments are in the earth, the inhabitants of the world will learn righteousness." (Isa. 26:9) R5780:3, R3430:1

So there will be judgments in the world during the Millennium; punishments for every wrong course, rewards for every right deed. R5780:3, R3429:6, R4758:5

2 Kings 4:1

A certain woman -- Josephus claims that this woman was the widow of Obadiah. R3430:6

Of the wives -- Indicating that the school of the prophets was not a monastic order. R3430:3

Sons of the prophets -- See comments on 2 Kings 2:3.

Unto Elisha -- Her cry to the prophet of the Lord was a cry to the Lord himself. R3431:3

Fear the LORD -- That is, he reverenced, worshipped and sought to serve the Lord. R3430:6

To be bondmen -- According to the terms of the law her sons must serve the creditor until the debt was paid or until the Jubilee year. R2345:3

Represents how the whole world of Adam's family was sold under sin and obligated to pay the wages of sin, death. R3430:3

2 Kings 4:2

Elisha -- Elisha may also typify the Ancient Worthies (See 2 Kings 2:14). R5780:1, R4758:2; B265; R3417:2

What shall I do -- Showing the Lord's willingness to help us to pay our honest debts; and our responsibility to pay them. R2345:5

What hast thou -- During the Millennium the Lord will bless what people may have according to their faith. R5780:4

We should look to see what we have in our possession. R5419:3, R5780:4

God can use our humblest talent to his praise. R5419:2

Hath not any thing -- The woman did not appeal for divine aid until she was in extremities, and neither should we. R3431:3

A pot of oil -- God is pleased to bless the use of things which we have rather than to send us other things. R2345:5

Olive oil was used for light, cooking, and as butter in those days; a household necessity and an article of ready sale. R3431:2

The Lord used what she had on hand. R5419:4

Olive oil is used in the Scriptures as a symbol of the holy Spirit. R3431:4

2 Kings 4:3

Even empty vessels -- It is for us to see that we are emptied vessels; empty that he may fill us with his Spirit. R3431:5

Borrow not a few -- Her faith was tested and developed by the prophet's requirement that she and her sons should cooperate in the borrowing of vessels. R3431:4, R2345:5

The fact that she was able to borrow from her neighbors implies a good reputation. R3431:2

2 Kings 4:5

She poured out -- Reminding us that during the Millennial age his Spirit shall be poured upon all flesh. (Joel 2:28) R3431:4, R558:4

A beautiful picture of restitution blessings. R4758:5, R2345:5

Thus, as we acknowledge divine mercies and render thanks, the blessing is only increased. F687

2 Kings 4:6

The vessels were full -- Illustrating the blessed rewards of faith that the Lord will grant during the Millennium. R5780:4

Representing how the antitypical Elisha will help the poor to secure the oil of joy for the spirit of heaviness in the Millennium. B266

Every vessel fitted for its reception shall be filled with the Spirit to its full. R3431:4, R558:4

2 Kings 4:7

Pay thy debt -- Justice was not to be violated. R5780:4, R2345:5

2 Kings 4:8

A great woman -- Evidently widely known as a good and wise woman, and probably possessed of a large estate. R3431:3, R2345:6

The kind of greatness, too, which recognizes goodness and reverences the Lord and those who are his. R2345:6

2 Kings 4:9

Unto her husband -- Manifesting a commendable wifely deference to his wishes. R2346:1

2 Kings 4:10

A little chamber -- Every home, if possible, should have such a guest chamber for the Lord's servants. R2346:1, R3432:1

Present day arrangements for public hotels are calculated to hinder the development of the spirit of hospitality. R3432:1

2 Kings 4:13

What is to be done -- Those who accept the favors of others and lack the desire to do as much in return are lacking the Lord's spirit. R2346:2

2 Kings 4:17

The woman conceived -- The miraculous interposition of divine power quickening the dormant and inoperative forces. R560:6*

2 Kings 4:22

To the man of God -- Her faith in the prophet corresponds very well to our faith in the Lord Jesus. R3432:4

2 Kings 4:26

It is well -- Avoiding the questions of Elisha's servant. R3432:3

An answer of faith having full confidence in the power of God, through the prophet, to awaken her son from the dead. R2346:2

2 Kings 4:27

Hid it from me -- It was not by any power that the prophet himself possessed that he had any special knowledge, but by revelations from the Lord. R2349:6

2 Kings 4:29

Take my staff -- Much after the same style that the Apostle Paul sent napkins and handkerchiefs to the sick. R3432:3

2 Kings 4:30

I will not leave thee -- Possibly realizing that the servant was not such a man as his master. R3432:3

2 Kings 4:35

Then he returned -- The Lord is pleased to exercise his power, either slowly or quickly, according to circumstances and conditions. R2346:5

Walked ... to and fro -- Apparently the prophet was perplexed by this case. R2346:4

Child opened his eyes -- This restoration of life was a foreshadowing of the great Times of Restitution. HG336:1

Picturing coming restitution work of the Millennium, when all the sleeping dead will be awakened. R5781:2; B266; R4758:5

Was merely awakened, not "resurrected," not "raised to life again." F703, F704; R2346:5

2 Kings 4:38

There was a dearth -- Representing a lack of spiritual food. B266

Sons of the prophets -- Representing theologians. B266; R558:4. See comments on 2 Kings 2:3.

2 Kings 4:40

Death in the pot -- Deadly doctrines, error and superstition, combined with Satan's great falsehood. R4758:4, R558:4

This will be effectually offset by the blessings of the Lord through his glorified Kingdom. R4758:4

2 Kings 4:41

That they may eat -- May represent a healing of the food of theologians by the putting of an antidote into their poisonous mess. R558:4

2 Kings 4:44

And they did eat -- Representing that spiritual food shall be made wholesome and plentiful. B266; R558:4

2 Kings 5:1

The LORD had given -- Naaman's victory is credited to Jehovah, who did interfere with the affairs of outside nations to some extent. R3438:2

Deliverance unto Syria -- To Syria and Israel, in combination against Shalmaneser II. R3438:2

He was a leper -- Leprosy corresponds to sin: it is incurable, loathsome, contagious, destructive, painless. R4769:1, R3439:3, R2347:2

A figure of sin, incurable, except by divine miracle. R5780:4

2 Kings 5:3

She said unto her mistress -- So all those who know of a divine power and arrangement for the healing of sinners may tell the good tidings, even to their enemies. R4769:1

Leprosy -- See comments on 2 Kings 5:1.

2 Kings 5:7

Rent his clothes -- In indication of his great distress. R5780:5, R3438:6, R2347:1

Am I God -- The king of Israel was an idolater. He probably had no dealings with, and scarcely any knowledge of, Elisha. R3438:6

Leprosy -- See comments on 2 Kings 5:1.

2 Kings 5:10

And Elisha -- See comments on 2 Kings 2:14.

Sent a messenger -- We feel sure that it would not be the Lord's will that we as his followers should duplicate or copy Elisha's manner, but should render honor to those to whom honor is due. R3439:1

Elisha's course declared, "I am greater than you, because while you are the servant of the king of Syria, I am a servant of the King of kings." R3439:2

Wash in Jordan -- See comments on 2 Kings 2:6. The antitypical Jordan, "the fountain filled with blood, drawn from Immanuel's veins." R2347:6, R4769:1

Seven times -- A complete cleansing, washing. R4769:1, R3439:4, R2347:6

Our belief, obedience and baptism unto death must be perfect or complete, otherwise there is no remission of sins. R3439:4

Signifying that half-hearted consecration and obedience are not what the Lord is pleased to honor and bless. R3439:5

2 Kings 5:11

But Naaman was wroth -- He expected great consideration for his rank. R4768:6, R2347:1, R3439:1, R5780:5

2 Kings 5:12

Are not Abana -- No doubt the modern river Barrada; it has the clearest waters possible. R3439:2

May I not wash in them -- There are various theories, philosophies and many suggestions as to how sin can be gotten rid of. R3439:4

2 Kings 5:13

His servants came near -- In a moderate and wise manner, and offered him some good advice. R2347:2, R4768:6

When someone comes to the place of being ready to obey the Lord's voice, to be rid of his load of sin, it not infrequently is the result of good counsel on the part of his Christian friends. R2347:6

2 Kings 5:14

Then went he down -- Although fearful that no good would come from the washing and that he would be the laughing stock of all. R4768:6

Others may help to impress the lesson; yet no recovery from sin can be made except as the individual himself follows the divine prescription. R4769:1

Seven times -- See comments on 2 Kings 5:10.

And he was clean -- As only divine power could heal the leper, only the same can heal the sinner. R4769:1

Foreshadows the restitution work. B266

2 Kings 5:15

And he returned -- Retraced his journey nearly forty miles to thank the prophet and to bestow gifts. R4769:2

Gratitude is one of the most worthy sentiments of the human mind. R4769:2

Demonstrating that the Lord's blessing of healing was conferred upon a man of naturally noble traits. R3439:5, R2348:2

Take a blessing -- A present. R2348:2

The truly great take pleasure in being just and generous. R3439:6

His gifts were consecrated beforehand and so, after receiving the blessing, to have withheld any part would have proven him unworthy; so with our consecration. R3440:1

2 Kings 5:16

I will receive none -- Thus showing that Naaman's healing was a favor, and not in exchange for the expensive presents he brought. R3439:2, R2348:4

The gifts of God's grace are not to be bartered for earthly good things. R4769:4, R5780:6

While it is not wrong for servants of the Lord to receive compensation, yet the Lord is more glorified if they do not. R3440:2

How much to the Lord's glory if all of God's people would emulate Elisha in this respect. R4769:4, R3440:2, R2348:4

2 Kings 5:17

Burden of earth -- Enough of the consecrated soil of Palestine for the building of an altar to the Lord. R3440:2, R2348:5

2 Kings 5:18

Pardon thy servant -- Since Naaman was not an Israelite but a stranger to the covenant and promises of Israel, less would be required of him. R3440:3, R2348:6

My master -- The king of Syria. R3440:2

2 Kings 5:19

Go In peace -- Elisha's answer was, in substance, that if the General made full profession of faith in the true God it would not be improper for him to accompany his master to the house of the false god, for his adherence to Jehovah God would be recognized. R5781:1

2 Kings 5:20

But Gehazi -- Elisha's servant had a different spirit and determined to get something by a process of graft." R4769:4, R5781:3, R3440:5, R2349:2 Covetousness leads to various other sins. Nearly every crime is more or less traceable to it. R2349:2,4

There are some today in daily contact with the truth who do not partake of its spirit and in whom selfishness is the ruling passion. R3440:5

2 Kings 5:27

Leprosy . . . of Naaman -- With knowledge came responsibility; hence, the severe punishment inflicted upon him for hypocrisy and deception. R5781:2

2 Kings 6:12

But Elisha, the prophet -- Apparently the knowledge of Jehovah and Elisha had spread from General Naaman to some of the household of the king. R5781:4

Telleth the king -- Probably angels were the divine instrumentality in informing Elisha of the things proper to be told the king of Israel for his protection. R2349:3

2 Kings 6:13

Go and spy where he is -- The king was not wise in his determination, not realizing that the prophet would be informed by the wisdom of God. R3440:6

2 Kings 6:15

The servant -- Not Gehazi, but another more worthy. R2349:6

Was risen early -- Elisha doubtless understood in advance, but did not flee. R3441:1

2 Kings 6:17

Open his eyes -- The spiritual body, though shining "above the brightness of the firmament," cannot be seen by mortals without a special revelation. HG28:6

That he may see -- Angels can be, and frequently are, present, yet invisible. A182

Giving to his eyes of understanding a proper conception of the divine power present with the prophet. R3441:2, R5781:5

A prayer doubtless intended of the Lord as a lesson for his people down through the ages. R3441:1

And he saw -- A vision, an active parable, a picture similar to the symbolic pictures of Revelation. R3441:2, R5781:5

Horses and chariots -- Illustrative of the divine power and protection. R3441:2

Of fire -- Like fire, as all spirit beings are described in Scripture. R2350:1

Round about Elisha -- The Father has numberless messengers to care for the interests of his cause on earth, ministering especially unto the very elect. (Psa. 34:7; Matt. 18:10) R3441:3, R5781:5, R4769:3, R2350:1

God's omnipotent power, like a mighty army, completely surrounds those who are his. R5781:5, R4769:3

The Christian is enabled, through faith, to see the armies of the Lord encamped about him without a miracle being performed on his natural sight. R2350:1

2 Kings 6:18

With blindness -- Not total blindness, but bewilderment or hallucination similar to that produced by hypnotism; the eyes of their understanding being closed. R5781:6, R4769:6, R3441:5, R2350:4

2 Kings 6:19

Neither Is this the city -- True, for Dothan was not Elisha's city; his house was in Samaria, where he took them and brought them to the man they sought--himself. R2350:5

2 Kings 6:21

Shall I smite them? -- Israel's kings were learning gradually that the will of the Lord was to be considered. R2350:5

2 Kings 6:22

Set bread and water -- "If thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink; for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head." (Rom. 12:20) R3441:6

How many enemies could be won by kind treatment, who would be made bitter by even just treatment. R4770:1

2 Kings 6:23

Came no more -- The best victories are the bloodless ones; where the spirit of righteousness, mercy and benevolence are victorious over the spirit of rivalry, ambition and selfishness. R2350:6

2 Kings 8:6

King appointed unto her -- A secondary reward for her hospitality and faith. R3432:5

2 Kings 8:17

He reigned eight years -- Usher's chronology incorrectly makes this period only four years. B52

A confirmation rather than a source of doubt. R4601:4

2 Kings 8:18

Way of the kings of Israel -- Baalism extended from the court of Israel to the court of Judah. R3446:3

2 Kings 8:26

Two and twenty years old -- 42 years, according to 2 Chron. 22:2. HG105:2

2 Kings 9:9

The house of Ahab -- Representing civil power, the Roman empire. B256; R4741:1; Dii; OV268:3

2 Kings 9:10

Jezebel -- Symbolizing corrupt church system, the great harlot, Babylon. (Rev. 2:20) R4741:1, R2341:2; B256; Dii; OV268:3

2 Kings 9:16

Went to Jezreel -- In the plain of Esdraelon, near the hill of Megiddo (Armageddon). Di

2 Kings 9:22

Whoredoms of thy mother -- Jezebel is the type of the Papal church, the mother of abominations. R389:2*

2 Kings 9:30

Jehu -- He served as the sword of the Lord to execute retribution upon Ahab and Jezebel. R3446:6; B266

Jezebel -- See comments on 2 Kings 9:10.

2 Kings 9:33

Throw her down -- Foreshadowing the final overthrow of the system represented by her. B266

2 Kings 10:18

Ahab -- See comments on 2 Kings 9:9.

2 Kings 10:28

Jehu destroyed Baal -- When the systems typified by Ahab and Jezebel, and all who unite with them against God, shall be fully and finally overthrown. B266

2 Kings 11:1

Athaliah -- Daughter of Jezebel. R3446:6, R4776:3

Seed royal -- She caused all her grandsons to be put to death. R3446:6, R4777:1

2 Kings 11:2

Jehosheba -- Daughter of Athaliah, but wife of the High Priest and under his influence. R3446:6

In the bed chamber -- A room used for the storage of sleeping mats. R4777:1

Because of Baal worship the rooms of the priests, in connection with the temple of Jehovah, were generally neglected and were a safe place to rear the young king. R2366:3

2 Kings 11:3

Athaliah did reign -- As Queen Dowager, she was the highest authority in the kingdom. R4776:3

2 Kings 11:4

Jehoida sent -- With great wisdom he called together the chiefs of the nation at a festival time, when their coming would not be thought strange. R4777:4

2 Kings 11:12

The testimony -- On top of the crown was laid the testimony, the parchment scroll of the Ten Commandments, indicating that the divine law was superior to the crown. R4777:5

2 Kings 11:14

Treason, Treason -- Injustice sometimes becomes entrenched and fortified in human minds, so that an attempt to establish righteousness is considered treason. R4777:5

2 Kings 12:1

And forty years -- Which Usher incorrectly reckons as thirty-nine. B52

2 Kings 12:3

High places were not taken -- The influence of the idolatry of surrounding nations was still upon them. R4777:3

2 Kings 12:4

Passeth the account -- A poll tax. R3447:6

Is set at -- Possibly the tithes, one-tenth of all the profits of the year. R3447:6

Heart to bring -- Voluntary donations above those required under the Law. R3447:6

2 Kings 12:5

Repair the breaches -- The Temple had long been in disuse, and stones from it may have been used for the temple of Baal. R3448:1

The spiritual Temple has become seriously deranged during the long period of the Dark Ages. R3448:2, R4778:2, R2367:4 As Christians we are individually the temples of God (1 Cor. 3:16, 17), and must not only keep as undefiled as possible in thought, word and act, but also take reasonable care of our physical bodies. R2367:2

2 Kings 12:6

Priests had not -- The Reformation promised great things in the way of repairs needed in the spiritual Temple, but the Protestant clergy have used the means and opportunities for personal advantage. R3448:2, R2367:4

2 Kings 12:7

The other priests -- Representing the Protestant clergy (See 2 Kings 12:6). R3448:2

Said unto them -- The king passed over the matter of the lack of repairs as lightly as possible, without charging the priests with embezzlement or neglect. R4777:3

Breaches of the house -- See comments on 2 Kings 12:5

Receive no more money -- Voluntary offerings are approved rather than those that are importuned, coaxed begged, wheedled from saints and sinners. R4777:6

2 Kings 12:8

Repair the breaches -- See comments on 2 Kings 12:5.

2 Kings 12:9

But Jehoida -- Representing our High Priest, the Lord Jesus. R3448:2

A hole In the lid -- A money chest with slotted top for voluntary contributions, convenient to worshippers passing in and out. R4777:3,6, R3448:1

2 Kings 13:14

Now Elisha -- Elisha's remarkable history as a prophet and representative of God in Israel continued for nearly 65 years. R2354:2

And Joash -- Otherwise called Jehoash. R2354:2

Was evidently very humble and had come to realize that Israel's trouble lay in neglecting Jehovah. R2354:3

Wept over his face -- Sorrowful that he now would no longer have heavenly counsel; perhaps remorseful that he had not sooner appreciated the privileges which he did enjoy. R2354:3

Chariot ... horsemen -- May signify that he regarded Elisha as a host in himself, as the chief defense of the nation. R2354:3

The same words Elisha used of Elijah's taking (2 Kings 2:12). Seems to intimate that the Elisha c1ass belongs to the spiritually-begotten family. R558:5

2 Kings 13:17

Shalt smite the Syrians -- Jehoash having come to a right attitude of mind, the Lord was pleased to release him and the kings of Israel from Syrian subjection. R2354:3

2 Kings 13:18

And he smote thrice -- Whether through little faith or lack of patriotism, he struck the arrows in a feeble way, and three times only; not even asking how many times he should strike. R2354:3

And stayed -- A lesson that whatever we do should be done with our might. We should keep on smiting until our enemy is vanquished. R2354:5

2 Kings 13:19

Was wroth with him -- Reasoning that if Jehoash had been full of zeal and faith for delivering Israel he would have been more energetic to strike the floor, representing Syria. R2354:5

Till thou hadst consumed -- We have a spiritual conflict against a wily foe, and we must smite energetically until victory. R2354:5

2 Kings 13:20

The Moabites invaded -- As a further chastisement, possibly because the faintheartedness of Jehoash became all the more manifest after Elisha's death, and because he and Israel did not serve the Lord with a whole heart. R2354:6

2 Kings 13:21

He revived -- God would remind Israel of his power and his word, by reminding them of Elisha and his words. R2354:6

2 Kings 14:25

Jonah ... of Gath-hepher -- In Galilee, thus contradicting the Pharisees who said, "Out of Galilee ariseth no prophet." (John 7:52) R3568:2*

2 Kings 16:2

Reigned sixteen years -- Which Usher incorrectly gives as fifteen. B52

2 Kings 16:18

The king's entry -- A remarkable passageway leading from the palace to the Temple. R2067:5

2 Kings 17:2

That were before him -- A rather doubtful compliment, of being less evil than some of his predecessors. R4819:3

2 Kings 17:6

And carried Israel -- The ten tribes. R4819:3

The fall of the ten tribes of Israel pictures the fall of Papacy. R2360:5

2 Kings 17:8

Statutes of the heathen -- Israel was quite willing to be God's special people, but seemingly they did not wish to be his peculiar people. R2359:1 Spiritual Israel must be "peculiar people" and not attempt to please and copy the world. R2360:4

2 Kings 17:9

Did secretly -- Hypocritically, under the pretense that they were doing this in the service of the true God. R2359:3

Corresponds with the tendency of many in Christendom today of publicly showing an outward display in forms and ceremonies, thinking they are increasing in godliness. R2359:4

2 Kings 17:10

Images and groves -- As natural Israel had its groves and totem-posts, so many spiritual Israelites have their various creeds. R3464:6

2 Kings 17:12

They served idols -- Idols today are popularity, wealth, fame, self, denomination. R2359:5, R3464:6

2 Kings 17:13

Keep my commandments -- Israel's prosperity or defeat indicated the Lord's favor or disfavor, in a manner not applicable to other nations. R4820:1

2 Kings 17:14

Hardened their necks -- A figure of speech drawn from the stiffness of neck of a yoke of unruly bullocks. R3464:1

Symbolizing a self-willed and rebellious attitude of heart. R4820:2, R3464:1

2 Kings 17:15

Rejected his statutes -- Israel rejected God's Law, God's word; lost faith in God's promises; lost sight of the result of forsaking his counsel; followed foolishness, desiring to be not peculiar but popular. R2360:2

This applies to antitypical nominal Israel of today. R2360:4

Went after the heathen -- The disposition to do like the world is the seductive point at which the great Adversary would switch us off from being the Lord's peculiar people. Let us remember John 15:19. R2360:4

2 Kings 17:17

To pass through the fire -- The fire of Moloch, as sacrifices. The modern Moloch is a god of everlasting torture. R2360:1

We have today a Moloch on a much larger scale, the God-dishonoring imaginations of a god red hot with the flames of hell or purgatory. R3464:6

Divination and enchantments -- God's Word warns us against having anything to do with occult powers. R5800:2

They held intercourse with the fallen angels. R2359:6

This same spirit of wilfulness and dissatisfaction with divine arrangements is not lacking today. R2359:6

Sold themselves to do evil -- They became the slaves of their passions and self-deceptions, misled of the evil spirits. R3464:1, R2359:6

2 Kings 17:18

With Israel -- These other nations were not specially chastised for idolatry as was Israel. R3463:6

Removed them -- Israel's overthrow was a judgment from the Lord. R4820:1

It was God's abandonment of the ten-tribe kingdom, his permission for them to have their way and henceforth to be treated of him as the heathen. R3463:6

An entire alienation from God. R3464:1

The greater religious faith and zeal was always to be found in Judah, and gradually many of the more religious in Ephraim (the ten-tribe kingdom) removed to Judah. R3464:2, R4819:3

Tribe of Judah only -- There are analogies in spiritual Israel: the great "falling away" from the faith; the captivity to Papacy and the world (Babylon); the "Reformation," and the separation of "Israelites indeed." R3464:5

The fall of the ten tribes of Israel reminds us of the fall of Papacy for similar reasons. R2360:5

2 Kings 17:20

All the seed of Israel -- The Israelites were destroyed as a nation; but God's favor will return to the twelve tribes, and their regathering will be the first blessing to humanity under Messiah's reign. R4820:4

2 Kings 17:23

Removed Israel -- See comments on 2 Kings 17:18.

So was Israel carried away -- Whoever of them maintained faith in God and observed circumcision maintained his membership as an Israelite. Others ceased entirely to be Israelites. R4819:6, R3464:4

To Assyria -- They gradually assimilated with the population surrounding them and lost identity as Israelites. R3463:6

2 Kings 17:24

Place them in ... Samaria -- Thus the Samaritans of Jesus' day were Gentiles who had been transported to Samaria. R2574:1

2 Kings 17:27

Let him teach them -- Thus the Samaritan Gentiles obtained a smattering of knowledge of Jewish hopes, combining them with false ideas of their own. R2574:1

2 Kings 17:41

Feared the LORD -- Comprehended through the light of nature; but not justified thereby. R1030:2*

2 Kings 18:3

Did that which was right -- The fact that so good a son could come from so evil a father is an evidence that under divine providence it is not necessary that we should inherit all the evil traits of our ancestors. R2379:2

The secret of the difference between the father and the son was a godly mother. R3462:3

His faithfulness formed the basis for his later prayer for an extension of life. R3588:4

2 Kings 18:4

Removed the high places -- He began in the first month of his reign to inaugurate reforms; the restoration of the worship of Jehovah as divinely appointed. (2 Chron 29:3) R2379:3,5

The antitypical cleansing of the Lord's Temple, his Church, is still in progress. R3463:4

2 Kings 18:5

None like him -- Hezekiah was reckoned in the Lord's sight as one of the three most acceptable kings--David and Josiah being the other two. R3462:3

2 Kings 18:7

He rebelled against -- By joining the confederacy of Egyptians, Philistines and Sidonians, contrary to the Lord's admonition through (Isa 8:12), this error was allowed to work out a serious penalty. R4832:3

2 Kings 18:12

Not hear . . . nor do them -- If reproofs do not have a corrective influence they will have the opposite effect--the sinner will be the more obstinate and opposed to God. R4820:2

2 Kings 18:14

To Lachish -- The siege and capture of Lachish is amply illustrated on the walls of the palaces in Nineveh, with full particulars given. R2382:5, R520:3*

That which thou puttest -- Hezekiah's first move was to placate his adversary by becoming his vassal and paying annual tribute, wherein he greatly erred. R2381:3

2 Kings 18:15

All the silver -- Spiritual Israelites may be disposed to do as Hezekiah, purchase peace with things consecrated to the Lord--to compromise the truth, to subtract from the time, influence, means, etc., consecrated to the Lord. R2381:6

If the Lord's consecrated people do this, he will permit to come upon them the very difficulties they dread and seek to avert by unholy compromise. R2381:6

2 Kings 18:17

Against Jerusalem -- Sennacherib rued his agreement and violated it. R4832:6

This attack was permitted as a consequence of Hezekiah's failure to recognize Jehovah at once as the almighty ruler and preserver of his people. R2381:3

2 Kings 19:2

To Isaiah -- Hezekiah's friend, advisor and supposed tutor in earlier years. R2381:3

2 Kings 19:7

I will send a blast -- Smiting of the angel of the Lord. (See 2 Kings 19:35) R2382:2

Some have supposed a simoon, or sandstorm, not uncommon in the Arabian desert. R2382:1

Fall by the sword -- Sennacherib was assassinated by his own sons. R2382:4

2 Kings 19:15

Between the cherubims -- Representing love and power, above a foundation of justice represented by the Mercy Seat. T125

2 Kings 19:28

Hook in thy nose ... bridle -- Representing the manner in which bullocks and horses are controlled. R2381:5

2 Kings 19:29

This shall be a sign -- That the deliverance was not temporary but permanent. R2382:4

2 Kings 19:32

Shall not come into -- Confirmed by the inscriptions on the monuments unearthed in Sennacherib's palace in Nineveh. R520:5*

2 Kings 19:35

Angel of the LORD -- Does not necessarily refer to an angelic being, but signifies "messenger." God is able to use winds or waves, lightnings or sandstorms, or pestilence, or any other agency. R2382:2, R3582:5; PD41/52

Smote In the camp -- Would have been most horrible if those smitten had gone to eternal torment instead of awaiting a resurrection, secured by Christ's death. PD41/52

Jewish tradition ascribes the destruction to a pestilence. R2382:2

Egyptian history ascribes Sennacherib's retreat to an invasion of field mice which gnawed the quivers, bowstrings and thongs of their shields. But mice, to the Egyptians, are a figurative way of speaking of the plagues. R2382:2

Other incidents of divine providence similarly intervening to protect those whom divine will did not want further injured include the destruction of the Spanish Armada and the retreat of Napoleon's army from Moscow. R2382:2

2 Kings 20:1

In those days -- Somewhere in the period of Hezekiah's prosperity and consequent pride. R2382:6

731 BC, 125 years before the removal of the crown from Zedekiah (606 BC); corresponding to the date of the French Revolution, 1789 AD, from which Christendom recovered, though it must have seemed to be a "sickness unto death"; which was 125 years before 1914, when Gentile crowns are removed. R3574:1,2*

Was Hezeklah sick -- Penalty for his failure to render unto the Lord according to his blessings. R2382:6

2 Kings 20:2

And prayed -- Isa. 38:9-22 records in poetic form Hezekiah's resolves and is evidently the embodiment of his previous prayer. R2382:6

2 Kings 20:7

And Isaiah said -- Isaiah did not pray with Hezekiah, nor suggest prayer, but was surprised when sent back to inform Hezekiah that he would recover. R2028:6

A lump of figs -- A poultice. Many who believe in faith healing today would object to a fig poultice or any other human instrumentality being used. R2029:1

2 Kings 20:8

Shall be the sign -- The Lord's people of the New Creation should avoid putting the Lord to tests and signs. He desires his people to walk by faith and not by sight. R3589:1

2 Kings 20:11

Brought the shadow -- Probably by means of conditions in the upper atmosphere causing two parhelia or mock suns. R2383:1,* R3589:2; Q770:4

Ten degrees backward -- Professor Garbet declares that he knew of an afternoon when, on sundials in Southern England, there occurred exactly the same wonder. R2383:1, R3589:4; Q770:4

Perhaps symbolically representing the ten years from the French Revolution to the beginning of the Time of the End. R3574:3*

2 Kings 20:20

Brought water -- This seems to shadow forth the founding of the various Bible Societies at the beginning of the last century. R3574:3*

2 Kings 21:1

Manasseh -- Isaiah, his supposed grandfather, having died previously. R2386:3

Was twelve years old -- If properly reared, he should have been considerably established in the ways of righteousness. R3598:3

2 Kings 21:2

That which was evil -- Good men and loyal to the Lord may be poor fathers as was Hezekiah in this case. R3598:2

The Lord's people have a serious responsibility to impress the plastic minds of their children with the principles of righteousness: "Train up a child in the way he should go." (Prov. 22:6) R3598:2

2 Kings 21:6

With familiar spirits -- The fallen angels. R5800:1, R1643:1, R2171:3, R2172:1; Q804:3

2 Kings 21:16

Shed innocent blood -- Probably in ignorance, under the frenzied zeal of false religion. R2387:2

2 Kings 22:1

Josiah -- Meaning "Jehovah will support." R2390:2

Jedidah -- Meaning "the beloved of Jehovah." R2390:2

Adaiah -- Meaning "the honored of Jehovah." R2390:2

2 Kings 22:5

Repair the house -- After cleansing the land of idols, he determined next to repair the Temple. R2390:5

So with the consecrated; after destroying the fleshly idols of the heart comes usefulness and service to the Lord, in building up the true temple. R2390:5

2 Kings 22:11

The book of the law -- Presumably the original copy of the book of Deuteronomy, written by Moses' own hand. R2390:6

Corresponding to the Reformation movement of the 16th century, leading to the finding and understanding of God's law, the Bible. R2391:5

The reading of it awakened one of the greatest revivals in the history of that nation. R4051:1

Rent his clothes -- An expression of dismay. The book's delineations of the Law were so different from what had been taught by the priests that the king was astonished. R2390:6

Realizing how far short Israel had come and noting the punishments prescribed, he was greatly troubled. R2391:1

In olden times, this was a symbol of distress, perplexity or fear. R3608:3

2 Kings 22:14

Unto Huldah -- For several reasons: (1) perhaps a woman, especially one connected with the court, would give a softer message; (2) Jeremiah and Zephaniah may have been away from Jerusalem; (3) the king may have considered the above two prophets too extreme; or (4) to obtain an outside testimony since Jeremiah was the son of the High Priest and Zephaniah his own cousin. R2391:2

The prophetess -- God, who is no respecter of persons, requires faithfulness on the part of female as well as male stewards in the use of all their talents. R1549:4

2 Kings 22:16

Evil upon this place -- It was too late for any national reformation. So far as Christendom is concerned there is no balm in Gilead that will help and recover her. R2391:4

2 Kings 22:19

Thine heart was tender -- An honest, believing heart, realizing that the nation of Israel had committed the very sins recorded in Deut. 28. R3608:3

2 Kings 22:20

Behold therefore -- Because of the splendid work of reformation which the king had inaugurated. Q765:2

Thy grave in peace -- Conditioned on Josiah's faith and obedience to the Lord. Q765:2

2 Kings 23:4

Made for Baal -- Or Bel, type of the god of Babylon, the Pope. D40

2 Kings 23:10

Molech -- The valley of Hinnom (Greek, Gehenna) had erected in it a brass figure of the god Moloch which, being hollow, was heated intensely and then into its outstretched arms were placed children offered in sacrifice. R3069:1

Today in Christendom we have a Moloch on a much larger scale, a much worse representation of God--a god red hot with the flames of hell or purgatory, with millions in his embrace. R3464:6, R2360:1; PD41/52

2 Kings 23:16

And burned them -- Prophesied in 1 Kings 13:1-3. R3607:3

2 Kings 23:20

Slew all the priests -- Violent opposition to idolatry was a responsibility of every king in Israel; but spiritual Israelites are not to war with carnal weapons. R3607:3

2 Kings 23:21

Keep the passover -- 641 BC. The 2520-year parallel in the Gospel age of the great passover, the resurrection of "the dead in Christ" in 1878 AD, and the passing over of the feet members since that date at the moment of death. R3574:4*

2 Kings 23:24

Familiar spirits -- The fallen angels. R5800:1, R1643:1, R2171:3, R2172:1

2 Kings 23:25

With all his heart -- It is not sufficient that we be well-disposed and moral; it is necessary that we devote ourselves wholly to do his will, and then seek after him to know his will, and do it. R2390:3

2 Kings 23:29

And he slew him -- The reason why Josiah suffered a violent death is outlined in 2 Chron. 35:20-22. What a lesson for all, not to meddle in the affairs of others. Q765:2

2 Kings 24:3

At the commandment -- The Lord gave Judah every opportunity to learn the needed lessons: (1) in the object lessons of the works of idolatry in the ten-tribe kingdom; and (2) when they witnessed the captivity and dispersion of the ten-tribe kingdom for disloyalty to Jehovah. R2401:2

2 Kings 24:8

Eighteen years old -- Not eight, as in 2 Chron. 36:9 by a copyist's error. B53

2 Kings 24:14

Carried away all Jerusalem -- This partial captivity occurred eleven, not eighteen, years before the dethronement of King Zedekiah, as Usher incorrectly puts it. B52

Daniel and his companions were included in this captivity. R2401:6

Save the poorest -- Shortly even these, "all people, both small and great," fled to Egypt for fear of the Chaldees (2

Kings 25:26) and the seventy years of desolation of the land "without an inhabitant" began to be fulfilled. B52; R3437:3, R1372:5

2 Kings 24:17

Made Mattaniah . . . king -- Compelling him to take an oath of allegiance to the kingdom of Babylon. R2401:6

2 Kings 25:6

They took the king -- As nearly as we can tell, it was the year 606 BC. R5564:2

2 Kings 25:7

Carried him to Babylon -- Fulfilling two very remarkable prophecies: That Zedekiah would be taken captive to Babylon and die there, yet never see the city (Ezek. 12:13); and, contrary to this, that he would speak with Nebuchadnezzar mouth to mouth and see his eyes. (Jer. 32:4, Jer. 34:3) R2402:1; PD47/59

2 Kings 25:8

The seventh day -- The 10th day, according to Jer. 52:12. HG105:2

2 Kings 25:9

Burnt the house -- Nebuchadnezzar utterly destroyed Jerusalem and its Temple with fire. PD48/59

2 Kings 25:13

To Babylon -- Symbol of Babylon the Great. C120

2 Kings 25:15

As were of gold -- Symbolic of precious truths. C120

2 Kings 25:26

And all the people -- Thus beginning the seventy years desolation. B52; R2402:1, R1372:5

Came to Egypt -- Therefore, in reckoning the time to the desolation of the land, all periods up to the close of Zedekiah's reign should be counted in. B52; R3437:3, R1372:5

2 Kings 25:28

Spake kindly to him -- In spiritual Israel the unfaithful, like Jehoiachim, might be chastened and afterwards treated with leniency. R3623:3