MPV Commentary

King Jehoram of Israel made a levy from his own subjects and sought an alliance with King Jehoshaphat of Judah, which was readily agreed to (1Ki 22:4).

The three kings discussed their plan of attack against Moab, and Jehoshaphat preferred a route through the wilderness of Edom. This route would allow them to enlist the forces of the king of Edom and target the most defenseless part of Moabite territory.

However, as they journeyed through the deep, rocky valley of Ahsy, which formed the boundary between Edom and Moab, their army was severely tested by a lack of water. They were disappointed to find that the brook Zered (De 2:13-18) was dry. Jehoram was in despair.

Jehoshaphat, however, sought out a prophet of the Lord, and they learned that Elisha was nearby. The three kings went to him, not only as a sign of respect but also to ask for his assistance. Elisha had been directed by the Spirit of God to meet with them at this time.

Elisha's servant poured water on Elijah's hands, indicating that he was Elijah's attendant and a true prophet who would reveal God's will. When Jehoram asked for help, Elisha gave him a stern rebuke, telling him to go consult Baal and his soothsayers. However, the distressed condition of the royal suppliants drew from Elisha a solemn assurance that he was only interested in helping Jehoshaphat because of his faithfulness to God.

Elisha then asked for a minstrel to play music, which was often used in the East to soothe the mind and prepare one for prophetic work. He said that the gift of prophecy came from the hand of the Lord, implying that it was not a natural ability but rather a divine gift.

Elisha instructed the Israelites to dig ditches in the valley, which would hold water when it arrived. He also told them they would not see wind or rain, but God would provide for their needs. When the morning sacrifice was offered, accompanied by prayers, Elisha led the people in worship.

Suddenly, a great fall of rain occurred in the eastern mountains of Edom, filling the wady with water. The Israelites saw neither wind nor rain, but they were provided for nonetheless. This divine intervention not only brought aid to the Israelite army but also destruction on the Moabites, who mistakenly believed that the confederate kings had quarreled and slaughtered each other.

The Moabites rushed to the battlefield in expectation of great spoil, but instead, they were met by the prepared Israelites. The country was laid waste, and their fortress, Kir-haraseth (now Kerak), was left desolate.

As a result of this divine judgment, the allied army feared God's anger and hastily raised the siege. They had given occasion to the human sacrifice forbidden in the law (Le 18:21; 20:3) by driving the king of Moab to offer his eldest son as a burnt offering.