MPV Commentary

Elisha Sends Naaman to Jordan, and He Is Healed.

When Elisha heard that the king of Israel had torn his clothes in distress over Naaman's condition, he sent a message to the king saying, "Now let him come to me." This was the ultimate goal for which Naaman's journey was intended by God. When the Syrian general arrived at Elisha's house with his entourage, Elisha instructed him to go and wash in the Jordan River seven times.

This seemingly abrupt reception from a prophet of such high stature infuriated Naaman to the point that he decided to leave, boasting that the rivers of Damascus were superior to all the waters of Israel. He was convinced that the waters of his own land would be more effective in healing him than those of a foreign nation.

Elisha's instructions for Naaman involved striking his hand over the diseased areas of his body. This practice was rooted in an ancient superstition still prevalent in the East, where people believed that the touch or wave of a king's or holy person's hand could heal a sore.

The rivers Abana and Pharpar, which flowed through Damascus, were highly regarded by its inhabitants for their purity and coldness. However, Naaman was persuaded to try Elisha's method by his more level-headed attendants, who urged him to follow the simple instructions given. He eventually dipped himself seven times in the Jordan River, and as a result, he was cured.

The healing of Naaman was based on God's covenant with Israel, which blessed the land and all that pertained to it. The number seven held symbolic significance in this context, representing the covenant itself.