Shunem in the Bible
The village where Elisha raised the Shunammite woman's son from the dead.
Shunem was a village in the Jezreel Valley known for its connection to the prophet Elisha. A wealthy Shunammite woman built a room for Elisha in her home. When her son later died, Elisha performed one of the Old Testament's most dramatic miracles — raising the boy back to life.
Modern Location
Sulam (Solem), near Mount Moreh, northern Israel
Key Biblical Events
- 1The Shunammite woman hosts Elisha (2 Kings 4:8–10)
- 2Elisha promises her a son (2 Kings 4:16)
- 3The son dies and Elisha raises him (2 Kings 4:18–37)
- 4Abishag the Shunammite serves aged King David (1 Kings 1:3)
Key KJV Scriptures
"Let us make a little chamber, I pray thee, on the wall; and let us set for him there a bed, and a table, and a stool, and a candlestick."
"Then he returned, and walked in the house to and fro; and went up, and stretched himself upon him: and the child sneezed seven times, and the child opened his eyes."
Spiritual Significance
Shunem teaches that hospitality toward God's servants opens the door to God's extraordinary provision. The Shunammite's generosity was rewarded with a miracle beyond her imagination.
Why Shunem Matters
Shunem holds a unique place in Scripture because it stands at the crossroads of God's covenant promises to His chosen people. With 4 major biblical events connected to this site — and key figures like Elisha, David, Abishag linked to its story — Shunem is far more than a point on an ancient map. It is a place where God acted decisively in human history.
Rooted in the Old Testament narrative, Shunem is referenced in 2 key scriptures that reveal God's faithfulness across generations. Shunem teaches that hospitality toward God's servants opens the door to God's extraordinary provision. The Shunammite's generosity was rewarded with a miracle beyond her imagination.
For today's believer, studying Shunem is more than a geography lesson — it is an invitation to see God's faithfulness written across real places and real people. Every mountain, city, and river in Scripture reminds us that God works within history, not apart from it. When you read about Shunem, you are standing on the same spiritual ground where Elisha encountered the living God.
Related Bible Characters
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was the Shunammite woman?
A wealthy, unnamed woman of Shunem who showed remarkable hospitality to the prophet Elisha, building a room for him in her home. Her faith and persistence in crisis led to her son's resurrection.
How did Elisha raise the boy?
Elisha prayed to God, then lay upon the child, placing his mouth on the boy's mouth, his eyes on his eyes, and his hands on his hands. The child sneezed seven times and opened his eyes.
Explore Related Content
Related Bible Locations
Mount Carmel
The mountain where Elijah defeated the prophets of Baal in a dramatic showdown.
Mount Tabor
Traditionally identified as the site of Jesus' Transfiguration.
Jezreel
Fertile valley and royal city — site of Naboth's vineyard and Jezebel's downfall.
Mount Carmel
Where Elijah confronted 450 prophets of Baal and fire fell from heaven.
Mount Tabor
The rallying point for Deborah and Barak's victory and a traditional site of the Transfiguration.
Miracles at Shunem
Every miracle in Scripture tied to Shunem.
Where to go next
Finished reading about Shunem? Keep exploring the places and people of Scripture.
- Explore the full Bible locations mapEvery place in Scripture, by region.Continue
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Related Reading
Continue your study with related content from across our library:
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Shunem in the Bible
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