The Shunammite Woman
Hostess to Elisha
Wealthy hostess of Elisha whose son was raised from the dead and whose land was restored.
The 'great woman' of Shunem (2 Kings 4) made a small chamber for Elisha as he passed through. Her hospitality opened the door to two miracles — the birth of a son and his resurrection from the dead.
Her Story
She perceived Elisha was a holy man and built him a walled chamber. In reward Elisha promised her a son, though her husband was old. When the boy was grown he sickened in the field and died in her lap. She laid him on the prophet's bed and rode straight to Carmel — 'It shall be well.' Elisha came, prayed, stretched himself upon the child, and the boy sneezed seven times and opened his eyes. Later, warned by Elisha of famine, she sojourned seven years in Philistia; on her return she appealed to the king and her land and its fruits were fully restored (2 Kings 8:1-6).
What Scripture Teaches
- 1A 'great woman' of Shunem who hosted Elisha (2 Kings 4:8-10)
- 2Promised and given a son in old age (4:14-17)
- 3Her dead son raised by Elisha (4:32-37)
- 4Warned of famine; her land restored by the king (8:1-6)
Key KJV Scriptures
"And she said unto her husband, Behold now, I perceive that this is an holy man of God, which passeth by us continually. Let us make a little chamber, I pray thee, on the wall..."
"Run now, I pray thee, to meet her, and say unto her, Is it well with thee? is it well with thy husband? is it well with the child? And she answered, It is well."
Why It Matters
She embodies discernment, hospitality, and faith. 'It is well' on the way to a dead child is the cry of trust that holds heaven's promise tighter than present grief.
Application for Today
Make room for God's servants and God's word. Hospitality opens unseen doors of blessing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why doesn't Scripture name her?
Many of Scripture's noblest women are unnamed — perhaps to fix attention on faith rather than fame. Her deeds need no nameplate.
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