Shunem
Shunem was an ancient town in the territory of the tribe of Issachar in northern Israel, mentioned in the Old Testament as a site of significant prophetic activity. It served as the home of a wealthy Shunammite woman who regularly hosted the prophet Elisha, providing him with meals and a dedicated upper room during his journeys. In response to her hospitality, Elisha foretold the birth of her son and later restored the boy to life after he died suddenly, demonstrating God's power through the prophet's intercession. This narrative in 2 Kings 4 underscores themes of faithful service and divine restoration, illustrating the role of prophetic ministry in sustaining God's people during the divided monarchy.
Details
- Region
- Canaan
- Modern Location
- Solem, Jezreel Valley, Israel
Key Passages
The Shunammite Woman
2 Kings 4:8-17
A wealthy woman provides hospitality to Elisha and receives the promise of a son - demonstrating that generosity toward God's servants brings unexpected blessing.
8nd it fell on a day, that Elisha passed to Shunem, where was a great woman; and she constrained him to eat bread. And so it was, that as oft as he passed by, he turned in thither to eat bread.
Elisha Raises Her Son
2 Kings 4:32-37
When the promised son dies, Elisha raises him back to life - God's gifts are not taken back, and His power extends even beyond the grave.
32nd when Elisha was come into the house, behold, the child was dead, and laid upon his bed.