2 Kings 3:11

“But Jehoshaphat said, is there not here a prophet of the Lord, that we may inquire of the Lord by him? etc.] This the good king should have done before be set out, but had neglected it; however, it was not too late: and one of the king of Israel’s servants answered and said; who might be one that feared the Lord, and was intimate with Elisha, or however had knowledge of him, as appears by what follows: here is Elisha the son of Shaphat, which poured water on the hands of Elijah; or ministered to him, as the Targum; was his menial servant, waited on him, and assisted him when he washed his hands f31; some Jewish writers understand it of his pouring water on the hand of Elijah at Carmel, when…”

“which poured water on the hands of Elijah--that is, was his servant--this being one of the common offices of a servant. The phrase is used here as synonymous with "a true and eminent prophet," who will reveal God's will to us.”

“A prophet of the Lord - i. e. of Yahweh. It was necessary to inquire thus definitely, as there were still plenty of prophets who were only prophets of Baal 2 Kings 3:13. Here is Elisha - Jehoram appears to have been ignorant of his presence with the host, and one of his “servants,” or officers, answered Jehoshaphat’s inquiry. Which poured water - An act signifying ministration or attendance (compare John 13:5 ff). return to 'Top of Page'”

“Is there not, &c. - This he should have asked before, when they first undertook the expedition, as he did in a like case, Kg1 22:5, and for that neglect he now suffers; but better late than never: his affliction brings him to the remembrance of his former sin, and present duty. Poured water - Who was his servant; this being one office of a servant: and this office was the more necessary among the Israelites, because of the frequent washings which their law required. Probably it was by a special direction from God, that Elisha followed them, unasked, unobserved. Thus does God prevent us with the blessings of his goodness; and provide for those who provide not for themselves. 4 Kings (2 Kings)…”

“3:11-12 Is there no prophet of the Lord with us? Diviners or prophets often traveled with armies to perceive the divine will. Jehoshaphat again desired an oracle from a true prophet to learn the Lord’s intentions for the battle (cp. 1 Kgs 22:7). However, this time he waited until the campaign had begun before inquiring of the Lord.”

“Is there not here: Kg1 22:7; Psa 74:9; Amo 3:7 that we may: Kg2 3:1, Kg2 3:3; Jos 9:14; Jdg 20:8-11, Jdg 20:18, Jdg 20:23, Jdg 20:26-28; Ch1 10:13, Ch1 14:10, Ch1 14:14, Ch1 15:13 poured water: That is, was his constant and confidential servant. Mr. Hanway, speaking of a Persian supper, says, "Supper being now brought in, a servant presented a basin of water, and a napkin hung over his shoulders; he went to every one in the company, and poured water on their hands to wash." Gen 18:4; Jos 1:1; Kg1 19:21; Luk 22:26, Luk 22:27; Joh 13:4, Joh 13:5, Joh 13:13, Joh 13:14; Ti1 5:10; Phi 2:22 4 Kings (2 Kings) 3:12”