2 Kings 4:27

“And when she came to the man of God to the hill, etc.] To the top of it: she caught him by the feet; in reverence to him, and as a supplicant, she prostrated herself at his feet, and, out of affection to him, caught hold on them, and held them fast, and determined not to leave him until he had promised to go with her, (see <402809>Matthew 28:9). It was usual with the Jews to lay hold on and kiss the feet or knees of those to whom they did homage, or made supplication, (see <402809>Matthew 28:9 <420738>Luke 7:38). (see Gill on “<420738>Luke 7:38”), and so with the Greeks, as may be observed in various passages in Homer f49 and others: but Gehazi came near to thrust her away; as being…”

“She caught him by the feet - To lay hold of the knees or feet has always been thought in the East to add force to supplication, and is practiced even at the present day. Compare Matthew 18:29; John 11:32. return to 'Top of Page'”

“The feet - She fell at his feet and touched them, as a most humble and earnest supplicant. Withal, she intimated, what she durst not presume to express in words, that she desired him to go along with her. Let her alone - Disturb her not, for this gesture is a sign of some extraordinary grief. Hid it - Whereby he signifies, that what he knew or did, was not by any virtue inherent in himself, but from God, who revealed to him only what and when he pleased. 4 Kings (2 Kings) 4:28”

“4:27 caught hold of his feet: With this sign of deep respect and supplication, the woman poured out her heart to Elisha (see Matt 28:9; Luke 8:41, 47; 17:16; Rev 1:17).”

“him by the feet: Heb. by his feet, Mat 28:9; Luk 7:38 thrust: Mat 15:23, Mat 20:31; Mar 10:13; Joh 4:27, Joh 12:4-6 Let her alone: Mar 14:6; Joh 12:7 vexed: Heb. bitter, Sa1 1:10; Job 10:1; Pro 14:10, Pro 18:14 hid it from me: Kg2 6:12; Gen 18:17; Sa2 7:3; Amo 3:7; Joh 15:15 4 Kings (2 Kings) 4:28”