2 Kings 6:32 - Joseph Benson’s Commentary on the Old and New Testaments

Elisha sat in his house In the house where he lodged; for it is probable he had no house of his own, having forsaken all to follow Elijah. And the elders sat with him Either the sons of the prophets, or rather some good and godly men, such as are frequently termed elders in the prophecy of Ezekiel, who bore some office either in the court, army, or city, as seems probable from the prophet's desiring their help and protection. For though Jehoram was a wicked man, and most of his officers, probably, as wicked as himself; yet, as Poole justly observes, we cannot doubt but there were some among them whom his holy life, powerful ministry, and glorious miracles, with the great benefits procured by him for the public, had won to God and the true religion; at least to the profession of it, among whom Jehu might be one; and these were here sitting with him, either to receive counsel and comfort from him in this distressing time, or to solicit him to use his power with God for their relief; which he accordingly did, and pronounced the joyful news which follows in the beginning of the next chapter. The king sent a man before him One of his guard, or some other officer, to take away his head, as it follows. But ere the messenger came, he said, &c. Being admonished by God of his danger. See how this son of a murderer The genuine son of that wicked Ahab, the murderer of the Lord's prophets. This expression may seem very harsh and unfit, nor is it to be drawn into imitation by others: but it must be considered that he was an extraordinary prophet, intrusted with a power in some sort superior to that of Jehoram, and had authority to control and rebuke him in the name of the King of kings. Shut the door, and hold him That he may not break in upon me, and take away my life, before the king comes. Is not the sound of his master's feet behind him? You shall not need to hold him long, for the king is just at his heels. It is probable he was coming, either to recall his rash order, or, at least, to debate the matter with the prophet, and obtain relief.