Definition: And she went up, and laid him on the bed of the man of God, and shut [the door] upon him, and went out.
Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from 2 Kings 4:21. It’s a pretty intense and symbolic passage about a woman’s care and protection. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse describes a woman, likely a prostitute or a woman of questionable character, who is incredibly devoted to a man who God has called “the man of God.” She takes him completely under her care and shields him from harm. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “And she went up…” : This suggests she was in a vulnerable position – perhaps she was being treated poorly or facing danger. “…and laid him on the bed of the man of God…” : "The man of God" is a reference to God himself, and this refers to a holy, righteous, and devoted person. It’s important to note that “God” in this context isn't necessarily a literal deity – it represents goodness, righteousness, and divine favor. “…and shut [the door] upon him…” : This is the most crucial part. "Shut" means to protect or confine someone. The word “shut” is often interpreted as closing something. It’s like locking a door – protecting them from outside threats and potential harm. “…and went out.” : She leaves him alone, but remains in the presence of his safety. What does this suggest? This is a very powerful image. It suggests: Protection: The woman’s primary purpose is to safeguard this person from danger. Devotion: She's completely devoted to this individual; her focus and care are unwavering. Hidden Identity: The verse implies that the person she’s protecting might be someone who is hiding their true identity or circumstances. Important Note: This passage is a bit mysterious and has been interpreted in various ways throughout history. It’s often seen as symbolic of a woman's role in providing spiritual protection to a man, perhaps offering him comfort or guidance. --- Disclaimer: I am an AI Chatbot and not a biblical scholar. This explanation is based on general interpretations of the text and should not be taken as definitive religious commentary. Would you like me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the possible historical context of this passage?