The REAL Story of Prophet Elisha and the Bears

In the book of 2 Kings, specifically in the passage 2 Kings 2 23-25, we encounter an intriguing and somewhat unsettling narrative involving the prophet Elisha and a group of young boys. As Elisha travels to Bethel, a band of boys emerges and mocks him with taunts like "Go up, baldhead!" In response, Elisha invokes the name of the Lord to curse them, and suddenly, two female bears emerge from the woods, mauling 42 of the boys.

This perplexing tale prompts a range of questions and interpretations. Why did Elisha react with a curse to mere mockery? Why would God send bears to attack children? What does this story convey about God's sense of justice? In this video, we delve into the various ways this passage has been understood throughout history.

Some view it as a lesson on the importance of showing respect to God's chosen prophets. Others interpret it as a demonstration of God's wrath, protecting His servant. At the same time, there are those who see it as an extreme and violent response, which raises the age-old question of theodicy, the problem of evil.

Our exploration of the story of Elisha and the bears invites reflection on how we approach and apply Old Testament narratives. While grasping the original context and values of that era is crucial, these accounts can still challenge modern sensibilities. The key question remains: How should people of faith engage with such stories today? This video presentation draws on biblical scholarship and theological insights to grapple with this significant question.

[MistiBrook]

Beat I see that word alot not sure what it means

[MistiBrook]

Ohhh I remember her and me qf well now like that

[matthewoborne]

God has knowledge of the future, the bible is according to most theists been written by people divinely inspired to deliver his word faithfully, yet in this instance we have god killing boys. People arguing they are young men without any real proof. how would that be any better if they were older, my son is in his late teenage years but he is still a boy to us.

[richellepeace]

There is no such thing as MERE mockery. Too bad God wouldn't do that for me based on righteous anger. He has his favorites. I can see the domino effect on evil, think of the offspring they Didn't have....