Bible Figure
Woman of Shunem
Woman of Shunaam
The Shunammite woman was a prosperous woman who showed hospitality to Elisha, received a promised son, and later saw that son restored to life through the prophet's ministry.
Biography
Second Kings 4 describes a prominent woman of Shunem who regularly provided Elisha food and persuaded her husband to prepare a small room for him. Elisha promised that she would have a son despite her husband's age, and the promise was fulfilled. When the child later died suddenly, she traveled urgently to Elisha at Mount Carmel. Elisha returned with her and, after praying and ministering to the child, the boy revived. Second Kings 8 later tells how she left the land during a seven-year famine at Elisha's warning and returned to appeal for restoration of her property; providentially, Gehazi was telling the king about her son's restoration when she arrived.
Biblical Significance
The Shunammite woman is one of the most substantial unnamed women in the narratives of Elisha. Her hospitality, determined appeal in crisis, and experience of God's provision make her an important witness to the prophetic ministry.