Book of 2 Kings - Chapter 5 - Verse 17

In this verse from 2 Kings 5:17, Naaman, a commander of the army of the king of Syria, is expressing his desire to take back a portion of Israel's soil with him as a reminder of his commitment to worshiping the one true God, the LORD. Naaman had been miraculously healed of leprosy by the prophet Elisha, and in response to this healing, he acknowledges the power and authority of the God of Israel. By asking for earth to take back home, Naaman is declaring his intention to build an altar to the LORD on his own land and to worship Him alone. This request symbolizes Naaman's conversion to monotheism and his renunciation of other gods. He no longer plans to offer burnt offerings or sacrifices to any other deities but instead solely to the LORD. Naaman's actions serve as a powerful testimony to the transformative power of encountering the one true God and choosing to follow Him wholeheartedly.

One theological interpretation of this verse from 2 Kings 5:17 is that Naaman's request for two mules' burden of earth is significant in showing his desire for a deeper spiritual connection with the God of Israel. The earth symbolizes the land of Israel, which was considered holy and set apart for God's people. By asking for this earth, Naaman expresses his intention to worship the Lord exclusively and forsake the idols of other gods. This demonstrates a genuine repentance and commitment to follow God's commandments. Naaman's declaration that he will no longer offer burnt offerings or sacrifices to other gods illustrates his understanding of the importance of true worship and obedience to the one true God. Through this act, Naaman acknowledges the sovereignty and power of the Lord in his life.