Elisha: knowledge disclosed and withheld
The same Elisha appears in two contrasting narratives: in 2 Kings 6 the Aramean king’s private plans are disclosed; in 2 Kings 4 Elisha says the Lord had not made the woman’s anguish known to him. The comparison distinguishes knowledge given by God from exhaustive knowledge intrinsic to God. It does not establish that God discloses every invocation to every saint.
Scripture
- 2 Kings 6:12 — Read with verses 8–11: Elisha warns Israel about the Aramean king’s plans.
- 2 Kings 4:27 — The comparison keeps both the disclosed and withheld episodes visible.
Sources and further reading
- 2 Kings 4
Knowledge explicitly withheld from Elisha. - 2 Kings 6
Knowledge of Aramean plans disclosed to Elisha. - Exposition of the Orthodox Faith, Book II
Angel claims remain angel-specific; II.4 is not mislabeled II.3.