Axe Head Floats
In the biblical account from 2 Kings 6, a group of prophets cutting wood near the Jordan River to expand their dwelling lost a borrowed iron axe head that sank into the water, creating an urgent problem since the tool had to be returned. The distressed borrower appealed to Elisha, who cut a stick, threw it into the river, and caused the heavy iron to float to the surface so it could be recovered. This event matters because it reveals God's attentive care for ordinary human needs and obligations, even in seemingly minor matters. In Scripture, the miracle affirms Elisha's prophetic authority as a successor to Elijah and illustrates divine power over nature to provide for faithful servants.
Details
- Category
- Nature
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Performed by
- God through Elisha
Key Passages
The Miracle
2 Kings 6:5-7
5ut as one was felling a beam, the axe head fell into the water: and he cried, and said, Alas, master! for it was borrowed.
Did You Know?
The borrowed axe head was lost in the Jordan River. a serious problem in an era when iron was valuable and hard to replace.
Elisha cut a stick and threw it into the water, causing the iron axe head to float. a quiet but powerful sign.
This miracle showed God's care for the small, practical needs of His servants, not just the dramatic national events.
It also demonstrated that Elisha carried the same prophetic authority as Elijah who had gone up to heaven.