9th Century BC
The Northern Kingdom of Israel was experiencing a time of turmoil and conflict, often at odds with neighboring Aramean (Syrian) forces.
The Kingdom of Israel was under the rule of King Joram (Jehoram), and the Arameans, led by King Ben-Hadad, were besieging Samaria, the capital of Israel.
Samaria, the capital city of the Northern Kingdom of Israel, located in the central region of the land, was under siege by the Arameans.
During a siege, cities would experience extreme famine and desperation, leading to dire circumstances as described in the previous chapter (2 Kings 6). The reliance on prophetic words and divine intervention was a significant aspect of Israelite society.
Elisha
King Joram
King of Israel during the siege of Samaria.
Ben-Hadad