מלכים ב, פרק ה׳, פסוק ט״ז

Elisha's absolute refusal to accept a reward for his miraculous healing highlights the deep spiritual motives behind the event [ביאור שטיינזלץ, צאינה וראינה]. To ensure his message is clear, the prophet issues a severe oath. He swears by the life of God, declaring himself as one who stands before Him. The primary approach among commentators is that this refers to Elisha's constant state of standing before God in prayer and heartfelt service [רד״ק, מצודת דוד, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. However, another perspective suggests that the prophet is actually referring to his teacher, Elijah. In this view, Elisha swears both by the life of God and by the life of the master he served, echoing a formula he originally learned from his mentor [רד״ק]. By framing the oath as a conditional statement, Elisha essentially accepts a severe punishment upon himself if he were to take anything from the healed commander [מצודת דוד, ביאור שטיינזלץ].

There are distinct reasons why the prophet firmly rejects any compensation. One approach points to the problematic origin of the wealth, noting that the funds were mixed with money dedicated to idol worship [רש״י]. Another perspective focuses on the very nature of the miracle. Ordinarily, performing such a healing would have been forbidden. It was permitted only as an exceptional, temporary measure for the strict purpose of sanctifying God's name. Accepting a financial reward would have completely undermined this pure intention [מלבי״ם].

Despite the prophet's clear boundaries, the commander continues to press him. He pleads and urges, trying his best to persuade Elisha to accept the generous gift [מצודת ציון, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. Yet, the prophet remains entirely unmoved, simply and absolutely refusing to take it [מצודת ציון, ביאור שטיינזלץ, צאינה וראינה].