The prophet Elisha seems to have brought aid and support to many people of Israel who came to him in trouble, but he did not limit his kindly ministrations to those of his own nation, as evidenced by his dealings with Naaman, a noted general in the army of the king of Syria.
In spite of his valor and his influence at court, Naaman was afflicted with the dread disease of leprosy. Knowing of her master's trouble, a young Israelite girl who had been taken captive by the Syrians and was now serving as a maid to Naaman's wife reported to her mistress what she had heard of Elisha's healing activities. In due course her kindly suggestion reached the ears both of the Syrian king and of his general.
Traveling in state and with the king's blessing, Naaman made the long journey from Damascus to Elisha's home in Israel, obviously anticipating a royal reception and a swift healing administered by the prophet in person. But to Naaman's indignation Elisha did not even appear. He simply sent a message, promising Naaman that he would be healed on condition that he wash in the nearby River Jordan.
