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Biblical People

Biblical People: The Servant Girl of Naaman

An unnamed Israelite girl is captured in a raid and forced to work as a slave in the household of the enemy commander, Naaman.

Although Naaman is an accomplished military leader, he suffers from a limiting physical ailment. He has leprosy, a contagious skin disease that can cause a loss of feeling, flesh decay, and even deformation.

Though she could have been bitter over her forced servitude, the young girl instead desires the best for her master. She tells him of the prophet Elisha, who can heal Naaman of his terrible disease. Naaman proceeds at once and receives God’s healing—as soon as he humbles himself and follows Elisha’s instructions. 

Naaman then affirms the power of God and pledges to worship only him.

Though she has every reason to remain quiet, the girl’s confidence in God’s power and her willingness to speak up leads to a man receiving healing and God receiving praise. 

How willing are we to help others, regardless of our situation?

[Discover more about Naaman’s servant girl in 2 Kings 5:1–19.]


Learn about other biblical women in Women of the Bible, available in audiobook, e-book, paperback, and hardcover.

A lifelong student of the Bible, Peter DeHaan, PhD, wrote the 1,000-page website ABibleADay.com to encourage people to explore the Bible. His main blog and many books urge Christians to push past the status quo and reconsider how they practice their faith in every area of their lives.