Naaman: Humility and Hubris (II Kings Ch. 5)

This lecture was delivered at the Tanakh Study Days sponsored by Herzog Academic College, and is shared courtesy of the HaTanakh.com website. 5774

Naaman: Humility and Hubris (II Kings Ch. 5), by Rav Alex Israel. 

Dedicated in memory of Mr. Abe M. Shamah z"l, a man who lived by the principle of Torah im Derekh Eretz, a successful businessman who always made time to learn Torah, by Steven and Naomi Esses and family.

This shiur focuses on the story of Naaman, the army general of the king of Aram during the days of the prophet Elisha. Our analysis of the long narrative about Naaman brings us to a new understanding of the story. As well as a message about the power of Kiddush HaShem (Sanctifying the name of God) which jumps out after a first glance, we find a study of hierarchy, social ranking, and the layers and levels of authority. How do we negotiate the architecture of society within the limitations of our position within it?