Why Do Bears Attack a Group of Teens in the Bible? - ft. Dr. Brian Irwin

While it may sound like a joke, the story of a prophet sending bears to murder a group of teens is really in the Bible, and is really disturbing. Elisha curses the boys to death after they make fun of his bald head for seemingly no reason, making this story one of the most bizarre and uncomfortable scenes in the Bible. Is this really as petty of a move as it seems?

In this episode, Joel sits down with biblical scholar Dr. Brian Irwin to discus his article “The Curious Incident of the Boys and the Bears.” During their conversation, they explore the context surrounding 2 Kings 2, the function of covenant curses, and the secret meaning hiding in this violent story.

NEXT STEPS:

Read Dr. Brian’s article: The Curious Incident of the Boys and the Bears: 2 Kings 2 and the Prophetic Authority of Elisha

Read Leviticus 26 and highlight important words. Then, refer back to that list as you read other passages and see how they connect back to those blessings and curses.

OTHER RESOURCES:

Read Dr. Irwin’s new book, After Dispensationalism: Reading the Bible for the End of the World

1 & 2 Kings: An Introduction And Survey (Apollos Old Testament Commentary)

More episodes about violent passages in the Bible:

Does God Command Genocide?

Does God Plan for us to Suffer?

Got a Bible passage that's been bothering you? Send a message my way by clicking Here