16 The people went out, and plundered the camp of the Syrians. So a measure of fine flour was (sold) for a shekel, and two measures of barley for a shekel, according to the word of Yahweh.
*Minor differences ignored. Grouped by changes, with first version listed as example.
And the people went out, and spoiled the tents of the Syrians. So a measure of fine flour was [sold] for a shekel, and two measures of barley for a shekel, (k) according to the word of the LORD.
(k) Which he spoke by the mouth of Elisha, (2-Kings 7:1).
And the people went out and spoiled the tents of the Syrians,.... Of their riches, and of their provisions; of which there was such a plenty, not only for present use, but for sale:
so that a measure of fine flour was sold for a shekel, &c.
according to the word of the Lord; by Elisha, 2-Kings 7:1.
When the returning messengers reported this, the people went out and plundered the camp of the Syrians, and this was followed by the consequent cheapness of provisions predicted by Elisha. As the people streamed out, the unbelieving aide-de-camp, whom the king had ordered to take the oversight at the gate (הפקיד, to deliver the oversight) for the purpose of preserving order in the crowding of the starving multitude, was trodden down by the people, so that he died, whereby this prediction of Elisha was fulfilled. The exact fulfilment of this prediction appeared so memorable to the historian, that he repeats this prophecy in 2-Kings 7:18-20 along with the event which occasioned it, and refers again to its fulfilment.
*More commentary available at chapter level.