Poem Analysis - Gehazi

Introduction: Appearance vs. Reality

Rudyard Kipling's "Gehazi" is a cautionary poem, steeped in irony and moral condemnation. The poem begins with a seemingly celebratory tone, praising Gehazi's outward appearance and newly acquired status. However, this quickly turns accusatory and damning as Gehazi's inner corruption, hidden beneath a veneer of righteousness, is exposed. The mood shifts from admiration to disgust, culminating in a stark and terrible judgment. Ultimately, the poem serves as a powerful indictment of hypocrisy and the corrupting influence of greed.

The Old Testament Origins of Deception

The poem draws heavily on the biblical story of Gehazi, the servant of the prophet Elisha. In 2 Kings 5, Naaman, a Syrian general, is healed of leprosy by Elisha. Naaman offers Elisha gifts, which the prophet refuses. After Naaman departs, Gehazi, motivated by greed, runs after him and deceitfully obtains silver and garments. As punishment for his avarice and dishonesty, Elisha curses Gehazi, transferring Naaman's leprosy onto him and his descendants. Understanding this context is crucial for interpreting Kipling's poem; it provides the framework for the poem’s central conflict and moral message.

Theme: The Corrupting Power of Greed

One of the poem's central themes is the destructive power of greed. Gehazi's actions are driven solely by his desire for material gain. This is evident in the line "From following after Naaman / To tell him all is well," where he prioritizes personal profit over honesty and integrity. The poem implies that Gehazi's greed has not only led to his personal downfall but also compromised his ability to serve justly as a judge. The "gift of money / Or privy bribe" that could sway his judgment highlights how greed can undermine justice and fairness.

Theme: Hypocrisy and False Appearances

Another prominent theme is the contrast between appearance and reality, specifically the hypocrisy of those who outwardly profess virtue but are inwardly corrupt. The poem's opening stanzas focus on Gehazi's impressive attire – "scarlet and ermines / And chain of England's gold" – which symbolizes his high status and apparent respectability. However, this is a deceptive facade. The later revelation of his leprosy reveals the festering corruption beneath the surface. The poem suggests that true character is not defined by outward appearances or titles, but by inner integrity.

Theme: Justice and Divine Retribution

The poem explores the theme of justice, particularly divine retribution for wrongdoing. Gehazi's punishment for his deceit is swift and severe: he is afflicted with the very leprosy that Naaman was cured of. This act of divine justice serves as a powerful warning against corruption and emphasizes the consequences of betraying trust and abusing power. The poem suggests that even if earthly justice fails, divine justice will ultimately prevail.

Symbolism: The Leprosy as a Manifestation of Inner Corruption

The image of leprosy is a potent symbol of inner corruption and moral decay. It is not merely a physical disease but a visible manifestation of Gehazi's spiritual sickness. The "boils that shine and burrow, / The sores that slough and bleed" are grotesque reminders of his greed and dishonesty. The phrase "a leper white as snow!" is particularly striking, creating a jarring contrast between the purity traditionally associated with whiteness and the repulsiveness of leprosy. This emphasizes the stark disconnect between Gehazi's outward appearance and his inner state.

Conclusion: A Timeless Warning

"Gehazi" is a powerful and enduring poem that serves as a warning against the dangers of greed, hypocrisy, and the abuse of power. Through vivid imagery and moral condemnation, Kipling exposes the devastating consequences of prioritizing personal gain over integrity and justice. The poem's final image of Gehazi, the "Judge in Israel," transformed into "a leper white as snow!" is a chilling reminder that true character will ultimately be revealed, and that those who betray trust will face the consequences of their actions. The poem's relevance persists today as a potent critique of corruption in all its forms.