Charles Ellicott Commentary 2 Kings 2:21

"And he went forth unto the spring of the waters, and cast salt therein, and said, Thus saith Jehovah, I have healed these waters; there shall not be from thence any more death or miscarrying." — 2 Kings 2:21 (ASV)

The spring of the waters. —Now called Aines Sultân (“the Sultan’s Fountain”), a fine spring of sweet water, which irrigates the neighboring plain.

Thus says the Lord. —Not the prophet’s own power, nor the natural virtues of the salt, but the Divine creative will was effectual to the healing of the spring.

There shall not be. —Many MSS., and all the versions, except the Septuagint, read “and there shall not be,” or, “arise.”

Death. —Caused by the unwholesome water, either to the people, or to their unborn offspring.

Or barren land. —The same word as in 2 Kings 2:19. Literally, and making (or, multiplying) abortion, which is apparently used as a substantive here (i.e., cause of abortion).

To this day. —The time when the narrative was first committed to writing.