The answer is: Staff

2 Ki 4:29

Isn’t it intriguing how a simple staff becomes a powerful symbol in Elisha’s ministry? The staff, often regarded just as a common instrument for shepherds, carried profound significance in this story. When Elisha sent his servant Gehazi with the staff, it wasn't merely about transferring a physical object; it was about conveying an intention—both of faith and hope.

Throughout the Bible, staffs symbolize authority, guidance, and sometimes even the power of God's presence. For instance, remember how Moses used his staff to part the Red Sea? It's fascinating to see such common items take on extraordinary significance—the staff representing the channel through which divine intervention flowed.

When Gehazi attempted to lay the staff on the child, the child did not awaken immediately. This reflected a crucial point in numerous biblical narratives: genuine faith and spirit can’t be transferred through mere physical objects. It underscores the importance of the person—the prophet in this case—being intimately connected to God’s power.

Moreover, this story relates closely to greatness in humility and the power of prayer, showcased in Elisha's earnest determined effort later when he himself visited the child. The lesson here is not just about miracles—it's also about love, persistence, and the divine communion that unfurls in moments of desperation. The symbolism of the staff reminds us that often, what seems ordinary can hold extraordinary potential when used with faith and intention.