2 Kings 2:5

KJV

And the sons of the prophets that [were] at Jericho came to Elisha, and said unto him, Knowest thou that the LORD will take away thy master from thy head to day? And he answered, Yea, I know [it]; hold ye your peace.

KJV (with Strong's)

And the sons {H1121} of the prophets {H5030} that were at Jericho {H3405} came {H5066} to Elisha {H477}, and said {H559} unto him, Knowest {H3045} thou that the LORD {H3068} will take away {H3947} thy master {H113} from thy head {H7218} to day {H3117}? And he answered {H559}, Yea, I know {H3045} it; hold ye your peace {H2814}.

Complete Jewish Bible

The guild prophets of Yericho approached Elisha and said to him, "Do you know that ADONAI is taking your master away from you today?" "Yes, I know," he answered; "say no more."

Berean Standard Bible

Then the sons of the prophets at Jericho came up to Elisha and said, “Do you know that the LORD will take your master away from you today?” “Yes, I know,” he replied. “Do not speak of it.”

American Standard Version

And the sons of the prophets that were at Jericho came near to Elisha, and said unto him, Knowest thou that Jehovah will take away thy master from thy head to-day? And he answered, Yea, I know it; hold ye your peace.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
2 Kings 2:5 captures a pivotal moment in the narrative of Elijah's impending ascension and Elisha's succession, revealing the widespread awareness among the prophetic community of God's imminent plan for Elijah's departure. It portrays the "sons of the prophets" at Jericho confirming their knowledge of this divine event to Elisha, whose calm and knowing response underscores his deep spiritual discernment and unwavering commitment to his master during this solemn, divinely orchestrated transition of prophetic authority.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is embedded within the dramatic narrative of Elijah's final earthly journey and Elisha's succession, detailed in [2 Kings 2](/2_kings/2 "2 Kings 2 - Elijah's Ascension and Elisha's Succession"). The chapter opens with the Lord preparing to take Elijah to heaven by a whirlwind, initiating a solemn procession from Gilgal to Bethel, then to Jericho, and finally to the Jordan. At each stop, companies of "sons of the prophets" appear, acknowledging the impending divine act. This particular verse records the encounter at Jericho, immediately following the similar interaction at Bethel in [2 Kings 2:3](/2_kings/2-3 "2 Kings 2:3 - Sons of the Prophets at Bethel"). Elisha's steadfast refusal to leave Elijah's side throughout this journey, despite Elijah's repeated attempts to send him away, highlights his unwavering loyalty and determination to receive the prophetic mantle. The exchange in [2 Kings 2:5](/2_kings/2-5 "2 Kings 2:5 - Sons of the Prophets at Jericho") serves to confirm that not only Elisha, but also the wider prophetic community, was aware of God's specific timing for Elijah's departure, adding to the gravitas of the moment before the miraculous crossing of the Jordan and Elijah's ascension in [2 Kings 2:7-11](/2_kings/2-7 "2 Kings 2:7-11 - Elijah Crosses Jordan and Ascends").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The "sons of the prophets" (Hebrew: _b'nei han'vi'im_) were not necessarily biological offspring but rather members of prophetic guilds or schools. These were communities of disciples who gathered around a senior prophet, such as Elijah or Elisha, for training, spiritual formation, and communal living. Their existence indicates an established prophetic movement in Israel during the monarchical period, providing a structured environment for learning God's law, receiving divine revelation, and serving as spiritual guides to the nation. Jericho, a significant ancient city, was one such recognized center for these prophetic schools, as evidenced by their presence here and in Bethel. The concept of a prophet being "taken away from one's head" is an idiom signifying the removal of a spiritual leader or master, emphasizing the profound impact and authority Elijah held over Elisha and the prophetic community. This period in Israel's history was marked by spiritual decline and idolatry, making the role of faithful prophets like Elijah and Elisha crucial for calling the nation back to covenant loyalty with Yahweh.
* **Key Themes:** The central theme underscored by [2 Kings 2:5](/2_kings/2-5 "2 Kings 2:5 - Sons of the Prophets at Jericho") is **Divine Sovereignty and Succession**. God's plan for Elijah's departure and Elisha's anointing is not a secret but a divinely revealed event, known and acknowledged by the prophetic community. This highlights God's active involvement in orchestrating leadership transitions within His people, ensuring the continuity of His work. Another key theme is **Spiritual Discernment and Awareness**, exemplified by both the "sons of the prophets" and Elisha. Their shared knowledge of the day's events points to a collective spiritual sensitivity to God's movements. Furthermore, the verse contributes to the theme of **Faithful Discipleship and Spiritual Inheritance**, as Elisha's unwavering loyalty and determination to remain with Elijah are implicitly validated by his calm acknowledgment of the impending transfer of authority, setting the stage for his request for a double portion of Elijah's spirit in [2 Kings 2:9](/2_kings/2-9 "2 Kings 2:9 - Elisha's Request for a Double Portion").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Sons of the prophets (Hebrew, בְּנֵי הַנְּבִיאִים, _b'nei han'vi'im'_):** This phrase refers to members of prophetic guilds or schools, not necessarily biological descendants. These were communities of disciples or students who gathered around a senior prophet for training, spiritual formation, and communal living. Their existence indicates an organized prophetic movement in Israel, serving as centers for learning and receiving divine revelation.
* **Take away (Hebrew, לָקַח, _laqach'_):** The verb _laqach_ means "to take," "to seize," or "to receive." In this context, it specifically denotes a divine act of removal or ascension. It carries the weight of God's sovereign initiative in transporting Elijah from the earthly realm, emphasizing that Elijah's departure is not a death but a supernatural translation orchestrated by the Lord Himself. This same word is used in [Genesis 5:24](/genesis/5-24 "Genesis 5:24 - Enoch Taken by God") regarding Enoch, highlighting a unique divine intervention.
* **From thy head (Hebrew, מֵעַל רֹאשֶׁךָ, _me'al ro'shekha'_):** This is an idiomatic expression meaning "from over you" or "from being your leader/master." It vividly conveys the sense of Elijah's position of authority and spiritual covering over Elisha. The removal "from his head" signifies the cessation of Elijah's direct mentorship and leadership, making way for Elisha to step into that role and receive the mantle of authority.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And the sons of the prophets that [were] at Jericho came to Elisha, and said unto him,"**: This opening clause establishes the setting and the participants. The presence of the "sons of the prophets" at Jericho underscores the widespread awareness within the prophetic community of the extraordinary event about to unfold. Their active approach to Elisha indicates their recognition of his unique relationship with Elijah and their shared spiritual insight into God's plan.
* **"Knowest thou that the LORD will take away thy master from thy head to day?"**: This rhetorical question, posed by the sons of the prophets, serves to confirm Elisha's awareness of the divine schedule. It highlights their own prophetic discernment, indicating that God's plans are not hidden from His faithful servants. The phrase "take away thy master from thy head" is a poignant way of referring to Elijah's impending ascension, emphasizing the loss of his leadership and the profound shift it would bring.
* **"And he answered, Yea, I know [it]; hold ye your peace."**: Elisha's concise and firm response confirms his profound spiritual understanding and intimate knowledge of God's will. His "Yea, I know it" is not merely an acknowledgment but a declaration of deep personal insight. The command "hold ye your peace" (literally, "be silent" or "be still") suggests that while their knowledge was correct, their repeated questioning or discussion of the matter might detract from the solemnity, gravity, or sacredness of the moment, which Elisha wished to experience without distraction. It also implies a desire for quiet reverence in the face of a divine mystery.

#### Literary Devices
The narrative in [2 Kings 2:5](/2_kings/2-5 "2 Kings 2:5 - Sons of the Prophets at Jericho") effectively employs several **literary devices** to enhance its impact. **Dialogue** is central, as the exchange between the "sons of the prophets" and Elisha drives the immediate action and reveals character. The question posed by the prophetic students serves as a form of **foreshadowing**, explicitly stating the momentous event that is about to occur, building anticipation for Elijah's ascension. The phrase "from thy head" is a powerful **idiom**, conveying the deep bond of master-disciple and the impending removal of Elijah's spiritual authority and guidance over Elisha. There is also a subtle element of **dramatic tension** or **irony** in the interaction; the "sons of the prophets" are stating a known truth, yet Elisha's terse response, "hold ye your peace," suggests a desire for quiet reverence rather than further discussion, underscoring the solemnity and personal nature of his final moments with Elijah. This command for silence also highlights Elisha's focused determination and spiritual maturity.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The interaction in [2 Kings 2:5](/2_kings/2-5 "2 Kings 2:5 - Sons of the Prophets at Jericho") underscores the theme of divine revelation and the sovereign hand of God in orchestrating significant transitions within His redemptive plan. It demonstrates that God often makes His intentions known to His faithful servants, allowing them to participate in or bear witness to His mighty acts. The collective awareness of the "sons of the prophets" and Elisha's calm affirmation highlight a community attuned to the Spirit's leading, recognizing the profound shift in prophetic authority and the continuity of God's work through new instruments. This divine orchestration ensures that God's purposes are fulfilled, regardless of individual transitions, emphasizing His faithfulness to His covenant and His people.

* [Amos 3:7](/amos/3-7 "Amos 3:7 - God Reveals His Secret to His Servants")
* [Deuteronomy 34:9](/deuteronomy/34-9 "Deuteronomy 34:9 - Joshua Filled with the Spirit of Wisdom")
* [John 15:15](/john/15-15 "John 15:15 - Jesus Calls Disciples Friends")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
[2 Kings 2:5](/2_kings/2-5 "2 Kings 2:5 - Sons of the Prophets at Jericho") invites contemporary believers to cultivate a deep spiritual sensitivity and discernment regarding God's movements in their own lives and in the broader church. Elisha's calm "Yea, I know it; hold ye your peace" serves as a powerful model of spiritual maturity: not only being aware of God's will but also knowing when to respond with quiet reverence and focus, rather than engaging in unnecessary discussion or distraction. This verse challenges us to consider our posture in moments of divine transition or significant spiritual events. Are we merely observers, or are we deeply attuned to God's purposes, ready to embrace His plan with unwavering commitment, much like Elisha's steadfast discipleship to Elijah? It also reminds us that God often prepares His people for significant shifts, providing opportunities for faithful response and continuity in His kingdom work.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How can we cultivate a deeper spiritual awareness and discernment to recognize God's movements and plans in our lives today?**
* **What does Elisha's response, "hold ye your peace," teach us about appropriate spiritual conduct during solemn or divinely orchestrated moments?**
* **In what ways are we called to be "sons of the prophets" in our own contexts, recognizing and affirming God's work, even as leadership or circumstances change?**

### FAQ
**Who were the "sons of the prophets" and what was their role?**

Answer: The "sons of the prophets" were not biological descendants but rather members of prophetic schools or guilds, communities of disciples who gathered around a senior prophet like Elijah or Elisha. Their role was to learn, train, and live in community, dedicated to serving God and delivering His messages. They functioned as spiritual apprentices, receiving instruction in God's law, developing prophetic gifts, and often serving as a collective voice for God's truth in Israel. Their presence in various locations like Bethel and Jericho, as seen in [2 Kings 2](/2_kings/2 "2 Kings 2 - Elijah's Ascension and Elisha's Succession"), indicates established centers of prophetic training and activity during this period, providing a structured environment for spiritual formation and the continuation of the prophetic ministry in a time of spiritual decline.

**Why did Elisha tell them to "hold ye your peace"?**

Answer: Elisha's command, "hold ye your peace" (Hebrew: _hachărishu_), which means "be silent" or "be still," likely stemmed from a desire to maintain the solemnity and sacredness of the moment. While the "sons of the prophets" were correct in their discernment that Elijah was to be taken away that day, their repeated questioning or discussion of the impending event could have been a distraction from the profound spiritual experience Elisha wished to share with his master. His response reflects a deep personal reverence and a desire for quiet focus during this climactic transition, emphasizing the gravity of Elijah's departure and his own unwavering commitment to be present for it. It was not a dismissal of their knowledge but a request for respectful silence in the face of a divine mystery, as he was determined to witness the ascension, as seen in [2 Kings 2:6-8](/2_kings/2-6 "2 Kings 2:6-8 - Elijah and Elisha Cross the Jordan").

**What is the significance of Elijah being "taken away from thy head"?**

Answer: The phrase "taken away from thy head" is an ancient Hebrew idiom signifying the removal of a leader, master, or source of authority and spiritual covering. In this context, it powerfully conveys the profound impact of Elijah's departure on Elisha and the prophetic community. Elijah was Elisha's spiritual father and mentor, and his "taking away" meant the cessation of that direct, personal leadership. However, it also foreshadowed the transfer of Elijah's prophetic mantle and spiritual authority to Elisha, as Elisha would soon receive a double portion of Elijah's spirit, as requested in [2 Kings 2:9](/2_kings/2-9 "2 Kings 2:9 - Elisha's Request for a Double Portion"). This idiom emphasizes the personal and spiritual nature of the succession, highlighting that Elisha was not merely inheriting a position but a powerful spiritual anointing.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The narrative of Elijah's ascension and Elisha's succession, particularly the awareness of God's divine timing in [2 Kings 2:5](/2_kings/2-5 "2 Kings 2:5 - Sons of the Prophets at Jericho"), finds profound Christ-centered fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Just as Elijah was supernaturally "taken away" by God, foreshadowing a divine ascent, so too did Jesus ascend into heaven, having completed His earthly ministry (cf. [Acts 1:9-11](/acts/1-9 "Acts 1:9-11 - Jesus Ascends into Heaven")). The transfer of Elijah's mantle and spirit to Elisha prefigures the outpouring of the Holy Spirit upon the disciples after Christ's ascension, empowering them to continue His work with even greater power (cf. [John 14:12](/john/14-12 "John 14:12 - Greater Works than These") and [Acts 2:1-4](/acts/2-1 "Acts 2:1-4 - The Day of Pentecost")). Jesus is the ultimate Prophet, whose words and deeds perfectly reveal the Father, and His "taking away" was not a loss but the inauguration of a new covenant era where His Spirit indwells all believers, making them "sons and daughters" of God, empowered to carry on His mission (cf. [John 16:7](/john/16-7 "John 16:7 - The Advantage of Jesus' Departure") and [Galatians 3:28-29](/galatians/3-28 "Galatians 3:28-29 - All One in Christ Jesus")). Thus, the continuity of God's redemptive plan, from the Old Testament prophets to the New Testament church, culminates in Christ, who ensures that His work on earth continues through His Spirit-filled body until His glorious return.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

2 Kings 2:3

And the sons of the prophets that [were] at Bethel came forth to Elisha, and said unto him, Knowest thou that the LORD will take away thy master from thy head to day? And he said, Yea, I know [it]; hold ye your peace.

Genesis 48:19

And his father refused, and said, I know [it], my son, I know [it]: he also shall become a people, and he also shall be great: but truly his younger brother shall be greater than he, and his seed shall become a multitude of nations.

Acts 1:11

Which also said, Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? this same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven.

Joshua 1:1

¶ Now after the death of Moses the servant of the LORD it came to pass, that the LORD spake unto Joshua the son of Nun, Moses' minister, saying,

Joshua 1:2

Moses my servant is dead; now therefore arise, go over this Jordan, thou, and all this people, unto the land which I do give to them, [even] to the children of Israel.

Ecclesiastes 3:7

A time to rend, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and a time to speak;

John 17:5

And now, O Father, glorify thou me with thine own self with the glory which I had with thee before the world was.