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Public-domain commentary
Matthew Henry
From his Commentary on the Whole Bible. Henry comments on passages, not single verses — this entry covers 2 Kings 2:1–8. His two-level outline is real structure in the source text, so it is rendered as structure.
Elijah's times, and the events concerning him, are as little dated as those of any great man in scripture; we are not told of his age, nor in what year of Ahab's reign he first appeared, nor in what year of Joram's he disappeared, and therefore cannot conjecture how long he flourished; it is supposed about twenty years in all. Here we are told,
I.That God had determined to take him up into heaven by a whirlwind, Kg2 2:1.
He would do it, and it is probable let him know of his purpose some time before, that he would shortly take him from the world, not by death, but translate him body and soul to heaven, as Enoch was, only causing him to undergo such a change as would be necessary to the qualifying of him to be an inhabitant in that world of spirits, and such as those shall undergo who will be found alive at Christ's coming. It is not for us to say why God would put such a peculiar honour upon Elijah above any other of the prophets; he was a man subject to like passions as we are, knew sin, and yet never tasted death. Wherefore is he thus dignified, thus distinguished, as a man whom the Kings of kings did delight to honour? We may suppose that herein,
1.God looked back upon his past services, which were eminent and extraordinary, and intended a recompence for those and an encouragement to the sons of the prophets to tread in the steps of his zeal and faithfulness, and, whatever it cost them, to witness against the corruptions of the age they lived in.
2.He looked down upon the present dark and degenerate state of the church, and would thus give a very sensible proof of another life after this, and draw the hearts of the faithful few upward towards himself, and that other life.
3.He looked forward to the evangelical dispensation, and, in the translation of Elijah, gave a type and figure of the ascension of Christ and the opening of the kingdom of heaven to all believers. Elijah had, by faith and prayer, conversed much with heaven, and now he is taken thither, to assure us that if we have our conversation in heaven, while we are here on earth, we shall be there shortly, the soul shall (and that is the man) be happy there, there for ever.
II.That Elisha had determined, as long as he continued on earth to cleave to him, and not to leave him.
Elijah seemed desirous to shake him off, would have had him stay behind at Gilgal, at Bethel, at Jericho, Kg2 2:2, Kg2 2:4, Kg2 2:6. Some think out of humility; he knew what glory God designed for him, but would not seem to glory in it, nor desired it should be seen of men (God's favourites covet not to have it proclaimed before them that they are so, as the favourites of earthly princes do), or rather it was to try him, and make his constant adherence to him the more commendable, like Naomi's persuading Ruth to go back. In vain does Elijah entreat him to tarry here and tarry there; he resolves to tarry nowhere behind his master, till he goes to heaven, and leaves him behind on this earth. "Whatever comes of it, I will not leave thee;" and why so? Not only because he loved him, but,
1.Because he desired to be edified by his holy heavenly converse as long as he staid on earth; it had always been profitable, but, we may suppose, was now more so than ever. We should do all the spiritual good we can one to another, and get all we can one by another, while we are together, because we are to be together but a little while.
2.Because he desired to be satisfied concerning his departure, and to see him when he was taken up, that his faith might be confirmed and his acquaintance with the invisible world increased. He had long followed Elijah, and he would not leave him now when he hoped for the parting blessing. Let not those that follow Christ come short by tiring at last.
III.That Elijah, before his departure, visited the schools of the prophets and took leave of them.
It seems that there were such schools in many of the cities of Israel, probably even in Samaria itself. Here we find sons of the prophets, and considerable numbers of them, even at Bethel, where one of the calves was set up, and at Jericho, which was lately built in defiance of a divine curse. At Jerusalem, and in the kingdom of Judah, they had priests and Levites, and the temple-service, the want of which, in the kingdom of Israel, God graciously made up by those colleges, where men were trained up and employed in the exercises of religion and devotion, and whither good people resorted to solemnize the appointed feasts with praying and hearing, when they had not conveniences for sacrifice or incense, and thus religion was kept up in a time of general apostasy. Much of God was among these prophets, and more were the children of the desolate than the children of the married wife. None of all the high priests were comparable to those two great men Elijah and Elisha, who, for aught we know, never attended in the temple at Jerusalem. These seminaries of religion and virtue, which Elijah, it is probable, had been instrumental to found, he now visits, before his departure, to instruct, encourage, and bless them. Note, Those that are going to heaven themselves ought to be concerned for those they leave behind them on earth, and to leave with them their experiences, testimonies, counsels, and prayers, Pe2 1:15. When Christ said, with triumph, Now I am no more in the world, he added, with tenderness, But these are. Father, keep them.
IV.That the sons of the prophets had intelligence (either from Elijah himself, or by the spirit of prophecy in some of their own society), or suspected by the solemnity of Elijah's farewell, that he was now shortly to be removed; and,
1.They told Elisha of it, both at Bethel (Kg2 2:3) and at Jericho (Kg2 2:5): Knowest thou that the Lord will take away thy master from thy head to day? This they said, not as upbraiding him with his loss, or expecting that when his master was gone he would be upon the level with them, but to show how full they were of the thoughts of this matter and big with expectation of the event, and to admonish Elisha to prepare for the loss. Know we not that our nearest relations, and dearest friends, must shortly be taken from us? The Lord will take them; we lose them not till he calls for them whose they are, and who taketh away and none can hinder him. He takes away superiors from our head, inferiors from our feet, equals from our arms; let us therefore carefully do the duty of every relation, that we may reflect upon it with comfort when it comes to be dissolved. Elisha knew it too well, and sorrow had filled his heart upon this account (as the disciples in a like case, Joh 16:6), and therefore he did not need to be told of it, did not care for hearing of it, and would not be interrupted in his contemplations on this great concern, or in the least diverted from his attendance upon his master. I know it; hold you your peace. He speaks not this peevishly, or in contempt of the sons of the prophets, but as one that was himself and would have them composed and sedate, and with an awful silence expecting the event: I know it; be silent, Zac 2:13.
2.They went themselves to be witnesses of it at a distance, though they might not closely attend (Kg2 2:7): Fifty of them stood to view afar off, intending to satisfy their curiosity, but God so ordered it that they might be eye-witnesses of the honour heaven did to that prophet, who was despised and rejected of men. God's works are well worthy our notice; when a door is opened in heaven the call is, Come up hither, come and see.
V.That the miraculous dividing of the river Jordan was the preface to Elijah's translation into the heavenly Canaan, as it had been to the entrance of Israel into the earthly Canaan, Kg2 2:8. He must go on to the other side Jordan to be translated, because it was his native country, and that he might be near the place where Moses died, and that thus honour might be put on that part of the country which was most despised. he and Elisha might have gone over Jordan by a ferry, as other passengers did, but God would magnify Elijah in his exit, as he did Joshua in his entrance, by the dividing of this river, Jos 3:7. As Moses with his rod divided the sea, so Elijah with his mantle divided Jordan, both being the insignia - the badges of their office. These waters of old yielded to the ark, now to the prophet's mantle, which, to those that wanted the ark was an equivalent token of God's presence. When God will take up his faithful ones to heaven death is the Jordan which, immediately before their translation, they must pass through, and they find a way through it, as safe and comfortable way; the death of Christ has divided those waters, that the ransomed of the Lord may pass over. O death! where is thy sting, thy hurt, thy terror?
Historical interpretation
Historical Reception
One surviving comment on this verse from the historical church.
Elijah, who now lived with Elisha, whom he had also consecrated as prophet according to a divine oracle, as has been said already, was with him every day, inseparably sharing with him the same way of life. When he was about to ascend into the chariots of fire, to leave and be raised to the clouds with that physical mass that drags us to the ground, after he had already crossed Gilgal and was going to reach Bethel, he ordered Elisha to stay in Gilgal. But Elisha did not obey him nor would he separate from him because those words carried him instead of completely imprisoning him. That is why, after all, Elijah took him with him. When both had reached Bethel, where they spent a few days, and Elijah was planning again to visit Jericho by himself, he ordered Elisha not to come along with him for the second time. But just as before, he continued to be disobedient and stubborn, as if he felt torn at the thought of being cut off from his master. Since he did not know what to do, Elijah consented to go again with him. Fifty more followed them. These were the sons of the prophets.
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Summary
2 Kings 2:6 captures a pivotal moment in the transfer of prophetic authority from Elijah to Elisha, highlighting Elisha's profound and unwavering commitment. As Elijah continues his final earthly journey towards the Jordan, he issues a third and final instruction for Elisha to remain behind. Elisha, however, responds with a powerful and solemn oath, "As the LORD liveth, and as thy soul liveth, I will not leave thee," demonstrating his absolute loyalty and resolute determination to remain with his master until the very end, thereby positioning himself to receive the spiritual inheritance and the prophetic mantle.
Context
Literary Context
This verse is deeply embedded within the dramatic narrative of 2 Kings chapter 2, which meticulously chronicles Elijah's final earthly movements before his miraculous ascension. It marks the third instance (following Gilgal in 2 Kings 2:2 and Bethel in 2 Kings 2:4) where Elijah instructs Elisha to stay behind. Each command is met with Elisha's resolute refusal, intensifying the tension and highlighting his unwavering devotion. This repeated exchange is not a genuine attempt by Elijah to shake off his disciple, but rather a series of divine tests designed to prove Elisha's steadfastness and readiness to receive the prophetic mantle. The journey itself is a purposeful progression towards the Jordan River, a site of significant biblical transitions and divine interventions, setting the stage for Elijah's departure and Elisha's subsequent ministry.
Historical & Cultural Context
In ancient Israel, prophets served as God's direct spokesmen, holding immense spiritual and often political influence. The concept of prophetic succession was crucial, ensuring the continuity of divine revelation and guidance. Discipleship involved close, personal apprenticeship, where the student would literally "walk with" the master, absorbing their teachings, lifestyle, and spiritual anointing. The oath "As the LORD liveth, and as thy soul liveth" was a powerful and binding declaration in Hebrew culture, invoking the living God and the very life of the person addressed as guarantees of truth and commitment. Such oaths were not taken lightly and signified an unbreakable resolve. The Jordan River, as their destination, held historical significance as the boundary into the Promised Land, a place of miraculous crossings for Israel under Joshua (Joshua 3), and later, the site of John the Baptist's ministry and Jesus' baptism (Matthew 3:13).
Key Themes
This verse powerfully encapsulates several core themes crucial to understanding the narrative of prophetic succession. First, Unwavering Loyalty and Commitment is supremely exemplified by Elisha's steadfast refusal to leave Elijah, underscored by his solemn oath. This profound faithfulness is presented as a prerequisite for receiving divine blessing and a spiritual inheritance, echoing the call for wholehearted devotion found in Deuteronomy 6:5. Second, the narrative highlights The Testing of a Disciple. Elijah's repeated requests are not genuine attempts to dismiss Elisha but rather a divine crucible, proving Elisha's steadfastness, his commitment to the prophetic calling, and his readiness to assume the weighty office Elijah is about to vacate. Third, the verse points to Divine Succession and Impartation. Elisha's persistent presence ensures he is perfectly positioned to witness Elijah's departure and to request and receive a double portion of his master's spirit, signifying his preparedness for a powerful and enduring ministry.
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
This verb means "to sit down, to dwell, to remain, to stay." In Elijah's command, it functions as an imperative, instructing Elisha to cease his journey and settle in that specific location. It implies a cessation of movement and a settling in a particular place, highlighting Elijah's repeated attempts to test Elisha's resolve to continue following him.
This word means "alive" or "life." When used in the phrase "As the LORD liveth" (Hebrew, ḥay YHWH'), it constitutes a solemn and absolute oath, invoking the very existence and vitality of God as a guarantee of the speaker's truthfulness and unwavering resolve. It is one of the strongest forms of affirmation in the Old Testament, signifying that the speaker's word is as certain as God's own living reality.
This primitive root means "to loosen, i.e., relinquish, permit, forsake, abandon." The use of the strong negative particle "lo'" combined with this verb in Elisha's declaration, "I will not leave thee," creates an emphatic statement of absolute refusal to depart. Elisha's statement is not merely a preference but a binding, unbreakable commitment to remain by Elijah's side, signifying his steadfast loyalty.
Verse Breakdown
"And Elijah said unto him, Tarry, I pray thee, here; for the LORD hath sent me to Jordan."
This clause reveals Elijah's final test of Elisha's resolve. Elijah frames his departure to the Jordan as a direct divine commission, implying that Elisha's continued presence is no longer required or even permitted. This is a crucial moment for Elisha to demonstrate whether his commitment is merely to Elijah personally or to the divine purpose that Elijah embodies and to which he is called. It is a test of obedience and spiritual discernment.
"And he said, [As] the LORD liveth, and [as] thy soul liveth, I will not leave thee."
Elisha's response is the spiritual heart of the verse. His double oath, invoking both God's living existence and Elijah's own life, underscores the profound solemnity and unbreakable nature of his vow. It signifies an absolute, unshakeable loyalty and determination that transcends mere human affection, revealing a deep understanding of the spiritual moment. Elisha understands that his continued, persistent presence is essential for receiving the spiritual inheritance, and he refuses to be deterred by any test or perceived obstacle.
"And they two went on."
This simple yet profoundly powerful concluding statement confirms Elisha's success in the test. His unwavering commitment has been proven and accepted, and he has secured his place by Elijah's side for the momentous, supernatural event that is about to unfold at the Jordan. It signifies the continuation of their sacred journey, now with Elisha's steadfastness fully affirmed and his readiness for succession undeniably demonstrated.
Literary Devices
The passage employs several potent literary devices to convey its profound meaning and heighten the narrative's impact. Repetition is a key technique, as Elijah's command to "tarry" and Elisha's steadfast refusal are echoed from earlier verses (2 Kings 2:2, 2 Kings 2:4). This thrice-repeated exchange emphasizes Elisha's unwavering determination, the intensity of the test, and the crucial nature of his resolve. The use of a Solemn Oath ("As the LORD liveth, and as thy soul liveth") elevates Elisha's declaration beyond mere words, transforming it into a binding, covenantal statement that highlights the depth and unbreakable nature of his commitment. Furthermore, the narrative uses Foreshadowing, as the journey to the Jordan River, a place of miraculous crossings and significant divine interventions in Israel's history, subtly hints at the extraordinary, supernatural event that is about to unfold—Elijah's miraculous ascension and Elisha's subsequent miraculous parting of the same waters, signifying his new prophetic authority.
Theological and Thematic Connections
Elisha's unwavering commitment in 2 Kings 2:6 serves as a powerful theological statement on the nature of true discipleship and the importance of perseverance in the face of divine testing. His resolute refusal to leave Elijah, despite repeated opportunities, illustrates that spiritual inheritance and divine empowerment are often predicated on steadfast loyalty, not just to a human mentor, but ultimately to the God who works through that mentor. This passage underscores that God often tests our resolve and devotion before entrusting us with greater responsibilities or spiritual gifts, ensuring our hearts are fully aligned with His purposes and that our commitment is genuine and enduring. It highlights the profound value of being present and attentive in the spiritual journey, positioning oneself to receive what God intends to impart for His kingdom work.
Reflection and Application
Elisha's resolute declaration, "I will not leave thee," resonates deeply with the call to unwavering commitment in our own spiritual journeys. His example challenges us to examine the depth of our own loyalty—not just to human mentors, spiritual disciplines, or church programs, but to the Lord Himself and His divine calling on our lives. True discipleship often demands perseverance through trials, resisting the temptation to abandon our calling or spiritual growth when faced with discomfort, uncertainty, or perceived "tests" from God. Just as Elisha's steadfastness positioned him to receive a profound spiritual impartation and a double portion of anointing, our consistent faithfulness in seemingly small acts of obedience and our commitment to remaining in God's presence prepare us for greater responsibilities and the outpouring of His Spirit. This passage encourages us to embrace the process of spiritual mentorship, recognizing that being present, attentive, and loyal to those God has placed in our lives for guidance can be crucial for our own equipping and the fulfillment of our divine calling.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Why did Elijah repeatedly ask Elisha to stay behind?
Elijah's repeated requests for Elisha to "tarry" (stay behind) were not genuine attempts to abandon his disciple. Instead, they served as a series of crucial tests of Elisha's unwavering loyalty, resolve, and readiness to receive the prophetic mantle. Each request was a crucible designed to prove Elisha's steadfastness and commitment to the prophetic calling and to God's purposes. By refusing to leave, Elisha demonstrated that his desire to follow Elijah and receive his anointing was absolute, thereby positioning himself to witness Elijah's ascension and request the "double portion" of his spirit mentioned later in 2 Kings 2:9. It was a profound test of discipleship, ensuring Elisha was truly prepared for the immense responsibility of succeeding Elijah.
What is the significance of the oath "As the LORD liveth, and as thy soul liveth"?
This is a powerful and solemn Hebrew idiom used to express an absolute, binding, and unbreakable vow. By invoking God's living existence ("As the LORD liveth," referring to YHWH), and Elijah's own life ("as thy soul liveth"), Elisha underscores the profound certainty and earnestness of his declaration. It signifies that his refusal to leave is not a casual statement but a profound, life-or-death commitment, leaving no doubt about his unwavering resolve. This phrasing is common in the Old Testament to convey an oath of utmost seriousness and truth, demonstrating that Elisha's loyalty is as certain as life itself and that he stakes his very being on this promise.
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
Elisha's unwavering loyalty to Elijah, culminating in his steadfast refusal to leave his master, powerfully foreshadows the perfect and ultimate loyalty of Jesus Christ to His heavenly Father. Just as Elisha pursued Elijah to the very point of his ascension, Jesus perfectly accomplished the will of the Father, remaining obedient even unto death on the cross (Philippians 2:8). Elisha's desire for a "double portion" of Elijah's spirit finds its ultimate fulfillment in the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, which Jesus promised His disciples before His own ascension (Acts 1:8). Christ's departure was not an abandonment but a divine transition, leading to the indwelling of the Spirit, ensuring His disciples are never truly left alone (John 14:18). Elisha's persistent presence to receive an inheritance of spirit points to the glorious spiritual inheritance believers receive in Christ, sealed by the Holy Spirit, empowering them for ministry and guaranteeing their future with God (Ephesians 1:11-14). Thus, Elisha's faithful pursuit and reception of the prophetic mantle serve as a vivid type of the believer's steadfast walk with Christ and the glorious spiritual empowerment received through His completed work and the indwelling gift of the Spirit.