2 Kings 2:6

KJV

And Elijah said unto him, Tarry, I pray thee, here; for the LORD hath sent me to Jordan. And he said, [As] the LORD liveth, and [as] thy soul liveth, I will not leave thee. And they two went on.

KJV (with Strong's)

And Elijah {H452} said {H559} unto him, Tarry {H3427}, I pray thee, here; for the LORD {H3068} hath sent {H7971} me to Jordan {H3383}. And he said {H559}, As the LORD {H3068} liveth {H2416}, and as thy soul {H5315} liveth {H2416}, I will not leave {H5800} thee. And they two {H8147} went on {H3212}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Eliyahu said to him, "Please wait here, because ADONAI has sent me to the Yarden." He replied, "As ADONAI lives, and as you live, I will not leave you." So the two of them went on.

Berean Standard Bible

And Elijah said to Elisha, “Please stay here, for the LORD has sent me on to the Jordan.” But Elisha replied, “As surely as the LORD lives and as you yourself live, I will not leave you.” So the two of them went on.

American Standard Version

And Elijah said unto him, Tarry here, I pray thee; for Jehovah hath sent me to the Jordan. And he said, As Jehovah liveth, and as thy soul liveth, I will not leave thee. And they two went on.

Commentary

### 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](/2_kings/2 "2 Kings 2 - Elijah's Ascension and Elisha's Succession"), which meticulously chronicles Elijah's final earthly movements before his miraculous ascension. It marks the third instance (following Gilgal in [2 Kings 2:2](/2_kings/2-2 "2 Kings 2:2 - Elijah's First Test of Elisha") and Bethel in [2 Kings 2:4](/2_kings/2-4 "2 Kings 2:4 - Elijah's Second Test of Elisha")) 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](/joshua/3 "Joshua 3 - Crossing the Jordan River")), and later, the site of John the Baptist's ministry and Jesus' baptism ([Matthew 3:13](/matthew/3-13 "Matthew 3:13 - Jesus Baptized by John")).

* **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](/deuteronomy/6-5 "Deuteronomy 6:5 - Love the Lord with All Your Heart"). 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](/2_kings/2-9 "2 Kings 2:9 - Elisha's Request for a Double Portion"), signifying his preparedness for a powerful and enduring ministry.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Tarry (Hebrew, _yashab'_):** From H3427, 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.
* **liveth (Hebrew, _chay_):** From H2416, 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.
* **leave (Hebrew, _ʻazab_):** From H5800, 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/2-2 "2 Kings 2:2 - Elijah's First Test of Elisha"), [2 Kings 2:4](/2_kings/2-4 "2 Kings 2:4 - Elijah's Second Test of Elisha")). 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.

* [Ruth 1:16-17](/ruth/1-16-17 "Ruth 1:16-17 - Ruth's Vow of Loyalty to Naomi")
* [Matthew 10:37-39](/matthew/10-37-39 "Matthew 10:37-39 - The Cost of Discipleship")
* [Luke 9:62](/luke/9-62 "Luke 9:62 - No Looking Back in Discipleship")

### 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
* **How does Elisha's unwavering commitment challenge my own level of dedication to God's call and the spiritual mentors He has placed in my life?**
* **In what areas of my life might God be testing my perseverance and faithfulness before entrusting me with greater responsibility or a deeper spiritual understanding?**
* **What "Jordan River" moments or significant transitions might I be approaching in my spiritual walk, and how can I ensure I am prepared to receive God's intended impartation?**

### FAQ

**Why did Elijah repeatedly ask Elisha to stay behind?**

Answer: 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](/2_kings/2-9 "2 Kings 2:9 - Elisha's Request for a Double Portion"). 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"?**

Answer: 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](/exodus/3-14 "Exodus 3:14 - God Reveals His Name I AM")), 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](/philippians/2-8 "Philippians 2:8 - Christ's Humility and Obedience")). 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](/acts/1-8 "Acts 1:8 - Power of the Holy Spirit")). 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](/john/14-18 "John 14:18 - I Will Not Leave You As Orphans")). 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](/ephesians/1-11-14 "Ephesians 1:11-14 - Our Inheritance in Christ")). 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.

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 2:2

And Elijah said unto Elisha, Tarry here, I pray thee; for the LORD hath sent me to Bethel. And Elisha said [unto him, As] the LORD liveth, and [as] thy soul liveth, I will not leave thee. So they went down to Bethel.

Joshua 3:15

And as they that bare the ark were come unto Jordan, and the feet of the priests that bare the ark were dipped in the brim of the water, (for Jordan overfloweth all his banks all the time of harvest,)