2 Kings 2:9

KJV

¶ And it came to pass, when they were gone over, that Elijah said unto Elisha, Ask what I shall do for thee, before I be taken away from thee. And Elisha said, I pray thee, let a double portion of thy spirit be upon me.

KJV (with Strong's)

And it came to pass, when they were gone over {H5674}, that Elijah {H452} said {H559} unto Elisha {H477}, Ask {H7592} what I shall do {H6213} for thee, before I be taken away {H3947} from thee. And Elisha {H477} said {H559}, I pray thee, let a double {H8147} portion {H6310} of thy spirit {H7307} be upon me.

Complete Jewish Bible

After they had crossed, Eliyahu said to Elisha, "Tell me what I can do for you before I am taken away from you." Elisha said, "Please! Let a double share of your spirit be on me!"

Berean Standard Bible

After they had crossed over, Elijah said to Elisha, “Tell me, what can I do for you before I am taken away from you?” “Please, let me inherit a double portion of your spirit,” Elisha replied.

American Standard Version

And it came to pass, when they were gone over, that Elijah said unto Elisha, Ask what I shall do for thee, before I am taken from thee. And Elisha said, I pray thee, let a double portion of thy spirit be upon me.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
2 Kings 2:9 captures a profoundly significant moment immediately preceding Elijah's miraculous ascension, wherein the revered prophet offers his faithful disciple, Elisha, a final, momentous request. Elisha's discerning response, a plea for "a double portion of thy spirit," articulates his deep desire not for personal gain, but for the full inheritance of Elijah's prophetic mantle, signaling a divinely orchestrated transfer of spiritual authority and a resolute commitment to continue God's powerful work in Israel.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is strategically placed at the dramatic climax of the narrative detailing Elijah's final earthly journey and the transfer of his prophetic authority to Elisha. The preceding verses ([2 Kings 2:1-8](/2_kings/2-1-8 "2 Kings 2:1-8 - Elijah and Elisha's Final Journey")) meticulously chronicle their path from Gilgal, through Bethel and Jericho, culminating at the Jordan River. At each location, Elijah attempts to dissuade Elisha from following, testing his unwavering loyalty and resolve. Elisha's steadfast refusal, articulated by his repeated oath, "As the LORD liveth, and as thy soul liveth, I will not leave thee" (a declaration found in [2 Kings 2:2](/2_kings/2-2 "2 Kings 2:2 - Elisha's Steadfast Loyalty"), [2 Kings 2:4](/2_kings/2-4 "2 Kings 2:4 - Elisha's Unwavering Devotion"), and [2 Kings 2:6](/2_kings/2-6 "2 Kings 2:6 - Elisha's Commitment to Elijah")), underscores his profound devotion and readiness for succession. Their miraculous crossing of the Jordan on dry ground, achieved by Elijah striking the water with his mantle, powerfully echoes the Red Sea crossing under Moses and the Jordan crossing under Joshua, thereby emphasizing Elijah's divine authority and the momentous, divinely ordained transition about to occur. It is immediately after this supernatural event, with the Jordan behind them and Elijah's departure imminent, that the pivotal offer and request of [2 Kings 2:9](/2_kings/2-9 "2 Kings 2:9 - Elisha's Request for a Double Portion") take place, setting the stage for Elijah's dramatic ascension in [2 Kings 2:11](/2_kings/2-11 "2 Kings 2:11 - Elijah's Ascension").

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The prophetic office in ancient Israel was often characterized by a master-disciple relationship, where younger prophets, frequently referred to as "sons of the prophets," served under and learned from established figures like Elijah. This dynamic highlights the crucial role of mentorship in the transmission of spiritual authority, wisdom, and the prophetic tradition. The concept of a "double portion" (Hebrew: *pi shenayim*) is deeply rooted in Israelite inheritance law, specifically pertaining to the firstborn son, who was legally entitled to receive twice the inheritance of his siblings, signifying his primary status and responsibility as the family's chief heir (as detailed in [Deuteronomy 21:17](/deuteronomy/21-17 "Deuteronomy 21:17 - The Law of the Firstborn's Inheritance")). This legal precedent is vital for understanding Elisha's request; it indicates not a desire for twice Elijah's power in a quantitative sense, but for the full, primary inheritance of his spiritual father's prophetic office, thereby solidifying his status as Elijah's legitimate and chief successor. Furthermore, the Jordan River itself held immense historical and theological significance, frequently marking transitions, new beginnings, and divine interventions in Israel's history, thus amplifying the momentous nature of this particular event.

* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes central to the book of Kings and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it profoundly underscores the theme of **spiritual succession and divine appointment**, illustrating God's chosen method for transferring authority and anointing from one generation of leaders to the next. Elijah, as the seasoned and divinely commissioned prophet, is intentionally preparing and formally commissioning his faithful successor, Elisha, who has diligently served him. Secondly, it highlights the essential theme of **dependence on divine empowerment**, as Elisha's request is not for earthly riches, fame, or political influence, but for the very "spirit" that enabled Elijah's miraculous, authoritative, and impactful ministry. This reveals Elisha's profound theological understanding that effective service to God is entirely contingent upon supernatural anointing and divine enablement. Lastly, the request for a "double portion" speaks directly to the theme of **spiritual inheritance and legacy**, positioning Elisha as the legitimate and primary heir to Elijah's prophetic legacy, destined to carry on and even expand upon the work of his spiritual father, as powerfully evidenced by his subsequent ministry marked by [numerous and significant miracles](/2_kings/3-1 "2 Kings 3 - Elisha's Ministry Begins").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Taken Away (Hebrew, _lâqach'_):** From H3947, a primitive root meaning "to take (in the widest variety of applications); accept, bring, buy, carry away, drawn, fetch, get, infold, [idiom] many, mingle, place, receive(-ing), reserve, seize, send for, take (away, -ing, up), use, win." In this context, Elijah's use of "taken away" signifies a unique, divinely orchestrated removal or taking, rather than a natural death. It subtly but powerfully foreshadows his extraordinary ascension into heaven without experiencing mortality, as explicitly detailed in [2 Kings 2:11](/2_kings/2-11 "2 Kings 2:11 - Elijah's Chariot of Fire"). Elijah's foreknowledge of this imminent, supernatural departure imbues his offer to Elisha with profound weight and finality, marking it as a crucial act of commissioning.
* **Double Portion (Hebrew, _shᵉnayim peh'_):** From H8147 ("two") and H6310 ("mouth, portion"). This phrase is central to comprehending the depth of Elisha's request. It literally translates to "two mouths" or "two parts," and within the framework of ancient Israelite inheritance law (cf. [Deuteronomy 21:17](/deuteronomy/21-17 "Deuteronomy 21:17 - The Firstborn's Inheritance")), it specifically refers to the privilege of the firstborn son receiving twice the inheritance of his siblings. Elisha is not asking for a quantitative doubling of Elijah's power or spiritual capacity, but rather for the full, legitimate inheritance of a spiritual firstborn son, signifying his earnest desire to be recognized as Elijah's principal successor and to fully embody the prophetic office with its attendant responsibilities and authority.
* **Spirit (Hebrew, _rûwach'_):** From H7307, meaning "wind; by resemblance breath, i.e. a sensible (or even violent) exhalation; figuratively, life, anger, unsubstantiality; by extension, a region of the sky; by resemblance spirit, but only of a rational being (including its expression and functions)." In this profound biblical context, "spirit" refers specifically to the divine anointing and empowering presence of God that rested upon Elijah, enabling him to perform miracles, speak God's word with unparalleled authority, and faithfully carry out his prophetic ministry. It represents the life-giving, supernatural enablement of God, distinct from any inherent human ability. Elisha's request is for this very divine enablement to be transferred to him, acknowledging that his future ministry and effectiveness depend entirely on God's supernatural empowerment.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And it came to pass, when they were gone over":** This opening clause immediately establishes the critical setting following the miraculous crossing of the Jordan River. The river, a potent symbolic boundary in Israelite history, has been supernaturally traversed, signifying a momentous transition point and the culmination of Elijah's earthly journey with Elisha. The divine power that enabled this extraordinary crossing underscores the profound authority of Elijah and the immense spiritual significance of the unfolding moment, preparing the reader for a pivotal exchange.
* **"that Elijah said unto Elisha, Ask what I shall do for thee, before I be taken away from thee":** Elijah, fully cognizant of his imminent supernatural departure, extends to Elisha a final, weighty, and profoundly significant opportunity. This is far from a casual offer; it serves as a deep test of Elisha's spiritual priorities and a climactic act of mentorship. Elijah's direct question places the burden of the request squarely on Elisha, thereby revealing the depth of Elisha's desire and his understanding of spiritual values. The phrase "taken away" (Hebrew *laqach*) subtly but clearly hints at Elijah's unique, non-death departure, building anticipation for the miraculous event to follow.
* **"And Elisha said, I pray thee, let a double portion of thy spirit be upon me":** Elisha's response is immediate, remarkably specific, and spiritually profound. He articulates no desire for personal gain, earthly wealth, or political power. Instead, his plea is for the very essence of Elijah's prophetic anointing. His request for a "double portion" signifies his earnest desire to be recognized as Elijah's principal spiritual heir, inheriting the full measure of his prophetic authority and responsibility. This should be understood not as a literal request for twice the power, but as a plea for the full, legitimate inheritance due to a firstborn son in the prophetic lineage, ensuring the continuity and strength of God's work.

#### Literary Devices
The passage is rich with several potent literary devices that amplify its theological and narrative impact. **Foreshadowing** is prominently employed through Elijah's repeated, enigmatic references to being "taken away," which skillfully builds anticipation for his miraculous ascension. The **symbolism** of the Jordan River crossing is profound, mirroring earlier biblical events such as the Red Sea parting and the Jordan crossing under Joshua, thereby emphasizing divine presence, a new era, and the momentous nature of the prophetic transition. Elijah's mantle, used to part the waters, functions as a powerful **symbol** of his prophetic authority, a symbol that is later transferred to Elisha, signifying the passing of the spiritual torch. There is also a subtle yet effective **irony** in Elijah's repeated attempts to dismiss Elisha; these tests, rather than deterring Elisha, ultimately serve to highlight his unwavering loyalty, deep commitment, and spiritual discernment, thereby proving his worthiness for the requested anointing. The entire scene is imbued with palpable **dramatic tension**, culminating in Elisha's audacious yet humble request and the subsequent miraculous event that validates it.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Elisha's earnest request for a "double portion of thy spirit" is a profound theological statement concerning the indispensable nature of divine empowerment for effective ministry. It underscores the biblical truth that genuine spiritual effectiveness does not originate from human talent, ambition, or intellectual prowess, but fundamentally from the anointing and power of God's Spirit. Elisha intuitively understood that to faithfully continue Elijah's monumental work, he needed Elijah's God and the same divine enablement that rested upon his master. This foundational principle resonates throughout the entirety of Scripture, consistently emphasizing humanity's absolute dependence on God's Spirit to accomplish His sovereign purposes. It teaches believers that seeking spiritual gifts and God's anointing for service is not merely permissible but a noble and necessary pursuit, provided it is rooted in profound humility, a sincere desire to glorify God, and not self-aggrandizement. The subsequent granting of Elisha's request, powerfully evidenced by his extensive and miraculous ministry, unequivocally affirms God's gracious willingness to equip those who earnestly desire to serve Him with the necessary spiritual resources and supernatural power.

* [Deuteronomy 21:17](/deuteronomy/21-17 "Deuteronomy 21:17 - The Firstborn's Inheritance")
* [Numbers 11:16-17](/numbers/11-16-17 "Numbers 11:16-17 - The Spirit on the Elders")
* [Acts 1:8](/acts/1-8 "Acts 1:8 - Power to Witness")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Elisha's audacious yet deeply humble request serves as an enduring and powerful model for believers in every age. In a contemporary world that often champions self-reliance, human ingenuity, and personal achievement, Elisha's example profoundly reminds us that true spiritual impact and lasting fruit flow exclusively from divine empowerment. His singular desire was not for personal glory, earthly riches, or fleeting fame, but for the spiritual capacity and anointing necessary to faithfully continue God's work. This challenges us to critically examine our own deepest desires: what "portion" are we truly seeking in our lives and ministries? Are we content to operate within the confines of our own limited abilities, or do we earnestly long for a deeper, more profound anointing of the Holy Spirit to fulfill God's unique call on our lives? Elisha's unwavering commitment to Elijah, even when tested through multiple opportunities to depart, also powerfully highlights the indispensable importance of faithful discipleship, mentorship, and spiritual accountability within the body of Christ. We are called to serve diligently, to humbly learn from those who have faithfully gone before us, and to be prepared to receive and steward the spiritual inheritance passed down through generations of faith. Ultimately, our effectiveness in ministry, whether manifested in grand public acts or quiet, consistent acts of service, is directly proportional to our reliance on, and fervent pursuit of, God's empowering Spirit.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What does Elisha's request for a "double portion of thy spirit" reveal about his understanding of effective ministry and his spiritual priorities?**
* **How does Elisha's unwavering loyalty and persistence in following Elijah, despite repeated opportunities to leave, demonstrate his readiness for spiritual succession and divine appointment?**
* **In what practical ways might we, like Elisha, be called to earnestly seek God's empowering Spirit for the specific work and calling He has placed upon our lives today?**
* **What spiritual "inheritance" are we actively seeking, and what is our ultimate purpose for desiring it?**

### FAQ
**Did Elisha want twice the power of Elijah?**

Answer: No, the phrase "double portion" (Hebrew: *pi shenayim*) in this context does not signify a desire for a literal doubling of miraculous power or spiritual capacity. Instead, it refers to the inheritance right of the firstborn son in ancient Israelite law, as explicitly laid out in [Deuteronomy 21:17](/deuteronomy/21-17 "Deuteronomy 21:17 - The Law of the Firstborn's Inheritance"). The firstborn received a double share of the family's inheritance, symbolizing his primary status and responsibility as the chief heir. Therefore, Elisha was asking to be recognized and empowered as Elijah's principal spiritual heir, inheriting the full measure of his prophetic mantle and authority, thus ensuring the continuity of his master's work as the legitimate and primary successor, rather than simply wanting to perform twice as many miracles.

**What does "spirit" mean in Elisha's request?**

Answer: In this verse, "spirit" (Hebrew: *ruach*) refers to the divine anointing and empowering presence of God that supernaturally rested upon Elijah. This divine enablement allowed Elijah to perform extraordinary miracles, speak God's word with unparalleled authority, and faithfully carry out his prophetic ministry. It represents the supernatural power and enablement that originates from God, distinct from any human attribute or ability. Elisha was specifically asking for this divine enablement to be transferred to him, recognizing that his future ministry and effectiveness would depend entirely on God's supernatural power and presence, just as Elijah's had.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Elisha's earnest plea for a "double portion of thy spirit" finds its ultimate, glorious, and infinitely superior fulfillment in the person and redemptive work of Jesus Christ, and subsequently, in the abundant outpouring of the Holy Spirit upon the church. While Elisha sought a transfer of prophetic anointing from one human prophet to another, Jesus, the [Prophet like Moses](/deuteronomy/18-15 "Deuteronomy 18:15 - A Prophet Like Moses") and the very Son of God, possesses the Spirit without measure ([John 3:34](/john/3-34 "John 3:34 - Jesus Has the Spirit Without Measure")). His entire earthly ministry was profoundly empowered by the Spirit, from His baptism ([Matthew 3:16](/matthew/3-16 "Matthew 3:16 - Jesus' Baptism and the Spirit")) to His mighty works of healing, deliverance, and teaching. Just as Elijah ascended into heaven and left his mantle as a token of transferred authority, Jesus ascended to the Father, but He did not leave His disciples without divine empowerment. Instead, He promised and subsequently sent the Holy Spirit, His own "Spirit of truth," to indwell, empower, and guide all believers ([John 14:16-17](/john/14-16-17 "John 14:16-17 - The Promise of the Helper"); [Acts 1:8](/acts/1-8 "Acts 1:8 - Power to Witness")). The "double portion" Elisha desired, representing the full inheritance of prophetic ministry, is vastly surpassed by the abundant, limitless Spirit poured out at Pentecost, enabling the church to do "greater works" than even Jesus performed during His earthly ministry, precisely because He has ascended to the Father ([John 14:12](/john/14-12 "John 14:12 - Greater Works Through Believers")). Thus, Elisha's longing for empowered service prefigures the new covenant reality where every believer, as a child of God adopted through Christ, receives the indwelling Spirit, becoming a spiritual heir to Christ's ongoing mission in the world, equipped for service and witness.

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

Numbers 11:17

And I will come down and talk with thee there: and I will take of the spirit which [is] upon thee, and will put [it] upon them; and they shall bear the burden of the people with thee, that thou bear [it] not thyself alone.

Deuteronomy 21:17

But he shall acknowledge the son of the hated [for] the firstborn, by giving him a double portion of all that he hath: for he [is] the beginning of his strength; the right of the firstborn [is] his.

John 16:7

¶ Nevertheless I tell you the truth; It is expedient for you that I go away: for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you; but if I depart, I will send him unto you.

Acts 8:17

Then laid they [their] hands on them, and they received the Holy Ghost.

Zechariah 12:8

In that day shall the LORD defend the inhabitants of Jerusalem; and he that is feeble among them at that day shall be as David; and the house of David [shall be] as God, as the angel of the LORD before them.

Numbers 11:25

And the LORD came down in a cloud, and spake unto him, and took of the spirit that [was] upon him, and gave [it] unto the seventy elders: and it came to pass, [that], when the spirit rested upon them, they prophesied, and did not cease.

Acts 20:25

And now, behold, I know that ye all, among whom I have gone preaching the kingdom of God, shall see my face no more.