King James Version
What Does 2 Kings 2:13 Mean?
“He took up also the mantle of Elijah that fell from him, and went back, and stood by the bank of Jordan; bank: Heb. lip”
Context
11
And it came to pass, as they still went on, and talked, that, behold, there appeared a chariot of fire, and horses of fire, and parted them both asunder; and Elijah went up by a whirlwind into heaven.
12
And Elisha saw it, and he cried, My father, my father, the chariot of Israel, and the horsemen thereof. And he saw him no more: and he took hold of his own clothes, and rent them in two pieces.
13
He took up also the mantle of Elijah that fell from him, and went back, and stood by the bank of Jordan; bank: Heb. lip
14
And he took the mantle of Elijah that fell from him, and smote the waters, and said, Where is the LORD God of Elijah? and when he also had smitten the waters, they parted hither and thither: and Elisha went over.
15
And when the sons of the prophets which were to view at Jericho saw him, they said, The spirit of Elijah doth rest on Elisha. And they came to meet him, and bowed themselves to the ground before him.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(13) **The mantle of Elijah.**—See 2Kings 2:8, and comp. 1Kings 19:19. The badge of the prophet’s office was naturally transferred to his successor.
**The bank.**—Literally, *lip.* So χείλς is used in Greek (Herod. ii. 70).
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of 2 Kings. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
2 Kings 2:13 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to 2 Kings 2:13
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge