Bible Commentaries
2 Kings 2

Verses 1-25

There is something pathetic and even weird in these final movement's of Elijah, as we see him accompanied by Elisha, and watched by the prophets. It would seem as though he tried to escape into loneliness for his translation, which he knew was at hand. The man upon whom his mantle had already been cast followed him loyally, determined to stand by him. When presently the chariots and horses of fire conveyed Elijah out of earthly sight the cry of Elisha, "My father, my father, the chariots of Israel and the horsemen thereof!" in all probability borrowed its symbolism from the vision, yet had reference, not to the chariots on which he had looked, but to Elijah. In the vision of Elisha the strength of Israel had lain in the presence of the prophet of God, not in her military equipment, but in the message of truth delivered by the rough yet loyal soul who had now been removed from sight. It was a wail from Elisha's heart, expressing his sense of loss to the nation.

He at once commenced his own ministry, and two incidents are recorded: one beneficent, the healing of the waters; and the other punitive, the destruction of the children. The last is misinterpreted if looked upon as an act of personal vengeance. It was rather an evidence of the sacredness of his office, and of the sin of refusing this method of divine manifestation.