2 kings 2:14 - He took Elijah’s mantle that fell from him, and struck the waters, and said, “Where is Yahweh, the God of Elijah?” When he also had struck the waters, they were divided apart, and Elisha went over.

Generated Verse: 2 kings 2:14

What does "2 kings 2:14" mean?


This verse from 2 Kings 2:14 is a pivotal moment in the narrative of Elijah's succession by Elisha. It signifies the transfer of prophetic power and authority. Let's break down the meaning:

"He took Elijah’s mantle that fell from him...": Elijah, the great prophet, was just taken up to heaven in a whirlwind. His mantle (a cloak, a symbol of his prophetic office) fell to the ground. Elisha, who had been Elijah's faithful servant and disciple, picks it up. This action is symbolic: Elisha is claiming Elijah's mantle, his role, and his prophetic authority.

"...and struck the waters...": This is a direct echo of Elijah's action when he parted the Jordan River earlier in the same chapter (2 Kings 2:8). Elijah struck the water with his mantle, demonstrating God's power through him. Elisha is now repeating this action.

"...and said, 'Where is Yahweh, the God of Elijah?'": This is the key phrase. Elisha isn't simply performing a magic trick. He's not relying on the mantle itself to have power. He's invoking the name of Yahweh (God) and specifically connecting that invocation to Elijah. He is essentially asking, "Is the same God who empowered Elijah still with us? Will He prove His power through me, as He did through Elijah?" The "Where is Yahweh...?" can also be interpreted as a question seeking confirmation that the same power that rested upon Elijah is now available to Elisha. It's a test of his own faith and a challenge to God to prove His continued presence.

"When he also had struck the waters, they were divided apart, and Elisha went over.": The waters parting confirms that God is with Elisha. Just as He empowered Elijah, He now empowers Elisha. The miracle proves that Elisha is indeed Elijah's successor, anointed and approved by God. Elisha crosses over the divided waters, demonstrating his authority and ushering in a new era of prophetic ministry.

In summary, this verse shows:

Succession: Elisha inherits Elijah's prophetic office and power.
Divine Confirmation: God validates Elisha's role through a miracle mirroring Elijah's.
Continuity of Power: The same God who worked through Elijah continues to work through Elisha.
Faith and Invocation: Elisha's faith and his invocation of God's name are crucial elements in accessing God's power.
Authority: Elisha's actions demonstrate his divinely granted authority.

The verse serves as a powerful testament to God's faithfulness and the continuation of His work through chosen individuals. It emphasizes that God's power is not tied to a specific person but is available to those who are called and faithful to Him.