And Elijah took his cloak, rolled it up, and struck the waters, which parted to the right and to the left, so that the two of them crossed over on dry ground. And Elijah took his cloakThe Hebrew word for "cloak" here is "adderet," which can also mean a mantle or a garment of splendor. Elijah's cloak is significant as it symbolizes his prophetic authority and the power of God resting upon him. In the ancient Near Eastern context, a cloak was not just a piece of clothing but a representation of one's identity and status. Elijah's act of taking his cloak signifies his readiness to perform a divine act, highlighting the mantle's role as a conduit of God's power. rolled it up
The action of rolling up the cloak suggests preparation and intentionality. In the Hebrew tradition, such an action could symbolize the concentration of power or authority. Elijah's deliberate act of rolling up his cloak indicates his faith and expectation that God would perform a miracle. This gesture also reflects the idea of focusing one's spiritual energy and faith in God to accomplish His will. and struck the waters
The act of striking the waters is reminiscent of Moses parting the Red Sea, as recorded in Exodus. The Hebrew verb used here, "nakah," means to strike or smite, often with the implication of divine intervention. Elijah's action is a demonstration of God's power over nature, affirming that the God of Israel is the same yesterday, today, and forever. It serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and His ability to make a way where there seems to be no way. which parted to the right and to the left
The parting of the waters is a miraculous event that echoes the parting of the Red Sea and the Jordan River in the time of Joshua. The Hebrew word "chatsah" means to divide or cleave, emphasizing the supernatural nature of this event. This miracle serves as a testament to God's continued presence and power among His people. It reassures believers that God is capable of overcoming any obstacle, providing a path through seemingly insurmountable challenges. so that the two of them crossed over on dry ground
The phrase "crossed over on dry ground" is significant in the biblical narrative, symbolizing safe passage and divine deliverance. The Hebrew word "yabashah" for "dry ground" underscores the completeness of the miracle, as the ground was not just exposed but dry, allowing for easy passage. This event is a powerful reminder of God's faithfulness and His ability to provide for His people. It also foreshadows the transition of prophetic authority from Elijah to Elisha, as they cross the Jordan together, marking a new chapter in Israel's history. Persons / Places / Events 1. ElijahA major prophet in Israel, known for his powerful miracles and his role in turning the hearts of the people back to God. In this passage, he is nearing the end of his earthly ministry. 2. ElishaThe successor of Elijah, who is accompanying him and learning from him. Elisha is about to inherit Elijah's prophetic mantle. 3. The Jordan RiverA significant geographical and spiritual landmark in Israel's history, often associated with miraculous events and transitions. 4. The Cloak (Mantle)A symbol of prophetic authority and power. Elijah's use of the cloak to part the waters signifies the divine power vested in him. 5. The Parting of the WatersA miraculous event demonstrating God's power and presence, reminiscent of the parting of the Red Sea during the Exodus. Teaching Points God's Power in TransitionJust as God demonstrated His power through Elijah at the Jordan, He is present in our life's transitions, guiding and empowering us. Symbolism of the CloakThe cloak represents God's calling and authority. We are called to recognize and respect the spiritual authority God places in our lives. Faith and ObedienceElijah's action of striking the water with his cloak required faith and obedience. We are called to act in faith, trusting God's power in our lives. Mentorship and SuccessionElijah and Elisha's relationship highlights the importance of mentorship and preparing the next generation for leadership in God's work. Miracles as Signs of God's PresenceThe parting of the waters is a reminder that miracles are signs of God's presence and His active role in the world. Bible Study Questions 1. How does the parting of the Jordan River by Elijah compare to other miraculous crossings in the Bible, and what does this teach us about God's consistency? 2. In what ways can we identify and respect the "cloaks" of authority and calling in our own lives and communities? 3. How can we prepare ourselves to be both mentors and mentees in our spiritual journeys, as seen in the relationship between Elijah and Elisha? 4. What are some transitions in your life where you have seen or need to see God's power at work, similar to the crossing of the Jordan? 5. How can we cultivate a faith that acts in obedience, trusting in God's power to work through us in miraculous ways? Connections to Other Scriptures Exodus 14The parting of the Red Sea by Moses, which parallels Elijah's parting of the Jordan River, both demonstrating God's deliverance and power. Joshua 3The crossing of the Jordan River by the Israelites under Joshua's leadership, symbolizing a new beginning and God's faithfulness. Acts 1The ascension of Jesus and the passing of His mission to the apostles, similar to Elijah's passing of his prophetic role to Elisha. People Elijah, ElishaPlaces Bethel, Gilgal, Jericho, Jordan River, Mount Carmel, SamariaTopics Blow, Cloak, Crossed, Divided, Dry, Elijah, Eli'jah, Flowing, Folded, Ground, Halved, Hither, Mantle, Parted, Pass, Robe, Rolled, Rolling, Smiteth, Smote, Struck, Taketh, Thither, Till, Waters, Wrapped, WrappethDictionary of Bible Themes 2 Kings 2:8 5092 Elijah
5144 cloak 2 Kings 2:7-8 1416 miracles, nature of Library The Translation of Elijah and the Ascension of Christ
'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.'--2 KINGS ii. 11. 'And it came to pass, while He blessed them, He was parted from them, and carried up into heaven.'--LUKE xxiv. 51. These two events, the translation of Elijah and the Ascension of our Lord, have sometimes been put side by side in order to show that the latter narrative is nothing …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy ScriptureElijah's Translation and Elisha's Deathbed
And Elisha saw it, and he cried, My father, my father, the chariot of Israel, and the horsemen thereof.'--2 KINGS ii. 12. '...And Joash, the King of Israel, came down unto him, and wept over his face, and said. O my father, my father, the chariot of Israel and the horsemen thereof.'--2 KINGS xiii. U. The scenes and the speakers are strangely different in these two incidents. The one scene is that mysterious translation on the further bank of the Jordan, when a mortal was swept up to heaven in a …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture The Chariot of Fire
'And it came to pass, when the Lord would take up Elijah into heaven by a whirlwind, that Elijah went with Elisha from Gilgal. 2. And Elijah said unto Elisha, Tarry here, I pray thee; for the Lord hath sent me to Beth-el. And Elisha said unto him, As the Lord liveth, and as thy soul liveth, I will not leave thee. 80 they went down to Beth-el 3, And the sons of the prophets that were at Beth-el came forth to Elisha and said unto him, Knowest thou that the Lord will take away thy master from thy head …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture Gentleness Succeeding Strength
'He took up also the mantle of Elijah that fell from him, and went back, and stood by the bank of Jordan; 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 …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture Preparing to Depart
"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."--2 Kings 2:11. IT seems to me that the departure of Elijah from the world, though of course he did not "die" at all, may furnish us with a very good type of the decease of those saints who, although taken away on a sudden, are not without some previous intimation that in such a manner they will be …
Charles Haddon Spurgeon—Spurgeon's Sermons Volume 54: 1908 Whether Hope is a Help or a Hindrance to Action?
Objection 1: It would seem that hope is not a help but a hindrance to action. Because hope implies security. But security begets negligence which hinders action. Therefore hope is a hindrance to action. Objection 2: Further, sorrow hinders action, as stated above ([1361]Q[37], A[3]). But hope sometimes causes sorrow: for it is written (Prov. 13:12): "Hope that is deferred afflicteth the soul." Therefore hope hinders action. Objection 3: Further, despair is contrary to hope, as stated above [1362](A[4]). …
Saint Thomas Aquinas—Summa Theologica Jericho Itself.
We read, that this city was not only wasted by Joshua with fire and sword, but cursed also. "Cursed be he before the Lord, who shall rise up and build that city Jericho," Joshua 6:26. "Nor was another city to be built (says the Talmudists), which was to be called by the name of Jericho: nor was Jericho itself to be built, although to be called by another name." And yet I know not by what chance this city crept out of dust and rubbish, lived again, and flourished, and became the second city to Jerusalem. …
John Lightfoot—From the Talmud and Hebraica Consolations against the Fear of Death.
If in the time of thy sickness thou findest thyself fearful to die, meditate-- 1. That it argueth a dastardly mind to fear that which is not; for in the church of Christ there is no death (Isa. xxv. 7, 8), and whosoever liveth and believeth in Christ, shall never die (John xi. 26). Let them fear death who live without Christ. Christians die not; but when they please God, they are like Enoch translated unto God (Gen. v. 24;) their pains are but Elijah's fiery chariot to carry them up to heaven (2 …
Lewis Bayly—The Practice of Piety The Country of Jericho, and the Situation of the City.
Here we will borrow Josephus' pencil, "Jericho is seated in a plain, yet a certain barren mountain hangs over it, narrow, indeed, but long; for it runs out northward to the country of Scythopolis,--and southward, to the country of Sodom, and the utmost coast of the Asphaltites." Of this mountain mention is made, Joshua 2:22, where the two spies, sent by Joshua, and received by Rahab, are said to "conceal themselves." "Opposite against this, lies a mountain on the other side Jordan, beginning from …
John Lightfoot—From the Talmud and Hebraica The Baptist's Testimony.
"There came a man, sent from God, whose name was John. The same came for witness, that he might bear witness of the light, that all might believe through him. He was not the light, but came that he might bear witness of the light.... John beareth witness of Him, and crieth, saying, This was He of whom I said, He that cometh after me is preferred before me: for He was before me. For of His fulness we all received, and grace for grace. For the law was given by Moses; grace and truth came by Jesus Christ. …
Marcus Dods—The Expositor's Bible: The Gospel of St. John, Vol. I Formation and History of the Hebrew Canon.
1. The Greek word canon (originally a straight rod or pole, measuring-rod, then rule) denotes that collection of books which the churches receive as given by inspiration of God, and therefore as constituting for them a divine rule of faith and practice. To the books included in it the term canonical is applied. The Canon of the Old Testament, considered in reference to its constituent parts, was formed gradually; formed under divine superintendence by a process of growth extending through …
E. P. Barrows—Companion to the Bible Epistle vii. To Peter, Domitian, and Elpidius.
To Peter, Domitian, and Elpidius. Gregory to Peter, Domitian, and Elpidius, Bishops [1688] . I rejoice exceedingly that you welcomed with great joy the ordination of the most holy Cyriacus, my brother and fellow-priest. And since we have learnt from the preaching of Paul the apostle that If one member rejoice, all the members rejoice with it (1 Cor. xii. 26), you must needs consider with how great exultation I rejoice with you in this thing, wherein not one member, but many members of Christ have …
Saint Gregory the Great—the Epistles of Saint Gregory the Great The Upbringing of Jewish Children
The tenderness of the bond which united Jewish parents to their children appears even in the multiplicity and pictorialness of the expressions by which the various stages of child-life are designated in the Hebrew. Besides such general words as "ben" and "bath"--"son" and "daughter"--we find no fewer than nine different terms, each depicting a fresh stage of life. The first of these simply designates the babe as the newly--"born"--the "jeled," or, in the feminine, "jaldah"--as in Exodus 2:3, 6, 8. …
Alfred Edersheim—Sketches of Jewish Social Life A Holy Life the Beauty of Christianity: Or, an Exhortation to Christians to be Holy. By John Bunyan.
Holiness becometh thine house, O Lord, for ever.'--[Psalm 93:5] London, by B. W., for Benj. Alsop, at the Angel and Bible, in the Poultrey. 1684. THE EDITOR'S ADVERTISEMENT. This is the most searching treatise that has ever fallen under our notice. It is an invaluable guide to those sincere Christians, who, under a sense of the infinite importance of the salvation of an immortal soul, and of the deceitfulness of their hearts, sigh and cry, "O Lord of hosts, that judgest righteously, that triest …
John Bunyan—The Works of John Bunyan Volumes 1-3 The Twelve Minor Prophets.
1. By the Jewish arrangement, which places together the twelve minor prophets in a single volume, the chronological order of the prophets as a whole is broken up. The three greater prophets, Isaiah, Jeremiah, and Ezekiel, stand in the true order of time. Daniel began to prophesy before Ezekiel, but continued, many years after him. The Jewish arrangement of the twelve minor prophets is in a sense chronological; that is, they put the earlier prophets at the beginning, and the later at the end of the …
E. P. Barrows—Companion to the Bible That Upon the Conquest and Slaughter of vitellius Vespasian Hastened his Journey to Rome; but Titus his Son Returned to Jerusalem.
1. And now, when Vespasian had given answers to the embassages, and had disposed of the places of power justly, [25] and according to every one's deserts, he came to Antioch, and consulting which way he had best take, he preferred to go for Rome, rather than to march to Alexandria, because he saw that Alexandria was sure to him already, but that the affairs at Rome were put into disorder by Vitellius; so he sent Mucianus to Italy, and committed a considerable army both of horsemen and footmen to …
Flavius Josephus—The Wars of the Jews or History of the Destruction of Jerusalem Paul's Departure and Crown;
OR, AN EXPOSITION UPON 2 TIM. IV. 6-8 ADVERTISEMENT BY THE EDITOR How great and glorious is the Christian's ultimate destiny--a kingdom and a crown! Surely it hath not entered into the heart of man to conceive what ear never heard, nor mortal eye ever saw? the mansions of the blest--the realms of glory--'a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory.' For whom can so precious an inheritance be intended? How are those treated in this world who are entitled to so glorious, so exalted, so eternal, …
John Bunyan—The Works of John Bunyan Volumes 1-3 Kings
The book[1] of Kings is strikingly unlike any modern historical narrative. Its comparative brevity, its curious perspective, and-with some brilliant exceptions--its relative monotony, are obvious to the most cursory perusal, and to understand these things is, in large measure, to understand the book. It covers a period of no less than four centuries. Beginning with the death of David and the accession of Solomon (1 Kings i., ii.) it traverses his reign with considerable fulness (1 Kings iii.-xi.), …
John Edgar McFadyen—Introduction to the Old Testament Links 2 Kings 2:8 NIV2 Kings 2:8 NLT2 Kings 2:8 ESV2 Kings 2:8 NASB2 Kings 2:8 KJV
2 Kings 2:8 Commentaries
Bible Hub |
