The Ascension of Elijah and the Calling of Elisha: A Coptic Orthodox Reflection

✨ Executive Summary

2 Kings 2, “The Ascension of Elijah and the Calling of Elisha,” recounts the miraculous departure of the prophet Elijah into heaven and the subsequent succession of Elisha as the new prophetic leader of Israel. This chapter is brimming with profound spiritual significance, foreshadowing Christ’s own ascension and the passing of the Holy Spirit to the apostles. It highlights themes of faithfulness, discipleship, divine power, and the continuation of God’s work through chosen vessels. Elijah’s dramatic exit in a chariot of fire symbolizes the glory awaiting the righteous, while Elisha’s inheritance of Elijah’s mantle signifies the transmission of spiritual authority and anointing. We will delve into the geographical context of their journey, the symbolic actions performed, and the rich patristic interpretations that illuminate this pivotal moment in salvation history. The unwavering dedication of Elisha serves as a potent example for all believers striving to follow Christ and serve His Church.

Introduction: 2 Kings 2 presents a pivotal moment in the Old Testament narrative: the transfer of prophetic authority from Elijah to Elisha. This chapter is not just a historical account but a deeply symbolic representation of spiritual succession and the continuation of God’s divine work in the world. The vivid imagery of Elijah’s ascension has captivated readers for millennia, pointing to the ultimate hope of eternal life. Let’s delve into the spiritual depths of this passage to unlock its timeless wisdom and relevance to our lives today. Explore how WordPress hosting can help disseminate these teachings to a wider audience.

📖 2 Kings 2:1-2 – The Journey Begins

KJV: And it came to pass, when the LORD would take up Elijah into heaven by a whirlwind, that Elijah went with Elisha from Gilgal. And Elijah said unto Elisha, Tarry here, I pray thee; for the LORD hath sent me to Bethel. And Elisha said unto him, As the LORD liveth, and as thy soul liveth, I will not leave thee. So they went down to Bethel.

NKJV: And it came to pass, when the Lord was about to take up Elijah into heaven by a whirlwind, that Elijah went with Elisha from Gilgal. And Elijah said to Elisha, “Stay here, please, for the Lord has sent me on to Bethel.” But Elisha said, “As the Lord lives, and as your soul lives, I will not leave you!” So they went down to Bethel.

This opening verse sets the stage for a remarkable event: Elijah’s ascension. The mention of “Gilgal,” a place of significant historical and spiritual importance (Joshua 5:9), reminds us of Israel’s initial entry into the Promised Land, a place of covenant renewal and dedication to God. Elijah’s request for Elisha to stay behind reveals a test of Elisha’s commitment. Elijah knew what the Lord was about to do, and possibly attempted to protect Elisha from being overwhelmed or possibly even harmed by the Divine Glory. Elisha’s unwavering response – “As the Lord lives, and as your soul lives, I will not leave you!” – showcases his unwavering dedication and obedience. This mirrors the relationship of Christ and His disciples: a call to follow, a test of faith, and an ultimate commitment to the Master.

St. Augustine beautifully expounds on the need for perseverance in discipleship: “Tolle quod amas, et habebis quod amas.” (Take away what you love, and you will have what you love – St. Augustine, Sermon 30). Elisha’s willingness to forsake his comfort for Elijah’s presence exemplifies this principle. The journey “down to Bethel” symbolizes a spiritual descent, perhaps representing the humility required to witness and receive divine power.

• Spiritual Application: Elisha’s unwavering commitment inspires us to persevere in our spiritual journey, despite challenges.
• Practical Application: We are called to be steadfast in our faith, never abandoning our commitment to Christ and His Church, even when faced with trials or temptations.

📖 2 Kings 2:3-5 – The Sons of the Prophets and the Spirit of Elijah

KJV: And the sons of the prophets that were at Bethel came forth to Elisha, and said unto him, Knowest thou that the LORD will take away thy master from thy head to day? And he said, Yea, I know it; hold ye your peace. And Elijah said unto him, Elisha, tarry here, I pray thee; for the LORD hath sent me to Jericho. And he said, As the LORD liveth, and as thy soul liveth, I will not leave thee. So they came to Jericho. And the sons of the prophets that were at Jericho came to Elisha, and said unto him, Knowest thou that the LORD will take away thy master from thy head to day? And he answered, Yea, I know it; hold ye your peace.

NKJV: Then the sons of the prophets who were at Bethel came out to Elisha, and said to him, “Do you know that the Lord will take away your master from over you today?” And he said, “Yes, I know it; keep silent!” Then Elijah said to him, “Stay here, Elisha, for the Lord has sent me on to Jericho.” But he said, “As the Lord lives, and as your soul lives, I will not leave you!” So they came to Jericho. Now the sons of the prophets who were at Jericho came to Elisha and said to him, “Do you know that the Lord will take away your master from over you today?” So he answered, “Yes, I know it; keep silent!”

The “sons of the prophets” represent communities of disciples dedicated to learning and propagating the prophetic message. Their knowledge of Elijah’s impending departure suggests a prophetic awareness, yet Elisha’s command to “hold your peace” indicates a need for reverence and quiet contemplation in the face of divine mystery. Elijah’s repeated attempts to dissuade Elisha further emphasize the test of loyalty. The journey to Jericho, a city rebuilt after a curse (Joshua 6:26; 1 Kings 16:34), might symbolize the ongoing need for redemption and restoration. This echoes the need to always seek the grace of God and His forgiveness. The repetition of the encounter with the sons of the prophets reinforces the prophetic tradition within Israel.

St. Cyril of Alexandria observes that “η γὰρ πίστις οὐ λόγοις, ἀλλὰ ἔργοις ἀποδεικνύμενη” (For faith is demonstrated not by words, but by deeds – St. Cyril of Alexandria, Commentary on John, Book 2). Elisha’s actions, his steadfast companionship, are a testament to his faith.

• Spiritual Application: We must be mindful of our words, especially when dealing with sacred matters.
• Practical Application: We learn the importance of discernment, knowing when to speak and when to remain silent, especially when facing the mysteries of faith.

📖 2 Kings 2:6-8 – Crossing the Jordan

KJV: And Elijah said unto him, Tarry here, I pray thee; for the LORD hath sent me to Jordan. And he said, As the LORD liveth, and as thy soul liveth, I will not leave thee. And they two went on. And fifty men of the sons of the prophets went, and stood to view afar off: and they two stood by Jordan. And Elijah took his mantle, and wrapped it together, and smote the waters, and they were divided hither and thither, so that they two went over on dry ground.

NKJV: Then Elijah said to him, “Stay here, please, for the Lord has sent me on to the Jordan.” But he said, “As the Lord lives, and as your soul lives, I will not leave you!” So the two of them went on. And fifty men of the sons of the prophets went and stood facing them at a distance. Then Elijah took his mantle, rolled it up, and struck the water; and it was divided this way and that, so that the two of them crossed over on dry ground.

The Jordan River, a symbol of crossing into the Promised Land and of baptism (Matthew 3:13-17), marks a crucial transition point. Elijah’s final request to Elisha is met with the same unwavering commitment. The presence of fifty sons of the prophets observing from afar highlights the public nature of this event. Elijah’s act of striking the water with his mantle, causing it to divide, is a powerful demonstration of divine power reminiscent of Moses parting the Red Sea (Exodus 14:21-22). This miracle validates Elijah’s prophetic authority and foreshadows the miracles Elisha will perform.

St. Gregory of Nyssa emphasizes the power of symbols: “τὸ γὰρ σύμβολον οὐχ ἁπλοῦν σημεῖον, ἀλλὰ δύναμις κεκρυμμένη” (For the symbol is not a simple sign, but a hidden power – St. Gregory of Nyssa, Life of Moses, Book 2). Elijah’s mantle represents prophetic authority and the power of God. This action connects directly to the sacrament of Baptism where the holy water is a powerful tool given to us by God.

• Spiritual Application: This signifies the power of faith to overcome obstacles and the importance of divine intervention in our lives.
• Practical Application: Like Elijah and Elisha, we must have faith and trust in God’s power to overcome the challenges we face.

📖 2 Kings 2:9-10 – The Request and the Condition

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. And he said, Thou hast asked a hard thing: nevertheless, if thou see me when I am taken from thee, it shall be so unto thee; but if not, it shall not be so.

NKJV: And so it was, when they had crossed over, that Elijah said to Elisha, “Ask! What may I do for you, before I am taken away from you?” Elisha said, “Please let a double portion of your spirit be upon me.” So he said, “You have asked a hard thing. Nevertheless, if you see me when I am taken from you, it shall be so for you; but if not, it shall not be so.”

Elijah’s offer to grant Elisha a request demonstrates his desire to ensure a smooth transition of prophetic leadership. Elisha’s request for a “double portion” of Elijah’s spirit is not a desire for personal aggrandizement, but a plea for the strength and ability to continue Elijah’s work. This request is understood within the context of the firstborn’s inheritance (Deuteronomy 21:17), signifying a greater responsibility and anointing. Elijah’s response acknowledges the difficulty of the request, highlighting that it is ultimately dependent on divine grace. The condition – “if you see me when I am taken from thee” – suggests that Elisha’s witnessing of Elijah’s ascension is crucial for receiving the promised blessing. Elisha will need to be vigilant and present to God to receive the Holy Spirit.

As St. Basil the Great explains: “Διπλῆν μοῖραν τοῦ πνεύματός σου” (A double portion of your Spirit – St. Basil the Great, On the Holy Spirit, Ch. 16) can be interpreted as a yearning for a fullness of grace, enabling him to emulate Elijah’s zeal and efficacy. This also foreshadows the gifts of the Holy Spirit poured out on the Apostles on Pentecost. We learn from Elisha’s request that it is okay to ask for great things from God, provided that they are done out of humilty and out of a desire to serve Him with passion.

• Spiritual Application: We must be bold in our prayers, asking God for the gifts we need to serve Him effectively.
• Practical Application: We should seek God’s guidance in discerning our true needs and desires, ensuring that they align with His will and purpose.

📖 2 Kings 2:11-12 – The Ascension and the Mantle

KJV: 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. 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.

NKJV: Then it happened, as they continued on and talked, that suddenly a chariot of fire appeared with horses of fire, and separated the two of them; and Elijah went up by a whirlwind into heaven. And Elisha saw it, and he cried out, “My father, my father, the chariot of Israel and its horsemen!” So he saw him no more. And he took hold of his own clothes and tore them into two pieces.

The dramatic appearance of a “chariot of fire, and horses of fire” is a powerful symbol of divine glory and power. This miraculous event signifies Elijah’s translation into heaven, bypassing physical death. The whirlwind represents God’s overwhelming power and majesty. Elisha’s cry, “My father, my father, the chariot of Israel, and the horsemen thereof,” expresses his deep grief and recognition of Elijah’s importance as a spiritual leader and protector of Israel. The tearing of his clothes signifies mourning and acceptance of his new role as Elijah’s successor. Because Elisha remained observant, he was allowed to witness the ascension and would receive the Holy Spirit.

The early Church Fathers interpreted Elijah’s ascension as a foreshadowing of Christ’s own ascension. As St. John Chrysostom notes: “Ἡ ἀνάληψις Ἠλιοὺ τύπος τῆς Χριστοῦ ἀναλήψεως” (The ascension of Elijah is a type of Christ’s ascension – St. John Chrysostom, Homilies on Hebrews, Homily 4). The chariot of fire is a symbol of divine glory and the promise of eternal life for those who are faithful. Christ tells us “In my Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you.” (John 14:2)

• Spiritual Application: The ascension of Elijah inspires hope for eternal life and the promise of divine glory for those who remain faithful.
• Practical Application: We should strive to live a life that is pleasing to God, so that we may one day share in His glory.

📖 2 Kings 2:13-14 – Elisha’s Return and the Divided Waters

KJV: He took up also the mantle of Elijah that fell from him, and went back, and stood by the bank of Jordan; 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 had smitten the waters, they parted hither and thither: and Elisha went over.

NKJV: He also took up the mantle of Elijah that had fallen from him, and went back and stood by the bank of the Jordan. Then he took the mantle of Elijah that had fallen from him, and struck the water, and said, “Where is the Lord God of Elijah?” And when he also had struck the water, it was divided this way and that; and Elisha crossed over.

Elisha’s retrieval of Elijah’s mantle symbolizes the inheritance of prophetic authority and power. His return to the Jordan River signifies a return to the place of transition and testing. Elisha’s act of striking the water with the mantle, coupled with his invocation “Where is the LORD God of Elijah?”, demonstrates his faith and his reliance on the same God who empowered Elijah. The parting of the waters confirms that Elisha has indeed received the “double portion” of Elijah’s spirit. This mirrors the miracle Moses performed and emphasizes that God works through His chosen prophets to reveal his glory and power. The mantle of Elijah is a physical representation of God’s calling for Elisha.

As Tertullian notes: “Ubi fides, ibi spes” (Where there is faith, there is hope – Tertullian, De Spectaculis, Ch. 12). Elisha’s faith in God enables him to perform the same miracle as Elijah, demonstrating the continuity of God’s power.

• Spiritual Application: This signifies the continuity of God’s work through chosen vessels and the importance of faith in receiving divine power.
• Practical Application: We should trust in God’s power to work through us, even when we feel inadequate, remembering that He equips those He calls.

📖 2 Kings 2:15-18 – The Sons of the Prophets Seek Elijah

KJV: 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. And they said unto him, Behold now, there be with thy servants fifty strong men; let them go, we pray thee, and seek thy master: lest peradventure the Spirit of the LORD hath taken him up, and cast him upon some mountain, or into some valley. And he said, Ye shall not send. And when they urged him till he was ashamed, he said, Send. They sent therefore fifty men, and they sought three days, but found him not. And when they came again to him, (for he tarried at Jericho,) he said unto them, Did I not say unto you, Send not?

NKJV: Now when the sons of the prophets who were from Jericho saw him, they said, “The spirit of Elijah rests on Elisha.” So they came to meet him, and bowed to the ground before him. Then they said to him, “Look now, there are fifty strong men with your servants. Please let them go and search for your master, lest perhaps the Spirit of the Lord has taken him up and cast him upon some mountain or into some valley.” And he said, “You shall not send anyone.” But when they urged him until he was ashamed, he said, “Send them.” Therefore they sent fifty men, and they searched for three days but did not find him. And when they came back to him, for he had stayed in Jericho, he said to them, “Did I not say to you, ‘Do not send anyone’?”

The sons of the prophets recognize Elisha’s authority and acknowledge that “the spirit of Elijah doth rest on Elisha.” Their bowing down before him signifies their acceptance of him as their new leader. Their suggestion to search for Elijah reflects their difficulty in fully grasping the miraculous nature of his ascension. Elisha’s initial refusal to allow the search demonstrates his understanding that Elijah’s departure was a divine act and not a mere disappearance. Their insistence and Elisha’s eventual acquiescence highlight the tension between human doubt and divine certainty. The futile search for Elijah confirms the reality of his translation into heaven and the futility of seeking to understand divine mysteries through purely human means. God’s ways are greater than our ways (Isaiah 55:8-9).

• Spiritual Application: We must trust in God’s divine plan, even when we don’t fully understand it.
• Practical Application: This passage encourages us to embrace faith over doubt and to accept the mysteries of God’s will.

📖 2 Kings 2:19-22 – Healing the Waters of Jericho

KJV: And the men of the city said unto Elisha, Behold, I pray thee, the situation of this city is pleasant, as my lord seeth: but the water is naught, and the ground barren. And he said, Bring me a new cruse, and put salt therein. And they brought it to him. And he went forth unto the spring of the waters, and cast the salt in there, and said, Thus saith the LORD, I have healed these waters; there shall not be from thence any more death or barren land. So the waters were healed unto this day, according to the saying of Elisha which he spake.

NKJV: Then the men of the city said to Elisha, “Please notice, the situation of this city is pleasant, as my lord sees; but the water is bad, and the ground barren.” And he said, “Bring me a new bowl, and put salt in it.” So they brought it to him. Then he went out to the source of the water, and cast in the salt there, and said, “Thus says the Lord: ‘I have healed this water; from it there shall be no more death or barrenness.’” So the water remains healed to this day, according to the word of Elisha which he spoke.

The healing of the waters of Jericho is Elisha’s first miracle after inheriting Elijah’s mantle, confirming his prophetic calling and the power of God working through him. The city’s description as having a “pleasant” situation but “bad” water and “barren” ground reflects the contrast between outward appearance and inner corruption. The use of a “new cruse” and “salt” symbolizes purity and cleansing. Salt, known for its preservative properties, signifies purification and restoration. Elisha’s act of casting the salt into the spring represents a divine intervention to heal the source of the problem. His declaration, “Thus saith the LORD, I have healed these waters,” emphasizes that the healing is a direct result of God’s power. The lasting healing of the waters demonstrates the permanence of God’s grace and the effectiveness of His healing touch. Elisha, like Jesus, came to bring us fresh, life-giving water.

Origen writes: “Ὅπου ὁ Ἰησοῦς, ἐκεῖ καὶ ἡ ζωὴ” (Where Jesus is, there is life – Origen, Commentary on John, Book 1). Elisha, as a type of Christ, brings healing and life to the barren land. Through Christ, we too can be cleansed and renewed, bringing forth fruit in abundance.

• Spiritual Application: This symbolizes the power of God to heal and restore all aspects of our lives, both physically and spiritually.
• Practical Application: We must turn to God for healing and cleansing, allowing Him to purify our hearts and renew our spirits.

📖 2 Kings 2:23-25 – Cursing the Mocking Youths

KJV: And he went up from thence unto Bethel: and as he was going up by the way, there came forth little children out of the city, and mocked him, and said unto him, Go up, thou bald head; go up, thou bald head. And he turned back, and looked on them, and cursed them in the name of the LORD. And there came forth two she bears out of the wood, and tare forty and two children of them. And he went from thence to mount Carmel, and from thence he returned to Samaria.

NKJV: Then he went up from there to Bethel; and as he was going up the road, some youths came out from the city and mocked him, and said to him, “Go up, you baldhead! Go up, you baldhead!” So he turned around and looked at them, and pronounced a curse on them in the name of the Lord. And two female bears came out of the woods and mauled forty-two of the youths. Then he went from there to Mount Carmel, and from there he returned to Samaria.

This passage presents a difficult ethical challenge. The youths’ mocking of Elisha, calling him “Go up, thou bald head,” is not merely playful teasing but a deliberate rejection of his prophetic authority and a mockery of Elijah’s ascension. Bethel, a place of sacred significance (Genesis 28:19), is now a place of defiance and disrespect. Elisha’s curse, pronounced “in the name of the LORD,” is not an act of personal vengeance but a divine judgment against those who reject God’s messenger and His message. The appearance of two she-bears and the mauling of forty-two youths serves as a severe and sobering consequence of disrespecting God’s authority. This highlights the seriousness of rejecting God’s prophets. Elisha then goes to Mount Carmel, the location of Elijah’s powerful contest with the prophets of Baal (1 Kings 18). From there, he returns to Samaria, continuing his prophetic ministry.

St. Athanasius writes: “Οὐ γὰρ ἀγαθὸν τὸ μὴ ἐπιτιμᾶν τοὺς ἁμαρτάνοντας” (For it is not good to not rebuke those who sin – St. Athanasius, Life of Antony, Ch. 55). While this passage is difficult, it underscores the importance of respecting God’s authority and the consequences of rejecting His messengers. It is a lesson that we must strive to live lives of reverence and humility. God sometimes uses severe methods to make His people repent.

• Spiritual Application: This serves as a warning against mocking or rejecting God’s messengers and the importance of respecting divine authority.
• Practical Application: We should cultivate a spirit of reverence and humility, recognizing the seriousness of rejecting God’s word.

💡 Key Reflections and Teachings

• Faithful Discipleship: Elisha’s unwavering commitment to Elijah serves as a model for faithful discipleship.
• Succession and Continuity: The passing of the mantle symbolizes the continuity of God’s work through chosen vessels.
• Divine Power: The miracles performed by both Elijah and Elisha demonstrate the power of God to intervene in human affairs.
• Importance of Reverence: The cursing of the mocking youths highlights the importance of respecting divine authority and messengers.
• Healing and Restoration: The healing of the waters of Jericho symbolizes God’s power to heal and restore all aspects of our lives.

❓ FAQ

Q: What does Elijah’s ascension symbolize?
A: Elijah’s ascension symbolizes the hope of eternal life and the promise of divine glory for those who remain faithful to God. It foreshadows Christ’s own ascension and the promise of being reunited with God in heaven.

Q: Why did Elisha ask for a “double portion” of Elijah’s spirit?
A: Elisha’s request for a “double portion” of Elijah’s spirit was a plea for the strength and ability to continue Elijah’s prophetic work effectively. It signifies a desire for a greater measure of God’s grace and anointing to fulfill his calling.

Q: What is the significance of the mantle of Elijah?
A: The mantle of Elijah symbolizes prophetic authority and the power of God. It represents the divine calling and the anointing that empowers individuals to carry out God’s work.

Q: How does 2 Kings 2 relate to our lives today?
A: 2 Kings 2 teaches us about the importance of faithful discipleship, trusting in God’s power, and respecting divine authority. It encourages us to persevere in our spiritual journey, to seek God’s guidance, and to embrace the mysteries of His will.

🕊️ Conclusion

“The Ascension of Elijah and the Calling of Elisha” in 2 Kings 2 offers profound insights into discipleship, divine power, and the transfer of spiritual authority. Elisha’s unwavering commitment to Elijah is a testament to true discipleship, inspiring us to remain steadfast in our faith and follow Christ with unwavering dedication. Elijah’s dramatic ascension serves as a powerful reminder of the hope of eternal life and the promise of divine glory. The miracles performed in this chapter highlight God’s power to intervene in our lives, heal our wounds, and restore our brokenness. Let us strive to emulate Elisha’s faithfulness, seeking God’s guidance and trusting in His power to work through us, that we may be vessels of His grace and instruments of His love in a world desperately in need of healing and hope. Just as Elisha witnessed Elijah’s ascension and inherited his mantle, may we remain vigilant and faithful, ready to receive the blessings God has in store for us.

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Prophet Elijah, Elisha, Ascension, Discipleship, Miracle, Divine Power, Prophetic Ministry, Jordan River, Old Testament, Coptic Orthodox

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Explore the spiritual depths of 2 Kings 2: The Ascension of Elijah and the Calling of Elisha from a Coptic Orthodox perspective. Learn about discipleship, divine power, and prophetic ministry.