Old Testament
2 Kings 2:14
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this moment, Elisha takes up Elijah's cloak, a symbol of his mentor's power and presence.
- Author
- Author unknown; possibly Jeremiah
- Written
- Around 560 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- Exiled Israelites in Babylon
He took Elijah's cloak and struck the water with it, calling out, "Where is the LORD, the God of Elijah?" When he struck the water, it split apart to the left and right, and Elisha crossed over.
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.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this moment, Elisha takes up Elijah's cloak, a symbol of his mentor's power and presence. He strikes the water, asking where the Lord, the God of Elijah, is. This act shows his faith and desire for God's guidance. When he hits the water, it miraculously parts, allowing him to cross. This event signifies a transition of leadership and the continuation of God's work through Elisha. It highlights the importance of faith in seeking God's presence and power. Elisha's question reflects a deep yearning for connection with God, just as Elijah had experienced. The parting of the waters serves as a powerful reminder that God is always present and capable of extraordinary acts. Elisha's journey begins with a bold step of faith, demonstrating that God responds to those who earnestly seek Him. This moment marks the beginning of Elisha's ministry, filled with the promise of God's presence and power in his life and work. It encourages us to seek God actively in our own lives, trusting in His ability to guide us.
Related Bible verses
How to apply 2 Kings 2:14 to your life
When facing challenges, remember to seek God's guidance like Elisha did. Trust that He is present and capable of helping you overcome obstacles. Take bold steps in faith, knowing that God can work through you. Your journey can inspire others to seek Him as well. Embrace the power of faith in your daily life and decisions. “Where is the Lord?” can be your guiding question in tough times, leading you to deeper faith and understanding.
Curated for this public verse page. 2 Kings Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does 2 Kings 2:14 mean?
2 Kings 2:14 describes Elisha taking Elijah's cloak and striking the water, asking where the Lord is. This act symbolizes Elisha's acceptance of his new role as a prophet and his reliance on God's power, which is demonstrated when the waters part, allowing him to cross.
What is the significance of Elijah's cloak in 2 Kings 2:14?
Elijah's cloak represents his prophetic authority and the transfer of leadership to Elisha. By using the cloak to part the waters, Elisha shows that he has inherited Elijah's spirit and mission, affirming his role as a prophet.
What miracle occurs in 2 Kings 2:14?
In 2 Kings 2:14, when Elisha strikes the water with Elijah's cloak, the waters miraculously part, allowing him to cross. This miracle signifies God's presence and power working through Elisha as he begins his ministry.
How does 2 Kings 2:14 relate to faith?
2 Kings 2:14 illustrates the theme of faith as Elisha boldly seeks God's presence by asking where the Lord is. His action of striking the water demonstrates his trust in God's ability to perform miracles and guide him.
The Book of 2 Kings
2 Kings 1: Elijah’s Final Prophecy
The book of 2 Kings opens with the reign of Ahaziah, Ahab’s son and successor, who continues his father’s wicked ways. After falling through a lattice in his upper chamber, Ahaziah is seriously injured. Instead of inquiring of the Lord of Israel, he sends messengers to inquire of Baal-zebub, the god of Ekron, whether he will recover. The prophet Elijah is sent by an angel to intercept the messengers. He confronts them with the question, “Is it not because there is not a God in Israel, that ye go to enquire of Baal-zebub the god of Ekron?” and delivers a message of judgment: Ahaziah will not recover but will surely die.
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