The king of Israel and Jehoshaphat. — All the versions except the Targum add, “the king of Judah.” Jehoshaphat said what follows either on the ground of Elijah’s reputation, or because the news of Elisha’s succession had already reached Judah.
The proper names, Shaphat and Jehoshaphat, are identical (He judgeth, i.e., Jah judgeth). (Comp. Ahaz and Jehoahaz.)
Went down to him. — From the royal tents, which were probably pitched on an eminence, so as to overlook the camp. The three kings go to consult the prophet as persons of ordinary station might do. This shows the estimation in which he was held. Keil says they were humbled by misfortune.