2 Kings 6:21 - Matthew Poole's English Annotations on the Holy Bible

Elisha had doubtless sent notice of his intentions to the king of Israel, that he might accordingly prepare himself. My father: now he gives him this title of reverence and affection, because of a great and present benefit he received from him; though otherwise he hated him, and would not hearken to his counsel. Shall I smite them? the repetition of the question shows his great desire to smite them, and that with utter destruction.