His mantle— In the two books of kings there is mention made five times of this mantle, and in every place it is called אדרת adret, which denotes a royal, as well as a prophetical mantle. As the high priesthood and supreme civil authority centered in the same person, mantles made of skins, furs, &c. which were worn at first in a religious view, came to be afterwards the insignia of civil authority. See Genesis 27:15 and compare Genesis 3:21.Leviticus 7:8.
REFLECTIONS.—Elijah's bright sun is now about to set, or rather to rise brighter in another world of glory.
1. God gives him notice of his intended removal, not in the ordinary course of nature, but by a change sudden and glorious, which, without the pangs of death, would prepare him for his abode in that world where flesh and blood cannot enter. Note; Though we may not expect Elijah's translation, yet, if like him, whilst on earth, we maintain our conversation in heaven, our passage thither will be as safe and sure through the grave, as if we were caught up thither in the whirlwind.
2. Before he is removed, he goes to take his farewel of the school of the prophets at Beth-el, the hopes of the rising generation; and, to try Elisha's affection and adherence to him, proposes to him to stay at Gilgal; but he resolves never to forsake him. He knew the time was short that he could enjoy his company, and therefore desired to improve every moment which remained by his holy conversation, and receive at least his parting benediction. Note; (1.) The rising generation is the great concern of the departing prophets, and their last breath they would gladly employ in encouraging, by their experience and dying testimony, their younger brethren to follow those happy paths which lead to life and never-ending glory. (2.) We should make the most of the conversation of those men of God which now for a moment we enjoy; lest, when they are taken from us, we should have to lament not only their loss, but our own negligence in not profiting by them as we might have done.
3. From Beth-el Elijah passes to Jericho on the same errand. In both places his intended translation is known. The sons of the prophets acquaint Elisha with it; he is no stranger to it, and bids them be silent; for now either his thoughts were too much engaged to enter on any discourse, or this mournful theme was grievous to him. Elijah there renews his request that he would stay; but nothing can divert him from his attendance. Note; A persevering attachment to the Prince of the prophets will be crowned at last.
4. Onward they pass to Jordan, while fifty of the sons of the prophets stood afar off to wait the issue; and Elijah's mantle, like the rod of Moses, there opens them a passage through the waters. Note; (1.) It is very desirable to see the last of dying christians. (2.) Through the waters of death the redeemed will find a safe passage, while the wicked will be hurried down the stream, into the gulph of eternal perdition.