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.
Ver. 2. And Elijah said unto Elisha.] Individuo suo Achati, who was and would be his constant companion.
Tarry here, I pray thee.] This he might speak, as desirous either to conceal his rapture to heaven, or rather to kindle in Elisha a more earnest affection to go along with him, that he might be a witness thereof, for the good of the Church in all ages.
I will not leave thee.] Hence some gather that God had revealed the matter to Elisha; and suggested to him not to leave Elijah.