2 Kings 2:2 - Wesley's Explanatory Notes

Tarry here — This he desires, either, That being left alone, he might better prepare himself for his great change. Or, Out of indulgence to Elisha, that he might not be overwhelmed with grief at so sad a sight. That he might try his love, and whet his desire to accompany him; it being highly convenient for God's honour, that there should be witnesses of so glorious a translation. To Beth — el — Which was truth, tho' not the whole truth: for he was to go a far longer journey. But he was first to go to Beth — el, as also to Jericho, to the schools of the prophets there, that he might comfort, and strengthen their hearts in God's work, and give them his dying counsels.