Features Pricing Bible Library Churches About Sign in Begin

2 Kings 2:6

And Elijah said unto him, Tarry, I pray thee, here; for the LORD hath sent me to Jordan. And he said, As the LORD liveth, and as thy soul liveth, I will not leave thee. And they two went on.

2 Kings 2:6 · King James Version

Meaning

The verse "And Elijah said unto him, Tarry, I pray thee, here; for the LORD hath sent me to Jordan. And he said, As the LORD liveth, and as thy soul liveth, I will not leave thee. And they two went on," depicts a moment of unwavering loyalty and commitment between the prophet Elijah and his servant. In this context, Elijah tells his servant to stay behind while he journeys to the Jordan River, yet the servant insists on sticking by his side, declaring his dedication to Elijah and to the Lord. This verse highlights the importance of steadfastness and faithfulness in relationships, as well as the deep bond of trust between the two individuals. It also serves as a reminder of the power of unity and support in carrying out God's will. Through their shared journey to Jordan, Elijah and his servant demonstrate the strength that comes from standing together in faith and obedience to the Lord's calling.

Theological Overview

One interesting theological interpretation of this verse is that it demonstrates the importance of obedience and loyalty in following God's will. Elijah instructs his follower to stay behind while he goes to the Jordan River, but the follower insists on accompanying him, showing his dedication to Elijah and his mission from the Lord. This loyalty is highlighted by the follower's oath "As the Lord lives, and as your soul lives, I will not leave you." This oath reflects a deep commitment and faithfulness to both Elijah, as the prophet of God, and to God himself. It emphasizes the idea that in serving the Lord, one must be steadfast and unwavering in their dedication, even when faced with challenges or uncertainty. The journey to the Jordan River symbolizes a journey of faith and trust in God's guidance, and the followers' decision to accompany Elijah demonstrates his trust in God's plan for them both.

2 Kings 2:6 in other translations

American Standard Version

And Elijah said unto him, Tarry here, I pray thee; for Jehovah hath sent me to the Jordan. And he said, As Jehovah liveth, and as thy soul liveth, I will not leave thee. And they two went on.

World English Bible

Elijah said to him, “Please wait here, for Yahweh has sent me to the Jordan.” He said, “As Yahweh lives, and as your soul lives, I will not leave you.” They both went on.

Douay-Rheims

And Elias said to him: Stay here, because the Lord hath sent me as far as the Jordan. And he said: as the Lord liveth, and as thy soul liveth, I will not leave thee. And they two went on together.

Geneva Bible (1599)

Moreouer Eliiah saide vnto him, Tarie, I pray thee, here: for the Lord hath sent me to Iorden. But he saide, As the Lord liueth, and as thy soule liueth, I will not leaue thee. So they went both together.