1 Kings 19:19

1 Kings 19:19 in Multiple Translations

Berean Standard Bible BSB

So Elijah departed and found Elisha son of Shaphat. He was plowing with twelve teams of oxen, and he was with the twelfth team. Elijah passed by him and threw his cloak around him.

King James Version KJV

¶ So he departed thence, and found Elisha the son of Shaphat, who was plowing with twelve yoke of oxen before him, and he with the twelfth: and Elijah passed by him, and cast his mantle upon him.

American Standard Version ASV

So he departed thence, and found Elisha the son of Shaphat, who was plowing, with twelve yoke of oxen before him, and he with the twelfth: and Elijah passed over unto him, and cast his mantle upon him.

Bible in Basic English BBE

So he went away from there and came across Elisha, the son of Shaphat, ploughing with twelve yoke of oxen, he himself walking with the twelfth; and Elijah went up to him and put his robe on him.

Free Bible Version FBV

So Elijah left, and went and found Elisha, son of Shaphat. He was plowing with twelve pairs of oxen, and he was with the twelfth pair. Elijah went over to him and threw his cloak around him.

Geneva Bible 1599 GNV

So he departed thence, and found Elisha the sonne of Shaphat who was plowing with twelue yoke of oxen before him, and was with the twelft: and Eliiah went towards him, and cast his mantel vpon him.

Young's Literal Translation YLT

And he goeth thence, and findeth Elisha son of Shaphat, and he is plowing; twelve yoke [are] before him, and he [is] with the twelfth; and Elijah passeth over unto him, and casteth his robe upon him,

World English Bible WEB

So he departed from there and found Elisha the son of Shaphat, who was plowing with twelve yoke of oxen before him, and he with the twelfth. Elijah went over to him and put his mantle on him.

Noah Webster Bible WBS

So he departed thence, and found Elisha the son of Shaphat, who was plowing with twelve yoke of oxen before him, and he with the twelfth: and Elijah passed by him, and cast his mantle upon him.

Douay-Rheims 1899 DRV

And Elias departing from thence, found Eliseus the son of Saphat, ploughing with twelve yoke of oxen: and he was one of them that were ploughing with twelve yoke of oxen: and when Elias came up to him, he cast his mantle upon him.

Translation for Translators T4T

So Elijah went to Syria and found Elisha as he was plowing a field with a team of oxen. There were eleven other men who were in front of him, plowing with teams of oxen in the same field. Elijah went to Elisha, and took off his own coat and put it on Elisha, to show Elisha that he wanted him to take his place as a prophet. Then he started to walk away.

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Berean Amplified Bible — 1 Kings 19:19

BAB

Word Study

Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.

Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.

1 Kings 19:19 Interlinear (Deep Study)

BIB

HEB וַ/יֵּ֣לֶךְ מִ֠/שָּׁם וַ/יִּמְצָ֞א אֶת אֱלִישָׁ֤ע בֶּן שָׁפָט֙ וְ/ה֣וּא חֹרֵ֔שׁ שְׁנֵים עָשָׂ֤ר צְמָדִים֙ לְ/פָנָ֔י/ו וְ/ה֖וּא בִּ/שְׁנֵ֣ים הֶ/עָשָׂ֑ר וַ/יַּעֲבֹ֤ר אֵלִיָּ֨הוּ֙ אֵלָ֔י/ו וַ/יַּשְׁלֵ֥ךְ אַדַּרְתּ֖/וֹ אֵלָֽי/ו

וַ/יֵּ֣לֶךְ yâlak H3212 to walk Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms

מִ֠/שָּׁם shâm H8033 there Prep | Adv

וַ/יִּמְצָ֞א mâtsâʼ H4672 to find Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms

אֶת ʼêth H853 Obj. DirObjM

אֱלִישָׁ֤ע ʼĔlîyshâʻ H477 Elisha N-proper

בֶּן bên H1121 son N-ms

שָׁפָט֙ Shâphâṭ H8202 Shaphat N-proper

וְ/ה֣וּא hûwʼ H1931 he/she/it Conj | Pron

חֹרֵ֔שׁ chârash H2790 to plow/plot V-Qal

שְׁנֵים shᵉnayim H8147 two Adj

עָשָׂ֤ר ʻâsâr H6240 ten Adj

צְמָדִים֙ tsemed H6776 pair N-mp

לְ/פָנָ֔י/ו pânîym H6440 face Prep | N-cp | Suff

וְ/ה֖וּא hûwʼ H1931 he/she/it Conj | Pron

בִּ/שְׁנֵ֣ים shᵉnayim H8147 two Prep | Adj

הֶ/עָשָׂ֑ר ʻâsâr H6240 ten Art | Adj

וַ/יַּעֲבֹ֤ר ʻâbar H5674 to pass Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms

אֵלִיָּ֨הוּ֙ ʼÊlîyâh H452 Elijah N-proper

אֵלָ֔י/ו ʼêl H413 to(wards) Prep | Suff

וַ/יַּשְׁלֵ֥ךְ shâlak H7993 to throw Conj | V-Hiphil-ConsecImperf-3ms

אַדַּרְתּ֖/וֹ ʼaddereth H155 clothing N-fs | Suff

אֵלָֽי/ו ʼêl H413 to(wards) Prep | Suff

Hebrew Word Study

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Hebrew Word Reference — 1 Kings 19:19

וַ/יֵּ֣לֶךְ yâlak H3212 "to walk" Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms

To walk or go, this verb means to move from one place to another, used literally or figuratively, as in to live or die, or to lead someone.

Definition: 1) to go, walk, come 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to go, walk, come, depart, proceed, move, go away 1a2) to die, live, manner of life (fig.) 1b) (Hiphil) to lead, bring, lead away, carry, cause to walk

Usage: Occurs in 936 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] again, away, bear, bring, carry (away), come (away), depart, flow, [phrase] follow(-ing), get (away, hence, him), (cause to, made) go (away, -ing, -ne, one's way, out), grow, lead (forth), let down, march, prosper, [phrase] pursue, cause to run, spread, take away (-journey), vanish, (cause to) walk(-ing), wax, [idiom] be weak. See also: Genesis 3:14; Exodus 5:8; Deuteronomy 28:14.

מִ֠/שָּׁם shâm H8033 "there" Prep | Adv

The Hebrew word sham means there or then, often used to describe a location or point in time. It can also mean thither or thence, indicating movement or direction. This word is used frequently in the Bible to provide context and clarify the setting of a story.

Definition: 1) there, thither 1a) there 1b) thither (after verbs of motion) 1c) from there, thence 1d) then (as an adverb of time) Aramaic equivalent: tam.mah (תַּמָּה "there" H8536)

Usage: Occurs in 732 OT verses. KJV: in it, [phrase] thence, there (-in, [phrase] of, [phrase] out), [phrase] thither, [phrase] whither. See also: Genesis 2:8; Exodus 21:33; Deuteronomy 19:4.

וַ/יִּמְצָ֞א mâtsâʼ H4672 "to find" Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms

Matsa means to find or attain something, whether it is a physical object, a person, or a condition, as seen in various KJV translations.

Definition: 1) to find, attain to 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to find 1a1a) to find, secure, acquire, get (thing sought) 1a1b) to find (what is lost) 1a1c) to meet, encounter 1a1d) to find (a condition) 1a1e) to learn, devise 1a2) to find out 1a2a) to find out 1a2b) to detect 1a2c) to guess 1a3) to come upon, light upon 1a3a) to happen upon, meet, fall in with 1a3b) to hit 1a3c) to befall 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be found 1b1a) to be encountered, be lighted upon, be discovered 1b1b) to appear, be recognised 1b1c) to be discovered, be detected 1b1d) to be gained, be secured 1b2) to be, be found 1b2a) to be found in 1b2b) to be in the possession of 1b2c) to be found in (a place), happen to be 1b2d) to be left (after war) 1b2e) to be present 1b2f) to prove to be 1b2g) to be found sufficient, be enough 1c) (Hiphil) 1c1) to cause to find, attain 1c2) to cause to light upon, come upon, come 1c3) to cause to encounter 1c4) to present (offering)

Usage: Occurs in 425 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] be able, befall, being, catch, [idiom] certainly, (cause to) come (on, to, to hand), deliver, be enough (cause to) find(-ing, occasion, out), get (hold upon), [idiom] have (here), be here, hit, be left, light (up-) on, meet (with), [idiom] occasion serve, (be) present, ready, speed, suffice, take hold on. See also: Genesis 2:20; Deuteronomy 22:3; 2 Kings 9:35.

אֶת ʼêth H853 "Obj." DirObjM

In the original Hebrew, this word points out the object of a verb or preposition, like 'namely' or 'even'. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus. It's not directly translated in English, but helps clarify the meaning of sentences.

Definition: sign of the definite direct object, not translated in English but generally preceding and indicating the accusative Aramaic equivalent: yat (יָת "whom" H3487)

Usage: Occurs in 6782 OT verses. KJV: (as such unrepresented in English). See also: Genesis 1:1; Genesis 10:8; Genesis 19:21.

אֱלִישָׁ֤ע ʼĔlîyshâʻ H477 "Elisha" N-proper

Elisha was a famous prophet in the Bible who lived during the time of the divided kingdom. His name means God is salvation, and he is first mentioned in 1 Kings 19:16. Elisha succeeded Elijah as a great prophet.

Definition: A prophet living at the time of Divided Monarchy, first mentioned at 1Ki.19.16; son of: Shaphat (H8202H) Also named: Elissaios (Ἐλισσαῖος "Elisha" G1666) § Elisha = "God is salvation" the great prophet who succeeded Elijah

Usage: Occurs in 52 OT verses. KJV: Elisha. See also: 1 Kings 19:16; 2 Kings 5:20; 2 Kings 13:21.

בֶּן bên H1121 "son" N-ms

In the Bible, this word means a son or descendant, and can also refer to a grandson, nation, or quality. It appears in 1 Chronicles 24, describing a Levite named Beno. The word is used to show family relationships and inheritance.

Definition: : child/son

Usage: Occurs in 3653 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] afflicted, age, (Ahoh-) (Ammon-) (Hachmon-) (Lev-) ite, (anoint-) ed one, appointed to, ([phrase]) arrow, (Assyr-) (Babylon-) (Egypt-) (Grec-) ian, one born, bough, branch, breed, [phrase] (young) bullock, [phrase] (young) calf, [idiom] came up in, child, colt, [idiom] common, [idiom] corn, daughter, [idiom] of first, [phrase] firstborn, foal, [phrase] very fruitful, [phrase] postage, [idiom] in, [phrase] kid, [phrase] lamb, ([phrase]) man, meet, [phrase] mighty, [phrase] nephew, old, ([phrase]) people, [phrase] rebel, [phrase] robber, [idiom] servant born, [idiom] soldier, son, [phrase] spark, [phrase] steward, [phrase] stranger, [idiom] surely, them of, [phrase] tumultuous one, [phrase] valiant(-est), whelp, worthy, young (one), youth. See also: Genesis 3:16; Genesis 23:3; Genesis 34:18.

שָׁפָט֙ Shâphâṭ H8202 "Shaphat" N-proper

Shaphat was the name of several Israelites, including a prince of Simeon and the father of the prophet Elisha. The name means 'judged' or 'he hath judged', and these individuals played important roles in biblical history, including in 1 Chronicles and 2 Kings.

Definition: A man living at the time of Divided Monarchy, only mentioned at 1Ch.27.29; son of: Adlai (H5724) § Shaphat = "judged" or "he hath judged" 1) son of Hori and the prince of Simeon chosen to spy out the promised land 2) father of the prophet Elisha 3) a Judaite, son of Shemaiah and descendant of Zerubbabel in the royal line of Judah 4) a chief of the tribe of Gad 5) son of Adlai and chief herdsman for David over the herds in the valleys

Usage: Occurs in 8 OT verses. KJV: Shaphat. See also: Numbers 13:5; 2 Kings 6:31; 1 Chronicles 27:29.

וְ/ה֣וּא hûwʼ H1931 "he/she/it" Conj | Pron

This word is a pronoun meaning 'he', 'she', or 'it', used to refer to a person or thing. It is used in the Bible to emphasize a subject or make it clear who is being talked about.

Definition: pron 3p s 1) he, she, it 1a) himself (with emphasis) 1b) resuming subj with emphasis 1c) (with minimum emphasis following predicate) 1d) (anticipating subj) 1e) (emphasising predicate) 1f) that, it (neuter) demons pron 2) that (with article)

Usage: Occurs in 1693 OT verses. KJV: he, as for her, him(-self), it, the same, she (herself), such, that (...it), these, they, this, those, which (is), who. See also: Genesis 2:11; Genesis 32:19; Exodus 21:3.

חֹרֵ֔שׁ chârash H2790 "to plow/plot" V-Qal

This verb can mean to be quiet or silent, but also to scratch or engrave, like a farmer plowing a field. It is used in various contexts, including being silent or deaf. The KJV translates it in different ways, including 'cease' or 'hold peace'.

Definition: 1) to cut in, plough, engrave, devise 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to cut in, engrave 1a2) to plough 1a3) to devise 1b) (Niphal) to be ploughed 1c) (Hiphil) to plot evil

Usage: Occurs in 65 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] altogether, cease, conceal, be deaf, devise, ear, graven, imagine, leave off speaking, hold peace, plow(-er, man), be quiet, rest, practise secretly, keep silence, be silent, speak not a word, be still, hold tongue, worker. See also: Genesis 24:21; Psalms 28:1; Psalms 32:3.

שְׁנֵים shᵉnayim H8147 "two" Adj

The Hebrew word for the number two appears in Genesis and Exodus, describing pairs and dualities. It can also mean double or twice. In the Bible, it is often used to describe things that come in twos, like two witnesses or two tablets.

Definition: 1) two 1a) two (the cardinal number) 1a1) two, both, double, twice 1b) second (the ordinal number) 1c) in combination with other numbers 1d) both (a dual number)

Usage: Occurs in 646 OT verses. KJV: both, couple, double, second, twain, [phrase] twelfth, [phrase] twelve, [phrase] twenty (sixscore) thousand, twice, two. See also: Genesis 1:16; Exodus 30:4; Numbers 13:23.

עָשָׂ֤ר ʻâsâr H6240 "ten" Adj

In Hebrew, this word means ten, and is used to form numbers like eleven or thirteen, as seen in Genesis 31:41. It is always used in combination with other numbers.

Definition: 1) ten, -teen (in combination with other numbers) 1a) used only in combination to make the numbers 11-19

Usage: Occurs in 292 OT verses. KJV: (eigh-, fif-, four-, nine-, seven-, six-, thir-) teen(-th), [phrase] eleven(-th), [phrase] sixscore thousand, [phrase] twelve(-th). See also: Genesis 5:8; Joshua 21:7; 1 Chronicles 25:27.

צְמָדִים֙ tsemed H6776 "pair" N-mp

This Hebrew word refers to a pair or team, often of animals, and can also mean an acre of land that a yoke of cattle can plow in a day. It's used to describe a unit or a set of two things working together.

Definition: 1) couple, pair, team, yoke 1a) couple, pair, span (usually of animals) 1b) acre 1b1) the amount of land a span of oxen could plow in one day

Usage: Occurs in 15 OT verses. KJV: acre, couple, [idiom] together, two (donkeys), yoke (of oxen). See also: Judges 19:3; 2 Kings 5:17; Isaiah 5:10.

לְ/פָנָ֔י/ו pânîym H6440 "face" Prep | N-cp | Suff

This word means face or presence, like being in front of someone or something. It's used in many contexts, like in Genesis, Exodus, and Psalms, to describe interactions and relationships.

Definition: : face 1) face 1a) face, faces 1b) presence, person 1c) face (of seraphim or cherubim) 1d) face (of animals) 1e) face, surface (of ground) 1f) as adv of loc/temp 1f1) before and behind, toward, in front of, forward, formerly, from beforetime, before 1g) with prep 1g1) in front of, before, to the front of, in the presence of, in the face of, at the face or front of, from the presence of, from before, from before the face of

Usage: Occurs in 1891 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] accept, a-(be-) fore(-time), against, anger, [idiom] as (long as), at, [phrase] battle, [phrase] because (of), [phrase] beseech, countenance, edge, [phrase] employ, endure, [phrase] enquire, face, favour, fear of, for, forefront(-part), form(-er time, -ward), from, front, heaviness, [idiom] him(-self), [phrase] honourable, [phrase] impudent, [phrase] in, it, look(-eth) (-s), [idiom] me, [phrase] meet, [idiom] more than, mouth, of, off, (of) old (time), [idiom] on, open, [phrase] out of, over against, the partial, person, [phrase] please, presence, propect, was purposed, by reason of, [phrase] regard, right forth, [phrase] serve, [idiom] shewbread, sight, state, straight, [phrase] street, [idiom] thee, [idiom] them(-selves), through ([phrase] -out), till, time(-s) past, (un-) to(-ward), [phrase] upon, upside ([phrase] down), with(-in, [phrase] -stand), [idiom] ye, [idiom] you. See also: Genesis 1:2; Genesis 43:31; Exodus 30:16.

וְ/ה֖וּא hûwʼ H1931 "he/she/it" Conj | Pron

This word is a pronoun meaning 'he', 'she', or 'it', used to refer to a person or thing. It is used in the Bible to emphasize a subject or make it clear who is being talked about.

בִּ/שְׁנֵ֣ים shᵉnayim H8147 "two" Prep | Adj

Definition: 1) two 1a) two (the cardinal number) 1a1) two, both, double, twice 1b) second (the ordinal number) 1c) in combination with other numbers 1d) both (a dual number)

הֶ/עָשָׂ֑ר ʻâsâr H6240 "ten" Art | Adj

In Hebrew, this word means ten, and is used to form numbers like eleven or thirteen, as seen in Genesis 31:41. It is always used in combination with other numbers.

Definition: 1) ten, -teen (in combination with other numbers) 1a) used only in combination to make the numbers 11-19

וַ/יַּעֲבֹ֤ר ʻâbar H5674 "to pass" Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms

This verb can mean to cross over or transition from one thing to another, and is sometimes used to describe being arrogant or crossing a boundary.

Definition: 1) to pass over or by or through, alienate, bring, carry, do away, take, take away, transgress 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to pass over, cross, cross over, pass over, march over, overflow, go over 1a2) to pass beyond 1a3) to pass through, traverse 1a3a) passers-through (participle) 1a3b) to pass through (the parts of victim in covenant) 1a4) to pass along, pass by, overtake and pass, sweep by 1a4a) passer-by (participle) 1a4b) to be past, be over 1a5) to pass on, go on, pass on before, go in advance of, pass along, travel, advance 1a6) to pass away 1a6a) to emigrate, leave (one's territory) 1a6b) to vanish 1a6c) to perish, cease to exist 1a6d) to become invalid, become obsolete (of law, decree) 1a6e) to be alienated, pass into other hands 1b) (Niphal) to be crossed 1c) (Piel) to impregnate, cause to cross 1d) (Hiphil) 1d1) to cause to pass over, cause to bring over, cause to cross over, make over to, dedicate, devote 1d2) to cause to pass through 1d3) to cause to pass by or beyond or under, let pass by 1d4) to cause to pass away, cause to take away 1e) (Hithpael) to pass over

Usage: Occurs in 493 OT verses. KJV: alienate, alter, [idiom] at all, beyond, bring (over, through), carry over, (over-) come (on, over), conduct (over), convey over, current, deliver, do away, enter, escape, fail, gender, get over, (make) go (away, beyond, by, forth, his way, in, on, over, through), have away (more), lay, meddle, overrun, make partition, (cause to, give, make to, over) pass(-age, along, away, beyond, by, -enger, on, out, over, through), (cause to, make) [phrase] proclaim(-amation), perish, provoke to anger, put away, rage, [phrase] raiser of taxes, remove, send over, set apart, [phrase] shave, cause to (make) sound, [idiom] speedily, [idiom] sweet smelling, take (away), (make to) transgress(-or), translate, turn away, (way-) faring man, be wrath. See also: Genesis 8:1; Deuteronomy 27:2; 1 Samuel 25:19.

אֵלִיָּ֨הוּ֙ ʼÊlîyâh H452 "Elijah" N-proper

Elijah means my God is Jehovah, referring to the famous prophet who lived during King Ahab's reign. He is also the name of two other Israelites mentioned in the Bible. Elijah is known for his bravery and faith in God.

Definition: A man living at the time of Exile and Return, only mentioned at Ezr.10.26 § Elijah or Eliah = "my God is Jehovah" or "Yah(u) is God" 1) the great prophet of the reign of Ahab 2) Benjamite son of Jeroham 3) a son of Elam with foreign wife during exile 4) a son of Harim, and priest, with foreign wife during exile

Usage: Occurs in 65 OT verses. KJV: Elijah, Eliah. See also: 1 Kings 17:1; 1 Kings 19:19; Malachi 3:23.

אֵלָ֔י/ו ʼêl H413 "to(wards)" Prep | Suff

This Hebrew word means 'to' or 'toward', showing direction or movement. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus, to indicate where someone is going. The KJV translates it in various ways, like 'about', 'according to', or 'against'.

Definition: 1) to, toward, unto (of motion) 2) into (limit is actually entered) 2a) in among 3) toward (of direction, not necessarily physical motion) 4) against (motion or direction of a hostile character) 5) in addition to, to 6) concerning, in regard to, in reference to, on account of 7) according to (rule or standard) 8) at, by, against (of one's presence) 9) in between, in within, to within, unto (idea of motion to)

Usage: Occurs in 4205 OT verses. KJV: about, according to, after, against, among, as for, at, because(-fore, -side), both...and, by, concerning, for, from, [idiom] hath, in(-to), near, (out) of, over, through, to(-ward), under, unto, upon, whether, with(-in). See also: Genesis 1:9; Genesis 21:14; Genesis 31:13.

וַ/יַּשְׁלֵ֥ךְ shâlak H7993 "to throw" Conj | V-Hiphil-ConsecImperf-3ms

To throw or cast away is the meaning of this Hebrew verb. It is used in various contexts, including throwing lots or casting out something unwanted. The word appears in stories like Jonah being thrown into the sea.

Definition: 1) to throw, cast, hurl, fling 1a) (Hiphil) 1a1) to throw, cast, throw away, cast off, shed, cast down 1a2) to cast (lots) (fig) 1b) (Hophal) 1b1) to be thrown, be cast 1b2) to be cast forth or out 1b3) to be cast down 1b4) to be cast (metaph)

Usage: Occurs in 121 OT verses. KJV: adventure, cast (away, down, forth, off, out), hurl, pluck, throw. See also: Genesis 21:15; Nehemiah 9:11; Psalms 2:3.

אַדַּרְתּ֖/וֹ ʼaddereth H155 "clothing" N-fs | Suff

The Hebrew word for glory or a cloak, often referring to a prophet's garment, as seen in the clothing of Elijah and Elisha in 1 and 2 Kings.

Definition: 1) glory, cloak 1a) glory, splendour, magnificence (of a vine, shepherds) 1b) mantle, cloak made of fur or fine material 1b1) prophet's garment

Usage: Occurs in 12 OT verses. KJV: garment, glory, goodly, mantle, robe. See also: Genesis 25:25; 2 Kings 2:13; Zechariah 13:4.

אֵלָֽי/ו ʼêl H413 "to(wards)" Prep | Suff

Study Notes — 1 Kings 19:19

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Context
Cross References
1 Kings 19:19 Summary
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Adam Clarke's Commentary on 1 Kings 19:19
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Sermons on 1 Kings 19:19

Context — The Call of Elisha

17Then Jehu will put to death whoever escapes the sword of Hazael, and Elisha will put to death whoever escapes the sword of Jehu. 18Nevertheless, I have reserved seven thousand in Israel—all whose knees have not bowed to Baal and whose mouths have not kissed him.”

19So Elijah departed and found Elisha son of Shaphat. He was plowing with twelve teams of oxen, and he was with the twelfth team. Elijah passed by him and threw his cloak around him.

20So Elisha left the oxen, ran after Elijah, and said, “Please let me kiss my father and mother goodbye, and then I will follow you.” “Go on back,” Elijah replied, “for what have I done to you?” 21So Elisha turned back from him, took his pair of oxen, and slaughtered them. Using the oxen’s equipment for fuel, he cooked the meat and gave it to the people, and they ate. Then he set out to follow and serve Elijah.

Cross References

	Reference	Text (BSB)
1	2 Kings 2:8	And Elijah took his cloak, rolled it up, and struck the waters, which parted to the right and to the left, so that the two of them crossed over on dry ground.
2	2 Kings 2:13–14	Elisha also picked up the cloak that had fallen from Elijah, and he went back and stood on the bank of the Jordan. Then he took the cloak of Elijah that had fallen from him and struck the waters. “Where now is the LORD, the God of Elijah?” he asked. And when he had struck the waters, they parted to the right and to the left, and Elisha crossed over.
3	1 Samuel 28:14	“What does he look like?” asked Saul. “An old man is coming up,” she replied. “And he is wearing a robe.” So Saul knew that it was Samuel, and he bowed facedown in reverence.
4	Psalms 78:70–72	He chose David His servant and took him from the sheepfolds; from tending the ewes He brought him to be shepherd of His people Jacob, of Israel His inheritance. So David shepherded them with integrity of heart and guided them with skillful hands.
5	Exodus 3:1	Meanwhile, Moses was shepherding the flock of his father-in-law Jethro, the priest of Midian. He led the flock to the far side of the wilderness and came to Horeb, the mountain of God.
6	Judges 6:11	Then the angel of the LORD came and sat down under the oak in Ophrah that belonged to Joash the Abiezrite, where his son Gideon was threshing wheat in a winepress to hide it from the Midianites.
7	Matthew 4:18–19	As Jesus was walking beside the Sea of Galilee, He saw two brothers, Simon called Peter and his brother Andrew. They were casting a net into the sea, for they were fishermen. “Come, follow Me,” Jesus said, “and I will make you fishers of men.”
8	1 Kings 19:13	When Elijah heard it, he wrapped his face in his cloak and went out and stood at the mouth of the cave. Suddenly a voice came to him and said, “What are you doing here, Elijah?”
9	Zechariah 13:5	He will say, ‘I am not a prophet; I work the land, for I was purchased as a servant in my youth. ’
10	Amos 7:14	“I was not a prophet,” Amos replied, “nor was I the son of a prophet; rather, I was a herdsman and a tender of sycamore-fig trees.

1 Kings 19:19 Summary

In 1 Kings 19:19, Elijah calls Elisha to be his successor by throwing his cloak around him. This act signifies the transfer of spiritual authority and responsibility from Elijah to Elisha. Just like Elisha, we may be called by God to serve Him in specific ways, as seen in Isaiah 6:8-9. As we consider our own calling, we can look to examples like Jesus calling His disciples in Matthew 4:18-22, and remember that responding to God's call requires faith, obedience, and a willingness to trust in His plan.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did Elijah throw his cloak around Elisha in 1 Kings 19:19?

Elijah threw his cloak around Elisha as a symbolic act of calling and commissioning him to be his successor, much like when Jesus called His disciples in Matthew 4:18-22. This act signified the transfer of spiritual authority and responsibility from Elijah to Elisha.

What is the significance of Elisha being with the twelfth team of oxen?

The fact that Elisha was with the twelfth team of oxen may indicate that he was a hardworking and responsible individual, as he was actively involved in the plowing process. This is reminiscent of the parable of the talents in Matthew 25:14-30, where the master commends his servants for being faithful in their responsibilities.

How does this verse relate to the concept of calling and vocation?

This verse highlights the idea that God often calls individuals to serve Him in specific ways, as seen in Isaiah 6:8-9, where the prophet Isaiah responds to God's call. Elisha's calling by Elijah illustrates the importance of responding to God's call and being faithful to the tasks He assigns to us.

What can we learn from Elijah's approach to calling Elisha?

Elijah's approach to calling Elisha demonstrates the importance of intentional discipleship and mentorship, as seen in 2 Timothy 2:2, where Paul instructs Timothy to entrust the things he has learned to faithful men. Elijah's actions show that we should be deliberate in identifying and developing the gifts and abilities of others for the sake of God's kingdom.

Reflection Questions

What are some ways that God may be calling me to serve Him, and how can I respond in faith and obedience?
In what ways can I, like Elijah, intentionally invest in the lives of others and help them discover their spiritual gifts and callings?
How can I, like Elisha, demonstrate my commitment to following God's call on my life, even if it requires significant changes or sacrifices?
What are some potential distractions or obstacles that might hinder my response to God's call, and how can I overcome them?

Gill's Exposition on 1 Kings 19:19

So he departed thence,.... From Mount Horeb, and came to Abelmeholah, which Bunting computes (z) at one hundred and fifty six miles: and found Elisha the son of Shaphat, who was ploughing with twelve

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on 1 Kings 19:19

So he departed thence, and found Elisha the son of Shaphat, who was plowing with twelve yoke of oxen before him, and he with the twelfth: and Elijah passed by him, and cast his mantle upon him.

Matthew Poole's Commentary on 1 Kings 19:19

He with the twelfth; who had twelve ploughs going, whereof eleven were managed by his servants, and the last by himself; according to the simplicity and humility of those ancient times, in which men of good worth and estate submitted themselves to the meanest employments. Cast his mantle upon him; by that ceremony conferring upon him the office of a prophet, which God was pleased to accompany with the gifts and graces of his Spirit, wherewith he endowed and qualified him for it. The mantle was the usual habit of the prophets. See . But whether he did also anoint him is uncertain. See Poole "".

Trapp's Commentary on 1 Kings 19:19

1 Kings 19:19 So he departed thence, and found Elisha the son of Shaphat, who [was] plowing [with] twelve yoke [of oxen] before him, and he with the twelfth: and Elijah passed by him, and cast his mantle upon him.Ver. 19. Ploughing with twelve yoke.] He was therefore a man of great wealth, likely. Paterna rura bobus exercens suis. And cast his mantle upon him.] In token that God, who had called him to be his successor, would clothe him with his Spirit, and so fit him for the office. This is apishly imitated by Popish monks taking upon them the clothes of their order, whatever it is, at their first entrance thereinto.

Ellicott's Commentary on 1 Kings 19:19

(19) Twelve yoke of oxen, or (as Ewald renders it) of land, indicate some wealth in Elisha’s family, which he has to leave to follow the wandering life of Elijah. The character and mission of Elisha will appear hereafter: but the contrast between the prophets is marked in the difference of their home and origin; even the quiet simplicity of Elisha’s call stands contrasted with the sudden, mysterious appearance of Elijah. Cast his mantle—i.e., the rough hair-mantle characteristic of the ascetic recluse. The act is said to have been a part of the form of adoption of a child; hence its spiritual significance here, which, after a moment’s bewilderment, Elisha seems to read.

Adam Clarke's Commentary on 1 Kings 19:19

Verse 19. Twelve yoke of oxen] Elisha must have had a considerable estate, when he kept twelve yoke of oxen to till the ground. If, therefore, he obeyed the prophetic call, he did it to considerable secular loss. He with the twelfth] Every owner of an inheritance among the Hebrews, and indeed among the ancients in general, was a principal agent in its cultivation. Cast his mantle upon him] Either this was a ceremony used in a call to the prophetic office, or it indicated that he was called to be the servant of the prophet. The mantle, or pallium, was the peculiar garb of the prophet, as we may learn from Zechariah 13:4; and this was probably made of skin dressed with the hair on. See also 2 Kings 1:8. It is likely, therefore, that Elijah threw his mantle on Elisha to signify to him that he was called to the prophetic office. See more on this subject below.

Cambridge Bible on 1 Kings 19:19

19–21. The call of Elisha (Not in Chronicles) 19. So he departed thence] Josephus says, what the visit to Abelmeholah shews, that Elijah returned into the land of the Hebrews. He was instructed, comforted, and assured of safety. God, who had assigned him work to do, and given him hope therein, would not allow him to fall into the hands of his enemies. plowing with twelve yoke of oxen before him] He had servants with him to manage all the yokes but one, and to these people it was that he afterwards made a farewell feast. It is clear from the description that Elisha was the son of a wealthy father, and that the leaving all to follow Elijah was a trial to test the character of the future prophet. Elijah passed by him] The Hebrew requires the rendering of the R.V. passed over unto him. Elijah left the road and crossed into the field where Elisha and his companions were plowing. and cast his mantle upon him] The prophetic mantle was probably of a special character. In Zechariah 13:4 we are told that the prophets ‘shall not wear a rough garment (R.V. a hairy mantle) to deceive,’ and the whole description of Elijah (2 Kings 1:8) and the New Testament explanation thereof in the description of John the Baptist, bears out the idea that he wore such a mantle. It was this mantle which Elisha took up after the departure of Elijah into heaven, and the possession thereof, and the employment of it to divide the waters of the Jordan, caused the sons of the prophets to exclaim ‘The spirit of Elijah doth rest on Elisha’ (2 Kings 2:15). To cast such a robe upon the shoulders of Elisha was to claim him, by a symbolical act, as one of the members of the prophetic band. This Elisha felt and acted on.

Barnes' Notes on 1 Kings 19:19

Plowing - Elisha’s occupation is an indication of his character. He is emphatically a man of peace.

Whedon's Commentary on 1 Kings 19:19

CALL OF ELISHA, 1 Kings 19:19-21. 19. Departed thence — Left the wilderness of Horeb to go to the wilderness of Damascus. 1 Kings 19:15.

Sermons on 1 Kings 19:19

	Sermon	Description
	The Anointing by Teresa Conlon	In this sermon titled "The Anointing," preacher William Dumas emphasizes the importance of having the anointing from the Holy One. He refers to 1 John 2:20, which states that belie
	God Has Spoken: 2nd Kings by Stephen Kaung	In this sermon, the preacher discusses the importance of obeying God and doing His will. He highlights how throughout church history, God's people have often turned away from Him a
	The Call of Elijah by Chuck Smith	In this sermon, Pastor Chuck Smith focuses on the story of Elisha and his call by God. Despite Elisha's corrupt and sinful nature, God shows incredible patience and grace towards h
	The School of Prayer - Part 1 by Walter Beuttler	Walter Beuttler reflects on the importance of prayer in the ministry, emphasizing that God does not always choose from theological schools but can raise His own men and women from
	(Needed-Men of God) 1. Men of Spiritual Calibre by Zac Poonen	Zac Poonen emphasizes the rarity of men and women of spiritual caliber whom God can use to make a significant impact against darkness and to glorify His name. He reflects on the hi
	(Gaining God's Approval) 8. the Testing of Elisha and Gehazi by Zac Poonen	Zac Poonen explores the contrasting lives of Elisha and Gehazi, emphasizing Elisha's faithfulness and persistence in seeking God's highest calling, which led to his anointing, whil
	The Maintaining of the Lord's Testimony on the Earth by T. Austin-Sparks	T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the importance of maintaining the Lord's testimony on earth during His absence, drawing parallels between the Old Testament figures of Elijah and Elisha