Book of 2 Kings - Chapter 13 - Verse 14

The verse "Now Elisha was fallen sick of his sickness whereof he died. And Joash the king of Israel came down unto him, and wept over his face, and said, O my father, my father, the chariot of Israel, and the horsemen thereof," from 2 Kings 13:14, portrays the deep respect and admiration that King Joash had for the prophet Elisha. The phrase "O my father, my father" indicates a deep emotional bond between the two, with Joash seeing Elisha as a father figure and a source of strength for the nation of Israel. By referring to Elisha as the "chariot of Israel, and the horsemen thereof," Joash acknowledges Elisha's pivotal role in guiding and protecting the nation, much like a chariot and its horsemen in battle. This verse highlights the impact and influence that a revered leader like Elisha can have, not only on individuals but also on the entire nation.

In this verse, we witness a poignant moment where Elisha, the prophet of God, falls sick and eventually dies. The king of Israel, Joash, comes to visit Elisha in his illness and weeps over him, calling him "my father, my father, the chariot of Israel, and the horsemen thereof." This emotional outpouring reflects the deep respect and honor Joash had for Elisha, whom he saw as a powerful protector and leader for the nation of Israel. The use of the term "father" here signifies not only a familial bond but also a spiritual connection, emphasizing Elisha's role as a spiritual father to the people of Israel. The mention of chariots and horsemen underscores Elisha's importance in the defense and guidance of Israel, highlighting his pivotal role in the nation's history. Overall, this verse showcases the reverence and admiration that Joash had for Elisha, as well as the significant impact Elisha had on the spiritual and political landscape of Israel.