How did the prophet Elijah find his successor, Elisha? Their meeting is a dramatic moment in the narratives of the Hebrew Scriptures, especially for those interested in the lives of the Old Testament prophets. Let’s step into the story and see how these two spiritual giants first crossed paths.
Where in the Bible Do Elijah and Elisha Meet?
The account of Elijah meeting Elisha appears in the First Book of Kings, specifically 1 Kings 19:19-21. This follows a watershed moment in Elijah’s ministry. He has just fled from Queen Jezebel, experienced God’s encouragement at Mount Horeb and received instructions to anoint new leaders, including his own prophetic successor.
Where did Elijah meet Elisha?
Elijah finds Elisha in a field.
“So Elijah went from there and found Elisha son of Shaphat. He was plowing with twelve yoke of oxen and he himself was driving the twelfth pair. Elijah went up to him and threw his cloak around him.” (1 Kings 19:19)
1 Kings 19:19
Elisha is hard at work: He’s plowing with oxen, signalling that his family is relatively well – off for the time.
Elijah walks up and puts his cloak (mantle) on Elisha: This act has deep meaning. In the culture of the day, cloaks symbolised authority. Placing his mantle over Elisha is a way of passing over his authority.
Elijah’s Divine Assignment
God clearly tells Elijah to anoint Elisha as prophet in his place:
“…and anoint Elisha son of Shaphat from Abel Meholah to succeed you as prophet.” (1 Kings 19:16)
1 Kings 19:16
It’s an intentional choice. Elisha’s calling isn’t accidental, but divinely orchestrated. Elijah is not just looking for a helper; he’s calling the one meant by God to continue his prophetic mission.
Why did Elijah pass over his Cloak?
The cloak or mantle represents the prophetic office and the Spirit’s empowerment. This is more than a gesture; it’s a transfer of spiritual authority and calling. Later, when Elijah is taken up to heaven, Elisha receives Elijah’s mantle and his power (2 Kings 2:13-15). But here, Elijah’s act is the initial call for Elisha to leave his old life and step into a new God – given purpose.
Elisha’s Immediate Response
“Elisha then left his oxen and ran after Elijah. ‘Let me kiss my father and mother goodbye, ’ he said, ‘and then I will come with you.’ …So Elisha left him and went back. He took his yoke of oxen and slaughtered them. He burned the plowing equipment to cook the meat and gave it to the people and they ate. Then he set out to follow Elijah and became his servant.” (1 Kings 19:20-21)
1 Kings 19:20-21
Elisha’s response is total. He sacrifices his oxen and burns his plow, leaving behind his old life for good. This radical gesture shows he isn’t planning to go back. He’s all in as the prophet’s apprentice.
Final thoughts
Elijah meets Elisha while Elisha is in the fields, working diligently. With a simple yet profound act – placing his mantle over Elisha – Elijah initiates his call as God’s next prophet. Elisha responds with wholehearted commitment, marking the start of a new chapter in the story of God’s people. Their first meeting remains a stirring example of calling, obedience and the power of spiritual legacy.
