Definition: And Elisha saw [it], and he cried, My father, my father, the chariot of Israel, and the horsemen thereof. And he saw him no more: and he took hold of his own clothes, and rent them in two pieces.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this passage from 2 Kings 2:12. It’s a really dramatic and unsettling verse. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Story: Elisha is witnessing something incredibly significant – the destruction of Israel during the reign of King Ahab. He sees a huge, terrifying chariot (think of a massive, armored vehicle) being destroyed by fire. What Happened Next? He cries out: Elisha shouts in terror and pain. “My father, my father…”: This is a desperate plea – he’s pleading with God to save his people. He's remembering the name of his father, who represents his entire nation. “The chariot of Israel…”: This refers to the royal chariot used by King David to lead his army into battle. It was a symbol of power and might. “And he saw him no more:” This is crucial – Elisha actually sees the chariot destroyed. He doesn't just see a memory; he witnesses it being obliterated. “He took hold of his own clothes, and rent them in two pieces.”: This is the most shocking part. He’s so horrified that he rips his clothes in half! It's a sign of utter despair and loss – he's losing everything he holds dear. What Does it Mean? This verse speaks to a profound moment of devastation and loss. It represents: The Destruction of Israel: The chariot symbolizes the power and glory of God’s people, which was ultimately destroyed by Ahab’s rebellion. A Loss of Hope: Elisha's desperate cries show how deeply he is mourning the fate of his nation. God's Wrath: It conveys a sense of divine judgment and a terrible consequence for evil. In essence, it's a powerful image of a devastating loss – not just physical destruction, but also the loss of hope and security. Important Note: This verse is often interpreted as a sign that God is punishing those who oppose him. However, it’s important to remember that understanding this passage requires considering the context of the time and the overall story of Israel's history. --- Would you like me to: Explain a specific part of the verse in more detail? Discuss the historical context of 2 Kings 2? Compare it to other biblical stories about destruction or loss?