Following Elijah's translation, Elisha inherited his position and authority (see II Kings 2: 15). While still in the vicinity of Jericho, he was called upon to deal with a problem that was troubling the people of that area. They reported that their city was indeed pleasant but claimed that "the water is naught, and the land barren" (verse 19). Through the prophet's perception of the Lord's good will for the city, their need was swiftly and permanently met, an act that was to prove prophetic of many instances of aid, protection, and healing to be associated with the prophet's name.
Leaving Jericho, Elisha proceeded to Bethel. Here a strange incident occurred, which, as recorded in the King James Version, might appear to militate against the constructive kindliness of the prophet.
We read that, on his arrival, "little children . . . mocked him, and said unto him, Go up, thou bald head," whereupon the prophet "cursed them in the name of the Lord," and shortly they were destroyed by bears (verses 23, 24).
