The Bnei Ha’Nevi’im, who know of Eliyahu’s imminent departure, attempt to draw close to this mysterious event in different ways - dialogue with Elisha and watching from a distance - but remain limited in their success. They are also aware that Elisha is the only one who is permitted to accompany Eliyahu on his journey to the final station. The presence of the Bnei Ha’Nevi’im at the Jordan River and their observation of Eliyahu and Elisha represent the necessary background and buildup to the description of Elisha crossing back alone, clearly paralleling the description of Eliyah's crossing.

Courtesy of Rabbi Menachem Leibtag www.tanach.org