Mantle: The Hebrew term used here refers to a wide, loose-fitting robe or outer garment. It has also been translated “cloak” (New Jerusalem Bible, Revised English Bible, New International Version), “coat” (New Century Version), and “garment” (Hobbs). The same term is used in 1 Kgs 19.13, 19.

Rolled it up: The Hebrew verb used in this case is not found elsewhere in the Old Testament, although there is a related term in Ezek 27.24 (rendered “clothes” in Revised Standard Version). The verb seems to come from a root meaning “formless” or “unshapen.” It conveys the idea of wrapping or folding something pliable. It is probably equally accurate to translate “folded it up.” The verb probably carries the idea of wadding up the garment rather than neatly folding it. Many translations say that he “rolled up” the mantle, and this also is acceptable.

The water was parted to the one side and to the other: It may prove to be rather awkward to translate this literally into other languages since it contains a passive verb form as well as the unusual expression referring to the two sides (literally “here and here”). The latter expression is also found in 1 Kgs 20.40, where it is rendered “here and there.” In the present verse Revised English Bible has translated “The water divided to right and left.” It is also possible to say that “the water split into two parts.” Contemporary English Version translates more dynamically with “a path opened up through the river.”

The words go over on dry ground as well as the idea of the waters parting are reminiscent of the crossing of the Red Sea by the people of Israel (Exo 14.29), although the specific vocabulary used here is not very similar.

Quoted with permission from Omanson, Roger L. and Ellington, John E. A Handbook on 1-2 Kings, Volume 2. (UBS Helps for Translators). New York: UBS, 2008. For this and other handbooks for translators see here .