The Hebrew noun adderet (אַדֶּרֶת) refers to a large outer cloak or mantle — a wide, flowing garment that served as both clothing and a symbol of status, authority, and identity. It is related to the adjective addir (H117, 'majestic, mighty') suggesting the mantle conveyed something of the wearer's greatness or calling.
The word is most famously associated with Elijah's mantle — the prophetic cloak that was passed to Elisha as a symbol of the transmission of prophetic authority and the Spirit. It also appears in the description of Achan's stolen 'beautiful mantle from Babylon' (Joshua 7:21).
The mantle of Elijah is one of Scripture's most powerful symbols of divine calling and spiritual succession. When Elijah threw his adderet over Elisha (1 Kings 19:19), it was a prophetic act — a commissioning. When Elijah was taken up in the whirlwind, the mantle fell, and Elisha picked it up, striking the Jordan with it (2 Kings 2:13–14). The same Spirit that empowered Elijah now rested on Elisha.
Zechariah 13:4 warns of false prophets who wear the adderet (hairy cloak) to deceive — clothing themselves in the outward appearance of prophetic identity without the inward reality. This connects to Jesus' warning about wolves in sheep's clothing (Matthew 7:15). The mantle signifies true calling and authority; wearing it falsely is a grave deception.