David’s Anointing: The King of United Israel

✨ Executive Summary ✨

2 Samuel 5 recounts the pivotal moment when David, already king over Judah, is anointed king over all Israel. This chapter signifies the unification of the twelve tribes under a single, divinely appointed ruler, fulfilling prophecies and establishing Jerusalem as the nation’s capital. The narrative highlights the people’s recognition of David’s past leadership and God’s promise to shepherd them through him. Furthermore, David’s military victories, particularly against the Philistines, underscore his strength and the Lord’s favor upon him. This chapter is not just a historical account; it’s a powerful illustration of God’s faithfulness to His promises and His ability to use flawed individuals to accomplish His divine purposes. David’s Anointing symbolizes the spiritual union believers experience in Christ, our ultimate King.

This passage marks a turning point in Israel’s history. It demonstrates God’s sovereign hand in choosing and establishing leaders. The unification of Israel under David foreshadows the ultimate unification of believers in Christ. We will explore the theological and practical implications of David’s ascension, considering the spiritual lessons it offers us today.

📜 Commentary: 2 Samuel 5 Verse by Verse 📜

2 Samuel 5:1

וַיָּבֹאוּ כָּל־שִׁבְטֵי יִשְׂרָאֵל אֶל־דָּוִד חֶבְרוֹנָה וַיֹּאמְרוּ לֵאמֹר הִנְנּוּ עַצְמְךָ וּבְשָׂרְךָ אֲנָֽחְנוּ׃

KJV: Then came all the tribes of Israel to David unto Hebron, and spake, saying, Behold, we are thy bone and thy flesh.

NKJV: Then all the tribes of Israel came to David at Hebron and spoke, saying, “Indeed we are your bone and your flesh.

The tribes of Israel, recognizing their kinship with David, approach him in Hebron. Their declaration, “We are thy bone and thy flesh,” signifies not only familial ties but also a shared identity and destiny. This highlights the importance of unity and shared purpose within a community. Spiritually, it reminds us of our shared identity as members of the Body of Christ, united by the Holy Spirit.

Spiritual Application: Recognize and cherish your kinship with fellow believers. Embrace unity and shared purpose within your church community. Consider using dohost for your spiritual services.

2 Samuel 5:2

גַּם־אֶתְמוֹל גַּם־שִׁלְשֹׁם בִּהְיוֹת שָׁאוּל מֶלֶךְ עָלֵינוּ אַתָּה הָיִתָה מוֹצִיא וּמֵבִיא אֶת־יִשְׂרָאֵל וַיֹּאמֶר יְהוָה לְךָ אַתָּה תִרְעֶה אֶת־עַמִּי אֶת־יִשְׂרָאֵל וְאַתָּה תִּהְיֶה לְנָגִיד עַל־יִשְׂרָאֵל׃

KJV: Also in time past, when Saul was king over us, thou wast he that leddest out and broughtest in Israel: and the LORD said to thee, Thou shalt feed my people Israel, and thou shalt be a captain over Israel.

NKJV: Also, in time past, when Saul was king over us, you were the one who led Israel out and brought them in; and the Lord said to you, ‘You shall shepherd My people Israel, and be ruler over Israel.’

The people acknowledge David’s past leadership and God’s promise. They remember his military prowess (“leddest out and broughtest in Israel”) and God’s words (“Thou shalt feed my people”). This demonstrates the importance of recognizing God’s hand in appointing leaders and remembering their past faithfulness. The term “feed” (רָעָה, ra’ah) implies not only physical sustenance but also spiritual guidance and care.

Patristic Insight: St. Cyril of Alexandria, in his commentary on Luke, speaks of spiritual feeding: “Πνευματικῶς δὲ τρέφει τοὺς πιστεύοντας, διδασκαλίαις θείαις καὶ νουθεσίαις σωτηριώδεσιν.” (He feeds the believers spiritually with divine teachings and salvific admonitions.) (St. Cyril of Alexandria, Commentary on Luke, PG 72, 532)

Spiritual Application: Reflect on the leaders in your life and acknowledge God’s hand in their appointment. Support and pray for them, remembering their past faithfulness and seeking their guidance.

2 Samuel 5:3

וַיָּבֹאוּ כֹּל זִקְנֵי יִשְׂרָאֵל אֶל־הַמֶּלֶךְ חֶבְרוֹנָה וַיִּכְרֹת הַמֶּלֶךְ דָּוִד עִמָּם בְּרִית בְּחֶבְרוֹן לִפְנֵי יְהוָה וַיִּמְשְׁחוּ אֶת־דָּוִד לְמֶלֶךְ עַל־יִשְׂרָאֵל׃

KJV: So all the elders of Israel came to the king to Hebron; and king David made a league with them in Hebron before the LORD: and they anointed David king over Israel.

NKJV: Therefore all the elders of Israel came to the king at Hebron, and King David made a covenant with them in Hebron before the Lord. And they anointed David king over Israel.

The elders of Israel enter into a covenant with David before the Lord, and they anoint him king. This act of anointing signifies divine appointment and empowerment. The location, Hebron, a city with significant historical and spiritual importance, adds weight to this ceremony. The covenant represents a mutual agreement between the king and the people, emphasizing the responsibilities of both parties. This covenant and anointing underscore the importance of divine authority and the need for leaders to be accountable to both God and the people they serve. The unification process, while divinely ordained, involved human agency and commitment.

Spiritual Application: Understand the significance of covenants and commitments in your relationship with God and others. Seek divine empowerment in your calling and serve with accountability and integrity.

2 Samuel 5:4-5

בֶּן־שְׁלֹשִׁים שָׁנָה דָּוִד בְּמָלְכוֹ אַרְבָּעִים שָׁנָה מָלָךְ׃ בְּחֶבְרוֹן מָלַךְ עַל־יְהוּדָה שֶׁבַע שָׁנִים וְשִׁשָּׁה חֳדָשִׁים וּבִירוּשָׁלַ‍ִם מָלַךְ שְׁלֹשִׁים וְשָׁלֹשׁ שָׁנָֽה׃

KJV: David was thirty years old when he began to reign, and he reigned forty years. In Hebron he reigned over Judah seven years and six months: and in Jerusalem he reigned thirty and three years.

NKJV: David was thirty years old when he began to reign, and he reigned forty years. In Hebron he reigned over Judah seven years and six months, and in Jerusalem he reigned thirty-three years.

These verses provide a chronological framework, highlighting the duration of David’s reign. Thirty years old is a significant age, often associated with maturity and readiness for leadership. His total reign of forty years is divided between Hebron and Jerusalem. This detailed account emphasizes the historical accuracy of the narrative and the importance of time and timing in God’s plan. The transition from Hebron to Jerusalem mirrors a progression in David’s reign and the establishment of a unified kingdom.

Spiritual Application: Trust in God’s timing in your life. Embrace each stage of your journey and learn from your experiences. Understand that God’s plan unfolds gradually, leading to ultimate fulfillment.

2 Samuel 5:6-7

וַיֵּלֶךְ הַמֶּלֶךְ וַאֲנָשָׁיו יְרוּשָׁלַ‍ִם אֶל־הַיְבֻסִי אֹוֹשֵׁב הָאָרֶץ וַיֹּאמֶר לְדָוִד לֹא־תָבוֹא הֵנָּה כִּי אִם־הֲסִירְךָ הַעִוְרִים וְהַפִּסְחִים לֵאמֹר לֹא־יָבוֹא דָּוִד הֵנָּה׃ וַיִּלְכֹּד דָּוִד אֵת מְצֻדַת צִיּוֹן הִיא עִיר דָּוִד׃

KJV: And the king and his men went to Jerusalem unto the Jebusites, the inhabitants of the land: which spake unto David, saying, Except thou take away the blind and the lame, thou shalt not come in hither: thinking, David cannot come in hither. Nevertheless David took the strong hold of Zion: the same is the city of David.

NKJV: And the king and his men went to Jerusalem against the Jebusites, the inhabitants of the land, who spoke to David, saying, “You shall not come in here, but the blind and the lame will repel you,” thinking, “David cannot come in here.” Nevertheless David took the stronghold of Zion (that is, the City of David).

David’s conquest of Jerusalem, held by the Jebusites, marks a significant turning point. The Jebusites’ arrogant challenge (“Except thou take away the blind and the lame…”) reveals their underestimation of David’s strength and God’s power. The capture of the stronghold of Zion, which becomes the City of David, establishes Jerusalem as the political and spiritual center of Israel. This victory symbolizes overcoming obstacles and claiming what God has promised. Jerusalem, geographically strategic and historically significant, becomes the heart of the Davidic kingdom.

Spiritual Application: Face challenges with faith and courage, knowing that God is with you. Overcome obstacles that seem insurmountable and claim the victories He has promised you. Understand that even seemingly insignificant people can be instruments of God’s power.

2 Samuel 5:8

וַיֹּאמֶר דָּוִד בַּיּוֹם הַהוּא כָּל־מַכֵּה יְבֻסִי וְיִגַּע בַּצִּנּוֹר וְאֶת־הַפִּסְחִים וְאֶת־הַעִוְרִים שְׂנֻאֵי נֶפֶשׁ דָּוִד עַל־כֵּן יֹאמְרוּ עִוֵּר וּפִסֵּחַ לֹא יָבוֹא אֶל־הַבָּיִת׃

KJV: And David said on that day, Whosoever getteth up to the gutter, and smiteth the Jebusites, and the lame and the blind, that are hated of David’s soul, he shall be chief and captain. Wherefore they said, The blind and the lame shall not come into the house.

NKJV: Now David said on that day, “Whoever climbs up by way of the water shaft and defeats the Jebusites (the lame and the blind, who are hated by David’s soul), he shall be chief and captain.” Therefore they say, “The blind and the lame shall not come into the house.”

David’s command regarding the Jebusites and the “gutter” (צִנּוֹר, tsinnor) is complex. The meaning of “tsinnor” is debated, possibly referring to a water shaft or a vulnerable point in the city’s defenses. David’s hatred for “the lame and the blind” is often interpreted as a rejection of the Jebusites’ mocking challenge, not a literal hatred of the disabled. He promises honor to whoever can exploit the city’s weakness. This verse highlights the importance of strategic thinking and resourcefulness in overcoming adversaries. The subsequent exclusion of the blind and lame from the house (interpreted by some as the temple) reflects the consequences of opposing God’s chosen leader.

Spiritual Application: Be discerning in identifying vulnerabilities and weaknesses in your own life and in the world around you. Use your gifts and talents to overcome challenges and advance God’s kingdom. Recognize the consequences of opposing God’s will.

2 Samuel 5:9-10

וַיֵּשֶׁב דָּוִד בַּמְּצֻדָה וַיִּקְרָא לָהּ עִיר דָּוִד וַיִּבֶן דָּוִד סָבִיב מִן־הַמִּלּוֹא וָבָֽיְתָה׃ וַיֵּלֶךְ דָּוִד הָלוֹךְ וְגָדֵל וַיהוָה אֱלֹהֵי־צְבָאוֹת עִמּֽוֹ׃

KJV: So David dwelt in the fort, and called it The city of David. And David built round about from Millo and inward. And David went on, and grew great, and the LORD God of hosts was with him.

NKJV: Then David dwelt in the stronghold, and called it the City of David. And David built all around from the Millo and inward. So David went on and became great, and the Lord God of hosts was with him.

David establishes his residence in the captured stronghold, renaming it the City of David. He fortifies the city, indicating his commitment to securing his reign and protecting his people. The phrase “David went on, and grew great” highlights God’s blessing and the progressive nature of David’s success. The affirmation “the LORD God of hosts was with him” is crucial, emphasizing that David’s greatness was not solely due to his own abilities but to God’s favor. This verse underscores the importance of divine presence and blessing in achieving lasting success. The location of “Millo” is still debated, but it signifies a key part of Jerusalem’s fortifications.

Spiritual Application: Seek God’s presence and blessing in all that you do. Build your life on a strong foundation and commit to protecting what God has entrusted to you. Understand that true greatness comes from God’s favor and not just human effort.

2 Samuel 5:11-12

וַיִּשְׁלַח חִירָם מֶלֶךְ־צֹר מַלְאָכִים אֶל־דָּוִד וַעֲצֵי אֲרָזִים וְחָרָשֵׁי עֵץ וְחָרָשֵׁי אֶבֶן קִיר וַיִּבְנוּ בַיִת לְדָוִֽד׃ וַיֵּדַע דָּוִד כִּי־הֱכִינוֹ יְהוָה לְמֶלֶךְ עַל־יִשְׂרָאֵל וְכִּי נִשְּׂא מַלְכוּתוֹ בַּעֲבוּר עַמּוֹ יִשְׂרָאֵֽל׃

KJV: And Hiram king of Tyre sent messengers to David, and cedar trees, and carpenters, and masons: and they built David an house. And David perceived that the LORD had established him king over Israel, and that he had exalted his kingdom for his people Israel’s sake.

NKJV: Then Hiram king of Tyre sent messengers to David, and cedar trees, and carpenters and masons. And they built David a house. So David knew that the Lord had established him as king over Israel, and that He had exalted His kingdom for the sake of His people Israel.

Hiram, king of Tyre, sends materials and craftsmen to build David a house, signifying recognition of David’s authority and fostering diplomatic relations. The use of cedar trees, a valuable and durable material, symbolizes the strength and longevity of David’s reign. David acknowledges that the Lord has established him as king and that his kingdom is exalted for the sake of Israel. This highlights the importance of serving others and understanding that leadership is a stewardship entrusted by God for the benefit of His people. The construction of David’s house represents not only his personal comfort but also the stability and prosperity of the kingdom.

Spiritual Application: Recognize the importance of collaboration and mutual support. Use your resources and talents to build up others and serve the common good. Understand that your success is ultimately for the glory of God and the benefit of His people.

2 Samuel 5:13-16

וַיִּקַּח דָּוִד עוֹד פִּלַגְשִׁים וְנָשִׁים מִירוּשָׁלַ‍ִם אַחֲרֵי בֹּאוֹ מֵחֶבְרוֹן וַיִּוָּלְדוּ עוֹד לְדָוִד בָּנִים וּבָנֽוֹת׃ וְאֵלֶּה שְׁמוֹת הַיִּלֹּדִים לוֹ בִּירוּשָׁלָ‍ִם שַׁמּוּעַ וְשׁוֹבָב וְנָתָן וּשְׁלֹמֹה׃ וְיִבְחָר וֶאֱלִישׁוּעַ וְנֶפֶג וְיָפִיעַ׃ וֶאֱלִישָׁמָע וְאֶלְיָדָע וֶאֱלִיפָֽלֶט׃

KJV: And David took him more concubines and wives out of Jerusalem, after he was come from Hebron: and there were yet sons and daughters born to David. And these be the names of those that were born unto him in Jerusalem; Shammua, and Shobab, and Nathan, and Solomon, Ibhar also, and Elishua, and Nepheg, and Japhia, And Elishama, and Eliada, and Eliphalet.

NKJV: And David took more concubines and wives from Jerusalem, after he had come from Hebron. Also more sons and daughters were born to David. Now these are the names of those who were born to him in Jerusalem: Shammua, Shobab, Nathan, Solomon, Ibhar, Elishua, Nepheg, Japhia, Elishama, Eliada, and Eliphelet.

These verses detail David’s increasing family in Jerusalem. While the practice of taking multiple wives and concubines was common in that era, it often led to complications and internal strife, as seen later in David’s reign. This serves as a reminder that even great leaders are fallible and can make choices that have negative consequences. Notably, the birth of Nathan and Solomon is mentioned, highlighting their future roles in the Davidic lineage. The list of names underscores the importance of family and lineage in ancient Israelite society.

Spiritual Application: Recognize your own fallibility and strive to make wise and righteous choices. Learn from the mistakes of others and seek God’s guidance in all your decisions. Understand the importance of family and nurture healthy relationships.

2 Samuel 5:17-25

וַיִּשְׁמְעוּ פְלִשְׁתִּים כִּי־מָשְׁחוּ אֶת־דָּוִד לְמֶלֶךְ עַל־יִשְׂרָאֵל וַיַּעֲלוּ כָל־פְּלִשְׁתִּים לְבַקֵּשׁ אֶת־דָּוִד וַיִּשְׁמַע דָּוִד וַיֵּרֶד אֶל־הַמְּצוּדָֽה׃ וּפְלִשְׁתִּים בָּאוּ וַיִּנָּטְשׁוּ בְּעֵמֶק רְפָאִֽים׃ וַיִּשְׁאַל דָּוִד בַּיהוָה לֵאמֹר הַאֶעֱלֶה אֶל־פְּלִשְׁתִּים הֲתִתְּנֵם בְּיָדִי וַיֹּאמֶר יְהוָה אֶל־דָּוִד עֲלֵה כִּי־נָתֹן אֶתֵּן אֶת־פְּלִשְׁתִּים בְּיָדֶֽךָ׃ וַיָּבֹא דָּוִד אֶל־בַּעַל פְּרָצִים וַיַּכֵּם דָּוִד שָׁם וַיֹּאמֶר פָּרַץ יְהוָה אֶת־אֹיְבַי לְפָנַי כְּפֶרֶץ מָיִם עַל־כֵּן קָרָא לְשֵׁם הַמָּקוֹם הַהוּא בַּעַל פְּרָצִֽים׃ וַיַּעַזְבוּ שָׁם אֶת־עֲצָבֵיהֶם וַיִּשָּׂאֵם דָּוִד וַאֲנָשָׁיו׃ וַיֹּסִפוּ עוֹד פְּלִשְׁתִּים לַעֲלוֹת וַיִּנָּטְשׁוּ בְּעֵמֶק רְפָאִֽים׃ וַיִּשְׁאַל דָּוִד בַּיהוָה וַיֹּאמֶר אַל־תַּעֲלֶה הָסֵב אֶל־אַחֲרֵיהֶם וּבָאתָ אֲלֵיהֶם מִמּוּל בְּכָאִֽים׃ וִיהִי בְשָׁמְעֲךָ אֶת־קוֹל צְעָדָה בְּרָאשֵׁי הַבְּכָאִים אָז תֶּחֱרָץ כִּי־אָז יָצָא יְהוָה לְפָנֶיךָ לְהַכּוֹת בְּמַחֲנֵה פְלִשְׁתִּֽים׃ וַיַּעַשׂ דָּוִד כֵּן כַּאֲשֶׁר צִוָּהוּ יְהוָה וַיַּךְ אֶת־פְּלִשְׁתִּים מִגֶּבַע עַד־בֹּאֲךָ גָֽזֶרָה׃

KJV: But when the Philistines heard that they had anointed David king over Israel, all the Philistines came up to seek David; and David heard of it, and went down to the hold. The Philistines also came, and spread themselves in the valley of Rephaim. And David enquired of the LORD, saying, Shall I go up to the Philistines? wilt thou deliver them into mine hand? And the LORD said unto David, Go up: for I will doubtless deliver the Philistines into thine hand. And David came to Baalperazim, and David smote them there, and said, The LORD hath broken forth upon mine enemies before me, as the breach of waters. Therefore he called the name of that place Baalperazim. And there they left their images, and David and his men burned them. And the Philistines came up yet again, and spread themselves in the valley of Rephaim. And when David enquired of the LORD, he said, Thou shalt not go up; but fetch a compass behind them, and come upon them over against the mulberry trees. And let it be, when thou hearest the sound of a going in the tops of the mulberry trees, that then thou shalt bestir thyself: for then shall the LORD go out before thee, to smite the host of the Philistines. And David did so, as the LORD had commanded him; and smote the Philistines from Geba until thou come to Gazer.

NKJV: Now when the Philistines heard that they had anointed David king over Israel, all the Philistines went up to search for David. And David heard of it and went down to the stronghold. The Philistines also went and deployed themselves in the Valley of Rephaim. So David inquired of the Lord, saying, “Shall I go up against the Philistines? Will You deliver them into my hand?” And the Lord said to David, “Go up, for I will doubtless deliver the Philistines into your hand.” So David went to Baal Perazim, and David defeated them there; and he said, “The Lord has broken through my enemies before me, like a breakthrough of water.” Therefore he called the name of that place Baal Perazim. And they left their images there, and David and his men burned them. Then the Philistines went up again and deployed themselves in the Valley of Rephaim. Therefore David inquired of the Lord, and He said, “You shall not go up; circle around behind them, and come upon them in front of the mulberry trees. And it shall be, when you hear the sound of marching in the tops of the mulberry trees, then you shall advance quickly. For then the Lord will go out before you to strike the camp of the Philistines.” And David did so, as the Lord commanded him; and he struck the Philistines from Geba as far as Gezer.

The Philistines, threatened by David’s rise to power, seek to attack him. David consistently inquires of the Lord before engaging in battle, demonstrating his reliance on God’s guidance. The Lord’s response varies in each instance, emphasizing the need for continual discernment and obedience. The victory at Baal Perazim (“Lord of Breakthroughs”) symbolizes God’s power to overcome enemies. The destruction of the Philistine idols signifies the triumph of true worship over false gods. The specific instructions regarding the “sound of marching in the tops of the mulberry trees” (בְּכָאִים, b’ka’im) highlights the importance of listening for God’s direction and acting decisively when the time is right. The complete defeat of the Philistines establishes David’s authority and secures Israel’s borders.

Spiritual Application: Seek God’s guidance in all your endeavors. Cultivate a habit of prayer and discernment. Be obedient to God’s instructions, even when they seem unconventional. Trust in God’s power to overcome your enemies and protect you from harm. Remember to destroy the idols in your own life that hinder your relationship with God. David’s humility and constant communication with God provided the foundation for his success.

💡 Key Reflections on David’s Reign 💡

Here are some key teachings and reflections derived from 2 Samuel 5:

• Divine Appointment: God is sovereign in choosing and establishing leaders. David’s anointing signifies divine appointment and empowerment.
• Unity and Kinship: The tribes of Israel recognized their kinship with David, signifying the importance of unity within a community.
• Strategic Leadership: David’s capture of Jerusalem and his military victories demonstrate his strategic leadership and reliance on God’s guidance.
• Humility and Dependence: David consistently inquired of the Lord before making decisions, highlighting the importance of humility and dependence on God.
• Serving Others: David understood that his kingdom was exalted for the sake of the people of Israel, emphasizing the importance of serving others.
• Overcoming Challenges: David’s conquest of Jerusalem and his victories over the Philistines demonstrate his ability to overcome challenges and claim God’s promises.

❓ FAQ: Common Questions About David’s Kingship ❓

Here are some frequently asked questions about David’s ascension to kingship:

• Q: Why was David anointed king in Hebron?

  A: Hebron was already David’s seat of power as king over Judah. The elders of Israel met him there because it was a familiar and secure location where they could enter into a covenant with him. This signifies a natural progression of his leadership from Judah to all of Israel.

• Q: What is the significance of Jerusalem becoming the City of David?

  A: Capturing Jerusalem made it a neutral capital since it hadn’t been controlled by any of the tribes. It strategically separated the Northern and Southern tribes and symbolized the union of Israel under David’s rule. The city’s new name emphasized David’s claim to the city and his establishment of a new political and spiritual center for Israel.

• Q: Why did David inquire of the Lord before each battle with the Philistines?

  A: David’s inquiries reflect his profound respect for God and his understanding that success depends on divine guidance. By consulting the Lord, David ensures that his actions align with God’s will and that he is fighting with divine empowerment. These consultations show David’s wisdom in seeking God’s specific instructions and strategies.

• Q: What is the spiritual significance of destroying the Philistine idols?

  A: The destruction of idols symbolizes the triumph of true worship over false gods and the rejection of pagan influences in Israel. It represents a commitment to serving only the Lord and purifying the land from idolatry. This symbolizes the cleansing and consecration required for establishing God’s kingdom.

🕊️ Conclusion 🕊️

2 Samuel 5 showcases the divine orchestration of David’s ascent to the throne of a united Israel. This was a turning point for Israel, and a foreshadowing of the Kingship of Christ. David’s reliance on God, his military prowess, and his commitment to serving his people reveal him as a model leader under God. It also underscores the importance of faith, obedience, and recognizing God’s hand in our lives. David’s Anointing is a powerful reminder that God uses individuals, despite their flaws, to fulfill His purposes. It challenges us to seek God’s guidance in all our endeavors, to embrace unity within the body of Christ, and to serve others with humility and dedication. Ultimately, it points to Jesus Christ, the ultimate King, who reigns forever and whose kingdom will never end.

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David, King David, Israel, Samuel, Anointing, Jerusalem, Philistines, Covenant, Leadership, Hebron, 2 Samuel 5 – David Made King Over All Israel

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Explore 2 Samuel 5 and discover the spiritual significance of David’s Anointing as King over all Israel. Learn about leadership, faith, and divine purpose. #David #Israel