1 Kings 2:10

KJV

So David slept with his fathers, and was buried in the city of David.

KJV (with Strong's)

So David {H1732} slept {H7901} with his fathers {H1}, and was buried {H6912} in the city {H5892} of David {H1732}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Then David slept with his ancestors and was buried in the City of David.

Berean Standard Bible

Then David rested with his fathers and was buried in the City of David.

American Standard Version

And David slept with his fathers, and was buried in the city of David.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Kings 2:10 solemnly records the death and burial of King David, marking the peaceful conclusion of his forty-year reign over Israel and Judah. This pivotal verse signifies not only the universal truth of human mortality, even for God's chosen leaders, but also the divinely ordained continuity of the Davidic dynasty. David's interment in Jerusalem, the city he established as the nation's spiritual and political heart, powerfully underscores his enduring legacy and the unwavering faithfulness of God's covenant promises as power transitions to his son, Solomon.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse serves as the narrative climax to the account of David's final days and the succession of Solomon, which begins in [1 Kings 1](/1_kings/1 "1 Kings 1 - The Succession of Solomon"). Immediately preceding [1 Kings 2:10](/1_kings/2-10 "1 Kings 2:10 - David's Death and Burial") is David's poignant and comprehensive final charge to his son Solomon, detailed in [1 Kings 2:1-9](/1_kings/2-1-9 "1 Kings 2:1-9 - David's Final Charge to Solomon"). In this charge, David imparts crucial instructions regarding walking in God's ways, upholding the Law, and dealing justly with both loyal supporters and lingering adversaries from his past. This final testament functions as David's spiritual and political will, meticulously setting the stage for Solomon's reign and ensuring the stability and integrity of the nascent kingdom. David's death, therefore, is not an abrupt or chaotic end, but the culmination of a carefully orchestrated and divinely sanctioned succession, bringing to a close the narrative arc of his extraordinary life as presented across [1 Samuel](/1_samuel/1 "1 Samuel - The Rise of David"), [2 Samuel](/2_samuel/1 "2 Samuel - David's Reign"), and the opening chapters of [1 Kings](/1_kings/1 "1 Kings - The Early Monarchy").

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In the volatile political landscape of the ancient Near East, the succession of kings was frequently a tumultuous and violent affair, often characterized by assassinations, coups, and civil strife. In stark contrast, David's death and Solomon's ascension, as meticulously depicted in [1 Kings](/1_kings/1 "1 Kings - The Reign of Solomon"), represent a remarkably peaceful, orderly, and divinely sanctioned transfer of power. David had dedicated decades to unifying the disparate tribes of Israel, establishing Jerusalem as a neutral and central capital ([2 Samuel 5:6-10](/2_samuel/5-6-10 "2 Samuel 5:6-10 - David Conquers Jerusalem")), and laying the foundational groundwork for a stable monarchy. His burial in the "city of David" (Jerusalem) was far more than a mere geographical detail; it was a profound statement of his unparalleled legacy, his foundational role in shaping the nation's identity, and the enduring significance of the capital city he had secured and elevated. This peaceful transition underscores the unique nature of Israel's monarchy, guided by divine promise rather than solely by human ambition.

* **Key Themes:** [1 Kings 2:10](/1_kings/2-10 "1 Kings 2:10 - David's Death and Burial") encapsulates several profound and enduring themes. Firstly, it powerfully highlights the **mortality of even great leaders**, serving as a poignant reminder that despite David's unparalleled status as "a man after God's own heart" ([1 Samuel 13:14](/1_samuel/13-14 "1 Samuel 13:14 - David, a Man After God's Own Heart")), he was ultimately subject to death, a universal human experience. Secondly, the verse emphasizes **succession and legacy**, as David's life's work of establishing and consolidating the kingdom seamlessly passes to his son, underscoring the critical importance of preparing and entrusting future generations with leadership responsibilities. Thirdly, it affirms the **continuity of God's covenant promises**, particularly the unconditional Davidic Covenant ([2 Samuel 7:12-16](/2_samuel/7-12-16 "2 Samuel 7:12-16 - God's Covenant with David")), which guaranteed an enduring dynasty. David's death does not negate this divine promise but rather marks a new and crucial phase in its unfolding. Finally, the narrative emphasizes a **peaceful transition of power**, a testament to God's guiding hand and David's wise and diligent preparations, standing in sharp contrast to the typical violent successions prevalent in the ancient world.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **slept (Hebrew, _shâkab'_):** This primitive root verb signifies "to lie down," encompassing various purposes such as rest, sexual connection, or, as in this context, "decease." When used in the idiom "slept with his fathers," it serves as a common euphemism for death, conveying a peaceful and natural passing rather than a violent or premature end. It suggests that David died in a state of rest, gathered to his ancestors, implying he was in good standing with God and his community.
* **fathers (Hebrew, _ʼâb'_):** This primitive word refers to a "father" in a literal, immediate, or figurative, remote sense. In the phrase "slept with his fathers," it refers to David's ancestors, emphasizing the continuity of lineage and the ancient practice of being buried among one's family or tribal forebears. It highlights the idea of joining a collective, an ancestral line, rather than an isolated departure.
* **buried (Hebrew, _qâbar'_):** This primitive root verb means "to inter" or "to bury." The act of burial was profoundly significant in ancient Israel, signifying respect, honor, and proper closure for the deceased. Being buried in a specific location, especially a place of honor like the "city of David," underscored the individual's status and lasting legacy. For David, it cemented his connection to the kingdom he established and the covenant promises associated with it.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"So David slept with his fathers":** This initial clause employs a common and poignant euphemism for death, indicating that King David's earthly life reached its peaceful conclusion. It marks the end of an era—the reign of Israel's most celebrated and pivotal king—and serves as a powerful reminder of the universal truth of mortality that applies even to divinely chosen and highly esteemed leaders. The use of "slept" suggests a quiet, natural passing, contrasting sharply with the often violent and tumultuous ends that characterized many kings in the ancient Near East.
* **"and was buried in the city of David":** This second clause specifies the honorable location of David's interment. His burial in Jerusalem, the city he famously conquered from the Jebusites ([2 Samuel 5:6-9](/2_samuel/5-6-9 "2 Samuel 5:6-9 - David Conquers Jerusalem")), made his capital, and infused with profound national and religious significance, underscores his foundational and enduring role in Israel's history. This act of burial in the heart of his kingdom symbolizes his lasting legacy, the deep respect accorded to him, and the continuity of the Davidic line in the very city he established as the seat of the monarchy and the future site of the Temple.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several potent literary devices to convey its profound meaning and solemnity. The most prominent is **Idiom**, specifically the phrase "slept with his fathers," which is a widespread euphemism for death found throughout the Old Testament. This idiom not only softens the stark reality of death but also connects the deceased to a lineage of ancestors, implying a peaceful, natural passing and a joining with those who have gone before. Functioning as a **Euphemism**, this phrase allows the sacred text to refer to David's death without using a more direct or harsh term, maintaining a tone of reverence. Furthermore, the mention of "the city of David" carries significant **Symbolism**. It is not merely a geographical location but represents David's monumental legacy, his establishment of a unified kingdom, and the very heart of Israel's national and religious identity. His burial there solidifies his permanent connection to the kingdom he forged and the covenant God made with him, making the city a tangible symbol of his enduring impact.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
1 Kings 2:10 stands as a profound theological statement concerning God's absolute sovereignty over life and death, the nature of divinely appointed leadership, and the unwavering continuity of His divine plan. David's death, while a moment of profound national sorrow, is presented not as an interruption but as an integral part of God's unfolding purpose, ensuring the peaceful and legitimate transfer of authority to Solomon. It serves as a powerful reminder that even the most influential human instruments of God's will have a finite time on earth, yet God's covenant promises endure beyond the lifespan of any individual. The Davidic covenant, in particular, is powerfully reaffirmed through this orderly succession, pointing to an enduring royal line that would ultimately culminate in the Messiah, whose kingdom would be eternal.

* [1 Samuel 13:14](/1_samuel/13-14 "1 Samuel 13:14 - David, a Man After God's Own Heart")
* [2 Samuel 7:12-16](/2_samuel/7-12-16 "2 Samuel 7:12-16 - God's Covenant with David")
* [Acts 13:36](/acts/13-36 "Acts 13:36 - David Served God's Purpose")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The passing of King David, a figure of immense spiritual and political stature, offers profound and timeless lessons for all believers. It confronts us with the sobering reality of our own mortality, urging us to consider the enduring legacy we are actively building—not just for ourselves, but for future generations and, most importantly, for the glory of God. David's life, though marked by significant flaws and failures, was ultimately characterized by a deep devotion to God's purposes, and his peaceful death and orderly succession highlight the critical importance of finishing well and diligently preparing others to carry on the work. For those in positions of leadership, this narrative emphasizes the crucial responsibility of mentorship, intentional succession planning, and faithfully entrusting the next generation with the vision, values, and ongoing mission. For every individual, it underscores the absolute sovereignty of God, who orchestrates both the rise and fall of leaders, ensuring that His overarching plan for redemption and the advancement of His kingdom continues uninterrupted through the ebb and flow of human history. Our lives, like David's, are meant to serve God's purpose in our unique generation, leaving a foundation upon which others can build for His eternal glory.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What kind of legacy am I actively building, both personally and within my community or sphere of influence, that will honor God and benefit future generations?**
* **How am I intentionally preparing or mentoring others to carry on important work or responsibilities, ensuring continuity and faithfulness beyond my own direct involvement?**
* **How does the reality of human mortality, even for great figures like David, shape my daily priorities, my pursuit of God's will, and my actions today?**

### FAQ
**What does the phrase "slept with his fathers" truly mean, and does it imply a specific understanding of the afterlife?**

Answer: The phrase "slept with his fathers" is a common Hebrew idiom used throughout the Old Testament to denote a peaceful and natural death. It does not necessarily imply a specific theological understanding of the afterlife, such as a conscious existence in a particular spiritual realm, but rather signifies that the individual died naturally and was gathered to their ancestors through burial. It conveys a sense of continuity within the family line and often suggests that the person died in good standing, in contrast to those who died violently or were denied a proper burial. This idiom is used for many kings of Israel and Judah, as well as patriarchs like Abraham in [Genesis 47:30](/genesis/47-30 "Genesis 47:30 - Abraham's Burial Request") and Moses in [Deuteronomy 31:16](/deuteronomy/31-16 "Deuteronomy 31:16 - Moses Sleeps with His Fathers").

**Why was being buried in the "city of David" significant for King David?**

Answer: Being buried in the "city of David" (Jerusalem) was profoundly significant for David because it was the city he conquered from the Jebusites ([2 Samuel 5:6-9](/2_samuel/5-6-9 "2 Samuel 5:6-9 - David Conquers Jerusalem")), made his capital, and transformed into the political and spiritual heart of Israel. His burial there symbolized his enduring legacy and his foundational role in establishing the unified kingdom. It was an honor reserved for kings and important figures, cementing his identity with the very city that embodied his greatest achievements and the future of the Davidic dynasty. This burial place underscored his permanent connection to the kingdom he forged and the covenant God made with him regarding an everlasting throne.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While [1 Kings 2:10](/1_kings/2-10 "1 Kings 2:10 - David's Death and Burial") marks the solemn conclusion of David's earthly reign, it simultaneously points forward with profound theological significance to a greater King and an eternal kingdom found in Jesus Christ. David's death underscores the temporary and finite nature of all human rule, even that of a "man after God's own heart." Yet, God's unconditional covenant with David ([2 Samuel 7:12-16](/2_samuel/7-12-16 "2 Samuel 7:12-16 - God's Covenant with David")) promised an enduring dynasty, a promise that finds its ultimate and everlasting fulfillment not in Solomon, but in Jesus. Jesus is repeatedly identified throughout the New Testament as the "Son of David" ([Matthew 1:1](/matthew/1-1 "Matthew 1:1 - Jesus, Son of David")), the rightful and eternal heir to David's throne, whose kingdom will have no end ([Luke 1:32-33](/luke/1-32-33 "Luke 1:32-33 - The Eternal Davidic Throne")). Unlike David, who "slept with his fathers and was buried," Jesus, though he truly died, did not remain in the grave. As Peter powerfully preached on the Day of Pentecost, David's tomb is still with them, but God raised Jesus from the dead, fulfilling prophecy and demonstrating His eternal reign over death itself ([Acts 2:29-31](/acts/2-29-31 "Acts 2:29-31 - Peter's Sermon on David and Resurrection")). Thus, David's peaceful passing in [1 Kings 2:10](/1_kings/2-10 "1 Kings 2:10 - David's Death and Burial") foreshadows the necessity of a King who would ultimately conquer death, the "Root and Offspring of David" who reigns forevermore ([Revelation 22:16](/revelation/22-16 "Revelation 22:16 - Jesus, the Root and Offspring of David")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Acts 2:29

Men [and] brethren, let me freely speak unto you of the patriarch David, that he is both dead and buried, and his sepulchre is with us unto this day.

Acts 13:36

For David, after he had served his own generation by the will of God, fell on sleep, and was laid unto his fathers, and saw corruption:

1 Kings 11:43

And Solomon slept with his fathers, and was buried in the city of David his father: and Rehoboam his son reigned in his stead.

1 Chronicles 29:28

And he died in a good old age, full of days, riches, and honour: and Solomon his son reigned in his stead.

1 Kings 1:21

Otherwise it shall come to pass, when my lord the king shall sleep with his fathers, that I and my son Solomon shall be counted offenders.

2 Samuel 5:7

Nevertheless David took the strong hold of Zion: the same [is] the city of David.

1 Kings 3:1

¶ And Solomon made affinity with Pharaoh king of Egypt, and took Pharaoh's daughter, and brought her into the city of David, until he had made an end of building his own house, and the house of the LORD, and the wall of Jerusalem round about.