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Public-domain commentary
Matthew Henry
From his Commentary on the Whole Bible. Henry comments on passages, not single verses — this entry covers 2 Samuel 17:22–29. His three-level outline is real structure in the source text, so it is rendered as structure.
Here is, I. The transporting of David and his forces over Jordan, pursuant to the advice he had received from his friends at Jerusalem, Sa2 17:22. He, and all that were with him, went over in the night, whether in ferryboats, which probably always plied there, or through the fords, does not appear. But special notice is taken of this, that there lacked not one of them: none deserted him, though his distress was great, none staid behind sick or weary, nor were any lost or cast away in passing the river. Herein some make him a type of the Messiah, who said, in a difficult day, Of all that thou hast given me have I lost none. Having got over Jordan, he marched many miles forward to Mahanaim, a Levites' city in the tribe of Gad, in the utmost border of that tribe, and not far from Rabbah, the chief city of the Ammonites. This city, which Ishbosheth had made his royal city (Sa2 2:8), David now made his head-quarters, Sa2 17:24. And now he had time to raise an army wherewith to oppose the rebels and give them a warm reception.
II.The death of Ahithophel, Sa2 17:23.
He died by his own hands, felo de se - a suicide. He hanged himself for vexation that his counsel was not followed; for thereby,
1.He thought himself slighted, and an intolerable slur cast upon his reputation for wisdom. His judgment always used to sway at the counsel-board, but now another's opinion is thought wiser and better than his. His proud heart cannot bear the affront; it rises and swells, and the more he thinks of it the more violent his resentments grow, till they bring him at last to this desperate resolve not to live to see another preferred before him. All men think him a wise man, but he thinks himself the only wise man; and therefore to be avenged upon mankind for not thinking so too, he will die, that wisdom may die with him. The world is not worthy of such an oracle as he is, and therefore he will make them know the want of him. See what real enemies those are to themselves that think too well of themselves, and what mischiefs those run upon that are impatient of contempt. That will break a proud man's heart that will not break a humble man's sleep.
2.He thought himself endangered and his life exposed. He concluded that, because his counsel was not followed, Absalom's cause would certainly miscarry, and then, whoever would find David's mercy, he concluded that he, who was the greatest criminal, and had particularly advised him to lie with his father's concubines, must be sacrificed to justice. To prevent therefore the shame and terror of a public and solemn execution, he does justice upon himself, and, after his reputation for wisdom, by this last act puts a far greater disgrace upon himself than Absalom's privy-council had put upon him, and answers his name Ahithophel, which signifies, the brother of a fool. Nothing indicates so much folly as self-murder. Observe, How deliberately he did it, and of malice prepense against himself; not in a heat, but he went home to his city, to his house, to do it; and, which is strange, took time to consider of it, and yet did it. And, to prove himself compos mentis - in his senses, when he did it, he first put his household in order, made his will as a man of sane memory and understanding, settled his estate, balanced his accounts; yet he that had sense and prudence enough to do this had not consideration enough to revoke the sentence his pride and passion had passed upon his own neck, nor so much as to suspend the execution of it till he saw the event of Absalom's rebellion. Now herein we may see,
(1.)Contempt poured upon the wisdom of man. He that was more renowned for policy than any man played the fool with himself more abundantly. Let not the wise man glory in his wisdom, when he sees him that was so great an oracle dying as a fool dies.
(2.)Honour done to the justice of God. When the wicked are thus snared in the work of their own hands, and sunk in a pit of their own digging, the Lord is known by the judgment which he executeth, and we must say, Higgaion, Selah; it is a thing to be marked and meditated upon, Psa 7:15, Psa 7:16.
(3.)Prayer answered, and an honest cause served even by its enemies. Now, as David had prayed, Ahithophel's counsel was turned into foolishness to himself. Dr. Lightfoot supposes that David penned the 55th Psalm upon occasion of Ahithophel's being in the plot against him, and that he is the man complained of (Sa2 17:13) that had been his equal, his guide, and his acquaintance; and, if so, this was an immediate answer to his prayer there (Sa2 17:15): Let death seize upon them, and let them go down quickly into hell. Ahithophel's death was an advantage to David's interest; for had he digested that affront (as those must resolve often to do that will live in this world), and continued his post at Absalom's elbow, he might have given him counsel afterwards that might have been of pernicious consequence to David. It is well that that breath is stopped and that head laid from which nothing could be expected but mischief. It seems, it was not then usual to disgrace the dead bodies of self-murderers, for Ahithophel was buried, we may suppose honourably buried, in the sepulchre of his father, though he deserved no better than the burial of an ass. See Ecc 8:10.
III.Absalom's pursuit of his father.
He had now got all the men of Israel with him, as Hushai advised, and he himself, at the head of them, passed over Jordan, Sa2 17:24. Not content that he had driven his good father to the utmost corner of his kingdom, he resolved to chase him out of the world. He pitched in the land of Gilead with all his forces, ready to give David battle, Sa2 17:26. Absalom made one Amasa his general (Sa2 17:25), whose father was by birth Jether, an Ishmaelite (Ch1 2:17), but by religion Ithra (as he is here called), an Israelite; probably he was not only proselyted, but, having married a near relation of David's, was, by some act of the state, naturalized, and is therefore called an Israelite. His wife, Amasa's mother, was Abigail, David's sister, whose other sister, Zeruiah, was Joab's mother (Ch1 2:16), so that Amasa was in the same relation to David that Joab was. In honour to his family, even while he was in arms against his father, Absalom made him commander-in-chief of all his forces. Jesse is here called Nahash, for many had two names; or perhaps this was his wife's name.
IV.The friends David met with in this distant country.
Even Shobi, a younger brother of the royal family of the Ammonites, was kind to him, Sa2 17:27. It is probable that he had detested the indignity which his brother Hanun had done to David's ambassadors, and for that had received favours from David, which he now returned. Those that think their prosperity most confirmed know not but, some time or other, they may stand in need of the kindness of those that now lie at their mercy, and may be glad to be beholden to them, which is a reason why we should, as we have opportunity, do good to all men, for he that watereth shall be watered also himself, when there is occasion. Machir, the son of Ammiel, was he that maintained Mephibosheth (Sa2 9:4), till David eased him of that charge, and is now repaid for it by that generous man, who, it seems, was the common patron of distressed princes. Barzillai we shall hear of again. These, compassionating David and his men, now that they were weary with a long march, brought him furniture for his house, beds and basins, and provision for his table, wheat and barley, etc., Sa2 17:28, Sa2 17:29. He did not put them under contribution, did not compel them to supply him, much less plunder them; but in token of their dutiful affection to him, and their sincere concern for him in his present straits, of their own good will they brought in plenty of all that which he had occasion for. Let us learn hence to be generous and open-handed, according as our ability is, to all in distress, especially great men, to whom it is most grievous, and good men, who deserve better treatment; and see how God sometimes makes up to his people that comfort from strangers which they are disappointed of in their own families.
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Summary
2 Samuel 17:22 vividly describes King David's urgent and divinely protected crossing of the Jordan River with all his loyal followers, a pivotal moment in his flight from Absalom's rebellion. This verse underscores David's decisive leadership in response to critical intelligence, culminating in a miraculous escape where every single person under his care was safely transported to the eastern bank by morning light, highlighting God's meticulous preservation amidst extreme peril.
Context
Literary Context
This verse serves as the climactic resolution to a period of intense tension and strategic maneuvering within the narrative of Absalom's rebellion, which began in 2 Samuel 15. David had been forced to abandon Jerusalem, his capital, in a desperate flight. The immediate preceding events in 2 Samuel 17 are crucial: Ahithophel, Absalom's chief advisor, had proposed a swift and decisive pursuit of David (as recounted in 2 Samuel 17:1-4). This counsel, if followed, would almost certainly have led to David's capture and demise. However, through divine intervention, David's loyal agent, Hushai the Archite, successfully undermined Ahithophel's advice by advocating a more protracted, yet ultimately delaying, strategy (detailed in 2 Samuel 17:7-13). Hushai's counsel was accepted by Absalom, explicitly stated as God's doing "to frustrate the good counsel of Ahithophel, so that the Lord might bring disaster on Absalom" (2 Samuel 17:14). Hushai then immediately dispatched a warning to David via Zadok and Abiathar's sons, Jonathan and Ahimaaz, urging him to cross the Jordan without delay (2 Samuel 17:15-21). David's swift compliance, as depicted in 2 Samuel 17:22, is a direct outcome of this providential intervention and timely intelligence, setting the stage for the subsequent military confrontation.
Historical & Cultural Context
The Jordan River, a prominent geographical feature in ancient Israel, frequently served as a natural boundary or a critical strategic crossing point. For David and his company, traversing the Jordan meant establishing a significant natural barrier between themselves and Absalom's pursuing forces, thereby gaining a vital buffer of safety and crucial time to regroup. The eastern bank of the Jordan, particularly regions like Gilead and the city of Mahanaim (where David eventually established his temporary headquarters, as noted in 2 Samuel 17:24), offered a more defensible terrain and access to populations still loyal to David. In the context of ancient Near Eastern kingship, a monarch's flight from his capital due to rebellion was a profound humiliation and a potent symbol of vulnerability. David's remarkable ability to retain the loyalty of "all the people that were with him," despite his precarious and exiled status, speaks volumes about his enduring leadership and the deep bonds of fidelity he inspired. The urgency of the night crossing also reflects the military realities of the era, where darkness provided cover for movement but simultaneously presented formidable logistical challenges, making the complete and safe passage of such a large and diverse group even more extraordinary.
Key Themes
This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes woven throughout the book of 2 Samuel. Foremost is the theme of Divine Providence and Protection. Despite David's desperate circumstances and the seemingly insurmountable odds, God actively intervenes to safeguard His anointed king, frustrating the cunning counsel of Ahithophel and ensuring David's secure passage. This highlights God's unwavering faithfulness to His covenant promises with David, as articulated in 2 Samuel 7. Another prominent theme is Decisive Leadership. David's immediate and effective response to the urgent warning demonstrates his capacity for swift, strategic action in times of profound crisis. His resolute leadership ensures the survival and integrity of his loyal followers. The unwavering Loyalty and Unity of David's people is also strikingly evident, showcasing a profound bond of trust and commitment that perseveres even in exile and extreme danger. Finally, the narrative subtly explores the Consequences of Sin and Rebellion, as Absalom's rebellion, fueled by pride and ambition, ultimately leads to his downfall, contrasting sharply with God's meticulous preservation of David.
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
This primitive root means "to rise (in various applications, literal, figurative, intensive and causative)." In this context, it signifies David's immediate and decisive action. Upon receiving the urgent message, he did not hesitate but "rose" to the occasion, indicating readiness for movement and leadership in a critical situation. It conveys a sense of promptness and determination.
This primitive root means "to cross over; used very widely of any transition (literal or figurative; transitive, intransitive, intensive, causative)." Here, it literally describes the physical act of traversing the Jordan River. Figuratively, it represents a crucial transition from immediate peril to a place of relative safety, a strategic movement to escape the pursuing forces. The repetition emphasizes the completeness of this crossing.
This primitive root means "to arrange as a battle, a vineyard (to hoe); hence, to muster and so to miss (or find wanting)." In the negative construction "lacked not," it emphatically states that no one was missing, absent, or left behind. This word highlights the miraculous and complete preservation of David's entire company, suggesting a divinely superintended outcome where not a single person was unaccounted for despite the chaotic circumstances.
Verse Breakdown
"Then David arose, and all the people that were with him"
This opening clause underscores David's immediate and resolute response to the urgent warning he received. His "arising" signifies a prompt and decisive call to action, demonstrating his leadership. The inclusion of "all the people that were with him" emphasizes the collective nature of this movement, highlighting the unity and unwavering loyalty of his followers who remained committed to their king even in this perilous flight from Absalom.
"and they passed over Jordan"
This describes the critical strategic maneuver undertaken by David and his company. Crossing the Jordan River was essential to establish a natural barrier between David's vulnerable group and Absalom's rapidly advancing forces. It represented a crucial move from immediate danger on the western side to a relatively safer, more defensible position on the eastern bank, providing much-needed time for regrouping and planning.
"by the morning light"
This temporal marker emphasizes the extraordinary speed and urgency with which the entire operation was executed. The crossing was completed under the cover of darkness, before the full light of day could expose their movements and positions to Absalom's scouts. This detail highlights David's efficiency and the disciplined, swift execution of the escape, underscoring the critical nature of the warning and their response.
"there lacked not one of them that was not gone over Jordan"
This is the climactic and most profound statement of the verse, underscoring the miraculous completeness of their escape. Despite the inherent chaos, the darkness of the night, the urgency of the situation, and the sheer number of people involved (likely including families and non-combatants), not a single person was lost, injured, or left behind. This phrase powerfully conveys divine protection and meticulous oversight, affirming that God's hand was upon David and his loyal followers, ensuring their total preservation against all odds.
Literary Devices
The verse employs several powerful literary devices to convey its profound message. Divine Providence is the overarching, though subtly conveyed, theme, powerfully implied by the miraculous and complete nature of the escape. While the text does not explicitly state "God did this," the emphatic declaration "there lacked not one of them" strongly suggests a supernatural intervention, as such a flawless operation under duress would be highly improbable by human effort alone. This highlights God's active role in frustrating Ahithophel's counsel and meticulously preserving David. There is also an element of Hyperbole or emphatic statement in "lacked not one," which serves to underscore the absolute totality and perfection of their safe passage, magnifying the sense of God's protective care and the extraordinary nature of the event. The Jordan River itself functions as a potent Symbol, representing a threshold of safety and a formidable barrier against immediate danger, a place of transition from extreme vulnerability to relative security. The swift and complete crossing thus becomes a powerful symbol of God's ability to deliver His people through seemingly insurmountable obstacles.
Theological and Thematic Connections
2 Samuel 17:22 stands as a profound testament to God's unwavering faithfulness and protective sovereignty over His anointed king and His people, even amidst the most desperate and chaotic circumstances. David's flight from Absalom's rebellion represents a period of intense testing and vulnerability for the king, yet this verse reveals that God's plan for David's kingship and the enduring Davidic covenant (promised in 2 Samuel 7) remained absolutely secure. The complete and safe passage of all David's followers across the Jordan highlights that when God purposes to protect, no human scheme, natural obstacle, or chaotic circumstance can ultimately thwart His will. It underscores the profound theological principle that God's preservation is not merely for the leader, but extends with meticulous care to all who are faithfully aligned with His divine purposes, demonstrating His attention even to the smallest details of a chaotic escape. This event stands as a powerful reminder that God is indeed a refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble (Psalm 46:1), actively orchestrating events and even frustrating wicked counsel to achieve His redemptive and sovereign ends.
Reflection and Application
The narrative of David's desperate but divinely protected escape across the Jordan offers profound encouragement for believers facing their own "Jordan crossings" in life—those moments of profound crisis, overwhelming uncertainty, or seemingly insurmountable opposition. Just as David acted decisively upon receiving divinely inspired counsel, we are called to cultivate a deep trust in God's providence and to act with faith and wisdom when His guidance becomes clear, even if it means stepping into the unknown or navigating through chaos. This verse powerfully reminds us that God is not distant from our struggles; rather, He actively works behind the scenes, frustrating the plans of our adversaries and ensuring the safety and preservation of those who belong to Him. The assurance that "there lacked not one of them" speaks to God's meticulous care and faithfulness, suggesting that in Christ, not one of His elect will be lost or left behind. It calls us to cultivate unwavering loyalty to God and to one another within the community of faith, finding strength in unity and trusting that even in the most perilous journeys, God is our ultimate protector and faithful guide, leading us safely through to His intended destination and eternal purposes.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
What was the strategic significance of David's crossing the Jordan River?
Crossing the Jordan River was a critical strategic maneuver for David. It provided a natural geographical barrier between his vulnerable, fleeing company and Absalom's rapidly pursuing forces, thereby buying David precious time to regroup, gather resources, and plan his next steps. The eastern side of the Jordan, particularly regions like Gilead and the city of Mahanaim (2 Samuel 17:24), was known for its rugged terrain and populations loyal to David, offering a more defensible position and a secure base of operations away from Absalom's immediate reach in Jerusalem. It symbolized a temporary escape from immediate danger and a transition to a place of relative safety and strategic advantage.
How does 2 Samuel 17:22 demonstrate divine protection?
The phrase "there lacked not one of them that was not gone over Jordan" is a profound testament to divine protection. Given the extremely challenging circumstances—a hurried, overnight crossing of a significant river by a large, diverse group, including non-combatants and families, all under the imminent threat of pursuit—the fact that not a single person was lost, injured, or left behind is presented as nothing short of miraculous. This completeness of their safe passage strongly implies God's direct intervention and meticulous care, ensuring the survival of David and all his loyal followers. This event directly follows the Lord's intervention to "frustrate the good counsel of Ahithophel" (2 Samuel 17:14), demonstrating a continuous thread of God's active and sovereign hand in preserving His anointed king.
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
2 Samuel 17:22, with its vivid depiction of David's divinely protected escape across the Jordan, powerfully foreshadows the ultimate deliverance and perfect preservation offered through Jesus Christ. David, the anointed king, fleeing from rebellion and facing certain death, yet miraculously preserved with all his loyal followers, serves as a profound type of Christ. Just as David was preserved by God's providence against the treachery of Ahithophel, so too was Jesus protected by His Father through the perils of His earthly ministry, ultimately triumphing over the schemes of His adversaries (e.g., His escape to Egypt in Matthew 2:13-15 or His evasion of those seeking to stone Him in John 8:59). More profoundly, the "not one missing" aspect of David's crossing points directly to Christ's perfect and complete work of salvation. Jesus, the Good Shepherd, unequivocally declares that He will lose none of those the Father has given Him (John 6:39), and that no one can snatch them out of His hand (John 10:28). His death and resurrection constitute the ultimate "crossing over" from the realm of death to abundant life, securing eternal safety for all who believe in Him. Through Christ, we are brought safely through the "waters" of sin and judgment, into the promised land of God's eternal kingdom, with the absolute assurance that "there lacked not one" of His redeemed who will fail to reach their eternal home, as He brings "many sons to glory" (Hebrews 2:10).