2 Samuel 19:15

So the king returned, and came to Jordan. And Judah came to Gilgal, to go to meet the king, to conduct the king over Jordan.

So the king {H4428} returned {H7725}, and came {H935} to Jordan {H3383}. And Judah {H3063} came {H935} to Gilgal {H1537}, to go {H3212} to meet {H7125} the king {H4428}, to conduct {H5674} the king {H4428} over {H5674} Jordan {H3383}.

The king started back and arrived at the Yarden, while Y'hudah came to Gilgal in order to meet the king and bring the king over the Yarden.

So the king returned, and when he arrived at the Jordan, the men of Judah came to Gilgal to meet him and escort him across the Jordan.

So the king returned, and came to the Jordan. And Judah came to Gilgal, to go to meet the king, to bring the king over the Jordan.

Commentary

2 Samuel 19:15 marks a pivotal moment in King David's reign, detailing his return to Jerusalem following the defeat of Absalom's rebellion. This verse highlights the immediate steps of David's journey back and the proactive welcome extended by the tribe of Judah, signaling a period of reconciliation and restoration for the kingdom.

Context

This verse immediately follows the resolution of Absalom's widespread rebellion, which had forced King David to flee Jerusalem and cross the Jordan River to Mahanaim (2 Samuel 17:24). With Absalom defeated and Joab's decisive action, the path was cleared for David to reclaim his throne. The nation, particularly the tribe of Judah, now sought to demonstrate their renewed allegiance and bring their rightful king back across the Jordan, symbolizing the end of civil strife and the re-establishment of unified rule.

Key Themes

  • Return and Restoration: The verse vividly portrays David's physical return, which mirrors the spiritual and political restoration of his kingdom after a period of intense turmoil. It signifies the reassertion of legitimate authority.
  • Loyalty and Reconciliation: The tribe of Judah, David's own tribe, takes the initiative to meet him at Gilgal. This act of "conducting the king over Jordan" is a powerful gesture of loyalty and a crucial step towards national reconciliation after the devastating rebellion. It shows their eagerness to welcome him back and mend the fractured relationship.
  • Geographical and Historical Significance:
    • The Jordan River: More than just a geographical boundary, the Jordan often represented a transition point in Israelite history, from the initial entry into the Promised Land under Joshua (Joshua 3:14-17) to various other significant events. For David, recrossing it symbolized his return from exile to his rightful place.
    • Gilgal: This location holds deep historical and spiritual meaning for Israel. It was the first encampment of the Israelites after crossing the Jordan into Canaan, where they renewed their covenant with God and circumcised the new generation (Joshua 5:9). It was also a place where kingship was affirmed (1 Samuel 11:15). Judah choosing Gilgal to meet David underscores the hope for a national renewal and the re-establishment of David's divinely ordained rule.

Linguistic Insights

The KJV phrase "to conduct the king over Jordan" emphasizes the active role of Judah. The Hebrew word often translated "conduct" (עָבַר, 'avar) can mean "to cross over," "to pass through," or "to cause to pass over." Here, it implies not just meeting David, but actively assisting and escorting him, signifying their support and commitment to his safe passage and return to power. It’s an act of service and homage.

Practical Application

This verse offers insights into the dynamics of leadership, forgiveness, and community support. Just as Judah actively sought to bring David back, believers are called to participate in reconciliation and support those in leadership, especially after periods of conflict or difficulty. It reminds us that true restoration often involves proactive steps from all parties to bridge divides and rebuild trust. The eager return of the people to their king can also be seen as a picture of the Church's longing for the return of Christ, our true King, and the full establishment of His kingdom.

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Cross-References

  • Joshua 5:9 (4 votes)

    And the LORD said unto Joshua, This day have I rolled away the reproach of Egypt from off you. Wherefore the name of the place is called Gilgal unto this day.

  • 1 Samuel 11:14 (3 votes)

    Then said Samuel to the people, Come, and let us go to Gilgal, and renew the kingdom there.

  • 1 Samuel 11:15 (3 votes)

    And all the people went to Gilgal; and there they made Saul king before the LORD in Gilgal; and there they sacrificed sacrifices of peace offerings before the LORD; and there Saul and all the men of Israel rejoiced greatly.