2 Samuel 2:1

KJV

¶ And it came to pass after this, that David enquired of the LORD, saying, Shall I go up into any of the cities of Judah? And the LORD said unto him, Go up. And David said, Whither shall I go up? And he said, Unto Hebron.

KJV (with Strong's)

And it came to pass after this {H310}, that David {H1732} enquired {H7592} of the LORD {H3068}, saying {H559}, Shall I go up {H5927} into any {H259} of the cities {H5892} of Judah {H3063}? And the LORD {H3068} said {H559} unto him, Go up {H5927}. And David {H1732} said {H559}, Whither shall I go up {H5927}? And he said {H559}, Unto Hebron {H2275}.

Complete Jewish Bible

After this, David consulted ADONAI; he asked, "Should I go up into any of the cities of Y'hudah?"ADONAI said to him, "Go up." David asked, "Where should I go up?" He said, "To Hevron."

Berean Standard Bible

Some time later, David inquired of the LORD, “Should I go up to one of the towns of Judah?” “Go up,” the LORD answered. Then David asked, “Where should I go?” “To Hebron,” replied the LORD.

American Standard Version

And it came to pass after this, that David inquired of Jehovah, saying, Shall I go up into any of the cities of Judah? And Jehovah said unto him, Go up. And David said, Whither shall I go up? And he said, Unto Hebron.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
2 Samuel 2:1 marks the divinely orchestrated beginning of David's reign as king, initially over the tribe of Judah. Following the devastating deaths of King Saul and his sons, David, residing in Ziklag, demonstrates his profound dependence on God by formally inquiring of the LORD regarding his next steps. God's clear and direct answers not only affirm David's ascent to power but specifically direct him to Hebron, a significant city in Judah, thereby establishing the initial phase of his long-awaited kingship in accordance with divine will.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse immediately follows the tragic conclusion of 1 Samuel and the opening chapter of 2 Samuel, which detail the defeat of Israel by the Philistines at Mount Gilboa and the deaths of King Saul, his three sons (including Jonathan), and David's subsequent lament for them. The preceding narrative in 1 Samuel culminates in Saul's utter rejection by God and his desperate, futile attempts to seek guidance, ultimately leading to his demise. David, who has been anointed by Samuel (cf. [1 Samuel 16:13](/1_samuel/16-13 "1 Samuel 16:13 - David's Anointing")), has spent years as a fugitive, waiting patiently for God's timing. With the throne now vacant and the nation in disarray, 2 Samuel 2:1 pivots the narrative from Saul's downfall to David's divinely sanctioned ascent, setting the stage for the establishment of the Davidic dynasty.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The period immediately after Saul's death was one of immense political and national instability for Israel. The Philistines had gained significant control, and a power vacuum existed. In ancient Near Eastern monarchies, the death of a king often led to immediate struggles for succession. David, though already anointed by God, had to navigate this complex landscape. His inquiry of the LORD was not merely a personal spiritual act but a public and political statement, asserting his legitimacy as a leader guided by divine authority rather than by human ambition or military might. Hebron, chosen by God, was a strategically and historically significant city within Judah, David's own tribe. It was an ancient city, associated with Abraham (cf. [Genesis 23:2](/genesis/23-2 "Genesis 23:2 - Sarah's Death in Hebron")), and a central location for the tribe of Judah, making it a fitting initial capital for David's reign over his own people.
* **Key Themes:** The verse powerfully introduces several foundational themes that will characterize David's reign and the broader narrative of 2 Samuel. Firstly, **Seeking Divine Guidance** is paramount; David's immediate action is to "enquire of the LORD," demonstrating a profound commitment to God's will above personal ambition or political strategy. This stands in stark [contrast to Saul's later failures](/1_samuel/28-6 "1 Samuel 28:6 - Saul's Inability to Inquire of the Lord") to seek God's counsel. Secondly, **Obedience and Trust** are evident in David's readiness to follow God's specific instructions, even when the path might seem uncertain. His repeated inquiry ("Whither shall I go up?") underscores his desire for precise divine direction. Thirdly, **God's Sovereignty in Leadership** is highlighted as God actively directs David's steps, establishing His chosen king in a specific place (Hebron) and at a specific time. This underscores that David's kingship is not a human achievement but a divine appointment, fulfilling the promises made to him (cf. [1 Samuel 16:13](/1_samuel/16-13 "1 Samuel 16:13 - David's Anointing")). Finally, the verse marks a critical **Transition of Power**, moving from the failed Saulide dynasty to the divinely ordained Davidic line, which would ultimately lead to the Messiah.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Enquired (Hebrew, _sha'al'_):** This verb signifies a formal, deliberate act of seeking divine guidance, often through priestly means like the Urim and Thummim (via the ephod, which Abiathar, the priest, had with David, cf. [1 Samuel 23:9-12](/1_samuel/23-9 "1 Samuel 23:9-12 - David Inquires of the Lord")) or through a prophet. It implies a posture of humble dependence and submission to God's will, rather than impulsive decision-making or reliance on human wisdom alone. David's consistent practice of "inquiring of the LORD" is a hallmark of his righteous leadership, distinguishing him from Saul, who eventually lost the ability to hear from God (cf. [1 Samuel 28:6](/1_samuel/28-6 "1 Samuel 28:6 - Saul's Desperate Inquiry")).
* **LORD (Hebrew, _YHWH'_):** The use of the covenant name of God, Yahweh, emphasizes His personal, relational, and faithful character. David's inquiry is not directed to a generic deity but to the living God who has made specific promises to him and to Israel. This highlights the intimate, personal relationship David had with God and God's active involvement in the unfolding history of His people, particularly in the establishment of His chosen king and the fulfillment of His divine plan.
* **Hebron (Hebrew, _chevrôn'_):** Meaning "association" or "confederacy," Hebron was a significant city in the tribal territory of Judah, David's own tribe. It held deep historical and patriarchal significance, being the burial place of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob (cf. [Genesis 23:2](/genesis/23-2 "Genesis 23:2 - Sarah's Death in Hebron"); [Genesis 35:27](/genesis/35-27 "Genesis 35:27 - Jacob Returns to Isaac in Hebron")). It was also a Levitical city and a city of refuge. Its selection by God as David's first capital is highly symbolic, rooting his reign in the patriarchal promises and within his own tribal lineage, from which the Messiah would eventually come.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"¶ And it came to pass after this, that David enquired of the LORD, saying,"**: This introductory phrase explicitly links the current event to the preceding narrative of Saul's death and David's mourning. The immediate action of "inquiring of the LORD" establishes David's character as one who prioritizes divine counsel, setting the spiritual tone for his kingship from its very inception.
* **"Shall I go up into any of the cities of Judah?"**: David's initial question demonstrates both his strategic thinking (seeking to establish himself within his own tribe) and his submission to God's will even in the general direction. He does not presume to know the specific path but seeks divine affirmation for the broader move.
* **"And the LORD said unto him, Go up."**: God's direct and concise answer affirms David's general inclination to move into Judah. This immediate divine response validates David's approach and provides the necessary authorization for his next steps, demonstrating God's active involvement in his life.
* **"And David said, Whither shall I go up?"**: David's second question reveals his desire for specific and precise direction. He is not content with a general affirmation but seeks clarity on the exact destination, indicating his commitment to complete obedience and his trust that God will provide detailed guidance.
* **"And he said, Unto Hebron."**: God's specific instruction to go to Hebron provides the exact location for David's initial establishment as king. This divine choice is significant, as Hebron was a central city in Judah with deep historical and symbolic ties, underscoring the divine orchestration of David's ascent to the throne.

#### Literary Devices
The passage masterfully employs several literary devices to convey its profound theological message. **Dialogue** is central, presenting a direct exchange between David and the LORD, emphasizing the personal and active nature of God's guidance in David's life. This **Divine Oracle** serves as the primary mode of God's communication, highlighting His sovereignty and control over human affairs, especially in the establishment of leadership. There is a strong **Contrast** drawn implicitly between David's consistent and humble seeking of God's will and Saul's tragic failures to do so (cf. [1 Samuel 28:6](/1_samuel/28-6 "1 Samuel 28:6 - Saul's Inability to Inquire of the Lord")), thereby affirming David's legitimacy and God's favor upon him. The narrative also uses **Foreshadowing**, as the divine direction to Hebron, a city of Judah, subtly points towards the future establishment of the Davidic dynasty and the eventual unification of all Israel under David's rule, rooting his kingship in his tribal identity and the promises made to Judah. The brevity and directness of God's responses ("Go up," "Unto Hebron") lend an air of divine authority and certainty to the narrative.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
2 Samuel 2:1 serves as a foundational text for understanding the nature of godly leadership and divine providence. David's immediate and persistent inquiry of the LORD, even after years of waiting and with a clear claim to the throne, underscores that true leadership begins with absolute dependence on God. It teaches that God is not only willing but eager to provide specific direction to those who sincerely seek His will, especially in moments of significant transition or uncertainty. This passage affirms God's active involvement in human history, orchestrating the rise and fall of leaders according to His sovereign plan, and demonstrating His faithfulness to His promises, even through periods of chaos and waiting. David's example challenges believers to prioritize divine counsel above human wisdom or ambition in all major decisions, trusting that God's path is always the best path.

* [Proverbs 3:5-6](/proverbs/3-5 "Proverbs 3:5-6 - Trust in the Lord")
* [Psalm 32:8](/psalms/32-8 "Psalm 32:8 - The Lord's Guidance")
* [Jeremiah 10:23](/jeremiah/10-23 "Jeremiah 10:23 - Man's Way Not His Own")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
David's immediate recourse to the LORD in 2 Samuel 2:1 offers a timeless and powerful model for all believers, particularly in times of significant life transitions, uncertainty, or when facing major decisions. His example teaches us that our first and most critical step should always be to "enquire of the LORD," prioritizing divine guidance above personal logic, worldly advice, or even perceived opportunities. This isn't a casual thought but a deliberate, humble posture of dependence, acknowledging God's sovereignty and wisdom. Like David, we are called to seek not just general affirmation but specific direction, trusting that God is capable of providing clear answers, though His methods may vary (through His Word, prayer, wise counsel, or providential circumstances). Once God's will is discerned, the call is to respond with immediate faith and obedience, knowing that His path, even if it leads to an unfamiliar "Hebron," is the one that aligns with His perfect plan and ultimately brings about His purposes. This verse encourages us to cultivate a consistent habit of seeking God's face, not just in crisis, but as the foundation of our daily walk and decision-making.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life am I currently facing significant decisions or transitions?**
* **What is my immediate inclination when faced with uncertainty – to strategize on my own, or to "enquire of the LORD" first?**
* **How specifically can I cultivate a deeper habit of seeking God's guidance through prayer and His Word?**
* **Am I willing to follow God's specific direction, even if it leads me to a place or path I hadn't anticipated?**

### FAQ
**How did David "enquire of the LORD" in this context, and why did he ask twice?**

Answer: David most likely "enquired of the LORD" through the priestly ephod, which contained the Urim and Thummim, instruments used for discerning God's will (cf. [1 Samuel 23:9-12](/1_samuel/23-9 "1 Samuel 23:9-12 - David Inquires of the Lord"), where David asks Abiathar to bring the ephod). This was a formal, established method for seeking divine counsel in ancient Israel. David asked twice not out of doubt in God's initial "Go up," but out of a desire for specific, precise direction. His first question, "Shall I go up into any of the cities of Judah?", sought general permission and affirmation for a move into his tribal territory. Once that general permission was granted, he then sought the exact destination, "Whither shall I go up?", demonstrating his commitment to complete and accurate obedience to God's detailed plan. This two-part inquiry highlights David's prudence, his thoroughness in seeking divine will, and his absolute trust that God would provide explicit guidance for his next steps as a leader.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
2 Samuel 2:1, with David's humble inquiry and God's precise direction, powerfully foreshadows the ultimate King, Jesus Christ. Just as David, the anointed one, waited for God's perfect timing to assume his kingship, so too did Jesus, the true Anointed One (Messiah), perfectly align His life and ministry with the Father's will. David's immediate act of seeking God's guidance before taking the throne reflects Christ's own perfect obedience and dependence on the Father, as seen in His constant prayer life and His declaration, "[I do nothing on my own authority, but speak just as the Father taught me](/john/8-28 "John 8:28 - Jesus' Dependence on the Father")." The divine command for David to "Go up... Unto Hebron" points to God's sovereign orchestration of His kingdom, which finds its ultimate fulfillment in Christ's ascension and enthronement at the right hand of God, from where He reigns over His spiritual "Judah"—the church (cf. [Acts 2:33](/acts/2-33 "Acts 2:33 - Christ's Exaltation"); [Ephesians 1:20-23](/ephesians/1-20 "Ephesians 1:20-23 - Christ's Supremacy")). David's reign, initiated by divine instruction and rooted in the promised tribe, serves as a type of Christ's eternal, universal kingship, which began with His resurrection and will culminate in His glorious return, when "[every knee will bow and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord](/philippians/2-10 "Philippians 2:10-11 - Jesus' Lordship")" to the glory of God the Father.

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

1 Samuel 23:2

Therefore David enquired of the LORD, saying, Shall I go and smite these Philistines? And the LORD said unto David, Go, and smite the Philistines, and save Keilah.

1 Samuel 30:31

And to [them] which [were] in Hebron, and to all the places where David himself and his men were wont to haunt.

Genesis 32:2

And when Jacob saw them, he said, This [is] God's host: and he called the name of that place Mahanaim.

1 Samuel 23:4

Then David enquired of the LORD yet again. And the LORD answered him and said, Arise, go down to Keilah; for I will deliver the Philistines into thine hand.

1 Samuel 23:9

And David knew that Saul secretly practised mischief against him; and he said to Abiathar the priest, Bring hither the ephod.

1 Samuel 23:12

Then said David, Will the men of Keilah deliver me and my men into the hand of Saul? And the LORD said, They will deliver [thee] up.

Psalms 25:4

Shew me thy ways, O LORD; teach me thy paths.