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Commentary on 2 Samuel 2 verses 8–17
Here is, I. A rivalship between two kings - David, whom God made king, and Ishbosheth, whom Abner made king. One would have thought, when Saul was slain, and all his sons that had sense and spirit enough to take the field with him, David would come to the throne without any opposition, since all Israel knew, not only how he had signalized himself, but how manifestly God had designated him to it; but such a spirit of contradiction is there, in the devices of men, to the counsels of God, that such a weak and silly thing as Ishbosheth, who was not thought fit to go with his father to the battle, shall yet be thought fit to succeed him in the government, rather than David shall come peaceably to it. Herein David's kingdom was typical of the Messiah's, against which the heathens rage and the rulers take counsel, Psa 2:1, Psa 2:2. 1. Abner was the person who set up Ishbosheth in competition with David, perhaps in his zeal for the lineal succession (since they must have a king like the nations, in this they must be like them, that the crown must descend from father to son), or rather in his affection to his own family and relations (for he was Saul's uncle), and because he had no other way to secure to himself the post of honour he was in, as captain of the host. See how much mischief the pride and ambition of one man may be the occasion of. Ishbosheth would never have set up himself if Abner had not set him up, and made a tool of him to serve his own purposes. 2. Mahanaim, the place where he first made his claim, was on the other side Jordan, where it was thought David had the least interest, and being at a distance from his forces they might have time to strengthen themselves. But having set up his standard there, the unthinking people of all the tribes of Israel (that is, the generality of them) submitted to him (Sa2 2:9), and Judah only was entirely for David. This was a further trial of the faith of David in the promise of God, and of his patience, whether he could wait God's time for the performance of that promise. 3. Some difficulty there is about the time of the continuance of this competition. David reigned about seven years over Judah only (Sa2 2:11), and yet (Sa2 2:10) Ishbosheth reigned over Israel but two years: before those two years, or after, or both, it was in general for the house of Saul (Sa2 3:6), and not any particular person of that house, that Abner declared. Or these two years he reigned before the war broke out (Sa2 2:12), which continued long, even the remaining five years, Sa2 3:1.
II. An encounter between their two armies.
1.It does not appear that either side brought their whole force into the field, for the slaughter was but small, Sa2 2:30, Sa2 2:31. We may wonder, (1.) That the men of Judah did not appear and act more vigorously for David, to reduce all the nation into obedience to him; but, it is likely, David would not suffer them to act offensively, choosing rather to wait till the thing would do itself or rather till God would do it for him, without the effusion of Israelitish blood; for to him, as a type of Christ, that was very precious, Psa 72:14. Even those that were his adversaries he looked upon as his subjects, and would treat them accordingly. (2.) That the men of Israel could in a manner stand neuter, and sit down tamely under Ishbosheth, for so many years, especially considering what characters many of the tribes displayed at this time (as we find, Ch1 12:23, etc.): Wise men, mighty men, men of valour, expert in war, and not of double heart, and yet for seven years together, for aught that appears, most of them seemed indifferent in whose hand the public administration was. Divine Providence serves its own purposes by the stupidity of men at some times and the activity of the same persons at other times; they are unlike themselves, and yet the motions of Providence are uniform.
2.In this battle Abner was the aggressor. David sat still to see how the matter would fall, but the house of Saul, and Abner at the head of it, gave the challenge, and they went by the worst. Therefore go not forth hastily to strive, nor be forward to begin quarrels, lest thou know not what to do in the end thereof, Pro 25:8. A fool's lips and hands enter into contention.
3.The seat of the war was Gibeon. Abner chose it because it was in the lot of Benjamin, where Saul had the most friends; yet, since he offered battle, Joab, David's general, would not decline it, but there joined issue with him, and met him by the pool of Gibeon, Sa2 2:13. David's cause, being built upon God's promise, feared not the disadvantages of the ground. The pool between them gave both sides time to deliberate.
4.The engagement was at first proposed by Abner, and accepted by Joab, to be between twelve and twelve of a side. (1.) It should seem this trial of skill began in sport. Abner made the motion (Sa2 2:14): Let the young men arise and play before us, as gladiators. Perhaps Saul had used his men to these barbarous pastimes, like a tyrant indeed, and Abner had learnt of him to make a jest of wounds and death and divert himself with the scenes of blood and horror. He meant, "Let them fight before us," when he said, "Let them play before us." Fools thus make a mock at sin. but he is unworthy the name of a man that can be thus prodigal of human blood, that can thus throw about firebrands, arrows, and death, and say, Am not I in sport? Pro 26:18, Pro 26:19. Joab, having been bred up under David, had so much wisdom as not to make such a proposal, yet had not resolution enough to resist and gainsay it when another made it; for he stood upon a point of honour, and thought it a blemish to his reputation to refuse a challenge, and therefore said, Let them arise; not that he was fond of the sport, or expected that the duels would be decisive, but he would not be hectored by his antagonist. How many precious lives have thus been sacrificed to the caprices of proud men! Twelve of each side were accordingly called out as champions to enter the lists, a double jury of life and death, not of others', but their own; and the champions on Abner's side seem to have been most forward, for they took the field first (Sa2 2:15), having perhaps been bred up in a foolish ambition thus to serve the humour of their commander-in-chief. But, (2.) However it began, it ended in blood (Sa2 2:16): They thrust every man his sword into his fellow's side (spurred on by honour, not by enmity); so they fell down together, that is, all the twenty-four were slain, such an equal match were they for one another, and so resolute, that neither side would either beg or give quarter; they did as it were by agreement (says Josephus) dispatch one another with mutual wounds. Those that strike at other men's lives often throw away their own and death only conquers and rides in triumph. The wonderful obstinacy of both sides was remembered in the name given to the place: Heldath-hazzurim - the field of rocky men, men that were not only strong in body, but of firm and unshaken constancy, that stirred not at the sight of death. Yet the stout-hearted were spoiled, and slept their sleep, Psa 76:5. Poor honour for men to purchase at so vast an expense! Those that lose their lives for Christ shall find them.
5.The whole army at length engaged, and Abner's forces were routed, Sa2 2:17. The former was a drawn battle, in which all were killed on both sides, and therefore they must put it upon another trial, in which (as it often happens) those that gave the challenge went away with loss. David had God on his side; his side therefore was victorious.
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SUMMARY
Second Samuel 2:11 serves as a precise chronological marker, specifying the duration of David's initial, partial kingship following the death of King Saul. It records that David reigned as king over the tribe of Judah from Hebron for a period of seven years and six months. This verse highlights a crucial transitional phase in Israel's history, marked by civil division and God's deliberate, patient orchestration of events leading to the eventual unification of the kingdom under His chosen king.
CONTEXT
EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Key Word Analysis
Verse Breakdown
Literary Devices
The verse primarily functions as a Historical Record and Chronological Marker, providing a precise temporal detail within the larger narrative of David's ascension to the throne. Its conciseness and factual nature lend significant credibility and authority to the biblical account. By explicitly stating the exact duration of David's partial reign, the text employs Foreshadowing, subtly hinting that this is not the ultimate fulfillment of God's promise for David to rule over all Israel. The clear delineation "over the house of Judah" also serves as a form of Distinction, emphasizing the limited scope of David's initial authority compared to his future, broader dominion, thereby highlighting the gradual and divinely orchestrated unfolding of God's plan.
THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse, though a simple chronological statement, carries profound theological weight, illustrating God's sovereign control over the timing and establishment of His chosen leaders. David's patient waiting in Hebron, ruling only over Judah for seven and a half years while a rival king reigned in the north, demonstrates a deep and active trust in God's perfect plan rather than resorting to human ambition or force. This period of partial fulfillment underscores that divine promises often unfold incrementally, requiring faithfulness and perseverance through stages of growth and challenge before their complete realization. It teaches us that God's kingdom advances not always through sudden, overwhelming victories, but often through patient, deliberate processes, even amidst opposition and division, preparing both the leader and the people for the greater work ahead.
REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The precise detail of David's seven-and-a-half-year reign in Hebron offers a powerful and relatable lesson for believers navigating their own journeys of faith and purpose. We frequently yearn for immediate fulfillment of God's promises or our personal aspirations, but David's experience profoundly reminds us that God's timing is perfect, and His plans often unfold in stages. This period was not a delay in David's destiny but a crucial, divinely appointed time for him to solidify his leadership, build trust within Judah, and prepare for the immense responsibility of uniting all Israel. For us, this translates into embracing seasons of waiting, partial fulfillment, or limited influence as invaluable opportunities for spiritual growth, character formation, and faithful stewardship in our current spheres. It challenges us to cultivate patience, to trust implicitly in God's sovereign process, and to remain diligent and faithful in our present roles, knowing that He is meticulously orchestrating every detail toward His ultimate and perfect purposes.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Why did David reign only over Judah for so long?
Answer: David's initial reign was limited to Judah for several strategic and providential reasons. Following Saul's death, the northern tribes, influenced by Abner, Saul's army commander, quickly established Ish-bosheth, Saul's son, as their king in Mahanaim, as seen in 2 Samuel 2:8-9. This created a political schism and a civil war between the house of Saul and the house of David. David, having been anointed by Judah in Hebron, as recorded in 2 Samuel 2:4, patiently waited for God to unite the kingdom rather than forcing the issue through immediate conquest. This prolonged period allowed him to consolidate his power base in Judah, demonstrate his righteous leadership, and for the northern tribes to eventually recognize God's hand upon him after the collapse of Ish-bosheth's reign and the subsequent negotiations that led to his anointing over all Israel.
What is the significance of Hebron as David's first capital?
Answer: Hebron held profound historical, tribal, and strategic importance for David's initial capital. It was an ancient city deeply rooted in Judah's heritage, known as a burial place for the patriarchs and matriarchs, as mentioned in Genesis 23:19. For David, choosing Hebron as his capital solidified his connection to his own tribe and provided a secure, established base in the heart of Judah. Its location offered a degree of natural defense and was far enough from the northern strongholds of Saul's house to allow David to build his kingdom independently, yet close enough to eventually facilitate the unification of all Israel.
Does this verse suggest God's plans are always slow or require long periods of waiting?
Answer: While this verse highlights a significant period of waiting and incremental fulfillment in David's life, it does not universally imply that all of God's plans are slow. Rather, it demonstrates God's sovereign and perfect timing, which can vary greatly depending on His purposes. In David's case, the prolonged period allowed for the natural decay of Saul's dynasty, the consolidation of David's support, the testing and refining of David's character, and the preparation of the nation for a unified monarchy under God's chosen king. It underscores the importance of patience, faithfulness, and discerning God's will during periods of waiting, recognizing that God's wisdom often dictates a process that prepares both the individual and the circumstances for His ultimate and glorious purposes.
CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The period of David's reign in Hebron, limited to Judah for seven and a half years, profoundly foreshadows the Christ-centered fulfillment of God's redemptive plan. David, the divinely chosen king, patiently waiting for the full establishment of his kingdom amidst a divided nation, serves as a powerful type of Christ. Just as David was anointed but did not immediately assume universal rule, so too Christ, though eternally King and having accomplished salvation through His death and resurrection, currently reigns from heaven in a "Hebron season" of sorts. His kingdom has been inaugurated, and those who believe are already "delivered... into the kingdom of the Son of His love" as stated in Colossians 1:13. Yet, its full, universal manifestation awaits His glorious return. The "house of Judah" can be seen as a picture of the Church—those who have already recognized and submitted to Christ's kingship. However, a wider world remains outside His immediate, acknowledged reign, mirroring the "house of Saul" that resisted David. Ultimately, just as David was eventually acclaimed king over all Israel in Jerusalem, as recorded in 2 Samuel 5:5, so Christ will one day return to establish His undisputed, universal kingdom, where "every knee will bow and every tongue confess" His Lordship, as prophesied in Philippians 2:10-11, and He will reign forever and ever, as triumphantly declared in Revelation 11:15. This verse thus reminds us of God's patient, sovereign work in history, culminating in the complete and glorious reign of our Lord Jesus Christ.