2 Samuel 2:3

Translation
King James Version
And his men that were with him did David bring up, every man with his household: and they dwelt in the cities of Hebron.
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KJV (with Strong's)
And his men H582 that were with him did David H1732 bring up H5927, every man H376 with his household H1004: and they dwelt H3427 in the cities H5892 of Hebron H2275.
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Complete Jewish Bible
David brought the men up with him, each with his household; and they lived in the cities of Hevron.
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Berean Standard Bible
David also took the men who were with him, each with his household, and they settled in the towns near Hebron.
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American Standard Version
And his men that were with him did David bring up, every man with his household: and they dwelt in the cities of Hebron.
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World English Bible Messianic
David brought up his men who were with him, every man with his household. They lived in the cities of Hebron.
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Geneva Bible (1599)
And Dauid brought vp the men that were with him, euery man with his houshold, and they dwelt in the cities of Hebron.
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Young's Literal Translation
and his men who are with him hath David brought up--a man and his household--and they dwell in the cities of Hebron.
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See also
1 Samuel 30:11 Chronicles 12:11 Chronicles 12:71 Samuel 27:21 Samuel 27:3Joshua 21:11Joshua 21:12
See on the biblical-era map
City Plan: Jerusalem in the Time of David
City Plan: Jerusalem in the Time of David View full PDF
David Assumes the Throne of Judah
David Assumes the Throne of Judah View full PDF
Wars Between the Houses of David and Saul
Wars Between the Houses of David and Saul View full PDF

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In the KJVVerse 8,053 of 31,102

Study This Verse

SUMMARY

This verse encapsulates a pivotal moment in David's journey toward kingship, detailing his divinely orchestrated relocation from Ziklag to Hebron. Following the deaths of King Saul and Jonathan, David, having diligently sought the Lord's direction, demonstrates exemplary leadership by bringing not only his loyal warriors but their entire households to settle in the ancient city of Hebron. This strategic and deeply significant move establishes his initial base of power within his own tribe of Judah, laying the essential groundwork for his anointing as king and the eventual consolidation of his reign over all Israel.

CONTEXT

  • Literary Context: This verse immediately follows David's profound lament over the tragic deaths of King Saul and his son Jonathan in 2 Samuel 1. The narrative then transitions from mourning to proactive steps toward leadership. Crucially, 2 Samuel 2:1 records David's direct and humble inquiry of the Lord, asking where he should go. The Lord's unequivocal instruction to go "to Hebron" underscores the divine orchestration of David's movements and his obedience. Verse 3, therefore, is the direct fulfillment of this divine command, showcasing David's immediate compliance and the practical implementation of God's will. The subsequent verse, 2 Samuel 2:4, details his anointing as king over the house of Judah in Hebron, making verse 3 the indispensable prelude to his initial enthronement.

  • Historical & Cultural Context: Hebron was an exceptionally ancient and significant city, deeply embedded in Israelite history, particularly as a revered burial place for patriarchs like Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, whose remains lay in the Cave of Machpelah (Genesis 23). Located strategically in the hill country of Judah, it was a natural and logical choice for David, a Judahite, to establish his base, leveraging inherent tribal loyalty. For an extended period, David had been living as a Philistine vassal in Ziklag (1 Samuel 27:6), a precarious and compromising position that distanced him from the heart of Israel. His move to Hebron thus symbolized a decisive return to legitimate Israelite territory and a rightful claim to leadership within his own people. The act of bringing "every man with his household" was profoundly culturally significant, indicating a permanent settlement and a leader's commitment to the holistic well-being and long-term stability of his followers, far beyond mere military service.

  • Key Themes: 2 Samuel 2:3 contributes significantly to several overarching themes within the book of Samuel. Firstly, it powerfully highlights Divine Guidance and Sovereignty, as David's entire move is a direct, obedient response to God's explicit instruction, demonstrating that his ascent to power is an integral part of God's overarching plan, rather than a mere political maneuver. Secondly, it showcases Prudent and Compassionate Leadership. David's meticulous decision to bring entire households underscores his deep care for his people's welfare, sharply distinguishing him from Saul's often impulsive, self-serving, and ultimately destructive rule. Thirdly, this verse is absolutely crucial for the theme of the Establishment of the Davidic Kingdom. Hebron serves as the initial capital, a foundational and essential step in the process of unifying Israel under David's leadership, which would later culminate in his reign over all Israel from Jerusalem (2 Samuel 5:5). This verse also subtly but powerfully reinforces the theme of the Transition of Power, from the failed and rejected monarchy of Saul to the divinely chosen and enduring dynasty of David.

EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

Key Word Analysis

  • bring up (Hebrew, ʻâlâh', H5927): This primitive root literally means "to ascend" or "to go up." Its application here is multi-layered and rich with meaning. Physically, Hebron is situated in the hill country of Judah, so David and his company would literally "go up" to it. Figuratively, however, this verb signifies a profound ascent in David's status and destiny, marking his transition from a refugee-like existence in Ziklag to establishing a legitimate and divinely sanctioned base for his kingship. It implies a progression, an elevation, and a divinely orchestrated advancement, signaling a new, higher phase in David's life and the history of Israel.
  • household (Hebrew, bayith', H1004): While commonly translated as "house," in this specific context, bayith refers expansively to the entire family unit, encompassing wives, children, and all dependents. The emphatic inclusion of "every man with his household" is crucial, signifying David's deep commitment to the long-term stability, security, and welfare of his followers, extending far beyond their military service. This detail suggests a comprehensive and permanent relocation, the establishment of a new, thriving community, rather than merely a temporary military encampment. It paints a vivid picture of David as a responsible, caring, and far-sighted leader, deeply invested in the holistic well-being of those under his charge.
  • dwelt (Hebrew, yâshab', H3427): This primitive root means "to sit down," and by strong implication, "to dwell" or "to remain." Its use here signifies a permanent and settled habitation, not a temporary encampment or a fleeting visit. The act of "dwelling" in the cities of Hebron indicates the establishment of a stable presence and a new home for David and his people. This verb underscores the foundational nature of this move, portraying it as the secure planting of roots for David's nascent kingdom, contrasting with his previous nomadic or exiled existence.

Verse Breakdown

  • "And his men that [were] with him did David bring up": This opening clause immediately establishes David's proactive leadership and decisive action. It highlights his loyal and seasoned followers—the warriors and companions who had faithfully endured years of exile and hardship with him. The phrase "did David bring up" signifies a deliberate, organized, and authoritative movement under David's direct command, clearly demonstrating his established authority and the willing obedience of his retinue.
  • "every man with his household": This crucial phrase emphasizes the comprehensive and inclusive nature of the relocation. It explicitly states that the move involved not just the fighting men, but their wives, children, and all dependents. This detail profoundly underscores David's deep concern for the long-term stability and holistic well-being of his entire community, indicating a move intended for permanent settlement and the secure establishment of a new base for his nascent kingdom. It portrays David as a leader who genuinely cares for the whole person and their family, foundational for building trust and loyalty.
  • "and they dwelt in the cities of Hebron": This final clause states the successful outcome and enduring result of the move – their permanent settlement in Hebron. The use of "cities" (plural) might refer to Hebron itself and its surrounding villages or associated territories, indicating a broader establishment of David's presence, influence, and control in the region. Hebron, a historically and tribally significant city within Judah, thus becomes David's first capital, a strategically vital location for consolidating support from his own tribe and a crucial, divinely ordained step towards eventually unifying all Israel under his righteous rule.

Literary Devices

The verse employs several impactful literary devices. Emphasis is powerfully evident in the phrase "every man with his household," which highlights David's comprehensive and compassionate care for his people, extending beyond military personnel to their entire families. This detail paints a vivid picture of David as a responsible, nurturing, and far-sighted leader, distinguishing him from the typical warrior-king. There is also clear Foreshadowing as this strategic move to Hebron, a city deeply rooted within the tribal territory of Judah, unequivocally sets the stage for David's immediate anointing as king over Judah in the very next verse (2 Samuel 2:4), and ultimately, his destined reign over all Israel. Hebron itself functions as a potent Symbol of legitimacy, divine appointment, and the foundational establishment of the Davidic dynasty, being an ancient, significant city chosen by God as David's initial capital. Furthermore, the ascent implied by the verb "bring up" (Hebrew: alah) carries a profound Symbolic weight, suggesting David's rise to power, his elevated status, and the unfolding fulfillment of God's covenant promises to him.

THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS

The relocation of David and his entire people to Hebron, explicitly guided by God, powerfully illustrates the profound theme of divine sovereignty in the establishment of leadership. David's humble and immediate obedience to God's instruction in 2 Samuel 2:1 is foundational, demonstrating that true, godly leadership in God's plan flows directly from humble submission to His perfect will. This move is far more than a mere political or military maneuver; it is a divinely ordained and crucial step in the unfolding of God's covenant promises to David, setting the stage for the establishment of the enduring Davidic dynasty. It underscores the biblical truth that God meticulously prepares, positions, and elevates His chosen leaders, often through periods of trial, exile, and patient waiting, before elevating them to their appointed and significant roles. David's meticulous care for the "household" also profoundly reflects a godly principle of leadership that extends beyond mere tasks or military objectives to encompass the holistic well-being and flourishing of all those entrusted to one's charge, mirroring God's own comprehensive and compassionate care for His beloved people.

REFLECTION AND APPLICATION

The narrative of David's divinely guided move to Hebron offers profound and enduring lessons for contemporary believers concerning the essence of godly leadership, the imperative of trust in divine providence, and the vital importance of community. David's initial and exemplary action of consulting the Lord before making such a significant and life-altering move is a powerful and timeless reminder that seeking divine guidance should precede all major decisions in our lives, whether they are personal, professional, or spiritual in nature. His subsequent and immediate obedience, even when the full scope of the path was not yet entirely clear, powerfully demonstrates the indispensable importance of trusting implicitly in God's sovereign direction and timing. Furthermore, David's profound commitment to bringing "every man with his household" speaks volumes about responsible, compassionate leadership and the inherent value of fostering a strong, supportive community. It challenges us to deeply consider how we care for those under our influence—our families, our colleagues, our fellow church members, or those in our wider sphere of influence—ensuring their holistic well-being, security, and stability. This verse profoundly encourages us to aspire to be leaders who are not only strategically astute but also deeply compassionate, diligently working to build secure, flourishing, and inclusive environments for those we serve, patiently waiting for God's perfect timing to fulfill His magnificent purposes in our lives.

Questions for Reflection

  • In what specific areas of your life do you need to more intentionally seek God's guidance before making significant, life-altering moves?
  • How does David's profound care for "every man with his household" challenge and expand your understanding of leadership and community responsibility in your own contexts?
  • What "Hebron"—a new calling, a new season, or a new place of influence—might God be calling you to move towards, and what "households" are you responsible for bringing along with care and commitment?
  • How can you cultivate greater patience and unwavering trust in God's perfect timing, even when your path to the fulfillment of His promises seems long, uncertain, or fraught with challenges?

FAQ

Why was Hebron chosen as David's first capital?

Answer: Hebron was chosen for several compelling strategic and spiritual reasons, explicitly directed by God Himself in 2 Samuel 2:1. Strategically, it was a major, well-established city located deep within the territory of Judah, David's own tribe, thereby providing a natural, strong base of support and immediate legitimacy for his nascent reign. Culturally and spiritually, it was an exceptionally ancient city with profound patriarchal roots, including the revered Cave of Machpelah where Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob were buried (Genesis 23). This deep historical and religious significance lent immense authority and legitimacy to David's new reign. Geographically, its location in the hill country offered a naturally defensible position. Most importantly, it was God's direct and clear command, signifying divine approval and meticulous orchestration of David's ascent to the throne.

What was the profound significance of David bringing "every man with his household" to Hebron?

Answer: This specific detail highlights David's exemplary prudent and deeply compassionate leadership. It signifies that David was not merely establishing a temporary military outpost or a fleeting base of operations, but rather a stable, permanent, and thriving community. By bringing the families of his loyal men, David demonstrated his unwavering commitment to their long-term welfare, security, and stability, thereby fostering profound trust, unwavering loyalty, and a sense of shared destiny among his followers. In ancient Near Eastern culture, a leader's ability to comprehensively provide for and protect the families of his followers was a paramount mark of strength, legitimacy, and genuine care. This act also significantly contributed to the rapid consolidation of his power base in Hebron, as it ensured the full relocation, integration, and commitment of his core supporters into the new capital, laying the essential groundwork for a stable and enduring kingdom.

How long did David reign in Hebron before becoming king over all Israel?

Answer: David reigned in Hebron as king over the house of Judah for a period of seven years and six months, as explicitly stated in 2 Samuel 5:5. This significant period was a crucial time of consolidation of power and influence within the tribe of Judah, and a gradual, often challenging, process of unifying the other tribes of Israel, many of whom were initially loyal to Saul's surviving son, Ish-bosheth. His eventual strategic move to Jerusalem marked the full and complete establishment of his reign over all twelve tribes, culminating in the unified monarchy.

CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT

The narrative of David's divinely guided relocation to Hebron, establishing his initial base of operations and meticulously gathering his people, powerfully foreshadows the greater King, Jesus Christ. Just as David was specifically chosen by God and moved to a particular location (Hebron) to begin his earthly reign, so too was Jesus, the Son of David, divinely appointed and sent to earth to establish His eternal, spiritual kingdom. David's careful gathering of "every man with his household" to Hebron, ensuring their security, stability, and well-being, profoundly reflects Christ's ultimate and boundless care for His spiritual household, the Church. He gathers His elect people from every tribe, tongue, and nation, not to a physical city like ancient Hebron, but into His spiritual, eternal kingdom, where they find ultimate security, belonging, and everlasting life (Ephesians 2:19-22). David's reign in Hebron was a foundational step towards his full kingship over all Israel from Jerusalem, just as Christ's earthly ministry, sacrificial death, and glorious resurrection were the indispensable foundational steps towards His cosmic reign over all creation, a reign that will culminate in breathtaking glory when He returns to establish His kingdom in its visible and ultimate fullness (Revelation 11:15). The perfect obedience of David to God's command to go to Hebron mirrors Christ's perfect and unwavering obedience to the Father's will, an obedience that led Him to the cross and ultimately to His glorious enthronement as Lord of all (Philippians 2:8-11).

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Commentary on 2 Samuel 2 verses 1–7

When Saul and Jonathan were dead, though David knew himself anointed to be king, and now saw his way very clear, yet he did not immediately send messengers through all the coasts of Israel to summon all people to come in and swear allegiance to him, upon pain of death, but proceeded leisurely; for he that believeth doth not make haste, but waits God's time for the accomplishment of God's promises. Many had come in to his assistance from several tribes while he continued at Ziklag, as we find (1 Chr. 12:1-22), and with such a force he might have come in by conquest. But he that will rule with meekness will not rise with violence. Observe here,

I. The direction he sought and had from God in this critical juncture, Sa2 2:1. He doubted not of success, yet he used proper means, both divine and human. Assurance of hope in God's promise will be so far from slackening that it will quicken pious endeavours. If I be elected to the crown of life, it does not follow, Then I will do nothing; but, Then I will do all that he directs me, and follow the guidance of him who chose me. This good use David made of his election, and so will all whom God has chosen. 1. David, according to the precept, acknowledged God in his way. He enquired of the Lord by the breast-plate of judgment, which Abiathar brought to him. We must apply to God not only when we are in distress, but even when the world smiles upon us and second causes work in favour of us. His enquiry was, Shall I go up to any of the cities of Judah? Shall I stir hence? Though Ziklag be in ruins, he will not quit it without direction from God. "If I stir hence, Shall I go to one of the cities of Judah?" not limiting God to them (if God should so direct him, he would go to any of the cities of Israel), but thus expressing his prudence (in the cities of Judah he would find most friends), and his modesty - he would look no further at present than his own tribe. In all our motions and removals it is comfortable to see God going before us; and we may, if by faith and prayer we set him before us. 2. God, according to the promise, directed his path, bade him go up, told him whither, unto Hebron, a priest's city, one of the cities of refuge, so it was to David, and an intimation that God himself would be to him a little sanctuary. The sepulchres of the patriarchs, adjoining to Hebron, would remind him of the ancient promise, on which God had caused him to hope. God sent him not to Bethlehem, his own city, because that was little among the thousands of Judah (Mic 5:2), but to Hebron, a more considerable place, and which perhaps was then as the county-town of that tribe.

II. The care he took of his family and friends in his removal to Hebron. 1. He took his wives with him (Sa2 2:2), that, as they had been companions with him in tribulation, they might be so in the kingdom. It does not appear that as yet he had any children; his first was born in Hebron, Sa2 3:2. 2. He took his friends and followers with him, Sa2 2:3. They had accompanied him in his wanderings, and therefore, when he gained a settlement, they settled with him. Thus, if we suffer with Christ, we shall reign with him, Ti2 2:12. Nay, Christ does more for his good soldiers than David could do for his; David found lodging for them - They dwelt in the cities of Hebron, and adjacent towns; but to those who continue with Christ in his temptations he appoints a kingdom, and will feast them at his own table, Luk 22:29, Luk 22:30.

III. The honour done him by the men of Judah: They anointed him king over the house of Judah, Sa2 2:4. The tribe of Judah had often stood by itself more than any other of the tribes. In Saul's time it was numbered by itself as a distinct body (Sa1 15:4) and those of this tribe had been accustomed to act separately. They did so now; yet they did it for themselves only; they did not pretend to anoint him king over all Israel (as Jdg 9:22), but only over the house of Judah. The rest of the tribes might do as they pleased, but, as for them and their house, they would be ruled by him whom God had chosen. See how David rose gradually; he was first anointed king in reversion, then in possession of one tribe only, and at last of all the tribes. Thus the kingdom of the Messiah, the Son of David, is set up by degrees; he is Lord of all by divine designation, but we see not yet all things put under him, Heb 2:8. David's reigning at first over the house of Judah only was a tacit intimation of Providence that his kingdom would in a short time be reduced to that again, as it was when the ten tribes revolted from his grandson; and it would be an encouragement to the godly kings of Judah that David himself at first reigned over Judah only.

IV. The respectful message he sent to the men of Jabesh-Gilead, to return them thanks for their kindness to Saul. Still he studies to honour the memory of his predecessor, and thereby to show that he was far from aiming at the crown from any principle of ambition or enmity to Saul, but purely because he was called of God to it. It was told him that the men of Jabesh-Gilead buried Saul, perhaps by some that thought he would be displeased at them as over-officious. But he was far from that. 1. He commends them for it, Sa2 2:5. According as our obligations were to love and honour any while they lived, we ought to show respect to their remains (that is, their bodies, names, and families) when they are dead. "Saul was your lord," says David, "and therefore you did well to show him this kindness and do him this honour." 2. He prays to God to bless them for it, and to recompense it to them: Blessed are you, and blessed may you be of the Lord, who will deal kindly with those in a particular manner that dealt kindly with the dead, as it is in Rut 1:8. Due respect and affection shown to the bodies, names, and families of those that are dead, in conscience towards God, is a piece of charity which shall in no wise lose its reward: The Lord show kindness and truth to you (Sa2 2:6), that is, kindness according to the promise. What kindness God shows is in truth, what one may trust to. 3. He promises to make them amends for it: I also will requite you. He does not turn them over to God for a recompence that he may excuse himself from rewarding them. Good wishes are good things, and instances of gratitude, but they are too cheap to be rested in where there is an ability to do more. 4. He prudently takes this opportunity to gain them to his interest, Sa2 2:7. They had paid their last respects to Saul, and he would have them to be the last: "The house of Judah have anointed me king, and it will be your wisdom to concur with them and in that to be valiant." We must not so dote on the dead, how much soever we have valued them, as to neglect or despise the blessings we have in those that survive, whom God has raised up to us in their stead.

Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers verses 1–7. Public domain.
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Source: Quotations drawn from early Church Fathers and historical Christian theologians (AD 100–1500). Some quotes address the surrounding passage context rather than this verse alone.
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