2 Samuel 2:3

KJV

And his men that [were] with him did David bring up, every man with his household: and they dwelt in the cities of Hebron.

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}.

Complete Jewish Bible

David brought the men up with him, each with his household; and they lived in the cities of Hevron.

Berean Standard Bible

David also took the men who were with him, each with his household, and they settled in the towns near Hebron.

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.

Commentary

### 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](/2_samuel/1 "2 Samuel 1 - David's Lament Over Saul and Jonathan"). The narrative then transitions from mourning to proactive steps toward leadership. Crucially, [2 Samuel 2:1](/2_samuel/2-1 "2 Samuel 2:1 - David Inquires of the Lord") 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](/2_samuel/2-4 "2 Samuel 2:4 - David Anointed King Over Judah"), 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](/genesis/23 "Genesis 23 - Sarah's Burial and Abraham's Purchase of the Cave of Machpelah")). 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](/1_samuel/27-6 "1 Samuel 27:6 - David Given Ziklag by Achish")), 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](/2_samuel/2-3 "2 Samuel 2:3 - David's Relocation to Hebron") 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](/2_samuel/5-5 "2 Samuel 5:5 - David's Reign Over All Israel")). 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'_):** 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'_):** 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'_):** 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](/2_samuel/2-4 "2 Samuel 2:4 - David Anointed King Over Judah")), 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](/2_samuel/2-1 "2 Samuel 2:1 - David Inquires of the Lord") 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.

* [1 Samuel 16:12-13](/1_samuel/16-12-13 "1 Samuel 16:12-13 - David Anointed by Samuel")
* [2 Samuel 5:1-5](/2_samuel/5-1-5 "2 Samuel 5:1-5 - David Becomes King Over All Israel")
* [Psalm 78:70-72](/psalms/78-70-72 "Psalm 78:70-72 - God's Choice of David as Shepherd")

### 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](/2_samuel/2-1 "2 Samuel 2:1 - David Inquires of the Lord"). 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](/genesis/23 "Genesis 23 - Sarah's Burial and Abraham's Purchase of the Cave of Machpelah")). 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](/2_samuel/5-5 "2 Samuel 5:5 - David's Reign Over All Israel"). 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](/ephesians/2-19 "Ephesians 2:19-22 - Fellow Citizens with the Saints")). 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](/revelation/11-15 "Revelation 11:15 - The Kingdom of the World Has Become the Kingdom of Our Lord")). 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](/philippians/2-8 "Philippians 2:8-11 - Christ's Humiliation and Exaltation")).

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 30:1

¶ And it came to pass, when David and his men were come to Ziklag on the third day, that the Amalekites had invaded the south, and Ziklag, and smitten Ziklag, and burned it with fire;

1 Chronicles 12:1

¶ Now these [are] they that came to David to Ziklag, while he yet kept himself close because of Saul the son of Kish: and they [were] among the mighty men, helpers of the war.

1 Chronicles 12:7

And Joelah, and Zebadiah, the sons of Jeroham of Gedor.

1 Samuel 27:2

And David arose, and he passed over with the six hundred men that [were] with him unto Achish, the son of Maoch, king of Gath.

1 Samuel 27:3

And David dwelt with Achish at Gath, he and his men, every man with his household, [even] David with his two wives, Ahinoam the Jezreelitess, and Abigail the Carmelitess, Nabal's wife.

Joshua 21:11

And they gave them the city of Arba the father of Anak, which [city is] Hebron, in the hill [country] of Judah, with the suburbs thereof round about it.

Joshua 21:12

But the fields of the city, and the villages thereof, gave they to Caleb the son of Jephunneh for his possession.