2 Samuel 2:7

Translation
King James Version
Therefore now let your hands be strengthened, and be ye valiant: for your master Saul is dead, and also the house of Judah have anointed me king over them.
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KJV (with Strong's)
Therefore now let your hands H3027 be strengthened H2388, and be ye valiant H1121 H2428: for your master H113 Saul H7586 is dead H4191, and also the house H1004 of Judah H3063 have anointed H4886 me king H4428 over them.
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Complete Jewish Bible
Be strong, and be brave. Sha'ul your lord is dead, but the house of Y'hudah have anointed me king over them."
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Berean Standard Bible
Now then, be strong and courageous, for though Saul your lord is dead, the house of Judah has anointed me as their king.”
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American Standard Version
Now therefore let your hands be strong, and be ye valiant; for Saul your lord is dead, and also the house of Judah have anointed me king over them.
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World English Bible Messianic
Now therefore let your hands be strong, and be valiant; for Saul your lord is dead, and also the house of Judah have anointed me king over them.”
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Geneva Bible (1599)
Therefore nowe let your handes be strong, and be you valiant: albeit your master Saul bee dead, yet neuerthelesse the house of Iudah hath anoynted me King ouer them.
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Young's Literal Translation
and now, are your hands strong, and be ye for sons of valour, for your lord Saul. is dead, and also--me have the house of Judah anointed for king over them.'
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See also
1 Samuel 31:7Genesis 15:12 Samuel 10:121 Samuel 31:121 Samuel 4:9Ephesians 6:101 Corinthians 16:13
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 8,057 of 31,102

Study This Verse

SUMMARY

Second Samuel 2:7 captures David's shrewd and compassionate diplomatic address to the men of Jabesh-Gilead. In this pivotal message, David acknowledges their profound loyalty to the recently deceased King Saul, commends their courageous act of retrieving and burying his body, and subtly but clearly invites their allegiance to his newly established kingship over the house of Judah. This verse marks a critical transition in Israel's leadership, signifying the definitive end of Saul's reign and the strategic beginning of David's ascent to the throne, showcasing his wisdom in navigating a complex and fragmented political landscape.

CONTEXT

  • Literary Context: This verse is a direct continuation of David's response to the devastating news of Saul's death, which begins with his lament in 2 Samuel 1. Having already been privately anointed by Samuel years prior (1 Samuel 16:13), David has now been publicly anointed king by the tribe of Judah in Hebron (2 Samuel 2:4), marking the initial consolidation of his power. The verses immediately preceding 2 Samuel 2:7 (2 Samuel 2:5-6) detail David sending messengers to Jabesh-Gilead. He praises them for their brave and loyal act of retrieving and burying Saul's body after the catastrophic defeat on Mount Gilboa, an event vividly described in 1 Samuel 31. Verse 7 serves as the culminating point of David's message, transitioning from commendation to a strategic, yet gracious, call for their allegiance.
  • Historical & Cultural Context: The period immediately following the death of a king, especially one who died in battle without a clear, universally accepted successor, was inherently a time of immense political instability and often civil strife in ancient Near Eastern societies. Saul's demise left a significant power vacuum, which his son Ish-Bosheth would later attempt to fill (though this occurs after the events of this verse). Jabesh-Gilead shared a unique and profound historical bond with Saul, as he had famously delivered them from the brutal threat of Nahash the Ammonite early in his reign, an act that cemented his kingship (1 Samuel 11:1-11). Their subsequent act of retrieving Saul's body was not merely an act of physical bravery but a deeply significant cultural expression of loyalty, gratitude, and honor for the deceased king and his memory. David, demonstrating remarkable political acumen, understood these deep-seated loyalties. He approached them not with demands or threats, but with commendation and an implicit invitation, skillfully leveraging their existing valor and sense of duty towards a new, legitimate leadership.
  • Key Themes: 2 Samuel 2:7 prominently features the theme of transition of power, explicitly stating "your master Saul is dead," marking the end of the Saulide dynasty and the beginning of the Davidic. It powerfully illustrates wise and diplomatic leadership, as David opts for a strategy of commendation and invitation rather than forceful assertion, showcasing his political shrewdness in a fragmented kingdom. The verse also underscores the theme of loyalty, highlighting both the admirable fidelity of Jabesh-Gilead to Saul and David's subtle, yet clear, call for a transfer of that loyalty to himself. Furthermore, it subtly points to divine appointment, as David's anointing by Judah (2 Samuel 2:4) is presented as a legitimate basis for his claim, even if his authority is initially limited to one tribe, foreshadowing his eventual reign over all Israel.

EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

Key Word Analysis

  • Strengthened (Hebrew, châzaq', H2388): Derived from H2388, this verb means to fasten upon, to seize, to be strong, courageous, or to strengthen. In David's exhortation, it is a call to inner resolve and fortitude. He is not merely asking the men of Jabesh-Gilead to be physically robust, but to be resolute in their spirit and purpose, especially in the face of the profound uncertainty following Saul's death. It implies a moral and spiritual strengthening, enabling them to face the new political reality with courage and conviction.
  • Valiant (Hebrew, chayil', H2428): Derived from H2428, this noun refers to a force, whether of men, means, or other resources, encompassing concepts like an army, wealth, virtue, valor, or strength. When used in an exhortation like this, it speaks directly to courageous action, military prowess, and noble character. David is acknowledging their proven bravery in retrieving Saul's body and encouraging them to maintain that same spirit of valor, subtly directing it towards a new, legitimate allegiance.
  • Anointed (Hebrew, mâshach', H4886): Derived from H4886, this primitive root means to rub with oil, specifically to anoint, and by implication, to consecrate. The act of anointing in ancient Israel signified divine selection and authorization for a sacred office, particularly kingship. David's declaration that "the house of Judah have anointed me king" underscores the legitimacy of his claim, presenting it not as a self-appointed grab for power, but as a divinely sanctioned and tribally endorsed act, even if initially limited to one tribe.

Verse Breakdown

  • "Therefore now let your hands be strengthened,": This opening clause is an imperative, an earnest exhortation for the men of Jabesh-Gilead to find inner resolve and courage. It serves as a direct follow-up to David's commendation in the preceding verses, encouraging them to maintain the spirit that led them to their brave act. The "hands" here symbolize their capacity for action, their resolve, and their ability to grasp and undertake new tasks.
  • "and be ye valiant:": This continues and reinforces the exhortation, directly appealing to their established reputation for courage and valor. David is validating their past actions and implicitly calling for a continuation of that brave spirit, subtly inviting them to apply it to the unfolding political landscape under his nascent leadership.
  • "for your master Saul is dead,": This statement serves as the crucial justification for David's call to a new allegiance. It acknowledges the definitive end of the previous regime and the power vacuum it created. David demonstrates respect for their past loyalty by referring to Saul as "your master," but simultaneously highlights the undeniable fact that the object of that loyalty is no longer present, necessitating a shift.
  • "and also the house of Judah have anointed me king over them.": This final clause provides the legitimate alternative and the clear, yet gentle, claim to their allegiance. David presents his anointing by Judah not as a hostile takeover but as a divinely sanctioned and tribal endorsement. It is a subtle but clear invitation for Jabesh-Gilead to consider transferring their loyalty to the new, legitimate king, whose authority is now established, at least among his own tribe.

Literary Devices

David's message in 2 Samuel 2:7 is a masterful example of Diplomacy and Rhetoric. He employs a strategic blend of commendation, empathetic acknowledgment of their past loyalty ("your master Saul is dead"), and a clear, yet non-coercive, statement of his own legitimate claim to authority ("the house of Judah have anointed me king over them"). This approach avoids direct confrontation or demands, instead appealing to their existing virtues of courage and loyalty. The use of Imperative verbs ("let your hands be strengthened," "be ye valiant") serves as a direct, yet encouraging, call to action, empowering them rather than commanding them. The verse also functions as a powerful Transition Marker, explicitly stating the end of one era (Saul's reign) and the beginning of another (David's kingship), framing the political shift in terms that invite, rather than compel, allegiance.

THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS

This verse, while appearing to be a straightforward political maneuver, is profoundly embedded in the larger theological narrative of God's sovereign plan for Israel's kingship. David's careful and respectful approach to the men of Jabesh-Gilead demonstrates a leadership style that seamlessly blends human wisdom with an underlying trust in divine providence. It highlights the crucial transition from a king chosen by the people's demand (Saul) to a king chosen by God's heart (David), even as David navigates the practicalities of gaining widespread acceptance. The call to be "strengthened" and "valiant" in a new season resonates deeply with the biblical theme of divine empowerment for new tasks and challenges, particularly when the path ahead is uncertain or requires courage. David's legitimacy, rooted in his anointing by Judah, foreshadows his eventual anointing over all Israel, fulfilling God's long-standing promise.

REFLECTION AND APPLICATION

David's message in 2 Samuel 2:7 offers profound lessons for navigating life's inevitable transitions, demonstrating wisdom in leadership, and understanding the nature of loyalty. In our own lives, we frequently encounter "Saul is dead" moments—the end of an era, a job, a relationship, a familiar phase, or even a long-held expectation. Like David, we are called to acknowledge the past with respect and grace, even as we step into new, God-ordained seasons. David's diplomacy teaches us the vital importance of building bridges, honoring people's past allegiances, and inviting rather than coercing. For believers, this means recognizing that God often works through strategic, patient, and respectful means, even when He is establishing His sovereign will. We are called to be "strengthened" and "valiant" not just in defending what was, but in courageously embracing what God is doing now and in the future, trusting that His anointing brings true legitimacy and purpose. Our ultimate loyalty is to God's unfolding plan, expressed through the leadership He raises up and the new paths He illuminates.

Questions for Reflection

  • What "Saul is dead" moments are you currently navigating in your life, and how can you approach them with David's wisdom and grace?
  • How does David's diplomatic approach challenge or affirm your own understanding of effective leadership, especially during times of significant change?
  • In what areas of your life are you being called to "let your hands be strengthened and be valiant" for a new purpose or allegiance, trusting in God's leading?

FAQ

Why did David send this specific message to the men of Jabesh-Gilead?

Answer: David sent this message for several strategic and compassionate reasons. First, he genuinely wanted to commend them for their courageous and loyal act of retrieving and burying Saul's body. This was an act of great respect and piety in ancient culture, especially given Saul's past deliverance of their city from Nahash the Ammonite (1 Samuel 11:1-11). Second, by acknowledging their loyalty to Saul, David demonstrated respect for their past allegiances, which was crucial for gaining trust and stability in a politically fractured kingdom. Third, and most importantly, it was a subtle yet clear invitation for them to transfer their loyalty to him. David, having been anointed king over Judah (2 Samuel 2:4), was strategically building his base of support and recognized the valor and loyalty of Jabesh-Gilead as valuable assets for his nascent kingdom.

What was the significance of Jabesh-Gilead's loyalty to Saul?

Answer: The loyalty of Jabesh-Gilead to Saul stemmed from a pivotal moment early in Saul's reign. When Nahash the Ammonite besieged Jabesh-Gilead and threatened to gouge out the right eye of every man, Saul, empowered by the Spirit of God, rallied Israel and delivered them decisively (1 Samuel 11:1-11). This act cemented a deep bond of gratitude and allegiance. Their subsequent bravery in retrieving Saul's body after his defeat and death (1 Samuel 31:11-13) was a powerful testament to this enduring loyalty, even when it was dangerous and seemingly futile. This history made them a strategically important group for David to win over, as their loyalty was proven and deep-seated.

Why was David only king over Judah initially, and not all of Israel?

Answer: Although Samuel had anointed David as king over Israel years earlier (1 Samuel 16:13), Saul remained king until his death. After Saul's demise, the transition of power was not immediate or seamless across all twelve tribes. Saul's son, Ish-Bosheth, was subsequently made king over the remaining tribes of Israel by Abner, Saul's army commander (2 Samuel 2:8-10). David, therefore, was initially only recognized and anointed by his own tribe, Judah, in Hebron. This period of dual kingship, with David ruling Judah and Ish-Bosheth ruling the rest of Israel, lasted for seven and a half years before David was finally anointed king over all Israel (2 Samuel 5:1-5). This gradual process reflects the political complexities, tribal loyalties, and the need for divine timing in establishing God's chosen king over the entire nation.

CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT

David's strategic and compassionate approach in 2 Samuel 2:7, inviting allegiance rather than demanding it, richly prefigures the ultimate King, Jesus Christ. Just as David, the anointed of God, began his reign by acknowledging past loyalties while calling for a new, higher allegiance, so too does Christ establish His eternal kingdom. The death of "master Saul" can be seen as a profound shadow of the passing of the old covenant and the Law, which, while serving a divine purpose, ultimately could not bring life, perfect righteousness, or true kingship over the heart (Galatians 3:24-25). Christ, the true "Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world" (John 1:29), ushers in a new covenant, a new reign of grace and truth. His call to "be strengthened" and "be valiant" is not for military prowess or political maneuvering, but for spiritual fortitude, unwavering faith, and courageous endurance in Him (Ephesians 6:10). Our loyalty is now to the one who has been "anointed" not by human hands or tribal decree, but by God Himself, as the Christ, the Messiah, the King of kings and Lord of lords (Acts 2:36; Revelation 19:16). In Christ, we find the ultimate and eternal King to whom all true strength, valor, and allegiance are eternally due, for He alone brings everlasting peace, perfect governance, and a kingdom that will never end (Isaiah 9:6-7).

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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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