2 Samuel 20:2

KJV

So every man of Israel went up from after David, [and] followed Sheba the son of Bichri: but the men of Judah clave unto their king, from Jordan even to Jerusalem.

KJV (with Strong's)

So every man {H376} of Israel {H3478} went up {H5927} from after {H310} David {H1732}, and followed {H310} Sheba {H7652} the son {H1121} of Bichri {H1075}: but the men {H376} of Judah {H3063} clave {H1692} unto their king {H4428}, from Jordan {H3383} even to Jerusalem {H3389}.

Complete Jewish Bible

All the men of Isra'el left off following David and went after Sheva the son of Bikhri. But the men of Y'hudah stuck with their king, from the Yarden to Yerushalayim.

Berean Standard Bible

So all the men of Israel deserted David to follow Sheba son of Bichri. But the men of Judah stayed by their king all the way from the Jordan to Jerusalem.

American Standard Version

So all the men of Israel went up from following David, and followed Sheba the son of Bichri; but the men of Judah clave unto their king, from the Jordan even to Jerusalem.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Second Samuel 20:2 vividly captures the immediate re-emergence of deep-seated tribal divisions and renewed rebellion against King David, even as he was returning to Jerusalem after Absalom's defeat. It portrays the swift defection of the northern tribes of Israel, who abandoned David to follow Sheba, a Benjamite agitator, while simultaneously highlighting the unwavering loyalty of the men of Judah who "clave unto their king" throughout his journey back to the capital. This verse underscores the fragile unity of David's kingdom and the persistent challenges to his authority rooted in inter-tribal tensions.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse immediately follows the dramatic and emotionally charged resolution of Absalom's rebellion, detailed in 2 Samuel 15-19. King David is in the process of being reinstated and returning to Jerusalem, a journey marked by significant tension between the northern tribes of Israel and the tribe of Judah. The preceding verses, particularly [2 Samuel 19:41-43](/2_samuel/19-41 "2 Samuel 19:41-43 - Dispute Between Israel and Judah"), describe a heated dispute over who had the greater right and responsibility in bringing the king back, revealing deep-seated jealousies and a sense of marginalization among the northern tribes. Sheba, "the son of Bichri," a Benjamite, seizes upon this simmering discontent and tribal animosity, proclaiming a new call to abandon David. This swift ignition of a fresh revolt, even before David is fully re-established, highlights the persistent instability and lack of true national unity that plagued his reign, setting the stage for the final major internal challenge David would face.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The early Israelite monarchy, established under Saul and consolidated under David, was still a relatively new political entity struggling to overcome deeply ingrained tribal loyalties. Before the monarchy, Israel functioned as a loose confederation of tribes, and allegiance to one's tribe often superseded any nascent concept of national unity. Sheba's identity as a Benjamite is significant, as Benjamin was the tribe of the former king, Saul, and there may have been lingering resentment or a desire for a return to a Benjamite dynasty after David's rise. The phrase "from Jordan even to Jerusalem" geographically defines the extent of Judah's loyalty, encompassing their tribal territory and the route David took, underscoring the deep bond between David and his own tribe, a bond that often fueled the jealousy of other tribes. This period was characterized by a constant interplay between the ideal of a unified kingdom under God's anointed and the reality of fragmented tribal identities.
* **Key Themes:** A central theme is the **Renewed Rebellion and Disunity** that plagued David's reign. The swift emergence of Sheba's revolt after Absalom's defeat underscores the deep-seated political and tribal fragmentation within Israel. The phrase "every man of Israel went up from after David" indicates a widespread and immediate defection among the northern tribes, demonstrating their wavering loyalty and the volatile nature of the early monarchy. This highlights the ongoing struggle for true national unity under David's rule, a struggle that would ultimately lead to the kingdom's division after Solomon's reign, as prophesied in [1 Kings 11:29-39](/1_kings/11-29 "1 Kings 11:29-39 - Ahijah's Prophecy of Division"). Another key theme is **Tribal Loyalty vs. National Unity**. The stark contrast between the majority of Israel's defection and the unwavering allegiance of Judah is paramount. "But the men of Judah clave unto their king" highlights the strong, enduring bond between David and his own tribe, which would eventually lead to the formal [division of the kingdom](/1_kings/12 "1 Kings 12 - The Division of the Kingdom") into Israel and Judah in later history. This persistent tribalism was a constant challenge to David's vision of a unified nation. Finally, the verse speaks to **David's Enduring Challenges**. Despite being God's chosen king and having overcome Absalom, David's reign was continually beset by internal strife and challenges to his authority, illustrating the complex and often tumultuous path of leadership, even for a "man after God's own heart" as described in [Acts 13:22](/acts/13-22 "Acts 13:22 - David, a Man After God's Own Heart").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **"went up from after" (Hebrew, _ʿālāh mēʾaḥărê_):** This phrase literally means "ascended from behind" or "departed from following." In this context, it signifies a deliberate act of abandonment and cessation of allegiance. It's not merely a physical departure but a political and relational turning away from David, indicating a widespread and intentional withdrawal of support among the northern tribes.
* **"followed" (Hebrew, _hālak_):** While a common verb for "to go" or "to walk," its use here in conjunction with Sheba signifies a transfer of allegiance. The northern tribes actively chose to "walk after" or "go with" Sheba, indicating their submission to his leadership and their participation in his rebellious cause.
* **"clave unto" (Hebrew, _dabaq_):** This is a powerful and significant verb. It means to cling, stick, hold fast, or be joined to. It conveys a strong, unwavering attachment and deep loyalty, emphasizing the steadfastness of Judah in stark contrast to the easy departure of the other tribes. It is the same root word used in [Genesis 2:24](/genesis/2-24 "Genesis 2:24 - A Man Shall Cling to His Wife") to describe the inseparable bond in marriage, signifying a profound and committed relationship. Here, it denotes an unbreakable bond of fidelity between Judah and David.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"So every man of Israel went up from after David":** This clause highlights the widespread and immediate defection of the northern tribes, often referred to collectively as "Israel" in contrast to "Judah." It indicates that this was not a small faction but a general turning away from David's leadership, signifying a profound crisis of loyalty and a deep-seated desire for a different king or political arrangement.
* **"[and] followed Sheba the son of Bichri":** This identifies the new rebel leader, a Benjamite, who shrewdly exploited the existing tribal grievances and discontent. His emergence and the rapid gathering of support demonstrate how quickly a new challenge could arise for David, capitalizing on the fragile unity of the kingdom. Sheba's Benjamite origin may have resonated with those still loyal to the house of Saul.
* **"but the men of Judah clave unto their king":** This clause presents a stark and crucial contrast. It emphasizes the unwavering and deep-seated loyalty of the tribe of Judah to David. This bond was rooted in shared tribal identity, David's origin from Judah, and the recognition of his divine anointing. Their steadfastness highlights the unique relationship between David and his own tribe, which would ultimately be the foundation of his enduring dynasty.
* **"from Jordan even to Jerusalem":** This phrase specifies the geographical extent of Judah's loyalty. It indicates that throughout David's entire journey back from beyond the Jordan River to the capital city of Jerusalem, the men of Judah remained steadfastly by his side. This detail underscores the completeness and geographical scope of their commitment, further emphasizing the contrast with the widespread defection of "Israel."

#### Literary Devices
The most prominent literary device in 2 Samuel 20:2 is **Contrast**. The verse sharply juxtaposes the actions of "every man of Israel" (who "went up from after David" and "followed Sheba") with "the men of Judah" (who "clave unto their king"). This stark opposition immediately highlights the deep tribal schism that permeated David's kingdom and foreshadows the eventual division of the united monarchy. Furthermore, **Synecdoche** or **Metonymy** is employed, where "Israel" and "Judah" stand in for the larger tribal confederations and their respective political allegiances. The specific mention of "Sheba the son of Bichri" introduces a **Foil** character, whose sudden emergence and ability to draw away the northern tribes serves to underscore the ongoing instability and the precarious nature of David's authority, even after overcoming a major rebellion. The narrative's rapid shift from Absalom's defeat to Sheba's rebellion also creates a sense of **Juxtaposition**, emphasizing the relentless challenges David faced as king and the volatile political landscape of his reign.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse profoundly illustrates the persistent human tendency towards division, disloyalty, and the fracturing of unity, even in the face of divinely appointed leadership. It serves as a poignant reminder that even God's anointed leaders and the communities they govern are susceptible to internal strife, tribalism, and the allure of new, often rebellious, figures. The immediate re-ignition of rebellion after Absalom's defeat highlights the deep-seated brokenness of human relationships and the difficulty of achieving lasting unity outside of a truly transformed heart. The unwavering loyalty of Judah, however, stands as a testament to the power of commitment and faithfulness, even when the majority wavers. Theologically, this passage foreshadows the eventual division of the kingdom of Israel, a consequence of persistent disobedience and tribal animosity that would plague the nation for centuries. It underscores the biblical theme that true unity is a precious commodity, often elusive in a fallen world, and requires intentional cultivation and steadfast devotion.

* [1 Kings 12:16](/1_kings/12-16 "1 Kings 12:16 - The Division of the Kingdom")
* [Proverbs 17:17](/proverbs/17-17 "Proverbs 17:17 - A Friend Loves at All Times")
* [Romans 15:5-6](/romans/15-5 "Romans 15:5-6 - Unity and Glorifying God")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The narrative of 2 Samuel 20:2 resonates deeply with contemporary challenges of leadership, community, and personal integrity. It compels us to consider the sources of disunity in our own lives, families, churches, and societies. Just as tribal loyalties undermined national unity in ancient Israel, so too can factions, personal grievances, or unaddressed tensions fragment any group. This verse challenges us to examine our own loyalties: are we quick to abandon established leadership or relationships when difficulties arise, or do we "cleave" with steadfast commitment? The steadfastness of Judah, despite widespread defection, serves as a powerful example of faithfulness in adversity, reminding us of the value of commitment even when others waver or popular opinion shifts. It calls us to be agents of reconciliation and unity, working to bridge divides rather than exploit them, and to uphold our commitments even when it is costly.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How do we respond when leaders or institutions we support face challenges or disloyalty, and what does it mean to "cleave" to them in difficult times?**
* **What are the "tribal divisions" or sources of disunity (e.g., political, denominational, social) in our own communities or churches today, and how can we foster greater "cleaving" to shared values or Christ?**
* **In what areas of our lives are we called to demonstrate unwavering loyalty and commitment, even when it's unpopular or difficult, and what prevents us from doing so?**

### FAQ
**Who was Sheba, and why was he able to gather support so quickly?**

Answer: Sheba was a Benjamite, from the tribe of Saul, David's predecessor. He was able to gather support quickly because he shrewdly exploited the deep-seated tribal resentments and simmering discontent that already existed between the northern tribes of Israel and the tribe of Judah. Immediately prior to Sheba's rebellion, there had been a heated dispute between these two factions over who had the greater right and responsibility in bringing King David back to Jerusalem after Absalom's defeat ([2 Samuel 19:41-43](/2_samuel/19-41 "2 Samuel 19:41-43 - The Dispute Between Israel and Judah")). Sheba's rallying cry, "We have no portion in David, neither have we inheritance in the son of Jesse!" ([2 Samuel 20:1](/2_samuel/20-1 "2 Samuel 20:1 - Sheba's Call to Rebellion")), resonated with those who felt marginalized, overlooked, or who harbored lingering anti-Davidic sentiment, particularly from Saul's own tribe. His call provided a focal point for existing disunity and a perceived opportunity for the northern tribes to assert their independence from David's Judean-centric rule.

**What does "clave unto their king" signify in this context?**

Answer: The phrase "clave unto their king" signifies deep, unwavering, and committed loyalty. The Hebrew word `dabaq` (דָּבַק), translated as "clave," means to cling, stick, hold fast, or be joined to. It implies an inseparable bond and a profound commitment. This term is famously used in [Genesis 2:24](/genesis/2-24 "Genesis 2:24 - A Man Shall Cleave to His Wife") to describe the intimate and enduring bond between a husband and wife, emphasizing a profound unity. In the context of 2 Samuel 20:2, it highlights the steadfast allegiance of the tribe of Judah to King David, their kinsman and chosen leader. This loyalty stands in stark contrast to the easy defection of the other tribes, underscoring Judah's unique and enduring fidelity to David, even when the rest of Israel abandoned him. It speaks to a bond that transcended political expediency, rooted in shared identity and a deep personal connection.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The tumultuous narrative of 2 Samuel 20:2, with its themes of widespread defection and a loyal remnant, powerfully foreshadows the experience of Jesus Christ, the ultimate King. David, though God's anointed, faced constant rejection and disunity from his own people, a pattern that finds its ultimate fulfillment in Christ. Just as "every man of Israel went up from after David" to follow a rebel, so too did many of God's chosen people reject Jesus, their Messiah, turning away from Him to follow other voices and priorities, as lamented in [John 1:11](/john/1-11 "John 1:11 - He Came to His Own"). Yet, while many abandoned David, a faithful remnant, "the men of Judah," "clave unto their king." Similarly, despite the widespread rejection of Jesus, a core group of disciples and believers "clave" to Him, recognizing Him as the "Holy One of God" even when others departed ([John 6:66-69](/john/6-66 "John 6:66-69 - Peter's Confession")). Christ's kingdom, unlike David's, is not divided by tribal loyalties or human factions, but is a spiritual kingdom unified by the Holy Spirit ([Ephesians 4:3-6](/ephesians/4-3 "Ephesians 4:3-6 - Unity in the Spirit")). Through His atoning sacrifice, Jesus creates a new people, drawn from every tribe and nation, where the old divisions are abolished ([Galatians 3:28](/galatians/3-28 "Galatians 3:28 - No Jew or Gentile in Christ")). True "cleaving" in the New Covenant is to Christ alone, as believers are called to be "rooted and built up in him and established in the faith" ([Colossians 2:6-7](/colossians/2-6 "Colossians 2:6-7 - Rooted in Christ")). Ultimately, Jesus' reign will be one of perfect and eternal unity, where His kingdom "shall not be destroyed" ([Daniel 2:44](/daniel/2-44 "Daniel 2:44 - God's Eternal Kingdom")) and He will reign forever, ensuring an undivided and glorious kingdom that perfectly fulfills the fractured hopes of David's reign ([Revelation 11:15](/revelation/11-15 "Revelation 11:15 - The Kingdom of the World Becomes the Kingdom of Our Lord")).

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

Acts 11:23

Who, when he came, and had seen the grace of God, was glad, and exhorted them all, that with purpose of heart they would cleave unto the Lord.

John 6:66

From that [time] many of his disciples went back, and walked no more with him.

John 6:68

Then Simon Peter answered him, Lord, to whom shall we go? thou hast the words of eternal life.

Psalms 62:9

Surely men of low degree [are] vanity, [and] men of high degree [are] a lie: to be laid in the balance, they [are] altogether [lighter] than vanity.

Psalms 118:8

[It is] better to trust in the LORD than to put confidence in man.

Psalms 118:10

All nations compassed me about: but in the name of the LORD will I destroy them.

Proverbs 17:14

¶ The beginning of strife [is as] when one letteth out water: therefore leave off contention, before it be meddled with.