2 Samuel 3:36

KJV

And all the people took notice [of it], and it pleased them: as whatsoever the king did pleased all the people.

KJV (with Strong's)

And all the people {H5971} took notice {H5234} of it, and it pleased {H3190}{H5869} them: as whatsoever the king {H4428} did {H6213} pleased {H5869}{H2896} all the people {H5971}.

Complete Jewish Bible

All the people took note of this, and it pleased them; whatever the king did pleased all the people.

Berean Standard Bible

All the people took note and were pleased. In fact, everything the king did pleased them.

American Standard Version

And all the people took notice of it, and it pleased them; as whatsoever the king did pleased all the people.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
2 Samuel 3:36 encapsulates the profound public affirmation of King David's character and leadership following the treacherous assassination of Abner. David's visible and sincere mourning, coupled with his public disavowal of any complicity in the murder, resonated deeply with the people. This verse underscores that the populace not only observed David's actions but fully understood and approved of his righteous conduct, solidifying his legitimacy and demonstrating that his every deed found favor in their eyes, a crucial element in establishing his nascent kingdom.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse concludes a pivotal narrative sequence in 2 Samuel 3, detailing the assassination of Abner by Joab, David's commander. Abner, a key figure from Saul's former regime, had just defected to David, promising to unite all Israel under his rule. His murder by Joab, driven by personal vengeance for the death of his brother Asahel ([2 Samuel 2:23](/2_samuel/2-23 "2 Samuel 2:23 - Asahel's Death")), presented a severe challenge to David's burgeoning authority. David reacted with profound grief and public lamentation, tearing his clothes, fasting, and commanding a solemn burial for Abner ([2 Samuel 3:31-35](/2_samuel/3-31 "2 Samuel 3:31-35 - David's Mourning for Abner")). He also publicly cursed Joab and his house, disavowing any royal involvement in the treachery ([2 Samuel 3:28-29](/2_samuel/3-28 "2 Samuel 3:28-29 - David's Disavowal and Curse")). Verse 36 serves as the narrative's resolution to this crisis, highlighting the people's positive reception of David's integrity and justice, which was essential for his continued ascent to the throne of all Israel.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The period described in 2 Samuel is one of transition and civil strife following the death of King Saul. Israel was divided, with David ruling in Hebron over Judah ([2 Samuel 2:4](/2_samuel/2-4 "2 Samuel 2:4 - David Anointed King of Judah")) and Saul's son Ish-bosheth ruling over the northern tribes, supported by Abner ([2 Samuel 2:9-10](/2_samuel/2-9 "2 Samuel 2:9-10 - Ish-bosheth's Reign")). Blood feuds, like the one between Joab and Abner, were deeply ingrained cultural practices, often leading to cycles of violence. For a king to establish legitimate rule, he needed not only military strength but also the moral authority and public trust of the people. Any perceived complicity in treachery or injustice could undermine his claim to the throne. David's actions in mourning Abner and publicly condemning Joab were therefore culturally significant, demonstrating his adherence to justice and his non-involvement in the kind of political intrigue that could destabilize his nascent kingdom.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully reinforces several key themes prevalent throughout the book of Samuel. Firstly, it highlights the theme of **righteous leadership** and the importance of a king's integrity. David's actions demonstrate a commitment to justice and moral clarity, even when it means confronting powerful figures within his own administration, like Joab. Secondly, it underscores the theme of **divine legitimation** through popular approval. The consistent favor shown by "all the people" to David's actions suggests a divine blessing on his reign, indicating that God was truly with him and establishing his kingdom ([1 Samuel 18:12](/1_samuel/18-12 "1 Samuel 18:12 - The Lord Was With David")). Thirdly, the verse speaks to the critical role of **public perception and trust** in solidifying a leader's authority. In a fragmented nation, David's ability to consistently gain the people's approval, even in difficult circumstances, was instrumental in unifying the tribes and paving the way for his eventual kingship over all Israel ([2 Samuel 5:1-3](/2_samuel/5-1 "2 Samuel 5:1-3 - David Becomes King Over All Israel")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Took notice (Hebrew, _yada'_):** This verb, often translated as "to know" or "to perceive," implies more than mere observation. It suggests a deep understanding, comprehension, and even an intimate acquaintance with David's motives and character. The people didn't just see what David did; they understood *why* he did it and recognized the sincerity and righteousness of his actions. This "knowing" signifies a profound connection and alignment of their perception with David's true intentions.
* **Pleased (Hebrew, _yatav'_):** Derived from a root meaning "to be good," "to be agreeable," or "to be pleasing," this word emphasizes the positive and favorable response of the entire populace. It conveys a sense of satisfaction, approval, and contentment. The repetition of this word in the verse ("it pleased them: as whatsoever the king did pleased all the people") underscores the consistent and universal acceptance of David's conduct, indicating a deep resonance between the king's actions and the people's desires for justice and good governance.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And all the people took notice [of it],"**: This clause emphasizes the public nature and widespread observation of David's response to Abner's death. It highlights that David's actions were not private but performed before the eyes of the entire populace, allowing them to witness his genuine grief and disavowal of treachery. The implication is that the people were discerning and understood the gravity of the situation and David's appropriate response.
* **"and it pleased them:"**: This phrase immediately conveys the positive outcome of the people's observation. David's actions, particularly his public mourning and condemnation of Joab, were not only understood but were met with approval and satisfaction. This indicates that David's conduct aligned with their sense of justice and righteousness, solidifying their trust in him as a leader.
* **"as whatsoever the king did pleased all the people."**: This concluding clause broadens the scope from the specific incident of Abner's death to a general principle concerning David's reign. It functions as a summary statement, asserting that David consistently acted in a manner that garnered the widespread approval of his subjects. This hyperbole underscores the exceptional nature of David's popularity and legitimacy, suggesting a divine hand in his leadership and the people's unwavering confidence in his rule.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several effective literary devices to convey its message. **Repetition** of the concept of "pleasing" (Hebrew _yatav'_) in both clauses ("it pleased them" and "pleased all the people") serves to emphasize the consistent and universal approval David received. This repetition reinforces the idea that David's actions consistently resonated with the populace. **Hyperbole** is evident in the phrase "whatsoever the king did pleased all the people," suggesting an almost unqualified and perfect approval, which, while perhaps not literally true for every single action, powerfully communicates the overwhelming trust and favor David enjoyed. This also functions as **Narrative Commentary**, where the narrator steps in to offer an interpretive summary of David's character and the people's perception, underscoring his legitimacy and divine favor. The verse also implicitly uses **Contrast**, setting David's righteous and transparent actions against the backdrop of Joab's treacherous and self-serving murder, further highlighting David's moral superiority and suitability for kingship.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
2 Samuel 3:36 profoundly illustrates the biblical principle that genuine leadership, rooted in integrity and justice, earns the trust and affirmation of the people, often reflecting divine favor. David's meticulous handling of Abner's assassination, marked by sincere grief and public disavowal, demonstrated his commitment to righteousness over political expediency or personal gain. This episode underscores that God often works through the hearts of people to affirm and establish leaders whom He has chosen, particularly those who walk in His ways. The consistent "pleasing" of the people is not merely a testament to David's charisma but an indication of his alignment with divine justice, which resonated with the moral conscience of the nation. This popular approval was crucial for unifying a fractured Israel and establishing a stable kingdom under God's chosen king.

* [Proverbs 29:2](/proverbs/29-2 "Proverbs 29:2 - Righteous Rulers and Rejoicing People")
* [Romans 13:1](/romans/13-1 "Romans 13:1 - Submission to Governing Authorities")
* [1 Peter 2:13-14](/1_peter/2-13 "1 Peter 2:13-14 - Submission to Human Authority")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
2 Samuel 3:36 offers timeless insights into the nature of leadership, integrity, and public trust, principles that transcend ancient Israel and remain profoundly relevant today. David's response to a crisis, characterized by transparency, genuine grief, and a clear stand for justice, serves as a powerful model. In a world often marked by cynicism and distrust towards authority, this verse reminds us that true influence and lasting legitimacy are not built on power or manipulation, but on consistent character and a visible commitment to what is right. Whether in positions of formal leadership, within our families, or in our communities, our actions, especially in moments of crisis or moral ambiguity, are observed and evaluated. The "pleasing" of the people for David was a testament to his alignment with God's justice, and similarly, when we act with integrity, compassion, and a commitment to truth, we build trust and reflect God's character, fostering environments where righteousness can flourish.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does David's response to Abner's death challenge our understanding of what makes a leader "good" or "effective" in today's world?**
* **In what ways can individuals, even without formal leadership titles, demonstrate integrity and earn the trust of those around them, mirroring the principle seen in David?**
* **When faced with difficult or controversial situations, what steps can we take to ensure our actions are transparent, just, and aligned with biblical principles, even if they are unpopular with some?**
* **How might the "pleasing" of the people for David reflect a deeper spiritual truth about God's favor on those who walk in righteousness?**

### FAQ
**Why was it so important for David to publicly disavow Abner's murder?**

Answer: It was critically important for David to publicly disavow Abner's murder because his legitimacy as king was still consolidating. Abner was a powerful figure who had just defected to David's side, promising to unite all Israel under his rule. If David had been perceived as complicit in Abner's assassination, it would have been seen as an act of treacherous political assassination, undermining his moral authority and trustworthiness. This could have alienated the northern tribes, who were still loyal to Saul's house, and potentially sparked further civil war. By publicly mourning Abner, fasting, and cursing Joab ([2 Samuel 3:31-35](/2_samuel/3-31 "2 Samuel 3:31-35 - David's Mourning for Abner")), David demonstrated his integrity, his commitment to justice, and his non-involvement in such a heinous act, thereby solidifying his reputation and gaining the trust of "all the people."

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While David's actions in 2 Samuel 3:36 showcase a righteous earthly king whose integrity wins the hearts of his people, they ultimately foreshadow the perfect and ultimate King, Jesus Christ. David's ability to consistently please "all the people" with his just actions points to Christ, who perfectly embodied righteousness and whose every deed was pleasing to God and ultimately to those who believe. Unlike David, who, despite his best intentions, could not fully control the actions of those around him (like Joab), Jesus perfectly fulfilled all righteousness, always doing the will of His Father ([John 8:29](/john/8-29 "John 8:29 - Jesus Always Does the Will of the Father")). His life, death, and resurrection, though initially rejected by many, ultimately bring about a universal "pleasing" and acceptance among those who acknowledge Him as Lord ([Philippians 2:9-11](/philippians/2-9 "Philippians 2:9-11 - Jesus' Exaltation")). The people's "taking notice" of David's character finds its ultimate fulfillment in the world's witness to Christ's unparalleled love and sacrifice, which draws all people to Himself ([John 12:32](/john/12-32 "John 12:32 - Jesus Draws All People")). Jesus is the true Lamb of God, whose perfect life and atoning death truly "pleases" God and secures eternal favor for all who put their trust in Him, establishing a kingdom that will never end ([Hebrews 10:5-10](/hebrews/10-5 "Hebrews 10:5-10 - Christ's Perfect Sacrifice")).

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

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.

Mark 7:37

And were beyond measure astonished, saying, He hath done all things well: he maketh both the deaf to hear, and the dumb to speak.

2 Samuel 15:6

And on this manner did Absalom to all Israel that came to the king for judgment: so Absalom stole the hearts of the men of Israel.

Mark 15:11

But the chief priests moved the people, that he should rather release Barabbas unto them.

Mark 15:13

And they cried out again, Crucify him.

2 Samuel 15:13

¶ And there came a messenger to David, saying, The hearts of the men of Israel are after Absalom.