2 Samuel 5:15

Ibhar also, and Elishua, and Nepheg, and Japhia,

Ibhar {H2984} also, and Elishua {H474}, and Nepheg {H5298}, and Japhia {H3309},

Yivchar, Elishua, Nefeg, Yafia,

Ibhar, Elishua, Nepheg, Japhia,

and Ibhar, and Elishua, and Nepheg, and Japhia,

Commentary

2 Samuel 5:15 lists four of King David's sons born to him in Jerusalem: Ibhar, Elishua, Nepheg, and Japhia. This verse is part of a larger genealogical record, highlighting the growth of David's family as he established his kingdom.

Context

This verse is found within a pivotal chapter in 2 Samuel, marking the full establishment of David's reign over all Israel. After being anointed king over Judah in Hebron, David is now recognized by all twelve tribes and moves to capture Jerusalem, making it his capital (see 2 Samuel 5:6-9). Following this significant political and spiritual move, the text details David's growing family. Verses 13-16 enumerate the sons born to David in Jerusalem, reflecting God's blessing on his reign. Parallel accounts of this list can be found in 1 Chronicles 3:5-8 and 1 Chronicles 14:4-7, which offer slight variations in names and order.

Key Themes

  • Davidic Dynasty and Lineage: The meticulous recording of David's sons underscores the importance of his lineage. This family line was crucial for the continuation of the monarchy and, more significantly, for the eventual fulfillment of the promise of an enduring Davidic dynasty, from which the Messiah would come.
  • Divine Blessing and Fruitfulness: In ancient Israelite culture, a large family was often seen as a sign of God's favor and blessing. David's many sons in Jerusalem symbolize the prosperity and stability that God granted to his newly established kingdom.
  • Historical Record and Accuracy: The inclusion of these detailed genealogies highlights the Bible's commitment to historical accuracy and its careful preservation of records, emphasizing the real, tangible nature of God's work through human history.

Linguistic Insights

The names listed in this verse, like all Hebrew names, carry meaning. For example, "Elishua" means "God is salvation" or "God of opulence." Interestingly, the name "Elishua" appears as "Elishama" in the parallel accounts in 1 Chronicles 3:6 and 1 Chronicles 14:5. Such variations are common in ancient texts and often reflect different scribal traditions, dialectal differences, or simply alternative spellings of the same name. These names identify specific individuals who were part of David's significant family, contributing to the rich tapestry of Israel's history.

Significance and Application

While a list of names might seem less profound than a narrative passage, 2 Samuel 5:15 holds quiet significance. It reminds us that God's grand plan unfolds through specific individuals and families, even those whose direct actions are not recorded in detail. Every person, every lineage, plays a role in the divine narrative. For believers today, this verse reinforces the importance of heritage and the continuity of God's promises through generations. It also speaks to God's meticulous nature, overseeing even the most seemingly minor details of history to bring about His perfect will, particularly in establishing the lineage through which Jesus Christ, the ultimate Son of David, would eventually come (Matthew 1:1).

Note: If the commentary doesn’t appear instantly, please allow 2–5 seconds for it to load. It is generated by Gemini 2.5 Flash using a prompt focused on Biblical fidelity over bias. While the insights have been consistently reliable, we encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit.

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Cross-References