2 Samuel 6:1

¶ Again, David gathered together all [the] chosen [men] of Israel, thirty thousand.

Again, David {H1732} gathered together {H622}{H3254} all the chosen {H977} men of Israel {H3478}, thirty {H7970} thousand {H505}.

Again David summoned all the picked troops of Isra'el, 30,000 men.

David again assembled the chosen men of Israel, thirty thousand in all.

And David again gathered together all the chosen men of Israel, thirty thousand.

Commentary

Context

Second Samuel chapter 6 opens a pivotal narrative in the reign of King David, marking his concerted effort to bring the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem. Prior to this, David had successfully consolidated his power, being anointed king over all Israel (2 Samuel 5:1-5) and establishing Jerusalem as his capital city (2 Samuel 5:6-9). The Ark, representing God's presence and covenant with Israel, had been residing in Kirjath-jearim for many years since its capture by the Philistines and subsequent return (1 Samuel 7:1-2). David's gathering of "thirty thousand" of Israel's "chosen men" signals the immense importance and national scale of this sacred undertaking.

Key Themes

  • David's Unifying Leadership: This verse highlights David's remarkable ability to mobilize and unify the nation under his rule. The assembly of such a large and significant number of men underscores his authority and the people's allegiance, not just for battle but for a sacred, national endeavor. It demonstrates his vision for Israel as a kingdom centered on God.
  • National Significance of the Ark: The sheer scale of the gathering—thirty thousand chosen men—emphasizes the profound spiritual and political importance of the Ark of the Covenant. Bringing the Ark to Jerusalem was not merely a religious act but a statement of national identity, seeking to centralize worship and God's presence within the capital.
  • Preparation for Divine Presence: David's meticulous preparation and the vast number of men involved reflect a deep reverence for the Ark and what it represented. It was an acknowledgment that dealing with God's holy presence required careful planning and a collective effort, though later events in the chapter reveal challenges in how this reverence was expressed (2 Samuel 6:6-7).

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "chosen men" translates from the Hebrew word bachur (בָּחוּר), which often refers to young, strong, select men, fit for military service or special assignments. This term suggests that David was not just gathering a crowd, but a carefully selected, capable force. The number "thirty thousand" is a significant, round figure, emphasizing the massive scale and national involvement in this critical event.

Practical Application

This verse reminds us of the importance of intentionality and preparation when seeking to honor God or engage in significant spiritual undertakings. Just as David marshaled the resources of an entire nation for a sacred purpose, believers today are called to dedicate their best efforts and resources to God's work. It also highlights the significance of God's presence in our lives and communities, and the collective effort required to center our lives around Him. Ultimately, this act of gathering for the Ark foreshadows the ultimate desire for God's presence to dwell among His people, fulfilled supremely in Jesus Christ.

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Cross-References

  • 1 Chronicles 13:1 (3 votes)

    ¶ And David consulted with the captains of thousands and hundreds, [and] with every leader.

  • 1 Chronicles 13:4 (3 votes)

    And all the congregation said that they would do so: for the thing was right in the eyes of all the people.

  • 1 Kings 8:1 (2 votes)

    ¶ Then Solomon assembled the elders of Israel, and all the heads of the tribes, the chief of the fathers of the children of Israel, unto king Solomon in Jerusalem, that they might bring up the ark of the covenant of the LORD out of the city of David, which [is] Zion.

  • 1 Chronicles 13:6 (2 votes)

    And David went up, and all Israel, to Baalah, [that is], to Kirjathjearim, which [belonged] to Judah, to bring up thence the ark of God the LORD, that dwelleth [between] the cherubims, whose name is called [on it].

  • 1 Chronicles 13:14 (2 votes)

    And the ark of God remained with the family of Obededom in his house three months. And the LORD blessed the house of Obededom, and all that he had.

  • Psalms 132:1 (1 votes)

    ¶ A Song of degrees. LORD, remember David, [and] all his afflictions:

  • Psalms 132:6 (1 votes)

    Lo, we heard of it at Ephratah: we found it in the fields of the wood.