2 Samuel 6:18

KJV

And as soon as David had made an end of offering burnt offerings and peace offerings, he blessed the people in the name of the LORD of hosts.

KJV (with Strong's)

And as soon as David {H1732} had made an end {H3615} of offering {H5927} burnt offerings {H5930} and peace offerings {H8002}, he blessed {H1288} the people {H5971} in the name {H8034} of the LORD {H3068} of hosts {H6635}.

Complete Jewish Bible

When David had finished offering the burnt offering and peace offerings, he blessed the people in the name of ADONAI-Tzva'ot.

Berean Standard Bible

When David had finished sacrificing the burnt offerings and peace offerings, he blessed the people in the name of the LORD of Hosts.

American Standard Version

And when David had made an end of offering the burnt-offering and the peace-offerings, he blessed the people in the name of Jehovah of hosts.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
2 Samuel 6:18 culminates the momentous transfer of the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem, marking a pivotal moment in Israel's spiritual and political history. Following the meticulous completion of burnt offerings and peace offerings, King David, acting as the divinely appointed leader of the nation, solemnly blesses the entire assembly. This act, performed "in the name of the LORD of hosts," underscores David's devout leadership, the centrality of proper worship, and God's benevolent presence and authoritative blessing upon His people, firmly establishing Jerusalem as the chosen dwelling place for God's presence and the heart of Israel's worship.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse provides the triumphant conclusion to the dramatic narrative of [2 Samuel 6](/2_samuel/6 "2 Samuel 6 - The Ark Comes to Jerusalem"), which recounts David's two attempts to bring the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem. The initial, ill-fated attempt resulted in the tragic death of Uzzah for improperly touching the Ark, a stark reminder of God's holiness and the absolute necessity of adhering to His prescribed methods for handling sacred objects, as outlined in [Numbers 4:15](/numbers/4-15 "Numbers 4:15 - Handling the Holy Things"). Having learned this solemn lesson, David meticulously orchestrates the second transfer, described in [2 Samuel 6:12-17](/2_samuel/6-12-17 "2 Samuel 6:12-17 - The Ark's Triumphant Arrival in Jerusalem"), ensuring strict adherence to Mosaic law. This second attempt is characterized by profound joy, exuberant dancing, and abundant sacrifices, culminating in David's final act of worship and blessing in verse 18. This verse formally concludes the grand procession and dedication, setting the stage for the subsequent narrative in [2 Samuel 7](/2_samuel/7 "2 Samuel 7 - God's Covenant with David"), where David expresses his desire to build a permanent temple for the Ark.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Ark of the Covenant was the preeminent sacred object in ancient Israel, serving as the tangible symbol of God's covenant presence among His people and the focal point of their national worship, as described in [Exodus 25:22](/exodus/25-22 "Exodus 25:22 - The Mercy Seat"). Its transfer to Jerusalem was not merely a logistical move but a monumental theological and political event, transforming the city from a Jebusite stronghold into the spiritual and political capital of the united Israelite kingdom. David's actions in this verse reflect the ancient Near Eastern practice where kings often served as primary religious leaders, performing priestly functions on behalf of their nation. The "burnt offerings" (`'olah`) symbolized complete dedication, atonement, and propitiation, while "peace offerings" (`shelamim`) signified fellowship, communion, and thanksgiving, often culminating in a communal meal shared between God, priests, and worshipers. The act of blessing "in the name of the LORD of hosts" was not a mere wish but a performative declaration, invoking the supreme authority and power of God Himself to bestow favor and prosperity upon the people, a practice deeply rooted in Israelite covenant theology, exemplified by the priestly blessing in [Numbers 6:22-27](/numbers/6-22-27 "Numbers 6:22-27 - The Priestly Blessing").
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully articulates several core theological and narrative themes. Firstly, it underscores the **centrality of worship and sacrifice** in Israel's covenant relationship with God, emphasizing that proper reverence, obedience, and atonement are prerequisites for divine blessing and communion. David's active engagement in the sacrificial system highlights the **intertwined nature of kingship and priesthood** in his unique, transitional role, anticipating the ultimate Priest-King. Secondly, the theme of **divine blessing and favor** is profoundly evident, as David's pronouncement in God's name signifies God's explicit approval of the Ark's new dwelling place and His continued covenant faithfulness to His people. This blessing is a tangible expression of God's presence, provision, and protection. Finally, the verse showcases **pious and exemplary leadership**, with David exemplifying a king who prioritizes God's glory and the spiritual well-being of his nation above all else, setting a precedent for righteous governance that sought and submitted to God's will, a characteristic later affirmed in [Acts 13:22](/acts/13-22 "Acts 13:22 - David, a Man After God's Own Heart").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **made an end (Hebrew, _kâlâh'_):** From H3615, a primitive root meaning "to end, whether intransitive (to cease, be finished, perish) or transitived (to complete, prepare, consume)." In this context, it signifies the meticulous completion of the sacrificial rites. David ensured that all necessary offerings were fully performed, indicating a thorough and obedient adherence to the prescribed rituals before proceeding to bless the people. This emphasizes the intentionality and completeness of the worship.
* **burnt offerings (Hebrew, _ʻôlâh'_):** From H5930, a feminine active participle of H5927 (`ʻâlâh`), meaning "a step or (collectively, stairs, as ascending); usually a holocaust (as going up in smoke)." These sacrifices were entirely consumed by fire on the altar, symbolizing complete dedication, surrender, and atonement to God. The smoke "ascended" to God, representing the worshiper's total devotion and the propitiation for sin. David's offering of these signifies his and the nation's absolute submission and dedication to Yahweh.
* **peace offerings (Hebrew, _shelem'_):** From H8002, properly meaning "requital," i.e., a (voluntary) sacrifice in thanks. These sacrifices were characterized by a portion being given to God, a portion to the priests, and the remainder consumed by the worshiper and their family in a communal meal. They symbolized fellowship, thanksgiving, and the establishment or restoration of harmonious relationship with God. David's inclusion of these underscores the joyful communion and covenantal peace established with God in Jerusalem.
* **LORD of hosts (Hebrew, _Yᵉhôvâh tsâbâʼ'_):** From H3068 (`Yᵉhôvâh`), meaning "(the) self-Existent or Eternal; Jehovah, Jewish national name of God," and H6635 (`tsâbâʼ`), meaning "a mass of persons (or figuratively, things), especially reg. organized for war (an army); by implication, a campaign, literally or figuratively (specifically, hardship, worship)." This majestic divine title emphasizes God's sovereignty and omnipotence. "Sabaoth" (hosts) can refer to heavenly armies (angels) or earthly armies, signifying God's command over all cosmic and earthly powers. When David blesses in this name, he invokes the absolute authority and irresistible might of the Almighty God, giving immense weight and certainty to the blessing pronounced upon the people.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And as soon as David had made an end of offering burnt offerings and peace offerings":** This opening clause highlights the culmination of the elaborate and meticulously performed sacrificial ritual. It underscores David's personal involvement and leadership in the nation's worship, ensuring that all prescribed offerings—signifying both atonement and fellowship—were fully completed. This act prepared the people spiritually for a renewed and proper relationship with God in His newly established dwelling place in Jerusalem.
* **"he blessed the people":** This action emphasizes David's significant role as both king and spiritual leader. A blessing pronounced by a divinely appointed leader was not merely a wish but a performative declaration, carrying divine authority and conveying God's favor and prosperity. This blessing was extended to the entire assembly, signifying God's benevolent favor upon the whole nation of Israel, now united under David's righteous leadership and God's presence in Jerusalem.
* **"in the name of the LORD of hosts":** This crucial phrase clarifies the ultimate source and authority of the blessing. David was not blessing from his own inherent power or goodwill, but rather as a divinely appointed conduit for God Himself. By invoking the majestic and powerful title "LORD of hosts," David affirmed God's supreme authority, His sovereign power over all creation (both heavenly and earthly armies), and His unwavering faithfulness to His covenant promises. The blessing was therefore an authoritative declaration of God's benevolent will and active bestowal of favor upon His people.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several significant literary devices that enrich its meaning and impact. **Symbolism** is paramount, with the Ark of the Covenant representing God's tangible presence among His people, and the various sacrifices symbolizing the prescribed means of approaching and communing with a holy God. David's actions are imbued with profound **Ritual Significance**, as the meticulously performed offerings and the subsequent blessing mark the culmination of a sacred national event, formally establishing a new era of worship centered in Jerusalem under Davidic rule. The phrase "LORD of hosts" functions as a powerful **Divine Epithet**, emphasizing God's omnipotence, sovereign authority, and His control over all cosmic and earthly forces, thereby lending immense weight and certainty to David's blessing. Furthermore, the entire scene functions as a **Theophany** (manifestation of God), not necessarily through a visual appearance, but through the tangible evidence of God's presence in the Ark, His acceptance of the sacrifices, and the authoritative blessing pronounced in His name, confirming His favor upon His people and His chosen king.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
2 Samuel 6:18 powerfully connects the Old Covenant practices of sacrifice and blessing to the overarching themes of God's active presence, His unwavering covenant faithfulness, and the vital role of divinely appointed leadership in mediating divine favor. David's actions, particularly his dual role as king and spiritual leader, prefigure the ultimate High Priest and King who would perfectly fulfill these roles. The meticulous attention to ritual underscores the holiness of God and the necessary reverence required in approaching Him, while the subsequent blessing highlights God's profound desire for intimate fellowship and prosperity with His people when they walk in obedience. This moment solidifies Jerusalem's identity as the spiritual heart of Israel, the sacred place where God chose to dwell among His people, a concept that would later be expanded upon in prophetic literature and ultimately fulfilled in the person and work of Jesus Christ.

* [Numbers 6:24-26](/numbers/6-24-26 "Numbers 6:24-26 - The Priestly Blessing")
* [Psalm 24:7-10](/psalm/24-7-10 "Psalm 24:7-10 - The King of Glory Enters")
* [1 Kings 8:55-56](/1_kings/8-55-56 "1 Kings 8:55-56 - Solomon's Blessing")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
David's actions in 2 Samuel 6:18 provide a profound and enduring model for both corporate worship and individual devotion. His meticulous attention to the sacrificial offerings before blessing the people reminds us that true blessing flows from a posture of reverence, obedience, and complete dedication to God. Our worship, whether personal or communal, should be marked by intentionality, a deep understanding of God's holiness, and a heart fully yielded to the Lord. Just as David, as king, acted as a conduit for God's blessing, those in positions of leadership today—whether in the church, family, or community—are called to seek God's will diligently and strive to be faithful channels of His grace and truth. This verse encourages us to recognize that all true and enduring blessings originate solely from the "LORD of hosts," the sovereign, omnipotent, and covenant-keeping God. This recognition should prompt us to continually seek His face, live in a manner that honors Him, and express profound gratitude for His boundless goodness and unwavering faithfulness in our lives. Furthermore, it challenges us, as believers, to consider how we can actively be a blessing to others, speaking words of life, encouragement, and truth that genuinely reflect God's character and His redemptive purposes in the world.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does David's dual role as king and spiritual leader challenge or affirm your understanding of leadership today, particularly in a spiritual context?**
* **What does the phrase "in the name of the LORD of hosts" signify for the authority and efficacy of blessings pronounced today, especially within the Christian faith?**
* **In what ways can we, as individuals and as a community, ensure that our worship (our "offerings" of time, talent, and treasure) is truly dedicated to God before we seek or expect His blessing?**
* **How does the historical significance of the Ark's arrival in Jerusalem inform our understanding of God's desire for His presence to be central in our lives and communities today?**

### FAQ

**What is the significance of David offering both "burnt offerings" and "peace offerings" before blessing the people?**

Answer: The offering of both "burnt offerings" (`'olah`) and "peace offerings" (`shelamim`) is profoundly significant in this context. The burnt offering symbolized complete dedication, atonement, and propitiation for sin, signifying the nation's total surrender and devotion to God. It was entirely consumed by fire on the altar, representing a complete giving of oneself to the Lord. The peace offering, on the other hand, symbolized fellowship, communion, and thanksgiving. Portions of this offering were eaten by the worshipers, signifying a shared meal with God and the establishment or restoration of a harmonious relationship. By offering both, David ensured that the entire spectrum of Israel's relationship with God was represented: atonement and complete dedication for any sin or impurity, followed by joyful communion and thanksgiving for God's presence and blessing. This comprehensive act of worship prepared the people to receive God's blessing and reinforced the covenant relationship, as detailed in texts like [Leviticus 1](/leviticus/1 "Leviticus 1 - The Law of Burnt Offerings") and [Leviticus 3](/leviticus/3 "Leviticus 3 - The Law of Peace Offerings").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
2 Samuel 6:18, with David acting as a priest-king, offering sacrifices and blessing the people, profoundly foreshadows the ultimate work of Jesus Christ. David's temporary and repeated animal sacrifices, which could only cover sins, point directly to the singular, perfect, and eternal sacrifice of the [Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"). Unlike David's offerings, Christ's self-offering on the cross achieved complete and final atonement, providing true peace and reconciliation between God and humanity, as powerfully articulated in [Hebrews 9:11-14](/hebrews/9-11-14 "Hebrews 9:11-14 - Christ's Superior Sacrifice"). Furthermore, David's role as the one who blesses the people in the name of the LORD of hosts finds its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus, our Great High Priest ([Hebrews 4:14](/hebrews/4-14 "Hebrews 4:14 - Jesus, Our Great High Priest")) and King, who continually intercedes for us and bestows upon us "every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places" ([Ephesians 1:3](/ephesians/1-3 "Ephesians 1:3 - Spiritual Blessings in Christ")). The Ark's arrival in Jerusalem symbolized God's presence among His people; in Christ, God's presence is fully and eternally manifested, for He is Emmanuel, "God with us" ([Matthew 1:23](/matthew/1-23 "Matthew 1:23 - Immanuel, God With Us")). Through Christ, we enter into a new covenant of peace, receiving not just a temporal blessing but eternal life and an unbreakable fellowship with the LORD of hosts, made possible by His finished work.

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

1 Kings 8:55

And he stood, and blessed all the congregation of Israel with a loud voice, saying,

1 Chronicles 16:2

And when David had made an end of offering the burnt offerings and the peace offerings, he blessed the people in the name of the LORD.

2 Chronicles 30:27

Then the priests the Levites arose and blessed the people: and their voice was heard, and their prayer came [up] to his holy dwelling place, [even] unto heaven.

2 Chronicles 6:3

And the king turned his face, and blessed the whole congregation of Israel: and all the congregation of Israel stood.

Acts 3:26

Unto you first God, having raised up his Son Jesus, sent him to bless you, in turning away every one of you from his iniquities.

1 Kings 8:14

And the king turned his face about, and blessed all the congregation of Israel: (and all the congregation of Israel stood;)

Leviticus 9:22

And Aaron lifted up his hand toward the people, and blessed them, and came down from offering of the sin offering, and the burnt offering, and peace offerings.