2 Samuel 6:18

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.

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}.

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

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

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

Commentary on 2 Samuel 6:18 (KJV)

2 Samuel 6:18 is a pivotal verse in the narrative of King David bringing the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem. It highlights David's role as both a political and spiritual leader, demonstrating his devotion and God's blessing upon the people.

Context

This verse occurs at the culmination of a significant event: the transfer of the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem, David's capital city. Earlier in the chapter, the first attempt to move the Ark resulted in the tragic death of Uzzah, teaching a solemn lesson about reverence for God's holiness. After learning from this experience, David successfully brings the Ark with great rejoicing, sacrifices, and proper reverence. Verse 18 describes the final act of this grand procession, where David, having fulfilled his priestly function of offering sacrifices, turns to bless the entire assembly.

Key Themes

  • Worship and Sacrifice: David's act of offering "burnt offerings" ('olah, symbolizing complete dedication to God) and "peace offerings" (shelamim, symbolizing fellowship and communion with God) underscores the centrality of worship in the life of God's people. As king, David takes on a priestly role, leading the nation in solemn acts of devotion.
  • Divine Blessing: The blessing pronounced by David was not from his own authority, but "in the name of the LORD of hosts." This emphasizes that all true blessings flow from God alone, and leaders are merely conduits for His grace. It signifies God's approval of the Ark's placement in Jerusalem and His favor upon His people.
  • Leadership and Piety: David's example here showcases a leader deeply committed to God, actively participating in and leading the spiritual life of the nation. His piety sets a powerful example for his people and for future generations of leaders. This devotion aligns with God's description of David as "a man after mine own heart."

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "LORD of hosts" (Hebrew: Yahweh Sabaoth) is a powerful divine title frequently used in the Old Testament. It signifies God's sovereignty and power over all creation, including heavenly armies and earthly forces. When David blesses the people in this name, he invokes the authority and might of the Almighty God, reinforcing the weight and certainty of the blessing.

Practical Application

This verse offers several timeless principles for believers today:

  • The Centrality of God in Our Lives: Just as the Ark symbolized God's presence and was central to Israel's life, God should be at the center of our personal and communal lives. Our worship, like David's, should be marked by reverence and genuine devotion.
  • Seeking God's Blessing: We are reminded that true blessings come from God. We should continually seek His favor and live in a way that honors Him.
  • Leaders as Conduits of Blessing: Those in positions of leadership, whether in the church, family, or community, have a responsibility to seek God's will and pronounce blessings in His name, reflecting His character and purposes. This echoes the ancient priestly blessing found in Numbers 6:24-26.
  • Gratitude and Thanksgiving: Following significant spiritual milestones or blessings, it is fitting to offer thanks and praise to God, acknowledging His goodness and faithfulness.
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Cross-References

  • 1 Kings 8:55 (3 votes)

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

  • 1 Chronicles 16:2 (3 votes)

    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 (2 votes)

    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 (2 votes)

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

  • Acts 3:26 (2 votes)

    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 (2 votes)

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

  • Leviticus 9:22 (2 votes)

    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.