2 Samuel 6:8

And David was displeased, because the LORD had made a breach upon Uzzah: and he called the name of the place Perezuzzah to this day.

And David {H1732} was displeased {H2734}, because the LORD {H3068} had made {H6555} a breach {H6556} upon Uzzah {H5798}: and he called {H7121} the name of the place {H4725} Perezuzzah {H6560} to this day {H3117}.

It upset David that ADONAI had broken out against 'Uzah; that place has been called Peretz-'Uzah [breaking-out of 'Uzah] ever since.

Then David became angry because the LORD had burst forth against Uzzah; so he named that place Perez-uzzah, as it is called to this day.

And David was displeased, because Jehovah had broken forth upon Uzzah; and he called that place Perez-uzzah, unto this day.

Commentary

2 Samuel 6:8 describes King David's immediate reaction to the tragic death of Uzzah, who was struck down by the LORD for touching the Ark of the Covenant. This verse captures the shock and gravity of the event, marking a significant moment in Israel's history concerning their understanding of God's holiness.

Context

This verse is part of the narrative detailing David's attempt to bring the Ark of God from Kirjath-jearim to Jerusalem, intending to establish it as the spiritual center of his kingdom. The Ark, symbolizing God's presence and covenant with Israel, was being transported on a new cart, a method not prescribed by the Mosaic Law. According to God's instructions, the Ark was to be carried by Levites using poles through rings on its sides (Numbers 4:15). When the oxen stumbled, Uzzah, one of the men guiding the cart, reached out to steady the Ark, an act forbidden by God, leading to his instant death (2 Samuel 6:7).

Key Themes

  • God's Holiness and Sovereignty: The immediate judgment on Uzzah underscores God's absolute holiness and the strictness of His commands regarding sacred things. God cannot be approached or handled casually, even with seemingly good intentions. His divine nature demands reverence and obedience.
  • Consequences of Disobedience: Uzzah's death serves as a stark reminder that disobedience to God's explicit instructions, even concerning seemingly minor details, can have severe consequences. It highlights the importance of adhering to God's revealed will rather than relying on human logic or expediency.
  • David's Displeasure and Fear: David's reaction of being "displeased" (often interpreted as anger, grief, or deep distress combined with fear) reveals his profound shock and perhaps confusion. He was initially celebrating, but this tragedy brought a sobering realization of God's awesome power and the danger of mishandling holy things. His fear is further evident in his reluctance to bring the Ark further into Jerusalem immediately (2 Samuel 6:10).

Linguistic Insights

The verse states David "called the name of the place Perezuzzah." This Hebrew name literally means "breach of Uzzah" or "the bursting forth against Uzzah." The term "breach" (Hebrew: perets) signifies a sudden, violent breaking forth or an outburst, emphasizing the immediate and decisive nature of God's judgment against Uzzah's unauthorized touch. This naming served as a perpetual memorial and warning of the event.

Practical Application

For believers today, 2 Samuel 6:8 offers crucial lessons:

  • Reverence for God: We are called to approach God with deep respect and awe, understanding His holiness. While the New Covenant offers grace through Christ, the principle of reverence remains vital (Hebrews 12:28).
  • Obedience to God's Word: This account reminds us of the importance of diligent obedience to God's commands, rather than relying on our own methods or traditions when God has given clear instructions.
  • Understanding God's Nature: It helps us grasp the multifaceted nature of God – He is loving and merciful, but also just and holy, demanding respect for His divine authority.
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Cross-References

  • Jonah 4:1 (3 votes)

    ¶ But it displeased Jonah exceedingly, and he was very angry.

  • 1 Chronicles 13:11 (3 votes)

    And David was displeased, because the LORD had made a breach upon Uzza: wherefore that place is called Perezuzza to this day.

  • 1 Chronicles 13:12 (3 votes)

    And David was afraid of God that day, saying, How shall I bring the ark of God [home] to me?

  • Jonah 4:9 (3 votes)

    And God said to Jonah, Doest thou well to be angry for the gourd? And he said, I do well to be angry, [even] unto death.