2 Samuel 7:18

KJV

¶ Then went king David in, and sat before the LORD, and he said, Who [am] I, O Lord GOD? and what [is] my house, that thou hast brought me hitherto?

KJV (with Strong's)

Then went {H935} king {H4428} David {H1732} in, and sat {H3427} before {H6440} the LORD {H3068}, and he said {H559}, Who am I, O Lord {H136} GOD {H3069}? and what is my house {H1004}, that thou hast brought {H935} me hitherto {H1988}?

Complete Jewish Bible

Then David went in, sat before ADONAI and said, "Who am I, Adonai ELOHIM; and what is my family, that has caused you to bring me this far?

Berean Standard Bible

Then King David went in, sat before the LORD, and said, “Who am I, O Lord GOD, and what is my house, that You have brought me this far?

American Standard Version

Then David the king went in, and sat before Jehovah; and he said, Who am I, O Lord Jehovah, and what is my house, that thou hast brought me thus far?

Commentary

### SUMMARY
King David's prayer in 2 Samuel 7:18 is a profound expression of humility and gratitude, offered immediately after God, through the prophet Nathan, delivered the unconditional Davidic Covenant. Overwhelmed by the promise of an enduring dynasty and an eternal kingdom, David contrasts his own humble origins and the perceived insignificance of his "house" with the magnificent, unmerited favor God has bestowed upon him and his lineage. His posture of sitting "before the LORD" signifies deep reverence and contemplative worship in response to God's boundless grace and sovereign initiative.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** 2 Samuel 7 is the pivotal chapter establishing the Davidic Covenant, a cornerstone of Old Testament theology. Prior to this verse, David expresses a heartfelt desire to build a "house" (temple) for God ([2 Samuel 7:2](/2_samuel/7-2 "2 Samuel 7:2 - David's Desire to Build a Temple")). Through the prophet Nathan, God responds not by accepting David's offer, but by promising to build David a "house" (dynasty) instead ([2 Samuel 7:11](/2_samuel/7-11 "2 Samuel 7:11 - God's Promise to Build David's House")). This divine reversal of roles underscores God's sovereignty and initiative. The covenant promises an enduring dynasty, a secure kingdom, and a son who will build the temple, establishing David's throne forever ([2 Samuel 7:12-16](/2_samuel/7-12 "2 Samuel 7:12-16 - The Davidic Covenant Promises")). David's prayer in [2 Samuel 7:18-29](/2_samuel/7-18 "2 Samuel 7:18-29 - David's Prayer of Gratitude") is his immediate, humble, and deeply grateful response to this extraordinary, unilateral divine promise, recognizing its immense implications for his family and for the future of Israel.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** David reigned as king over a united Israel, a period of significant expansion and consolidation of power. In the ancient Near East, kings often built temples for their gods as a demonstration of piety and power, expecting divine favor in return. Covenants were common, but typically bilateral, involving obligations from both parties. The Davidic Covenant, however, is remarkable for its unilateral and unconditional nature, initiated entirely by God. David's humble origins as a shepherd boy from Bethlehem, chosen by God over his older brothers ([1 Samuel 16:11-13](/1_samuel/16-11 "1 Samuel 16:11-13 - David's Anointing by Samuel")), would have made the promise of an eternal dynasty even more astonishing to him. His sitting "before the LORD" likely refers to entering the tabernacle, where the Ark of the Covenant resided, signifying a direct, intimate encounter with God's presence, a posture of reverence and deep contemplation.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully encapsulates several key themes central to [2 Samuel](/2_samuel/1 "The Book of 2 Samuel") and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, **Profound Humility** is evident in David's self-deprecating questions, contrasting his humble status with God's immense favor. He acknowledges that his elevation and the promises are not due to his merit but solely to divine grace. Secondly, **Overwhelming Gratitude** permeates his prayer, as he expresses astonishment and thanks for God's past faithfulness in bringing him "hitherto" and for the incomprehensible future promises. Thirdly, **God's Sovereign Grace** is highlighted, emphasizing that the covenant is God's initiative, demonstrating His boundless love and faithfulness, independent of human worthiness. Finally, the verse underscores the **Significance of the Davidic Covenant**, which transcends David's immediate reign, pointing forward to an eternal kingdom and ultimately foreshadowing the Messiah, Jesus Christ, who would inherit and fulfill the promises made to David's "house" ([Luke 1:32-33](/luke/1-32 "Luke 1:32-33 - Angel's Prophecy to Mary about Jesus' Throne")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Lord GOD (Hebrew, _'Adonai YHWH'_):** This compound divine name is significant. _'Adonai'_ (אֲדֹנָי) emphasizes God as the sovereign Master, the one who holds absolute authority and ownership. _YHWH_ (יְהוָה), the tetragrammaton, is God's personal, covenantal name, revealing Him as the self-existent, faithful God who keeps His promises. David's use of this combination expresses his recognition of God's supreme authority combined with His personal, steadfast faithfulness in His relationship with His people, particularly in the context of the recently revealed covenant. It underscores the profound reverence and trust David places in the One who has made such an astounding promise.
* **house (Hebrew, _bayith'_):** The word _bayith_ (בַּיִת) is used with rich double meaning in [2 Samuel 7](/2_samuel/7 "2 Samuel 7 - The Davidic Covenant"). Initially, David desires to build a "house" for God, meaning a temple or dwelling place ([2 Samuel 7:2](/2_samuel/7-2 "2 Samuel 7:2 - David's Desire to Build a Temple")). God's response, however, shifts the meaning, promising to build David a "house," referring to his dynasty, his lineage, and his royal family line ([2 Samuel 7:11](/2_samuel/7-11 "2 Samuel 7:11 - God's Promise to Build David's House")). In [2 Samuel 7:18](/2_samuel/7-18 "2 Samuel 7:18 - David's Humble Prayer"), David's question "what [is] my house?" refers to his family, his lineage, and his personal standing, emphasizing its perceived insignificance in contrast to the eternal dynasty God has just promised.
* **hitherto (Hebrew, _'ad-hennah'_):** The phrase _'ad-hennah_ (עַד־הֵנָּה) literally translates to "up to this point" or "thus far." It encapsulates David's retrospective astonishment at the entire trajectory of his life, from an obscure shepherd boy to the king of Israel, and now, the recipient of an eternal covenant. It signifies a moment of profound reflection on God's consistent, guiding hand and overwhelming grace that has led him to this unimaginable pinnacle of blessing and promise.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Then went king David in, and sat before the LORD,":** This opening clause depicts David's posture of humility and reverence. "Went in" likely refers to entering the tabernacle or the sacred space where the Ark of the Covenant was housed, symbolizing God's presence. "Sat before the LORD" is not a casual posture but one of deep contemplation, prayer, and worship. It signifies a deliberate act of seeking God's presence, listening, and responding in humble adoration, acknowledging God's sovereignty and his own subordinate position. This is a moment of intimate communion and profound reflection on the divine revelation he has just received.
* **"and he said, Who [am] I, O Lord GOD?":** David's immediate response is a rhetorical question expressing profound humility and self-abasement. He contrasts his own perceived unworthiness and humble origins (a shepherd, the youngest son) with the immense favor and promises bestowed upon him by the Almighty God. This question is not a request for information but an exclamation of astonishment and wonder at God's condescending grace. It reflects a heart that understands its utter dependence on God and the unmerited nature of divine blessing.
* **"and what [is] my house, that thou hast brought me hitherto?":** This second rhetorical question extends David's humility from himself personally to his entire lineage and family. He acknowledges the ordinary, non-royal status of his "house" or family line, recognizing that there is nothing inherently special or deserving about them that would warrant such an extraordinary, eternal promise. The phrase "that thou hast brought me hitherto" refers to God's faithful leading and provision throughout David's life, culminating in this moment of unparalleled covenant blessing. It highlights God's sovereign initiative and the overwhelming, unmerited nature of His grace that has elevated David and his descendants to such a position.

#### Literary Devices
The verse is rich with literary devices that amplify its emotional and theological impact. The most prominent is the **Rhetorical Question**, repeated twice ("Who [am] I...?" and "what [is] my house...?"). These questions are not posed to elicit an answer but to express David's profound astonishment, humility, and awe in the face of God's overwhelming grace. They serve to emphasize the vast **Contrast** between David's humble origins and the magnificent, eternal promises of the Davidic Covenant. The implied answer to these questions is "no one" and "nothing," underscoring the unmerited nature of God's favor. There is also an element of **Hyperbole** in David's self-deprecating language, as he exaggerates his unworthiness to magnify the greatness of God's grace. Finally, the phrase "brought me hitherto" functions as a form of **Retrospection**, prompting David (and the reader) to reflect on God's faithful past actions as the foundation for present and future blessings.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
David's prayer in [2 Samuel 7:18](/2_samuel/7-18 "2 Samuel 7:18 - David's Humble Prayer") serves as a foundational expression of humility and gratitude in response to God's unilateral covenant. It establishes a pattern for human response to divine grace: not pride or self-congratulation, but profound awe and recognition of God's sovereign initiative. The theological implication is clear: salvation and blessing are entirely from God, not earned by human merit or status. This concept of unmerited favor (grace) is central to biblical theology, from God's choice of Abraham to the New Covenant in Christ. David's posture and words become a model for all believers, demonstrating that true worship flows from a heart humbled by God's goodness and overwhelmed by His faithfulness.

* [Genesis 32:10](/genesis/32-10 "Genesis 32:10 - Jacob's Prayer of Humility")
* [Psalm 8:4](/psalms/8-4 "Psalm 8:4 - What is man that You are mindful of him?")
* [Ephesians 2:8-9](/ephesians/2-8 "Ephesians 2:8-9 - Grace Through Faith")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
David's response to God's overwhelming grace in [2 Samuel 7:18](/2_samuel/7-18 "2 Samuel 7:18 - David's Humble Prayer") provides a timeless blueprint for our own spiritual lives. In a world that often values self-promotion and achievement, David's profound humility reminds us that our true worth and blessings come not from our accomplishments, but from God's unmerited favor. When we reflect on God's faithfulness in our past—how He has "brought us hitherto" through trials and triumphs—and His promises for our future, our natural response should mirror David's: a heart overflowing with gratitude and a spirit humbled by His boundless love. This verse encourages us to cultivate a posture of worship that acknowledges God's sovereignty over every aspect of our lives, prompting us to sit "before the LORD" not just to make requests, but to marvel at His goodness, to surrender our plans, and to trust that His purposes for us are infinitely greater and more glorious than anything we could ever conceive. It calls us to live in constant remembrance that every good and perfect gift is from above, fostering a life of dependent faith and joyful thanksgiving.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does David's posture of sitting "before the LORD" inform your own approach to prayer and worship?**
* **In what specific ways has God "brought you hitherto" in your life, leading you to a place of unexpected blessing or provision?**
* **What "house" (personal achievements, family legacy, social standing) might you be tempted to rely on, rather than God's sovereign grace?**
* **How can cultivating David's humility and gratitude transform your perspective on God's promises in your life?**

### FAQ

**Why did David "sit before the LORD" instead of kneeling or prostrating himself?**

Answer: While kneeling or prostration were common postures for prayer and worship in the ancient Near East, "sitting before the LORD" (Hebrew: יָשַׁב לִפְנֵי יְהוָה, _yashav lifnei YHWH_) in this context signifies a posture of deep contemplation, reverence, and intimate communion. It implies a settled, unhurried presence in the sacred space, listening and responding to God. It's not a casual sitting, but a deliberate act of worship, perhaps indicative of a kingly audience with the divine King, or a deep, prolonged meditation on the profound implications of the covenant. Other biblical figures also "sat" in prayer or reflection, such as the elders of Israel before the Ark ([Judges 20:26](/judges/20-26 "Judges 20:26 - Israel Weeps Before the Lord")). This posture emphasizes a profound engagement of the mind and heart, rather than just a physical act.

**What is the significance of David's rhetorical questions about "Who am I?" and "What is my house?"**

Answer: These questions are expressions of profound humility and astonishment, not requests for information. David is contrasting his humble origins as a shepherd boy ([1 Samuel 16:11-12](/1_samuel/16-11 "1 Samuel 16:11-12 - David's Anointing")) and the ordinary nature of his family ("my house") with the extraordinary, unmerited favor God has shown him. He recognizes that his elevation to kingship and the promise of an eternal dynasty are entirely due to God's sovereign grace, not his own merit or the inherent worthiness of his lineage. These questions amplify the magnitude of God's boundless generosity and faithfulness, underscoring that the Davidic Covenant is a gift, not a reward. They serve to magnify God's glory by diminishing any human claim to credit.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The Davidic Covenant, to which [2 Samuel 7:18](/2_samuel/7-18 "2 Samuel 7:18 - David's Humble Prayer") is David's humble response, finds its ultimate and eternal fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The promise of an enduring "house" and a throne established "forever" ([2 Samuel 7:16](/2_samuel/7-16 "2 Samuel 7:16 - God's Promise of an Enduring Dynasty")) could not be fully realized by any earthly king or human lineage. It pointed forward to a greater Son of David, whose kingdom would truly be eternal. The angel Gabriel's prophecy to Mary explicitly connects Jesus to this covenant, declaring that "He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High; and the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David; and He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and His kingdom will have no end" ([Luke 1:32-33](/luke/1-32 "Luke 1:32-33 - Angel's Prophecy about Jesus' Throne")). Jesus, born of the lineage of David ([Romans 1:3](/romans/1-3 "Romans 1:3 - Jesus, Descendant of David")), is the true King who sits on David's throne, not merely for a lifetime, but eternally. His kingdom is not earthly but spiritual, encompassing all who believe. David's humility in [2 Samuel 7:18](/2_samuel/7-18 "2 Samuel 7:18 - David's Humble Prayer") foreshadows the even greater condescension of Christ, who, though God, "made Himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness" ([Philippians 2:7](/philippians/2-7 "Philippians 2:7 - Christ's Humility")). The covenant, initiated by God's grace to an unworthy David, culminates in the ultimate act of grace: God sending His Son to establish an everlasting kingdom through His sacrificial death and resurrection, inviting all to be part of His eternal "house" ([Hebrews 3:6](/hebrews/3-6 "Hebrews 3:6 - Christ as Son Over God's House")).

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

Psalms 8:4

What is man, that thou art mindful of him? and the son of man, that thou visitest him?

1 Chronicles 17:16

¶ And David the king came and sat before the LORD, and said, Who [am] I, O LORD God, and what [is] mine house, that thou hast brought me hitherto?

1 Samuel 18:18

And David said unto Saul, Who [am] I? and what [is] my life, [or] my father's family in Israel, that I should be son in law to the king?

Genesis 32:10

I am not worthy of the least of all the mercies, and of all the truth, which thou hast shewed unto thy servant; for with my staff I passed over this Jordan; and now I am become two bands.

Exodus 3:11

¶ And Moses said unto God, Who [am] I, that I should go unto Pharaoh, and that I should bring forth the children of Israel out of Egypt?

1 Samuel 15:17

And Samuel said, When thou [wast] little in thine own sight, [wast] thou not [made] the head of the tribes of Israel, and the LORD anointed thee king over Israel?

Judges 6:15

And he said unto him, Oh my Lord, wherewith shall I save Israel? behold, my family [is] poor in Manasseh, and I [am] the least in my father's house.