2 Samuel 8:13

KJV

And David gat [him] a name when he returned from smiting of the Syrians in the valley of salt, [being] eighteen thousand [men].

KJV (with Strong's)

And David {H1732} gat {H6213} him a name {H8034} when he returned {H7725} from smiting {H5221} of the Syrians {H758} in the valley {H1516} of salt {H4417}, being eighteen {H8083}{H6240} thousand {H505} men.

Complete Jewish Bible

David gained more fame on returning from killing 18,000 men from Aram in the Salt Valley.

Berean Standard Bible

And David made a name for himself when he returned from striking down eighteen thousand Edomites in the Valley of Salt.

American Standard Version

And David gat him a name when he returned from smiting the Syrians in the Valley of Salt, even eighteen thousand men.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
2 Samuel 8:13 encapsulates a defining moment in King David's reign, underscoring his divinely blessed military prowess and the subsequent renown he acquired. This verse specifically details a decisive victory over a formidable adversary, identified as the Edomites, in the strategically vital Valley of Salt. The conquest, which resulted in the defeat of eighteen thousand men, not only solidified David's reputation but also significantly expanded and secured the nascent Israelite kingdom, serving as a tangible testament to God's unwavering favor and faithfulness to His covenant promises.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** 2 Samuel 8 functions as a pivotal summary chapter within the narrative of David's reign, meticulously cataloging his extensive military triumphs and the subsequent consolidation of his kingdom. This chapter immediately follows the profound establishment of the [Davidic Covenant in 2 Samuel 7](/2_samuel/7 "2 Samuel 7 - The Davidic Covenant"), where God solemnly promises to establish David's house and kingdom eternally. Chapter 8, therefore, serves as the practical demonstration and initial fulfillment of these divine assurances, showcasing God's active preservation and success granted to David in his endeavors. Verse 13, in particular, highlights a significant victory that directly contributes to David's burgeoning fame and underscores the divine blessing promised earlier. The chapter then transitions to detail David's administrative structure and key officials, indicating that these military achievements laid the essential groundwork for a period of relative peace, internal organization, and the flourishing of the unified monarchy.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** David's reign (circa 1010-970 BC) marked a transformative era for Israel, characterized by significant territorial expansion, political centralization, and the establishment of Jerusalem as the capital. During this period, Israel faced constant threats from surrounding nations, including the Philistines, Moabites, Ammonites, Arameans (Syrians), and Edomites, all vying for regional dominance. The "Valley of Salt" is widely identified with the Arabah, the rift valley extending south from the Dead Sea, which was a critical strategic corridor. Control over this region was vital for securing trade routes to the Red Sea and asserting influence over Edom, a long-standing adversary descended from Esau. In the ancient Near East, a king's legitimacy, power, and the stability of his kingdom were inextricably linked to military success, which was often interpreted as a direct manifestation of divine favor. The cultural aspiration of "making a name" (Hebrew: _wayya'as lo shem_) was paramount for kings, signifying a lasting legacy, widespread prestige, and the enduring power of their dynasty.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully illustrates several foundational themes prevalent throughout 2 Samuel and the broader Deuteronomistic History. Foremost is the theme of **Divine Favor and Blessing**, as David's military successes are consistently presented not as mere human achievement but as direct evidence of God's presence and active preservation. This is explicitly stated elsewhere in the chapter, such as when "the LORD preserved David wherever he went" ([2 Samuel 8:6](/2_samuel/8-6 "2 Samuel 8:6 - The LORD Preserved David Wherever He Went") and [2 Samuel 8:14](/2_samuel/8-14 "2 Samuel 8:14 - The LORD Preserved David Wherever He Went")). The verse also highlights **David's Renown and Authority**, directly fulfilling God's promise to "make for you a great name" ([2 Samuel 7:9](/2_samuel/7-9 "2 Samuel 7:9 - God's Promise to Make David's Name Great")). Furthermore, it underscores the crucial theme of the **Consolidation of the Kingdom**. These decisive victories, particularly over a formidable foe like Edom, were indispensable for securing Israel's borders, establishing its regional dominance, and paving the way for the unified monarchy's golden age under David's rule.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **David (Hebrew, _Dâvid'_):** From the same root as _dôd_ (loving); David, the youngest son of Jesse. In this context, "David" refers to the anointed King of Israel, whose military triumphs and administrative successes are consistently attributed to God's favor and presence. His name here represents the divinely chosen leader through whom God's promises to Israel are being fulfilled.
* **gat him a name (Hebrew, _ʻâsâh shêm'_):** From _ʻâsâh_ (to do or make) and _shêm_ (an appellation, honor, authority, character). This idiomatic Hebrew phrase literally means "he made for himself a name," signifying the achievement of great fame, renown, or a lasting reputation. In the biblical context, it implies a significant accomplishment that brings widespread recognition and honor, often associated with divine blessing and the establishment of a powerful and enduring legacy for a king.
* **Valley of Salt (Hebrew, _gayʼ melach'_):** From _gayʼ_ (a gorge, valley) and _melach_ (salt). This geographical location is widely identified with the Arabah, the rift valley extending south from the Dead Sea. Its name, "Valley of Salt," likely refers to the high salinity of the region due to the proximity of the Dead Sea and salt deposits. This area was strategically important, controlling access to trade routes and serving as a natural boundary between Judah and Edom. A decisive victory here was crucial for asserting control over Edomite territory and securing Israel's southern flank.
* **smiting (Hebrew, _nâkâh'_):** A primitive root meaning "to strike (lightly or severely, literally or figuratively)." In this military context, "smiting" denotes a decisive, overwhelming defeat inflicted upon the enemy, often implying a comprehensive slaughter or rout. It emphasizes the totality of David's victory over his adversaries.
* **eighteen thousand (Hebrew, _shᵉmôneh ʻâsâr ʼeleph'_):** From _shᵉmôneh_ (eight), _ʻâsâr_ (ten), and _ʼeleph_ (thousand). This numerical designation specifies the scale of the military force defeated by David. Whether a precise count or a conventional representation of a vast multitude, it underscores the magnitude of the victory and the devastating blow dealt to the enemy.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And David gat [him] a name":** This opening clause immediately establishes the central outcome and theological significance of the military campaign: David's enhanced reputation and widespread renown. This "name" signifies not merely personal fame but the recognition of his divinely sanctioned authority and the established power of the Israelite kingdom under his rule. It implies that God was actively working through David to fulfill His promises to make his name great.
* **"when he returned from smiting of the Syrians":** This phrase identifies the specific context for David's increased fame – a significant military engagement. While the Masoretic Text (KJV's basis) reads "Syrians" (Hebrew: _'aram'_), scholarly consensus, supported by the parallel account in [1 Chronicles 18:12](/1_chronicles/18-12 "1 Chronicles 18:12 - Abishai's Victory Over Edom") and the superscription of [Psalm 60](/psalms/60 "Psalm 60 - Joab's Victory Over Edom"), indicates that the original or intended reading was "Edomites" (Hebrew: _'edom'_). This is a common scribal error due to the similar appearance of the Hebrew letters resh (ר) and dalet (ד). The victory over Edom was particularly important because Edom was a long-standing rival and a formidable power in the region. The phrase "smiting of" indicates a decisive and overwhelming defeat inflicted upon the enemy.
* **"in the valley of salt, [being] eighteen thousand [men].":** This final clause provides crucial details about the battle: its location and the scale of the victory. The "Valley of Salt" pinpoints the geographical area of the conflict, emphasizing its strategic importance as a gateway to Edomite territory. The number "eighteen thousand men" represents a substantial military force, indicating the magnitude of the victory and the devastating blow dealt to the Edomites. This figure, whether a precise historical count or a conventional representation of a vast multitude, underscores the completeness and decisiveness of David's triumph, further solidifying his control over the region.

#### Literary Devices
2 Samuel 8:13 employs several literary devices to convey its profound message. The phrase "David gat him a name" is a powerful example of **Metonymy**, where "name" stands in for David's entire reputation, authority, and lasting legacy as a divinely appointed king. The entire chapter, including this verse, functions as a **Summary Narrative**, providing a concise, high-level account of David's military achievements rather than a detailed battle narrative. This summarization effectively highlights the overall success and divine backing of David's reign, emphasizing outcomes over intricate processes. The number "eighteen thousand men" could be interpreted as **Hyperbole**, a common ancient Near Eastern literary technique used to emphasize the overwhelming nature of a victory and the sheer scale of the enemy's defeat, though it could also be a precise historical figure. Furthermore, the implicit connection between David's military success and God's prior promises in [2 Samuel 7](/2_samuel/7 "2 Samuel 7 - The Davidic Covenant") suggests a clear **Theological Interpretation of History**, where earthly events are presented as direct evidence of divine providence and the faithful fulfillment of God's word.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The victory described in 2 Samuel 8:13 transcends a mere military conquest; it is a profound theological statement about God's unwavering faithfulness to His covenant promises. David's "name" being "made" is not a result of his own strength or ambition alone, but a direct consequence of God's active presence, preservation, and empowerment. This decisive victory over a significant adversary like Edom, a descendant of Esau, also carries deep echoes of the ancient Jacob-Esau rivalry, suggesting a divine hand in the destiny of nations and the ultimate ascendancy of Israel. It powerfully demonstrates how God uses the earthly reign of His anointed king to secure His people, expand His kingdom, and establish a secure dwelling place for Israel, thereby laying essential groundwork for the future messianic hope. David's military success, therefore, serves as a tangible sign of God's blessing and His commitment to establishing a secure dwelling place for His chosen people.

* [2 Samuel 7:9](/2_samuel/7-9 "God's Promise to Make David's Name Great")
* [1 Chronicles 18:12](/1_chronicles/18-12 "Abishai's Victory Over Edom")
* [Psalm 60:1](/psalms/60 "Psalm 60 Superscription - Joab's Victory in the Valley of Salt")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
2 Samuel 8:13 offers a profound lens through which to view the nature of true honor, lasting impact, and divine partnership. David's "name" was not self-manufactured or earned through sheer human effort; rather, it was a byproduct of his faithful, courageous, and divinely empowered service. His widespread renown came as a gift from God's hand, demonstrating that genuine influence, a good reputation, and enduring legacy are ultimately gifts from above, graciously bestowed upon those who walk in obedience, humility, and trust in the Almighty. For believers today, this verse challenges us to critically examine what kind of "name" we are seeking to make in our lives. Are we driven by personal ambition, fleeting recognition, and worldly accolades, or are our lives authentically dedicated to honoring God's name, exalting His character, and advancing His kingdom? Our ultimate aim should be to live in such a way that God alone is glorified, recognizing that any success, recognition, or positive impact we have is a direct result of His grace working powerfully through us. When we prioritize God's will, seek His kingdom first, and faithfully steward the gifts He has given, He promises to establish our paths and, as it pleases Him, grant us a good name in His sight and in the eyes of others, reflecting His character and power to a watching world.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does David's "making a name" in this verse primarily reflect God's faithfulness and power, rather than merely David's military prowess or personal ambition?**
* **In what practical ways can believers today "make a name" that truly honors God and advances His kingdom, rather than seeking personal fame or worldly recognition?**
* **How do we reconcile the violent military victories of the Old Testament, such as the one described here, with New Testament principles of peace, love, and reconciliation?**

### FAQ
**Was this victory against Syrians or Edomites?**

Answer: While the King James Version of 2 Samuel 8:13 states "Syrians," the overwhelming scholarly consensus, supported by parallel biblical texts, indicates that this victory was over the Edomites. The parallel account in [1 Chronicles 18:12](/1_chronicles/18-12 "1 Chronicles 18:12 - Abishai's Victory Over Edom") explicitly attributes the victory to Abishai over the Edomites in the Valley of Salt. Furthermore, the superscription of [Psalm 60](/psalms/60 "Psalm 60 - Joab's Victory Over Edom") also references Joab's victory over Edom in the Valley of Salt. The discrepancy is widely believed to be a scribal error, as the Hebrew letters for "Syrians" (אֲרָם, _'aram_) and "Edomites" (אֱדוֹם, _'edom_) are very similar in appearance. The geographical context of the "Valley of Salt" (the Arabah, south of the Dead Sea) also strongly points to Edomite territory, making an Edomite victory far more plausible.

**What is the significance of the "Valley of Salt"?**

Answer: The "Valley of Salt" (גֵּיא מֶלַח, _ge' melach_) is generally identified with the Arabah, the southern extension of the Great Rift Valley, stretching south from the Dead Sea. This region was strategically vital for several reasons: it controlled access to important trade routes, including those to the Red Sea, and it served as a natural boundary and frequent point of contention between the kingdoms of Judah and Edom. Its name likely derives from the high concentration of salt and mineral deposits in the area, particularly near the Dead Sea. A decisive victory here, as described in 2 Samuel 8:13, would have been crucial for securing Israel's southern border, asserting dominance over the long-standing adversary, Edom, and potentially gaining control over valuable trade routes, thereby enhancing Israel's economic and geopolitical standing.

**What does "gat him a name" mean in this context?**

Answer: The phrase "gat him a name" (וַיַּעַשׂ לוֹ שֵׁם, _wayya'as lo shem_) is an idiomatic expression in Hebrew that translates to "he made for himself a name" or "he acquired renown." In the context of ancient kingship, this signified achieving great fame, prestige, and a lasting reputation. It implies a significant accomplishment that brings widespread recognition and honor, often associated with military victories, the expansion of territory, and the establishment of a powerful and enduring legacy for a king and his dynasty. For David, this "name" was not merely a result of his own efforts but was deeply intertwined with God's divine favor and the fulfillment of God's promise to make David's name great, as stated in [2 Samuel 7:9](/2_samuel/7-9 "2 Samuel 7:9 - God's Promise to Make David's Name Great"). It underscores his divinely appointed authority and the security and expansion of his kingdom under God's blessing.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The earthly renown and consolidated kingdom of David, exemplified by his "making a name" through military victory in 2 Samuel 8:13, powerfully foreshadow the ultimate and everlasting "name" and kingdom of Jesus Christ. David's temporary dominion over earthly adversaries points to Christ's eternal triumph over sin, death, and spiritual principalities. While David's fame was achieved through physical conquest and the defeat of human enemies, Jesus's name was "made" through His perfect obedience, His sacrificial death on the cross, and His glorious resurrection. The Apostle Paul declares that because of Christ's profound humility and obedience unto death, God "highly exalted him and bestowed on him the name that is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father" ([Philippians 2:9-11](/philippians/2-9 "Philippians 2:9-11 - The Exaltation of Christ")). David's victory secured a physical kingdom with temporal boundaries, but Christ's victory on the cross disarmed the spiritual powers and authorities, triumphing over them ([Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Colossians 2:15 - Christ's Triumph Over Spiritual Powers")), establishing an eternal, spiritual kingdom that knows no end. Ultimately, David's name and legacy, though great and divinely blessed, fade in comparison to the supreme Name of Jesus, through whom alone salvation is found, for "there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved" ([Acts 4:12](/acts/4-12 "Acts 4:12 - Salvation Through Jesus' Name")).

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

2 Kings 14:7

He slew of Edom in the valley of salt ten thousand, and took Selah by war, and called the name of it Joktheel unto this day.

2 Samuel 7:9

And I was with thee whithersoever thou wentest, and have cut off all thine enemies out of thy sight, and have made thee a great name, like unto the name of the great [men] that [are] in the earth.

1 Chronicles 18:12

Moreover Abishai the son of Zeruiah slew of the Edomites in the valley of salt eighteen thousand.

2 Chronicles 25:11

And Amaziah strengthened himself, and led forth his people, and went to the valley of salt, and smote of the children of Seir ten thousand.

Psalms 60:1

¶ To the chief Musician upon Shushaneduth, Michtam of David, to teach; when he strove with Aramnaharaim and with Aramzobah, when Joab returned, and smote of Edom in the valley of salt twelve thousand. O God, thou hast cast us off, thou hast scattered us, thou hast been displeased; O turn thyself to us again.