TRV
Translation
King James Version
And when the Syrians of Damascus came to succour Hadadezer king of Zobah, David slew of the Syrians two and twenty thousand men.
Complete Jewish Bible
When people of Aram from Dammesek came to the aid of Hadad'ezer king of Tzovah, David killed 22,000 men of Aram.
Berean Standard Bible
When the Arameans of Damascus came to help King Hadadezer of Zobah, David struck down twenty-two thousand men.
American Standard Version
And when the Syrians of Damascus came to succor Hadadezer king of Zobah, David smote of the Syrians two and twenty thousand men.
World English Bible Messianic
When the Syrians of Damascus came to help Hadadezer king of Zobah, David struck of the Syrians two and twenty thousand men.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Then came the Aramites of Dammesek to succour Hadadezer king of Zobah, but Dauid slewe of the Aramites two and twenty thousande men.
Young's Literal Translation
And Aram of Damascus cometh to give help to Hadadezer king of Zobah, and David smiteth of Aram twenty and two thousand men;
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In the KJVVerse 8,215 of 31,102
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Commentary on 2 Samuel 8 verses 1–8
1 ¶ And after this it came to pass, that David smote the Philistines, and subdued them: and David took Methegammah out of the hand of the Philistines.
2 And he smote Moab, and measured them with a line, casting them down to the ground; even with two lines measured he to put to death, and with one full line to keep alive. And so the Moabites became David's servants, and brought gifts.
3 David smote also Hadadezer, the son of Rehob, king of Zobah, as he went to recover his border at the river Euphrates.
4 And David took from him a thousand chariots, and seven hundred horsemen, and twenty thousand footmen: and David houghed all the chariot horses, but reserved of them for an hundred chariots.
5 And when the Syrians of Damascus came to succour Hadadezer king of Zobah, David slew of the Syrians two and twenty thousand men.
6 Then David put garrisons in Syria of Damascus: and the Syrians became servants to David, and brought gifts. And the LORD preserved David whithersoever he went.
7 And David took the shields of gold that were on the servants of Hadadezer, and brought them to Jerusalem.
8 And from Betah, and from Berothai, cities of Hadadezer, king David took exceeding much brass.
God had given David rest from all his enemies that opposed him and made head against him; and he having made a good use of that rest, has now commission given him to make war upon them, and to act offensively for the avenging of Israel's quarrels and the recovery of their rights; for as yet they were not in full possession of that country to which by the promise of God they were entitled.
I. He quite subdued the Philistines, Sa2 8:1. They had attacked him when they thought him weak (Sa2 5:17), and went by the worst then; but, when he found himself strong, he attacked them, and made himself master of their country. They had long been vexatious and oppressive to Israel. Saul got no ground against them; but David completed Israel's deliverance out of their hands, which Samson had begun long before, Jdg 13:5. Metheg-ammah was Gath (the chief and royal city of the Philistines) and the towns belonging to it, among which there was a constant garrison kept by the Philistines on the hill Ammah (Sa2 2:24), which was Metheg, a bridle (so it signifies) or curb upon the people of Israel; this David took out of their hand and used it as a curb upon them. Thus, when the strong man is disarmed, the armour wherein he trusted is taken from him, and used against him, Luk 11:22. And after the long and frequent struggles which the saints have had with the powers of darkness, like Israel with the Philistines, the Son of David shall tread them all under their feet and make the saints more than conquerors.
II. He smote the Moabites, and made them tributaries to Israel, Sa2 8:2. He divided the country into three parts, two of which he destroyed, casting down the strong-holds, and putting all to the sword; the third part he spared, to till the ground and be servants to Israel. Dr. Lightfoot says, "He laid them on the ground and measured them with a cord, who should be slain and who should live;" and this is called meting out the valley of Succoth, Psa 60:6. The Jews say he used this severity with the Moabites because they had slain his parents and brethren, whom he put under the protection of the king of Moab during his exile, Sa1 22:3, Sa1 22:4. He did it in justice, because they had been dangerous enemies to the Israel of God; and in policy, because, if left in their strength, they still would have been so. But observe, Though it was necessary that two-thirds should be cut off, yet the line that was to keep alive, though it was but one, is ordered to be a full line. Be sure to give that length enough; let the line of mercy be stretched to the utmost in favorem vitae - so as to favour life. Acts of indemnity must be construed so as to enlarge the favour. Now Balaam's prophecy was fulfilled, A sceptre shall arise out of Israel, and shall smite the corners of Moab, to the utmost of which the fatal line extended, Num 24:17. The Moabites continued tributaries to Israel till after the death of Ahab, Kg2 3:4, Kg2 3:5. Then they rebelled and were never reduced.
III. He smote the Syrians or Aramites. Of them there were two distinct kingdoms, as we find them spoken of in the title of the 60th Psalm: Aram Naharaim, - Syria of the rivers, whose head city was Damascus (famed for its rivers, Kg2 5:12), and Aram Zobah, which joined to it, but extended to Euphrates. These were the two northern crowns. 1. David began with the Syrians of Zobah, Sa2 8:3, Sa2 8:4. As he went to settle his border at the river Euphrates (for so far the land conveyed by the divine grant to Abraham and his seed did extend, Gen 15:18), the king of Zobah opposed him, being himself possessed of those countries which belonged to Israel; but David routed his forces, and took his chariots and horsemen. The horsemen are here said to be 700, but Ch1 18:4 they are said to be 7000. If they divided their horse by ten in a company, as it is probable they did, the captains and companies were 700, but the horsemen were 7000. David houghed the horses, cut the sinews of their hams, and so lamed them, and made them unserviceable, at least in war, God having forbidden them to multiply horses, Deu 17:16. David reserved only 100 chariots out of 1000 for his own use: for he placed his strength not in chariots nor horses, but in the living God (Psa 20:7), and wrote it from his own observation that a horse is a vain thing for safety, Psa 33:16, Psa 33:17. 2. The Syrians of Damascus coming in to the relief of the king of Zobah fell with him. 22,000 were slain in the field, Sa2 8:5. So that it was easy for David to make himself master of the country, and garrison it for himself, Sa2 8:6. The enemies of God's church, that think to secure themselves, will prove, in the end, to ruin themselves, by their confederacies with each other. Associate yourselves, and you shall be broken in pieces, Isa 8:9.
IV. In all these wars, 1. David was protected: The Lord preserved him whithersoever he went. It seems, he went in person, and, in the cause of God and Israel, jeoparded his own life in the high places of the field; but God covered his head in the day of battle, which he often speaks of, in his psalms, to the glory of God. 2. He was enriched. He took the shields of gold which the servants of Hadadezer had in their custody (Sa2 8:7) and much brass from several cities of Syria (Sa2 8:8), which he was entitled to, not only jure belli - by the uncontrollable right of the longest sword ("Get it, and take it"); but by commission from heaven, and the ancient entail of these countries on the seed of Abraham.
Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers verses 1–8. Public domain.
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JeromeAD 420
HOMILIES ON THE PSALMS, ALTERNATE SERIES 61 (PS 15)
In the second book of Kings [Samuel], where David defeated the Moabites, Scripture records the measuring out of two separate lines for life and two for death. The significance of setting aside some Moabites for life and others for death is made clear by the story of Orpah and Ruth. Orpah, who turned back to idolatry and her ancient country, was destined for death; Ruth, following her mother-in-law, whose name means “pleasant,” says, “Your people shall be my people, and your God my God.”
CassiodorusAD 585
EXPOSITION OF THE PSALMS 59.1-2
The history of the Kings [Samuel] recounts that David won these victories after he succeeded Saul in the kingship, and it seems inappropriate to introduce them into our ordered arrangement here since they are known to be recounted extensively there. But we must realize that these wars are a description in figure of the Lord Savior’s victories which he wins throughout the whole world over pagans and the faithless. It is their words which this psalm will utter, so that when truly dislodged from their old superstition they may deserve to be changed through the grace of the new man.
Source: Quotations drawn from early Church Fathers and historical Christian theologians (AD 100–1500). Some quotes address the surrounding passage context rather than this verse alone.
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SUMMARY
2 Samuel 8:5 details a pivotal moment in King David's consolidation of power, recounting his decisive victory over the Syrians of Damascus who intervened to assist Hadadezer, king of Zobah. This verse highlights the immense scale of David's military prowess and the devastating defeat inflicted upon a formidable regional power, securing Israel's borders and demonstrating God's active hand in establishing David's kingdom.
CONTEXT
Literary Context: This verse is situated within 2 Samuel 8, a chapter that serves as a concise summary of David's major military conquests and the establishment of his kingdom's dominance over surrounding nations. Following his anointing as king over all Israel and the capture of Jerusalem, David embarks on a series of campaigns that fulfill God's promises of land and security. The narrative flow of 2 Samuel 8:3-4 describes David's initial engagement with Hadadezer, king of Zobah, a powerful Aramean kingdom. Verse 5 then immediately follows, detailing the intervention of the Damascene Syrians, who came to Hadadezer's aid, and their subsequent overwhelming defeat at David's hands. This sequence underscores the comprehensive nature of David's victories, often attributed to God's direct assistance, as explicitly stated in 2 Samuel 8:6.
Historical & Cultural Context: The ancient Near East was a complex tapestry of competing city-states and kingdoms, where military strength and strategic alliances dictated regional influence. Zobah, led by Hadadezer, was a significant Aramean (Syrian) kingdom located northeast of Israel, controlling important trade routes. Damascus was another powerful Aramean city-state, and its decision to "succour" (aid) Hadadezer indicates a regional alliance formed to counter David's burgeoning power. David's victories, including this one, were not merely territorial expansions but crucial steps in securing Israel's vulnerable borders and establishing its hegemony, particularly over the lucrative trade routes that traversed the region. The defeat of 22,000 men from Damascus was a crushing blow to a major regional player, solidifying Israel's position as a dominant force in the Levant.
Key Themes: This verse, within the broader context of 2 Samuel 8, contributes significantly to several key themes. Firstly, it powerfully illustrates Divine Empowerment and God's faithfulness to His covenant promises. While David's military skill is evident, the overarching narrative of 2 Samuel consistently attributes his victories to the LORD's presence and help, as seen in 2 Samuel 8:6. Secondly, it highlights David's Dominance and the Consolidation of the Israelite Kingdom. The crushing defeat of such a large and formidable force from Damascus cemented David's military supremacy and established Israel as a major regional power. Finally, these conquests, including the defeat of the Syrians, represent a significant step towards the Fulfillment of Prophecy, particularly the land promises made to Abraham in Genesis 15:18, envisioning Israel's territory extending to the Euphrates River.
EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Key Word Analysis
Verse Breakdown
Literary Devices
The verse employs Narrative Economy, presenting a significant military engagement and its outcome in a remarkably concise manner. This brevity emphasizes the decisiveness of David's victory without dwelling on battle details, focusing instead on the impact and God's overarching plan. There is also an implied Divine Agency, as the broader context of 2 Samuel 8 consistently attributes David's successes to the LORD's help, suggesting that this overwhelming victory was not merely David's military genius but God's enabling power. The sheer number of casualties, "two and twenty thousand men," functions as a form of Hyperbole (common in ancient Near Eastern military reports to convey overwhelming victory) or at least Emphasis, underscoring the magnitude of the defeat and the complete subjugation of the Damascene forces.
THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse, though concise, is rich with theological implications. It powerfully illustrates God's active involvement in the affairs of nations and His faithfulness to His covenant promises. David's victory over the combined forces of Zobah and Damascus is not merely a testament to his military skill but a demonstration of God fighting for His chosen king and His people. It underscores the futility of opposing God's divine plan and His anointed, as those who rose against David ultimately faced devastating consequences. This victory was instrumental in establishing the security and preeminence of Israel, laying the groundwork for the Davidic dynasty through which the Messiah would ultimately come.
REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
David's overwhelming victory over a formidable alliance, explicitly attributed to God's enabling power throughout 2 Samuel 8, offers profound lessons for believers today. Just as God "succoured" David (by empowering him to defeat those who came to "succour" his enemies), He is present and active in our lives, empowering us to face seemingly insurmountable challenges. This passage reminds us that our spiritual battles, and indeed many of life's practical struggles, are not fought in our own strength. When we align our will with God's purposes, we can trust in His sovereign power to overcome obstacles that appear overwhelming. David's perseverance and ultimate triumph, despite formidable opposition, encourage us to maintain faith and courage, knowing that God's purposes will ultimately prevail, even when faced with strong resistance.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
What was the significance of Zobah and Damascus in David's time?
Answer: Zobah and Damascus were two of the most powerful and strategically important Aramean (Syrian) kingdoms in the ancient Near East during David's reign. Zobah, under King Hadadezer, controlled significant territory and likely important trade routes, making it a major regional rival to Israel. Damascus, a prominent city-state, was also a formidable power, and its intervention to "succour" Hadadezer highlights the perceived threat of David's expansion and the importance of their alliance. David's decisive victories over both, as detailed in 2 Samuel 8:3-6, were crucial for securing Israel's northern and eastern borders, controlling vital trade routes, and establishing Israel's regional dominance, fulfilling the promises of land expansion made to Abraham. The establishment of garrisons in Damascus (2 Samuel 8:6) further solidified Israel's control over this key region.
CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The victories of King David, including the decisive defeat of the Damascene Syrians in 2 Samuel 8:5, serve as powerful foreshadowings of the ultimate triumph of Jesus Christ. David, as God's anointed king, brought a measure of peace and security to Israel by subjugating its enemies, establishing a physical kingdom. This earthly reign points to the spiritual and eternal kingdom of Christ. While David's victories were achieved through physical warfare, Christ's ultimate victory was spiritual, a triumph over the far greater enemies of sin, death, and the devil through His sacrificial death and resurrection (Colossians 2:15). Just as David secured Israel's borders, Christ secures the eternal salvation and spiritual peace for all who believe in Him (John 14:27). The "rest" David brought to his kingdom, though temporary, points to the eternal rest and peace found in Christ, the true King of Kings (Revelation 19:16). David's conquests expanded the physical boundaries of Israel; Christ's spiritual kingdom expands globally, encompassing people from every tribe and nation, not by force of arms, but by the power of the Gospel (Matthew 28:18-20).