2 Samuel 8:6

KJV

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.

KJV (with Strong's)

Then David {H1732} put {H7760} garrisons {H5333} in Syria {H758} of Damascus {H1834}: and the Syrians {H758} became servants {H5650} to David {H1732}, and brought {H5375} gifts {H4503}. And the LORD {H3068} preserved {H3467} David {H1732} whithersoever he went {H1980}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Then David put garrisons among the people of Aram in Dammesek; Aram became subject to David and paid tribute. ADONAI gave victory to David wherever he went.

Berean Standard Bible

Then he placed garrisons in Aram of Damascus, and the Arameans became subject to David and brought him tribute. So the LORD made David victorious wherever he went.

American Standard Version

Then David put garrisons in Syria of Damascus; and the Syrians became servants to David, and brought tribute. And Jehovah gave victory to David whithersoever he went.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
2 Samuel 8:6 provides a concise yet profound account of King David's strategic military expansion into the Aramean territory of Damascus, solidifying Israel's dominance over a critical regional power. This verse details the immediate and practical outcomes of David's victory—the establishment of military garrisons, the subjugation of the Syrians as tributary servants, and their mandated payment of gifts—culminating in a powerful theological declaration that the Lord's active preservation and protection were the ultimate source of David's success in all his endeavors.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is strategically placed within 2 Samuel 8, a pivotal chapter that meticulously chronicles David's extensive military campaigns and the subsequent consolidation of his kingdom's power. This period follows David's secure establishment on the throne in Jerusalem and, more significantly, the foundational Davidic Covenant articulated in [2 Samuel 7](/2_samuel/7 "2 Samuel 7 - The Davidic Covenant"). Chapter 8 systematically recounts David's decisive victories over surrounding nations, beginning with the Philistines ([2 Samuel 8:1](/2_samuel/8-1 "2 Samuel 8:1 - David Conquers Philistia")), followed by Moab ([2 Samuel 8:2](/2_samuel/8-2 "2 Samuel 8:2 - David Conquers Moab")), and then the formidable Aramean kingdom of Zobah under King Hadadezer ([2 Samuel 8:3-5](/2_samuel/8-3 "2 Samuel 8:3-5 - David Defeats Hadadezer of Zobah")). The subjugation of Damascus, as described in this verse, immediately follows Hadadezer's defeat, suggesting that Damascus was either a key ally of Zobah or a strategically vital city that fell under David's control as a direct consequence of his victory over Zobah, thereby securing Israel's northern border and control over crucial trade routes. The recurring refrain, "And the LORD preserved David whithersoever he went," serves as a powerful theological bookend to each major victory recounted in the chapter, consistently underscoring the divine agency behind David's triumphs.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The setting of 2 Samuel 8:6 is the Ancient Near East (ANE) during the early Iron Age, an era characterized by dynamic geopolitical shifts, frequent inter-state warfare, and the rise and fall of regional empires. Damascus, located in modern-day Syria, held immense strategic importance due to its prime position on major trade routes that interconnected Mesopotamia, Anatolia, and Egypt. Control over Damascus thus conferred significant economic advantages and military leverage. The practice of "putting garrisons" was a standard military strategy employed by conquering powers to maintain control over subjugated territories, ensuring loyalty, suppressing potential rebellions, and facilitating the efficient collection of tribute. The term "servants" (Hebrew: _ʻebed_, plural _ʻavadim_) in this international context does not imply chattel slavery but rather denotes a vassal relationship, where the conquered people retained some internal governance but were rendered subservient to David's authority. This subjugation obligated them to provide labor, resources, or military support, and, critically, to "bring gifts" (Hebrew: _minchah_), which were mandatory tribute payments rather than voluntary offerings. This system was a fundamental aspect of empire building and maintenance in the ANE.

* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes present in 2 Samuel and the broader Deuteronomistic History. Foremost is the theme of **Divine Preservation and Sovereignty**, explicitly declared in the concluding clause. David's military successes are not merely attributed to his strategic brilliance or the might of his army, but directly to God's active presence and unwavering protection. This fulfills the promise made to David in [2 Samuel 7:9](/2_samuel/7-9 "2 Samuel 7:9 - God's Promise to Be With David"), "I will be with you wherever you go," emphasizing God's absolute faithfulness to His covenant with David. Another significant theme is the **Expansion and Consolidation of David's Kingdom**, portraying Israel's meteoric rise to regional hegemony. David's extensive conquests, including the subjugation of Damascus, represent the zenith of the united monarchy's power, bringing vast territories under Israel's influence and beginning to fulfill the ancient Abrahamic promise of land stretching "from the river of Egypt unto the great river, the river Euphrates" ([Genesis 15:18](/genesis/15-18 "Genesis 15:18 - The Promise of the Land to Abraham")). Finally, the theme of **Tribute and Submission** highlights the establishment of David's suzerainty, where conquered nations acknowledged Israel's dominance through regular payments and subservience, significantly contributing to the wealth and security of David's burgeoning empire.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **garrisons (Hebrew, _nᵉtsîyb'_):** This term (H5333) refers to something stationary, specifically a military post, a prefect, or standing troops stationed in a conquered territory. David's action of placing `nᵉtsîyb` in Syria of Damascus signifies a complete and enduring military occupation, ensuring the city's subjugation and preventing rebellion. It demonstrates a strategic move to secure control over a vital area, establishing a permanent presence rather than merely conducting a raid.
* **servants (Hebrew, _ʻebed'_):** While literally meaning "slave" or "servant" (H5650), in the context of international relations, _ʻebed_ often denotes a people or nation that has become a vassal or subject to a more powerful king. The Syrians becoming "servants to David" indicates their loss of independent sovereignty and their forced submission to David's rule, obligating them to provide tribute and labor as demanded by their new suzerain.
* **preserved (Hebrew, _yâshaʻ'_):** This primitive root (H3467) means "to be open, wide or free," and by implication, "to be safe." Causatively, it means "to free or succor," "to save," "to deliver," or "to grant victory." Its use here is profoundly theological, attributing David's widespread success, military triumphs, and personal safety directly to divine intervention and protection. It implies that David's victories were not merely a result of human military prowess but were divinely sanctioned and actively aided by the Lord, who ensured his safety and the triumph of his mission wherever he went.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Then David put garrisons in Syria of Damascus":** This initial clause describes David's decisive military action and its immediate consequence. Following his victory over Hadadezer, David extended his control to Damascus, a significant Aramean city-state. The establishment of "garrisons" indicates a permanent military presence, signifying conquest and occupation rather than merely a temporary raid. This strategic move secured a crucial economic and military hub for David's rapidly expanding kingdom, controlling vital trade routes.
* **"and the Syrians became servants to David, [and] brought gifts.":** This part details the political and economic outcome of David's military subjugation. The Syrians, having been conquered, were reduced to a vassal state. Their status as "servants" (vassals) meant they were no longer independent but directly subject to David's authority. The "gifts" they brought were not voluntary offerings but mandatory tribute payments (_minchah_), a common and expected practice in the Ancient Near East to signify submission and acknowledge the suzerainty of the conquering king, thereby enriching and strengthening David's empire.
* **"And the LORD preserved David whithersoever he went.":** This concluding clause serves as the profound theological anchor of the verse and, indeed, the entire chapter. It deliberately shifts the focus from human military accomplishment to divine agency. It explicitly states that David's widespread success, his numerous military victories, and his personal safety were not due to chance, human ingenuity, or solely his own abilities, but were a direct result of God's active preservation, protection, and provision. This phrase powerfully underscores God's unwavering faithfulness to His covenant promises to David, affirming that his reign was divinely ordained, sustained, and ultimately successful because of the Lord's constant presence and power.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several significant literary devices that enrich its meaning and underscore its theological message. **Attribution** is central, as the text directly attributes David's comprehensive success not merely to his own military genius or strategic prowess, but explicitly to the Lord's preservation. This is a profound theological statement that frames all of David's achievements within the context of divine sovereignty and active involvement. The verse also functions as a form of **Summary** or **Telescoping**, concisely encapsulating a significant military campaign and its far-reaching outcome, likely representing a series of events and strategic maneuvers rather than a single isolated moment. Furthermore, the concluding phrase, "And the LORD preserved David whithersoever he went," acts as a powerful **Refrain** or **Theological Leitmotif** that is repeated throughout 2 Samuel 8 (e.g., [2 Samuel 8:14](/2_samuel/8-14 "2 Samuel 8:14 - The Lord Preserved David")), emphasizing the consistent and overarching theme of God's active hand in David's life and reign. This repetition reinforces the divine guarantee and backing behind David's kingdom. Finally, there is a clear **Cause and Effect** relationship presented: David's actions (putting garrisons) directly lead to the Syrians' subjugation (becoming servants and bringing gifts), but the ultimate and foundational cause of David's *ability* to act effectively and achieve such widespread victory is God's continuous and faithful preservation.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
2 Samuel 8:6 profoundly illustrates the theological principle of divine sovereignty working in tandem with human agency. David's military might and strategic acumen were undeniable, yet the biblical narrative consistently attributes his extraordinary success and the stability of his kingdom to the Lord's active preservation. This highlights God's unwavering faithfulness to His covenant promises, particularly the Davidic Covenant established in [2 Samuel 7](/2_samuel/7 "2 Samuel 7 - The Davidic Covenant"), where God pledges to be with David, establish his house, and secure his kingdom forever. David's conquests were not merely acts of imperial ambition but were divinely sanctioned steps in establishing the kingdom of God on earth through His chosen king. This divine backing underscores that true power and lasting success flow from God's favor and active involvement, shaping history according to His redemptive purposes and demonstrating His control over the rise and fall of nations.

* [2 Samuel 7:9](/2_samuel/7-9 "2 Samuel 7:9 - God's Promise to Be With David")
* [Deuteronomy 28:7](/deuteronomy/28-7 "Deuteronomy 28:7 - God's Promise of Victory Over Enemies")
* [Psalm 18:32-34](/psalms/18-32 "Psalm 18:32-34 - God Equips David for Battle")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The profound truth that "the LORD preserved David whithersoever he went" offers immense encouragement and provides a vital framework for understanding success, security, and purpose in the life of a believer today. Just as David's remarkable victories and personal safety were ultimately dependent on God's active hand, so too are our efforts, our aspirations, and indeed our very lives sustained by divine providence. This verse calls us to cultivate a deep and abiding reliance on God, recognizing that while we are called to act with diligence, wisdom, and courage in our spheres of influence, true and lasting success, peace, and protection are ultimately gifts from Him. It challenges us to move beyond a purely human-centric view of achievement, fostering a posture of humility that attributes blessings, breakthroughs, and even resilience in adversity to God's grace rather than solely to our own abilities, meticulous planning, or favorable circumstances. In moments of triumph, it reminds us to give God the glory; in times of trial, it assures us of His unwavering presence and preserving power, enabling us to face challenges with courage and faith, knowing that our ultimate security and the fulfillment of our purpose rest securely in Him alone.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does recognizing God's preservation in David's life impact your view of your own challenges, successes, and perceived failures?**
* **In what specific areas of your life do you need to actively trust in the Lord's preservation and guidance, rather than relying solely on your own strength, control, or detailed planning?**
* **How can we more consistently attribute our achievements, blessings, and even our very breath to God's grace, as David did, rather than solely to our own efforts, talents, or external factors?**

### FAQ
**What does "put garrisons" mean in this context?**

Answer: In the context of 2 Samuel 8:6, "David put garrisons in Syria of Damascus" means that David established military outposts or stationed permanent troops in the conquered territory of Damascus. This was a common and essential practice in the Ancient Near East for victorious kings to solidify their control over newly acquired lands. It served to ensure the subjugation of the local population, suppress any potential rebellions, and facilitate the efficient collection of tribute, thereby effectively integrating Damascus into David's expanding sphere of influence and securing vital trade routes.

**How did the Syrians become "servants" and "brought gifts"?**

Answer: The Syrians became "servants" in the sense that they were reduced to a vassal state, no longer independent but directly subject to King David's authority. This was a direct and immediate consequence of David's military victory and subsequent occupation. The "gifts" they brought were not voluntary offerings or gestures of goodwill but rather mandatory tribute payments, often consisting of valuable goods, resources, or even forced labor. This tribute (Hebrew: _minchah_) was a tangible and legally binding sign of their submission and acknowledgment of David's suzerainty, a standard practice in the ANE for conquered peoples to contribute to the wealth, power, and security of the conquering empire.

**Is "preserved" only about physical safety in this verse?**

Answer: While "preserved" certainly encompasses David's physical safety and military success on the battlefield, its meaning in 2 Samuel 8:6 is much broader and deeply theological. The Hebrew word _yâshaʻ_ (from which _vayyoshaʻ_ is derived) means "to save," "to deliver," "to grant victory," or "to keep safe." Here, it signifies God's active and continuous intervention to ensure David's overall well-being, the success of his military campaigns, the stability and longevity of his reign, and the ultimate fulfillment of the covenant promises made to him in [2 Samuel 7](/2_samuel/7 "2 Samuel 7 - The Davidic Covenant"). It encompasses divine favor, strategic guidance, and the ultimate triumph of God's purposes through David, extending far beyond mere physical protection to the flourishing and establishment of his divinely ordained kingdom.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
2 Samuel 8:6, with its powerful declaration that "the LORD preserved David whithersoever he went," finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. David's earthly kingdom, established through conquest and sustained by divine preservation, serves as a significant type and foreshadowing of the eternal and spiritual kingdom of God inaugurated by Christ. David, as a conquering king who brought nations under his dominion and secured peace for his people, serves as a clear precursor to Christ, the true King who defeats the ultimate enemies of sin, death, and the devil. While David's preservation was for the establishment of a physical, albeit temporary, kingdom, Christ's preservation of His people is spiritual, eternal, and universal, guaranteeing their salvation, security, and ultimate triumph in His everlasting reign. The Davidic Covenant, which promised an enduring dynasty and an eternal throne ([2 Samuel 7:12-16](/2_samuel/7-12-16 "2 Samuel 7:12-16 - God's Covenant with David")), finds its consummate heir in Jesus, the promised [Son of David](/matthew/1-1 "Matthew 1:1 - Jesus, Son of David"), whose kingdom will indeed have no end ([Luke 1:32-33](/luke/1-32-33 "Luke 1:32-33 - Jesus' Eternal Kingdom")). Just as God was faithfully with David in all his ways, ensuring his success, so too is Christ eternally with His church, preserving them from spiritual harm, empowering them for mission, and ensuring the ultimate triumph of His gospel throughout the world ([Matthew 28:18-20](/matthew/28-18-20 "Matthew 28:18-20 - The Great Commission and Jesus' Presence")). The tribute brought to David by conquered nations prefigures the willing worship and universal submission of all peoples to Christ, who is Lord of all and to whom every knee shall bow and every tongue confess ([Philippians 2:9-11](/philippians/2-9-11 "Philippians 2:9-11 - Every Knee Shall Bow to Jesus")). Though His kingdom is not of this world in its origin and nature ([John 18:36](/john/18-36 "John 18:36 - Jesus' Kingdom Not of This World")), it will ultimately encompass all things, as the kingdoms of this world become the kingdom of our Lord and of His Christ ([Revelation 11:15](/revelation/11-15 "Revelation 11:15 - The Kingdom of the World Has Become the Kingdom of Our Lord")).

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 Samuel 8:14

And he put garrisons in Edom; throughout all Edom put he garrisons, and all they of Edom became David's servants. And the LORD preserved David whithersoever he went.

Psalms 140:7

O GOD the Lord, the strength of my salvation, thou hast covered my head in the day of battle.

Psalms 144:1

¶ [A Psalm] of David. Blessed [be] the LORD my strength, which teacheth my hands to war, [and] my fingers to fight:

Psalms 144:2

My goodness, and my fortress; my high tower, and my deliverer; my shield, and [he] in whom I trust; who subdueth my people under me.

2 Chronicles 17:2

And he placed forces in all the fenced cities of Judah, and set garrisons in the land of Judah, and in the cities of Ephraim, which Asa his father had taken.

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.

Psalms 18:34

He teacheth my hands to war, so that a bow of steel is broken by mine arms.