2 Samuel 1:18

(Also he bade them teach the children of Judah [the use of] the bow: behold, [it is] written in the book of Jasher.)

(Also he bade {H559} them teach {H3925} the children {H1121} of Judah {H3063} the use of the bow {H7198}: behold, it is written {H3789} in the book {H5612} of Jasher {H3477}.)

in order to teach the people of Y'hudah [not to underestimate] archery (the lament has been written down in the book of Yashar):

and he ordered that the sons of Judah be taught the Song of the Bow. It is written in the Book of Jashar:

(and he bade them teach the children of Judah the song of the bow: behold, it is written in the book of Jashar):

Commentary

Context of 2 Samuel 1:18

This verse is a parenthetical note within David's profound lament, often called the "Song of the Bow," mourning the tragic deaths of King Saul and his son Jonathan on Mount Gilboa (2 Samuel 1:17). The lament itself highlights Jonathan's skill with the bow (implied in 2 Samuel 1:22), making David's subsequent instruction about teaching the bow significant. This instruction underscores David's immediate concern for the military readiness of his people, even in the midst of deep personal grief and national mourning.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Military Preparedness: David, as the emerging leader of Israel, understood the vital importance of military skill for the nation's defense and survival. His directive to teach the use of the bow to the "children of Judah" demonstrates his practical leadership and foresight, ensuring his own tribe, and by extension, the nation, was well-equipped for future challenges.
  • Honoring a Legacy: The "Song of the Bow" is a tribute to Saul and Jonathan. By emphasizing the bow, David likely honored Jonathan's renowned archery skills, ensuring his memory and the weapon he mastered would be perpetuated among the next generation.
  • Historical Documentation: The reference to the "book of Jasher" indicates that ancient Israel had various written records, some of which were recognized as authoritative or historically significant enough to be cited within the biblical narrative. This highlights the rich literary tradition of the time.

Linguistic Insights

The "book of Jasher" (Hebrew: Sefer HaYashar) literally means "Book of the Upright" or "Book of the Just One." It was evidently a collection of national poems or historical records, possibly celebrating heroes or significant events, recognized in ancient Israel. This book is also mentioned in Joshua 10:13 concerning the sun standing still.

Practical Application

From this brief verse, we can glean several enduring lessons:

  • Leadership Responsibility: Good leaders, even in times of transition or sorrow, prioritize the practical needs and well-being of their people. David's immediate focus on equipping the next generation with essential skills is a testament to his leadership qualities.
  • Learning from the Past: By connecting the military training to the "Song of the Bow" and the "book of Jasher," David implicitly encouraged learning from past heroes and historical events to prepare for the future.
  • Skill and Preparedness: The emphasis on mastering a crucial skill like archery reminds us of the importance of diligent training and preparedness in all areas of life, whether physical, mental, or spiritual. As Psalm 18:34 states, God trains our hands for battle, implying a divine partnership in developing our capabilities.
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Cross-References

  • Joshua 10:13 (5 votes)

    And the sun stood still, and the moon stayed, until the people had avenged themselves upon their enemies. [Is] not this written in the book of Jasher? So the sun stood still in the midst of heaven, and hasted not to go down about a whole day.

  • Genesis 49:8 (2 votes)

    ¶ Judah, thou [art he] whom thy brethren shall praise: thy hand [shall be] in the neck of thine enemies; thy father's children shall bow down before thee.

  • Deuteronomy 4:10 (2 votes)

    [Specially] the day that thou stoodest before the LORD thy God in Horeb, when the LORD said unto me, Gather me the people together, and I will make them hear my words, that they may learn to fear me all the days that they shall live upon the earth, and [that] they may teach their children.