2 Samuel 18:4

And the king said unto them, What seemeth you best I will do. And the king stood by the gate side, and all the people came out by hundreds and by thousands.

And the king {H4428} said {H559} unto them, What seemeth {H5869} you best {H3190} I will do {H6213}. And the king {H4428} stood {H5975} by the gate {H8179} side {H3027}, and all the people {H5971} came out {H3318} by hundreds {H3967} and by thousands {H505}.

The king answered them, "I will do whatever you think best." So the king stood at the side of the gate, while all the people went out by hundreds and by thousands.

“I will do whatever seems best to you,” the king replied. So he stood beside the gate, while all the troops marched out by hundreds and by thousands.

And the king said unto them, What seemeth you best I will do. And the king stood by the gate-side, and all the people went out by hundreds and by thousands.

Commentary

2 Samuel 18:4 captures a pivotal moment in King David's leadership during the intense period of Absalom's rebellion. This verse demonstrates David's wisdom in heeding counsel and the unwavering loyalty of his people.

Context

Leading up to this verse, David had gathered his forces to confront Absalom's army. David initially intended to go out to battle with his men (2 Samuel 18:2), but his commanders and loyal subjects strongly advised against it. They argued that his life was too valuable and that he should remain in the city as a strategic reserve, emphasizing that he was worth "ten thousand of us" (2 Samuel 18:3). Verse 4 shows David's acceptance of their wise counsel, a testament to his humility and trust in his experienced leaders during a critical time of national crisis.

Key Themes

  • Wise Leadership: David's willingness to listen to and adopt the advice of his subordinates, even when it contradicted his initial desire, highlights a crucial aspect of effective leadership. It shows humility and trust in collective wisdom, a theme often echoed in scripture regarding the value of wise counsel.
  • Loyalty of the People: The sight of "hundreds and by thousands" marching out signifies the immense support and loyalty David still commanded, despite Absalom's widespread rebellion. This demonstrates the enduring bond between the king and his faithful subjects.
  • Significance of the City Gate: David's presence "by the gate side" is highly symbolic. The city gate in ancient Israel was not just an entrance; it was the hub of public life, legal proceedings, business transactions, and military mustering. His standing there affirmed his position as king, overseeing the deployment of his forces and personally witnessing their readiness.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "What seemeth you best I will do" reflects David's deference to the judgment of his military leaders. While not a specific Hebrew idiom, it conveys a profound sense of trust and shared responsibility, indicating that David was not an autocratic ruler but one who valued the input of his trusted advisors.

Practical Application

This verse offers valuable lessons for leadership today. It underscores the importance of humility in leadership, recognizing that even the most powerful individuals can benefit from the wisdom and perspective of others. True strength often lies in the ability to listen, adapt, and trust those around you. For individuals, it encourages seeking and heeding good counsel, understanding that collective wisdom can often lead to better outcomes than individual stubbornness. It also reminds us of the power of steadfast loyalty in times of adversity, whether in personal relationships, communities, or organizations.

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Cross-References

  • 2 Samuel 18:24 (3 votes)

    And David sat between the two gates: and the watchman went up to the roof over the gate unto the wall, and lifted up his eyes, and looked, and behold a man running alone.

  • 2 Samuel 18:1 (2 votes)

    ¶ And David numbered the people that [were] with him, and set captains of thousands and captains of hundreds over them.

  • 1 Samuel 29:2 (2 votes)

    And the lords of the Philistines passed on by hundreds, and by thousands: but David and his men passed on in the rereward with Achish.

  • Isaiah 28:6 (2 votes)

    And for a spirit of judgment to him that sitteth in judgment, and for strength to them that turn the battle to the gate.