2 Samuel 5:2

Also in time past, when Saul was king over us, thou wast he that leddest out and broughtest in Israel: and the LORD said to thee, Thou shalt feed my people Israel, and thou shalt be a captain over Israel.

Also in time past {H865}{H8032}, when Saul {H7586} was king {H4428} over us, thou wast he that leddest out {H3318} and broughtest in {H935} Israel {H3478}: and the LORD {H3068} said {H559} to thee, Thou shalt feed {H7462} my people {H5971} Israel {H3478}, and thou shalt be a captain {H5057} over Israel {H3478}.

In the past, when Sha'ul was king over us, it was you who led Isra'el's military campaigns; and ADONAI said to you, 'You will shepherd my people Isra'el, and you will be chief over Isra'el.'"

Even in times past, while Saul was king over us, you were the one who led Israel out and brought them back. And to you the LORD said, ‘You will shepherd My people Israel, and you will be ruler over them.’”

In times past, when Saul was king over us, it was thou that leddest out and broughtest in Israel: and Jehovah said to thee, Thou shalt be shepherd of my people Israel, and thou shalt be prince over Israel.

Commentary

Context

This pivotal verse marks a significant turning point in the history of Israel. After years of civil war following the death of King Saul, and David's reign over Judah from Hebron, all the tribes of Israel finally come to David, acknowledging him as their rightful king. This verse records their specific reasons for choosing him, emphasizing both his proven military leadership and, most importantly, God's divine decree concerning his rule. It sets the stage for the unified monarchy under David, fulfilling prophecies and establishing Jerusalem as the capital.

Key Themes

  • Divine Appointment and Mandate: The elders explicitly state, "and the LORD said to thee," highlighting that David's kingship was not merely a human choice but a direct command and promise from God. This divine backing was crucial for his legitimacy and authority over all Israel.
  • Proven Leadership and Faithfulness: They recall David's past effectiveness during Saul's reign, noting, "thou wast he that leddest out and broughtest in Israel." This acknowledges his military prowess and ability to navigate Israel's affairs successfully, even under a hostile king. This past faithfulness prepared him for his greater role, a principle seen throughout scripture (see Luke 16:10).
  • The Shepherd-King Imagery: The LORD's instruction to David, "Thou shalt feed my people Israel," uses profound shepherd imagery. In ancient Near Eastern cultures, kings were often seen as shepherds of their people, responsible for their care, protection, and provision. This term (Hebrew: ra'ah) implies nurturing, guiding, and watching over the flock. This concept of leadership contrasts sharply with oppressive rule and is echoed in the role of the Messiah as the Good Shepherd.
  • Unity and Restoration: This moment signifies the unification of all twelve tribes under one king, bringing an end to division and fulfilling God's long-term plan for His people.

Linguistic Insights

  • "Feed" (Hebrew: ra'ah): This word is rich in meaning, often translated as "to shepherd," "to pasture," "to tend," or "to govern." It signifies not just providing food, but comprehensive care, guidance, and protection. It emphasizes the king's responsibility for the well-being of his subjects.
  • "Captain" (Hebrew: nagid): This term denotes a leader, prince, or ruler. It implies one who is set over others, often with military or governing authority. The combination of "feed" and "captain" paints a picture of a leader who is both caring and authoritative, a shepherd and a commander.

Practical Application

The story of David's anointing and ultimate recognition as king offers several timeless lessons:

  • God's Timing and Sovereignty: David waited many years from his initial anointing by Samuel (1 Samuel 16:13) to this full kingship. This reminds us that God's plans unfold in His perfect timing, and faithfulness during periods of waiting is crucial.
  • Leadership as Service: The emphasis on "feeding" God's people underscores that true leadership, especially within a spiritual context, is about serving, caring for, and guiding those entrusted to one's care, rather than merely exercising power.
  • Divine Calling and Preparation: David's past experiences, even the challenging ones under Saul, prepared him for the immense responsibility of ruling all Israel. God often uses our present circumstances and past faithfulness to equip us for future callings.
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Cross-References

  • Matthew 2:6 (30 votes)

    And thou Bethlehem, [in] the land of Juda, art not the least among the princes of Juda: for out of thee shall come a Governor, that shall rule my people Israel.

  • Micah 5:4 (21 votes)

    And he shall stand and feed in the strength of the LORD, in the majesty of the name of the LORD his God; and they shall abide: for now shall he be great unto the ends of the earth.

  • Ezekiel 34:23 (18 votes)

    And I will set up one shepherd over them, and he shall feed them, [even] my servant David; he shall feed them, and he shall be their shepherd.

  • Ezekiel 37:24 (15 votes)

    And David my servant [shall be] king over them; and they all shall have one shepherd: they shall also walk in my judgments, and observe my statutes, and do them.

  • Ezekiel 37:25 (15 votes)

    And they shall dwell in the land that I have given unto Jacob my servant, wherein your fathers have dwelt; and they shall dwell therein, [even] they, and their children, and their children's children for ever: and my servant David [shall be] their prince for ever.

  • John 10:11 (11 votes)

    I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep.

  • 2 Samuel 7:7 (9 votes)

    In all [the places] wherein I have walked with all the children of Israel spake I a word with any of the tribes of Israel, whom I commanded to feed my people Israel, saying, Why build ye not me an house of cedar?