2 Samuel 2:1

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2 Samuel 2:1 in Multiple Translations

Berean Standard Bible BSB

Some time later, David inquired of the LORD, “Should I go up to one of the towns of Judah?” “Go up,” the LORD answered. Then David asked, “Where should I go?” “To Hebron,” replied the LORD.

King James Version KJV

And it came to pass after this, that David enquired of the LORD, saying, Shall I go up into any of the cities of Judah? And the LORD said unto him, Go up. And David said, Whither shall I go up? And he said, Unto Hebron.

American Standard Version ASV

And it came to pass after this, that David inquired of Jehovah, saying, Shall I go up into any of the cities of Judah? And Jehovah said unto him, Go up. And David said, Whither shall I go up? And he said, Unto Hebron.

Bible in Basic English BBE

Now after this, David, questioning the Lord, said, Am I to go up into any of the towns of Judah? And the Lord said to him, Go up. And David said, Where am I to go? And he said, To Hebron.

Free Bible Version FBV

Sometime after this, David asked the Lord, “Should I go to one of the towns of Judah?” “Yes, do it,” the Lord replied. “Which one should I go to?” David asked. “Go to Hebron,” said the Lord.

Geneva Bible 1599 GNV

After this, Dauid asked counsel of the Lord, saying, Shall I go vp into any of the cities of Iudah? And the Lord sayd vnto him, Goe vp. And Dauid sayd Whither shall I goe? Hee then answered, Vnto Hebron.

Young's Literal Translation YLT

And it cometh to pass afterwards, that David asketh at Jehovah, saying, 'Do I go up into one of the cities of Judah?' and Jehovah saith unto him, 'Go up.' And David saith, 'Whither do I go up?' and He saith, 'To Hebron.'

World English Bible WEB

After this, David inquired of the LORD, saying, “Shall I go up into any of the cities of Judah?” The LORD said to him, “Go up.” David said, “Where shall I go up?” He said, “To Hebron.”

Noah Webster Bible WBS

And it came to pass after this, that David inquired of the LORD, saying, Shall I go up into any of the cities of Judah? And the LORD said to him, Go up. And David said, Whither shall I go up? And he said, To Hebron.

Douay-Rheims 1899 DRV

And after these things David consulted the Lord, saying: Shall I go up into one of the cities of Juda? And the Lord said to him: Go up. And David said: Whither shall I go up? And he answered him: Into Hebron.

Translation for Translators T4T

Some time after that, David asked Yahweh, “Should I go back to live in one of the towns in Judah?” Yahweh replied, “Yes, go up there.” Then David asked, “To which town should I go?” Yahweh replied, “To Hebron.”

Plain English Version PEV

After that, David asked God, “What do I do now? Maybe I have to go back and stay at some place in Judah country?” God answered, “Yes, go.” David asked, “Which place?” God said, “To the town called Hebron.”

Study Highlights

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Berean Amplified Bible — 2 Samuel 2:1

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Word Study

Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.

Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.

2 Samuel 2:1 Interlinear (Deep Study)

BIB

HEB וַ/יְהִ֣י אַֽחֲרֵי כֵ֗ן וַ/יִּשְׁאַל֩ דָּוִ֨ד בַּֽ/יהוָ֤ה לֵ/אמֹר֙ הַ/אֶעֱלֶ֗ה בְּ/אַחַת֙ עָרֵ֣י יְהוּדָ֔ה וַ/יֹּ֧אמֶר יְהוָ֛ה אֵלָ֖י/ו עֲלֵ֑ה וַ/יֹּ֧אמֶר דָּוִ֛ד אָ֥נָה אֶעֱלֶ֖ה וַ/יֹּ֥אמֶר חֶבְרֹֽנָ/ה

וַ/יְהִ֣י hâyâh H1961 to be Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms

אַֽחֲרֵי ʼachar H310 after Prep

כֵ֗ן kên H3651 right Adv

וַ/יִּשְׁאַל֩ shâʼal H7592 to ask Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms

דָּוִ֨ד Dâvid H1732 David N-proper

בַּֽ/יהוָ֤ה Yᵉhôvâh H3068 The Lord Prep | N-proper

לֵ/אמֹר֙ ʼâmar H559 to say Prep | V-Qal-Inf-a

הַ/אֶעֱלֶ֗ה ʻâlâh H5927 to ascend Part | V-Qal-Imperf-1cs

בְּ/אַחַת֙ ʼechâd H259 one Prep | Adj

עָרֵ֣י ʻîyr H5892 excitement N-fp

יְהוּדָ֔ה Yᵉhûwdâh H3063 Judah N-proper

וַ/יֹּ֧אמֶר ʼâmar H559 to say Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms

יְהוָ֛ה Yᵉhôvâh H3068 The Lord N-proper

אֵלָ֖י/ו ʼêl H413 to(wards) Prep | Suff

עֲלֵ֑ה ʻâlâh H5927 to ascend V-Qal-Impv-2ms

וַ/יֹּ֧אמֶר ʼâmar H559 to say Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms

דָּוִ֛ד Dâvid H1732 David N-proper

אָ֥נָה ʼân H575 where? Adv

אֶעֱלֶ֖ה ʻâlâh H5927 to ascend V-Qal-Imperf-1cs

וַ/יֹּ֥אמֶר ʼâmar H559 to say Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms

חֶבְרֹֽנָ/ה Chebrôwn H2275 Hebron (Valley) N-proper | Suff

Hebrew Word Study

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Hebrew Word Reference — 2 Samuel 2:1

וַ/יְהִ֣י hâyâh H1961 "to be" Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms

The Hebrew word for to be means to exist or come into being. It is used to describe something that happens or comes to pass, like in Genesis where God creates the world.

Definition: 1) to be, become, come to pass, exist, happen, fall out 1a) (Qal) 1a1) --- 1a1a) to happen, fall out, occur, take place, come about, come to pass 1a1b) to come about, come to pass 1a2) to come into being, become 1a2a) to arise, appear, come 1a2b) to become 1a2b1) to become 1a2b2) to become like 1a2b3) to be instituted, be established 1a3) to be 1a3a) to exist, be in existence 1a3b) to abide, remain, continue (with word of place or time) 1a3c) to stand, lie, be in, be at, be situated (with word of locality) 1a3d) to accompany, be with 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to occur, come to pass, be done, be brought about 1b2) to be done, be finished, be gone

Usage: Occurs in 3131 OT verses. KJV: beacon, [idiom] altogether, be(-come), accomplished, committed, like), break, cause, come (to pass), do, faint, fall, [phrase] follow, happen, [idiom] have, last, pertain, quit (one-) self, require, [idiom] use. See also: Genesis 1:2; Genesis 17:4; Genesis 36:11.

אַֽחֲרֵי ʼachar H310 "after" Prep

Achar means backwards or after, used to describe something that happens later or in the rear. It is used in various senses in the Bible, including in 1 Kings 12:18.

Definition: 1) after the following part, behind (of place), hinder, afterwards (of time) 1a) as an adverb 1a1) behind (of place) 1a2) afterwards (of time) 1b) as a preposition 1b1) behind, after (of place) 1b2) after (of time) 1b3) besides 1c) as a conjunction 1c) after that 1d) as a substantive 1d1) hinder part 1e) with other prepositions 1e1) from behind 1e2) from following after

Usage: Occurs in 664 OT verses. KJV: after (that, -ward), again, at, away from, back (from, -side), behind, beside, by, follow (after, -ing), forasmuch, from, hereafter, hinder end, [phrase] out (over) live, [phrase] persecute, posterity, pursuing, remnant, seeing, since, thence(-forth), when, with. See also: Genesis 5:4; Exodus 18:2; Joshua 8:14.

כֵ֗ן kên H3651 "right" Adv

In the Bible, this Hebrew word means 'so' or 'thus', often used to show agreement or confirmation, like in the book of Genesis. It can also mean 'rightly' or 'justly', as in doing something the correct way. It appears in various forms throughout the Old Testament.

Definition: adv adj 1) right, just, honest, true, veritable 1a) right, just, honest 1b) correct 1c) true, veritable

Usage: Occurs in 737 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] after that (this, -ward, -wards), as... as, [phrase] (for-) asmuch as yet, [phrase] be (for which) cause, [phrase] following, howbeit, in (the) like (manner, -wise), [idiom] the more, right, (even) so, state, straightway, such (thing), surely, [phrase] there (where) -fore, this, thus, true, well, [idiom] you. See also: Genesis 1:7; Exodus 37:19; Judges 7:17.

וַ/יִּשְׁאַל֩ shâʼal H7592 "to ask" Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms

To ask or inquire, this Hebrew word is used in the Bible to describe seeking information or requesting something. It can also mean to beg or borrow, and is used in many different contexts throughout the Old Testament. The KJV translates it as ask, beg, or borrow.

Definition: 1) to ask, enquire, borrow, beg 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to ask, ask for 1a2) to ask (as a favour), borrow 1a3) to enquire, enquire of 1a4) to enquire of, consult (of deity, oracle) 1a5) to seek 1b) (Niphal) to ask for oneself, ask leave of absence 1c) (Piel) 1c1) to enquire, enquire carefully 1c2) to beg, practise beggary 1d) (Hiphil) 1d1) to be given on request 1d2) to grant, make over to, let (one) ask (successfully) or give or lend on request (then) grant or make over to Aramaic equivalent: she.el (שְׁאֵל "to ask" H7593)

Usage: Occurs in 157 OT verses. KJV: ask (counsel, on), beg, borrow, lay to charge, consult, demand, desire, [idiom] earnestly, enquire, [phrase] greet, obtain leave, lend, pray, request, require, [phrase] salute, [idiom] straitly, [idiom] surely, wish. See also: Genesis 24:47; 2 Samuel 8:10; Psalms 2:8.

דָּוִ֨ד Dâvid H1732 "David" N-proper

David was the youngest son of Jesse and a king of Judah, first mentioned in Ruth 4:17, and an ancestor of Jesus.

Definition: A king of the tribe of Judah living at the time of United Monarchy, first mentioned at Rut.4.17; son of: Jesse (H3448) and Nahash (H5176I); brother of: Eliab (H0446I), Abinadab (H0041I), Shimeah (H8093), Zeruiah (H6870), Abigail (H0026H)(?), Nethanel (H5417H), Raddai (H7288), Ozem (H0684) and Elihu (H0453J); married to Michal (H4324), Abigail (H0026), Ahinoam (H0293H), Maacah (H4601I), Haggith (H2294), Abital (H0037), Eglah (H5698) and Bathsheba (H1339); father of: Amnon (H0550), Chileab (H3609), Absalom (H0053), Adonijah (H0138), Shephatiah (H8203), Ithream (H3507), Shammua (H8051H), Shobab (H7727), Nathan (H5416), Solomon (H8010), Ibhar (H2984), Elishua (H0474), Nepheg (H5298H), Japhia (H3309I), Elishama (H0476H), Eliada (H0450), Eliphelet (H0467), Tamar (H8559H), Elpelet (H0467I), Nogah (H5052) and Jerimoth (H3406N) Also named: Daueid, Dauid, Dabid (Δαυείδ, Δαυίδ, Δαβίδ "David" G1138) § David = "beloved" youngest son of Jesse and second king of Israel

Usage: Occurs in 912 OT verses. KJV: David. See also: Ruth 4:17; 1 Samuel 20:41; 1 Samuel 27:9.

בַּֽ/יהוָ֤ה Yᵉhôvâh H3068 "The Lord" Prep | N-proper

Yehovah is another name for God, often translated as 'the Lord'. It is a national name for God in the Jewish faith. This name is used throughout the Old Testament.

Definition: Another name of ye.ru.sha.laim (יְרוּשָׁלִַ֫ם, יְרוּשְׁלֵם "Jerusalem" H3389)

Usage: Occurs in 5522 OT verses. KJV: Jehovah, the Lord. Compare H3050 (יָהּ), H3069 (יְהֹוִה). See also: Genesis 2:4; Genesis 24:42; Exodus 8:8.

לֵ/אמֹר֙ ʼâmar H559 "to say" Prep | V-Qal-Inf-a

This Hebrew word means to say or speak, and it's used in many different ways in the Bible. It can mean to command, promise, or think, and it's translated in the KJV as 'answer', 'appoint', or 'command'.

Definition: 1) to say, speak, utter 1a) (Qal) to say, to answer, to say in one's heart, to think, to command, to promise, to intend 1b) (Niphal) to be told, to be said, to be called 1c) (Hithpael) to boast, to act proudly 1d) (Hiphil) to avow, to avouch Aramaic equivalent: a.mar (אֲמַר "to say" H0560)

Usage: Occurs in 4337 OT verses. KJV: answer, appoint, avouch, bid, boast self, call, certify, challenge, charge, [phrase] (at the, give) command(-ment), commune, consider, declare, demand, [idiom] desire, determine, [idiom] expressly, [idiom] indeed, [idiom] intend, name, [idiom] plainly, promise, publish, report, require, say, speak (against, of), [idiom] still, [idiom] suppose, talk, tell, term, [idiom] that is, [idiom] think, use (speech), utter, [idiom] verily, [idiom] yet. See also: Genesis 1:3; Genesis 18:23; Genesis 25:32.

הַ/אֶעֱלֶ֗ה ʻâlâh H5927 "to ascend" Part | V-Qal-Imperf-1cs

To ascend means to go up or rise, like the smoke from an altar going up to God, as described in many Bible passages, including Leviticus and Psalms.

Definition: : rise/go 1) to go up, ascend, climb 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to go up, ascend 1a2) to meet, visit, follow, depart, withdraw, retreat 1a3) to go up, come up (of animals) 1a4) to spring up, grow, shoot forth (of vegetation) 1a5) to go up, go up over, rise (of natural phenomenon) 1a6) to come up (before God) 1a7) to go up, go up over, extend (of boundary) 1a8) to excel, be superior to 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be taken up, be brought up, be taken away 1b2) to take oneself away 1b3) to be exalted 1c) (Hiphil) 1c1) to bring up, cause to ascend or climb, cause to go up 1c2) to bring up, bring against, take away 1c3) to bring up, draw up, train 1c4) to cause to ascend 1c5) to rouse, stir up (mentally) 1c6) to offer, bring up (of gifts) 1c7) to exalt 1c8) to cause to ascend, offer 1d) (Hophal) 1d1) to be carried away, be led up 1d2) to be taken up into, be inserted in 1d3) to be offered 1e) (Hithpael) to lift oneself

Usage: Occurs in 817 OT verses. KJV: arise (up), (cause to) ascend up, at once, break (the day) (up), bring (up), (cause to) burn, carry up, cast up, [phrase] shew, climb (up), (cause to, make to) come (up), cut off, dawn, depart, exalt, excel, fall, fetch up, get up, (make to) go (away, up); grow (over) increase, lay, leap, levy, lift (self) up, light, (make) up, [idiom] mention, mount up, offer, make to pay, [phrase] perfect, prefer, put (on), raise, recover, restore, (make to) rise (up), scale, set (up), shoot forth (up), (begin to) spring (up), stir up, take away (up), work. See also: Genesis 2:6; Exodus 34:4; Joshua 7:6.

בְּ/אַחַת֙ ʼechâd H259 "one" Prep | Adj

In the Bible, this Hebrew word means one or united, and is used to describe something that is single or unique. It is often translated as one, first, or alone. For example, in Genesis 1:5, God calls the light day and the darkness night, and separates them into one thing from another.

Definition: 1) one (number) 1a) one (number) 1b) each, every 1c) a certain 1d) an (indefinite article) 1e) only, once, once for all 1f) one...another, the one...the other, one after another, one by one 1g) first 1h) eleven (in combination), eleventh (ordinal)

Usage: Occurs in 739 OT verses. KJV: a, alike, alone, altogether, and, any(-thing), apiece, a certain, (dai-) ly, each (one), [phrase] eleven, every, few, first, [phrase] highway, a man, once, one, only, other, some, together, See also: Genesis 1:5; Exodus 36:26; Numbers 7:70.

עָרֵ֣י ʻîyr H5892 "excitement" N-fp

In the Bible, this word refers to a city or town, often a place with a wall or a watchman. It is used to describe a settlement or encampment, like the city of Ai, which is mentioned in the book of Joshua. The word is used to identify specific locations in the Bible.

Definition: 1) excitement, anguish 1a) of terror

Usage: Occurs in 936 OT verses. KJV: Ai (from margin), city, court (from margin), town. See also: Genesis 4:17; Deuteronomy 3:6; Joshua 14:12.

יְהוּדָ֔ה Yᵉhûwdâh H3063 "Judah" N-proper

Judah is the name of the tribe descended from Judah, the son of Jacob. It is also the name of the region where the tribe lived. The name means 'praised' and is first mentioned in Genesis.

Definition: § Judah = "praised" the tribe descended from Judah the son of Jacob

Usage: Occurs in 754 OT verses. KJV: Judah. See also: Genesis 29:35; 1 Samuel 23:3; 2 Kings 14:13.

וַ/יֹּ֧אמֶר ʼâmar H559 "to say" Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms

יְהוָ֛ה Yᵉhôvâh H3068 "The Lord" N-proper

Yehovah is another name for God, often translated as 'the Lord'. It is a national name for God in the Jewish faith. This name is used throughout the Old Testament.

Definition: Another name of ye.ru.sha.laim (יְרוּשָׁלִַ֫ם, יְרוּשְׁלֵם "Jerusalem" H3389)

Usage: Occurs in 5522 OT verses. KJV: Jehovah, the Lord. Compare H3050 (יָהּ), H3069 (יְהֹוִה). See also: Genesis 2:4; Genesis 24:42; Exodus 8:8.

אֵלָ֖י/ו ʼêl H413 "to(wards)" Prep | Suff

This Hebrew word means 'to' or 'toward', showing direction or movement. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus, to indicate where someone is going. The KJV translates it in various ways, like 'about', 'according to', or 'against'.

Definition: 1) to, toward, unto (of motion) 2) into (limit is actually entered) 2a) in among 3) toward (of direction, not necessarily physical motion) 4) against (motion or direction of a hostile character) 5) in addition to, to 6) concerning, in regard to, in reference to, on account of 7) according to (rule or standard) 8) at, by, against (of one's presence) 9) in between, in within, to within, unto (idea of motion to)

Usage: Occurs in 4205 OT verses. KJV: about, according to, after, against, among, as for, at, because(-fore, -side), both...and, by, concerning, for, from, [idiom] hath, in(-to), near, (out) of, over, through, to(-ward), under, unto, upon, whether, with(-in). See also: Genesis 1:9; Genesis 21:14; Genesis 31:13.

עֲלֵ֑ה ʻâlâh H5927 "to ascend" V-Qal-Impv-2ms

To ascend means to go up or rise, like the smoke from an altar going up to God, as described in many Bible passages, including Leviticus and Psalms.

וַ/יֹּ֧אמֶר ʼâmar H559 "to say" Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms

דָּוִ֛ד Dâvid H1732 "David" N-proper

David was the youngest son of Jesse and a king of Judah, first mentioned in Ruth 4:17, and an ancestor of Jesus.

Usage: Occurs in 912 OT verses. KJV: David. See also: Ruth 4:17; 1 Samuel 20:41; 1 Samuel 27:9.

אָ֥נָה ʼân H575 "where?" Adv

The Hebrew word for 'where' is used to ask about location or direction, like in Genesis 3:9 and Exodus 2:13. It can also mean 'when' or 'how long'.

Definition: 1) where?, whither? (of place) 2) when?, until when?, how long? (of time)

Usage: Occurs in 33 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] any (no) whither, now, where, whither(-soever). See also: Genesis 16:8; 2 Kings 6:6; Psalms 13:2.

אֶעֱלֶ֖ה ʻâlâh H5927 "to ascend" V-Qal-Imperf-1cs

To ascend means to go up or rise, like the smoke from an altar going up to God, as described in many Bible passages, including Leviticus and Psalms.

וַ/יֹּ֥אמֶר ʼâmar H559 "to say" Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms

חֶבְרֹֽנָ/ה Chebrôwn H2275 "Hebron (Valley)" N-proper | Suff

Hebron is a place in Palestine and also the name of two Israelites, one a descendant of Levi and the other of Caleb. It is first mentioned in the book of Genesis and is also referenced in 1 Chronicles.

Definition: Hebron = "association" Combined with e.meq (עֵ֫מֶק " Valley" H6010K)

Usage: Occurs in 66 OT verses. KJV: Hebron. See also: Genesis 13:18; 2 Samuel 3:19; 2 Chronicles 11:10.

Study Notes — 2 Samuel 2:1

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Context
Cross References
2 Samuel 2:1 Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Reflection Questions
Gill's Exposition on 2 Samuel 2:1
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on 2 Samuel 2:1
Matthew Poole's Commentary on 2 Samuel 2:1
Trapp's Commentary on 2 Samuel 2:1
Ellicott's Commentary on 2 Samuel 2:1
Adam Clarke's Commentary on 2 Samuel 2:1
Cambridge Bible on 2 Samuel 2:1
Barnes' Notes on 2 Samuel 2:1
Whedon's Commentary on 2 Samuel 2:1
Sermons on 2 Samuel 2:1

Context — David Anointed King of Judah

1Some time later, David inquired of the LORD, “Should I go up to one of the towns of Judah?” “Go up,” the LORD answered. Then David asked, “Where should I go?” “To Hebron,” replied the LORD.

2So David went there with his two wives, Ahinoam of Jezreel and Abigail the widow of Nabal of Carmel. 3David also took the men who were with him, each with his household, and they settled in the towns near Hebron.

Cross References

	Reference	Text (BSB)
1	1 Samuel 30:31	and to those in Hebron and in all the places where David and his men had roamed.
2	1 Samuel 23:4	Once again, David inquired of the LORD, and the LORD answered him: “Go at once to Keilah, for I will deliver the Philistines into your hand.”
3	Genesis 32:2	When Jacob saw them, he said, “This is the camp of God.” So he named that place Mahanaim.
4	1 Samuel 23:2	So David inquired of the LORD, “Should I go and attack these Philistines?” And the LORD said to David, “Go and attack the Philistines and save Keilah.”
5	Proverbs 3:5–6	Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.
6	Ezekiel 36:37	This is what the Lord GOD says: Once again I will hear the plea of the house of Israel and do for them this: I will multiply their people like a flock.
7	Psalms 143:8	Let me hear Your loving devotion in the morning, for I have put my trust in You. Teach me the way I should walk, for to You I lift up my soul.
8	1 Samuel 23:9–12	When David learned that Saul was plotting evil against him, he said to Abiathar the priest, “Bring the ephod.” And David said, “O LORD, God of Israel, Your servant has heard that Saul intends to come to Keilah and destroy the city on my account. Will the citizens of Keilah surrender me into his hand? Will Saul come down, as Your servant has heard? O LORD, God of Israel, please tell Your servant.” “He will,” said the LORD. So David asked, “Will the citizens of Keilah surrender me and my men into the hand of Saul?” “They will,” said the LORD.
9	Judges 1:1	After the death of Joshua, the Israelites inquired of the LORD, “Who will be the first to go up and fight for us against the Canaanites?”
10	1 Kings 2:11	The length of David’s reign over Israel was forty years—seven years in Hebron and thirty-three years in Jerusalem.

2 Samuel 2:1 Summary

[This verse shows us that David wanted to make sure he was doing what God wanted him to do, so he asked God for guidance. God told David to go to Hebron, which was an important city in Judah. This reminds us to seek God's will in our lives, just like David did, and to trust in His goodness and wisdom, as we see in Jeremiah 29:11. By seeking God's guidance, we can have confidence that we are on the right path, just as David did when he went to Hebron.]

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did David inquire of the Lord before making a decision?

David inquired of the Lord because he wanted to ensure that his actions were in line with God's will, as seen in Proverbs 3:5-6, which instructs us to trust in the Lord with all our hearts and lean not on our own understanding.

What can we learn from David's example of seeking God's guidance?

We can learn the importance of seeking God's guidance in our decision-making, just as David did, and trusting in His sovereignty, as stated in Romans 11:33-36, which reminds us of God's wisdom and knowledge.

How did God communicate with David in this verse?

According to 2 Samuel 2:1, God communicated with David through a direct response to his inquiries, similar to how God spoke to Moses in Exodus 33:11, demonstrating His personal and intimate relationship with those who seek Him.

What is the significance of Hebron in this context?

Hebron was a significant location, as it was a city in Judah where David would eventually be anointed king, as seen in 2 Samuel 2:4, and it held historical importance as the burial site of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, as mentioned in Genesis 25:9-11.

Reflection Questions

What are some areas in my life where I need to seek God's guidance, just like David did?
How can I cultivate a deeper trust in God's sovereignty and wisdom in my decision-making?
What are some ways I can prioritize seeking God's will, even when it's challenging or uncertain?
How does David's example of obedience to God's direction inspire me to be more obedient in my own life?

Gill's Exposition on 2 Samuel 2:1

And it came to pass after this,.... After David had heard of the death of Saul and Jonathan, and made a lamentation over them, perhaps the next day; since David and his men are only said to mourn,

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on 2 Samuel 2:1

And it came to pass after this, that David inquired of the LORD, saying, Shall I go up into any of the cities of Judah? And the LORD said unto him, Go up. And David said, Whither shall I go up? And he said, Unto Hebron.

Matthew Poole's Commentary on 2 Samuel 2:1

2 SAMUEL CHAPTER 2 David, by God’ s direction, with his company goeth up to Hebron, where he is made king of Judah, . He commendeth them of Jabesh-gilead for burying Saul, . Abner maketh Ish-bosheth king of Israel, . A mortal fight between twelve of Abner’ s and twelve of Joab’ s men, . Asahel pursueth Abner, and is slain by him, . At Abner’ s motion Joab soundeth a retreat, . Asahel’ s burial, . David inquired of the Lord, by Urim, as ,9 30:7,8. Thus David begins at the right end, and lays his foundation in God’ s counsel and assistance, which now he seeks. He asketh not whether he should take the kingdom, for that was appointed and known before; and he would not offend God, nor dishonour his ordinance, with frivolous and unnecessary inquiries; but only where he should enter upon it; whether in Judah, as he supposed, because of his relation to that tribe, and his interest in it; or whether in some other tribe; for he doth not limit God, but resolves exactly to follow his counsels. Unto Hebron; which was next to Jerusalem, (part whereof the Jebusites now possessed,) the chief city of that tribe, and a city of the priests, , &c., and in the very centre or middle of that tribe, to which the whole tribe might speedily resort, when need required.

Trapp's Commentary on 2 Samuel 2:1

2 Samuel 2:1 And it came to pass after this, that David enquired of the LORD, saying, Shall I go up into any of the cities of Judah? And the LORD said unto him, Go up. And David said, Whither shall I go up? And he said, Unto Hebron.Ver. 1. And it came to pass after this.] And after that many worthies out of several tribes had resorted unto him at Ziklag, so that he had a very great host, like the host of God. Shall I go up into any of the cities of Judah?] Ziklag was a city of Judah, but not so fit for his purpose: because it was in the utmost borders, and now also held by the gift of the king of the Philistines, who at this time were so overruled by God, that after their victory over Saul, they stirred not against David, till, settled in the whole kingdom, he was well able to deal with them. And he said, Unto Hebron.] An ancient and metropolitan city of Judah; where the patriarchs, to whom the land was promised, lay buried; and thereby held possession, as it were.

Ellicott's Commentary on 2 Samuel 2:1

(1) Enquired of the Lord.—At this important juncture of affairs, David’s first care is to know the Divine will. His inquiry was, doubtless, made through the high priest Abiathar, as in 1 Samuel 23:9-10 (comp. 2 Samuel 22:20; 2 Samuel 23:1; 2 Samuel 23:4). The answer definitely directed him to go up to Hebron. Hebron is one of the most ancient cities of the world (built “seven years before Zoan in Egypt,” Numbers 13:22), long the residence of Abraham (Genesis 13:18), and the place where he and Sarah, Isaac and Jacob, were buried. Its original name was Kirjath-arba (Genesis 23:2; Joshua 14:15, &c). It is situated in a valley among the hills of Southern Judea, at a height of nearly 3,000 feet above the Mediterranean. It is about twenty miles S.S.W. from Jerusalem, somewhat more than this N.E. of Beersheba, and about fifteen miles E.S.E. of the Philistine town of Gath. From Ziklag, where David had been living, it was distant about thirty-eight miles. It has always been famous for its vineyards, and its grapes are still considered the finest in Southern Palestine. The valley in which it is situated is probably the “valley of Eshcol,” from which the spies brought the great “cluster of grapes” to Moses in the wilderness (Numbers 13:23). It was a priestly city (Joshua 21:10-11), and the most southerly of the cities of refuge (Joshua 20:7). Here was the home and the throne of David for the next seven and a half years (2 Samuel 2:11; 2 Samuel 5:5). The larger part of the land, since the recent defeat, was in the power of the Philistines; and Hebron, on account of its situation at the far south, and its strategical strength, as well as its sacred associations, was a peculiarly fitting place for the beginning of David’s reign.

Adam Clarke's Commentary on 2 Samuel 2:1

CHAPTER II David, by the direction of God, goes up to Hebron, and is there anointed king over the house of Judah, 1-4. He congratulates the inhabitants of Jabesh-gilead on their kindness in rescuing the bodies of Saul and his sons from the Philistines, 5-7. Abner anoints Ish-bosheth, Saul's son, king over Gilead, the Ashurites, Jezreel, Ephraim, Benjamin, and all Israel; over whom he reigned two years, 8-10. David reigns over Judah, in Hebron, seven years and six months, 11. Account of a battle between Abner, captain of the Israelites, and Joab, captain of the men of Judah; in which the former are routed with the loss of three hundred and sixty men: but Asahel, the brother of Joab, is killed by Abner, 12-32. NOTES ON CHAP. II Verse 1. David inquired of the Lord] By means of Abiathar the priest; for he did not know whether the different tribes were willing to receive him, though he was fully persuaded that God had appointed him king over Israel. Unto Hebron.] The metropolis of the tribe of Judah, one of the richest regions in Judea. The mountains of Hebron were famed for fruits, herbage, and honey; and many parts were well adapted for vines, olives, and different kinds of grain, abounding in springs of excellent water, as the most accurate travellers have asserted.

Cambridge Bible on 2 Samuel 2:1

Ch. 2 Samuel 2:1-7. David anointed King over Judah at Hebron. His message to the Gileadites 1. after this] After the defeat of Israel and the death of Saul and Jonathan, David saw that the way was clear for the fulfilment of God’s promise that he should be king. Still he desired divine direction how to act in this crisis. He therefore “inquired of the Lord” by means of the Urim and Thummim through the High-priest Abiathar. See notes on 1 Samuel 10:22; 1 Samuel 23:6. Unto Hebron] The central position of Hebron in the tribe of Judah, its mountainous and defensible situation, its importance as a priestly settlement and an ancient royal city, the patriarchal associations connected with it, combined to render it the most suitable capital for the new kingdom, while the North was held partly by the Philistines, partly by Saul’s adherents. In its neighbourhood moreover David had spent a considerable part of his fugitive life, and gained many supporters. See 1 Samuel 30:31, and note there.

Barnes' Notes on 2 Samuel 2:1

Enquired of the Lord - Through Abiathar, the high priest. The death of Saul and Jonathan had entirely changed David’s position, and therefore he needed divine guidance how to act under the new

Whedon's Commentary on 2 Samuel 2:1

DAVID KING IN HEBRON, AND KING IN , 2 Samuel 2:1-11. 1. After this — After his lamentation over the death of Saul and Jonathan.Inquired of the Lord — By the urim of the priest Abiathar. Compare 1 Samuel 23:9-12.

Sermons on 2 Samuel 2:1

	Sermon	Description
	(Through the Bible) 2 Samuel by Zac Poonen	This sermon delves into the life of David as depicted in 2 Samuel, highlighting his reign, victories, fall into sin, and family struggles. It emphasizes the importance of studying
	Waiting for God's Time by Theodore Epp	Theodore Epp emphasizes the importance of waiting for God's timing, as illustrated by David's inquiry to the Lord before moving to Hebron. Epp explains that true communion with God
	(2 Samuel) More Anointing, More War by David Guzik	In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the need for Christians to have a mature understanding of the spiritual battle they face. He uses the example of a young man in military tra
	Angel Workers by Andrew Bonar	Andrew Bonar shares a profound allegory of a gathering of angels who discuss their divine missions and the importance of their service to God and humanity. Each angel recounts thei
	(Through the Bible) 1 Samuel by Zac Poonen	This sermon delves into the contrasting lives of Saul and David in the book of 1 Samuel. It highlights Saul's downfall due to disobedience, fear of people, lack of repentance, and
	**Long Interview of Leonard Ravenhill by David Mainse by Leonard Ravenhill	The video is the first of three phone messages by Revival God's Way, Revival Crane. Revival Crane is known for his powerful preaching and singing. In this message, he discusses the
	God Uses Foolish Things by Jackie Pullinger	In this video, the speaker discusses the importance of scoring a three, two, and four in a specific process. They mention the idea of a snow-covered holiday and walking on snow. Th