2 Samuel 6:20

2 Samuel 6:20 in Multiple Translations

Berean Standard Bible BSB

As soon as David returned home to bless his own household, Saul’s daughter Michal came out to meet him. “How the king of Israel has distinguished himself today!” she said. “He has uncovered himself today in the sight of the maidservants of his subjects, like a vulgar person would do.”

King James Version KJV

¶ Then David returned to bless his household. And Michal the daughter of Saul came out to meet David, and said, How glorious was the king of Israel to day, who uncovered himself to day in the eyes of the handmaids of his servants, as one of the vain fellows shamelessly uncovereth himself!

American Standard Version ASV

Then David returned to bless his household. And Michal the daughter of Saul came out to meet David, and said, How glorious was the king of Israel to-day, who uncovered himself to-day in the eyes of the handmaids of his servants, as one of the vain fellows shamelessly uncovereth himself!

Bible in Basic English BBE

Then David came back to give a blessing to his family. And Michal, Saul's daughter, came out to him and said, How full of glory was the king of Israel today, who let himself be seen uncovered by his servant-girls like a foolish person uncovering himself without shame!

Free Bible Version FBV

When David got home to bless his family, Michal, Saul's daughter came out to meet him and said, “How distinguished the king of Israel made himself look today, taking off his robes so everyone's servant girls could see, just as somebody crude would expose himself!”

Geneva Bible 1599 GNV

The Dauid returned to blesse his house, and Michal the daughter of Saul came out to meete Dauid, and sayde, O howe glorious was the King of Israel this day, which was vncouered to day in the eyes of the maidens of his seruantes, as a foole vncouereth himselfe.

Young's Literal Translation YLT

And David turneth back to bless his house, and Michal daughter of Saul goeth out to meet David, and saith, 'How honourable to-day was the king of Israel, who was uncovered to-day before the eyes of the handmaids of his servants, as one of the vain ones is openly uncovered!'

World English Bible WEB

Then David returned to bless his household. Michal the daughter of Saul came out to meet David, and said, “How glorious the king of Israel was today, who uncovered himself today in the eyes of his servants’ maids, as one of the vain fellows shamelessly uncovers himself!”

Noah Webster Bible WBS

Douay-Rheims 1899 DRV

And David returned to bless his own house: and Michol the daughter of Saul coming out to meet David, said: How glorious was the king of Israel today, uncovering himself before the handmaids of his servants, and was naked, as if one of the buffoons should be naked.

Translation for Translators T4T

When David went home to ask Yahweh to bless his family, his wife Michal came out to meet him. She said to him, “Maybe you, the king of Israel, think that you [IRO] were honoring yourself today, but really, you acted like a fool, uncovering yourself while the female servants of your officials were watching!”

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Berean Amplified Bible — 2 Samuel 6:20

BAB

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 6:20 Interlinear (Deep Study)

BIB

HEB וַ/יָּ֥שָׁב דָּוִ֖ד לְ/בָרֵ֣ךְ אֶת בֵּית֑/וֹ וַ/תֵּצֵ֞א מִיכַ֤ל בַּת שָׁאוּל֙ לִ/קְרַ֣את דָּוִ֔ד וַ/תֹּ֗אמֶר מַה נִּכְבַּ֨ד הַ/יּ֜וֹם מֶ֣לֶךְ יִשְׂרָאֵ֗ל אֲשֶׁ֨ר נִגְלָ֤ה הַ/יּוֹם֙ לְ/עֵינֵ֨י אַמְה֣וֹת עֲבָדָ֔י/ו כְּ/הִגָּל֥וֹת נִגְל֖וֹת אַחַ֥ד הָ/רֵקִֽים

וַ/יָּ֥שָׁב shûwb H7725 to return Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms

דָּוִ֖ד Dâvid H1732 David N-proper

לְ/בָרֵ֣ךְ bârak H1288 to bless Prep | V-Piel-Inf-a

אֶת ʼêth H853 Obj. DirObjM

בֵּית֑/וֹ bayith H1004 place N-ms | Suff

וַ/תֵּצֵ֞א yâtsâʼ H3318 to come out Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3fs

מִיכַ֤ל Mîykâl H4324 Merab N-proper

בַּת bath H1323 Bath (Shua) N-fs

שָׁאוּל֙ Shâʼûwl H7586 Shaul N-proper

לִ/קְרַ֣את qirʼâh H7125 befall Prep | V-Qal-Inf-a

דָּוִ֔ד Dâvid H1732 David N-proper

וַ/תֹּ֗אמֶר ʼâmar H559 to say Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3fs

מַה mâh H4100 what? Part

נִּכְבַּ֨ד kâbad H3513 to honor V-Niphal-Perf-3ms

הַ/יּ֜וֹם yôwm H3117 day Art | N-ms

מֶ֣לֶךְ melek H4428 King's N-ms

יִשְׂרָאֵ֗ל Yisrâʼêl H3478 Israel N-proper

אֲשֶׁ֨ר ʼăsher H834 which Rel

נִגְלָ֤ה gâlâh H1540 to reveal V-Niphal-Perf-3ms

הַ/יּוֹם֙ yôwm H3117 day Art | N-ms

לְ/עֵינֵ֨י ʻayin H5869 eye Prep | N-cd

אַמְה֣וֹת ʼâmâh H519 maidservant N-fp

עֲבָדָ֔י/ו ʻebed H5650 servant/slave N-mp | Suff

כְּ/הִגָּל֥וֹת gâlâh H1540 to reveal Prep | V-Niphal-Inf-a

נִגְל֖וֹת gâlâh H1540 to reveal V-Niphal-Inf-a

אַחַ֥ד ʼechâd H259 one Adj

הָ/רֵקִֽים rêyq H7386 worthless Art | Adj

Hebrew Word Study

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Hebrew Word Reference — 2 Samuel 6:20

וַ/יָּ֥שָׁב shûwb H7725 "to return" Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms

This Hebrew word means to return or turn back, and can be used literally or figuratively. It is often used to describe someone returning to God or repenting from sin, as seen in the book of Psalms and the prophets.

Definition: : return 1) to return, turn back 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to turn back, return 1a1a) to turn back 1a1b) to return, come or go back 1a1c) to return unto, go back, come back 1a1d) of dying 1a1e) of human relations (fig) 1a1f) of spiritual relations (fig) 1a1f1) to turn back (from God), apostatise 1a1f2) to turn away (of God) 1a1f3) to turn back (to God), repent 1a1f4) turn back (from evil) 1a1g) of inanimate things 1a1h) in repetition 1b) (Polel) 1b1) to bring back 1b2) to restore, refresh, repair (fig) 1b3) to lead away (enticingly) 1b4) to show turning, apostatise 1c) (Pual) restored (participle) 1d) (Hiphil) to cause to return, bring back 1d1) to bring back, allow to return, put back, draw back, give back, restore, relinquish, give in payment 1d2) to bring back, refresh, restore 1d3) to bring back, report to, answer 1d4) to bring back, make requital, pay (as recompense) 1d5) to turn back or backward, repel, defeat, repulse, hinder, reject, refuse 1d6) to turn away (face), turn toward 1d7) to turn against 1d8) to bring back to mind 1d9) to show a turning away 1d10) to reverse, revoke 1e) (Hophal) to be returned, be restored, be brought back 1f) (Pulal) brought back

Usage: Occurs in 953 OT verses. KJV: ((break, build, circumcise, dig, do anything, do evil, feed, lay down, lie down, lodge, make, rejoice, send, take, weep)) [idiom] again, (cause to) answer ([phrase] again), [idiom] in any case (wise), [idiom] at all, averse, bring (again, back, home again), call (to mind), carry again (back), cease, [idiom] certainly, come again (back), [idiom] consider, [phrase] continually, convert, deliver (again), [phrase] deny, draw back, fetch home again, [idiom] fro, get (oneself) (back) again, [idiom] give (again), go again (back, home), (go) out, hinder, let, (see) more, [idiom] needs, be past, [idiom] pay, pervert, pull in again, put (again, up again), recall, recompense, recover, refresh, relieve, render (again), requite, rescue, restore, retrieve, (cause to, make to) return, reverse, reward, [phrase] say nay, send back, set again, slide back, still, [idiom] surely, take back (off), (cause to, make to) turn (again, self again, away, back, back again, backward, from, off), withdraw. See also: Genesis 3:19; Numbers 8:25; Judges 8:13.

דָּוִ֖ד 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.

לְ/בָרֵ֣ךְ bârak H1288 "to bless" Prep | V-Piel-Inf-a

To bless means to praise or honor God, often by kneeling in worship. In the Bible, people bless God and God blesses people, showing favor and care for them, as seen in the story of Abraham and his descendants.

Definition: 1) to bless, kneel 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to kneel 1a2) to bless 1b) (Niphal) to be blessed, bless oneself 1c) (Piel) to bless 1d) (Pual) to be blessed, be adored 1e) (Hiphil) to cause to kneel 1f) (Hithpael) to bless oneself 2) (TWOT) to praise, salute, curse Aramaic equivalent: be.rakh (בְּרַךְ "to bless" H1289)

Usage: Occurs in 289 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] abundantly, [idiom] altogether, [idiom] at all, blaspheme, bless, congratulate, curse, [idiom] greatly, [idiom] indeed, kneel (down), praise, salute, [idiom] still, thank. See also: Genesis 1:22; Deuteronomy 24:19; Job 2:9.

אֶת ʼêth H853 "Obj." DirObjM

In the original Hebrew, this word points out the object of a verb or preposition, like 'namely' or 'even'. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus. It's not directly translated in English, but helps clarify the meaning of sentences.

Definition: sign of the definite direct object, not translated in English but generally preceding and indicating the accusative Aramaic equivalent: yat (יָת "whom" H3487)

Usage: Occurs in 6782 OT verses. KJV: (as such unrepresented in English). See also: Genesis 1:1; Genesis 10:8; Genesis 19:21.

בֵּית֑/וֹ bayith H1004 "place" N-ms | Suff

The Hebrew word for house refers to a dwelling place, including a family home, temple, or even the human body. It appears in various contexts, such as the temple in Jerusalem or the household of a family. In the Bible, it is often used to describe a place of worship or a family's living space.

Definition: nm place, origin, between

Usage: Occurs in 1712 OT verses. KJV: court, daughter, door, [phrase] dungeon, family, [phrase] forth of, [idiom] great as would contain, hangings, home(born), (winter) house(-hold), inside(-ward), palace, place, [phrase] prison, [phrase] steward, [phrase] tablet, temple, web, [phrase] within(-out). See also: Genesis 6:14; Exodus 8:5; Numbers 1:45.

וַ/תֵּצֵ֞א yâtsâʼ H3318 "to come out" Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3fs

In the Bible, this Hebrew word means to go out or come out, and it's used in many different ways, like leaving a place or starting a new journey, as seen in Genesis and Exodus.

Definition: : come/go_out/escape 1) to go out, come out, exit, go forth 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to go or come out or forth, depart 1a2) to go forth (to a place) 1a3) to go forward, proceed to (to or toward something) 1a4) to come or go forth (with purpose or for result) 1a5) to come out of 1b) (Hiphil) 1b1) to cause to go or come out, bring out, lead out 1b2) to bring out of 1b3) to lead out 1b4) to deliver 1c) (Hophal) to be brought out or forth

Usage: Occurs in 991 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] after, appear, [idiom] assuredly, bear out, [idiom] begotten, break out, bring forth (out, up), carry out, come (abroad, out, thereat, without), [phrase] be condemned, depart(-ing, -ure), draw forth, in the end, escape, exact, fail, fall (out), fetch forth (out), get away (forth, hence, out), (able to, cause to, let) go abroad (forth, on, out), going out, grow, have forth (out), issue out, lay (lie) out, lead out, pluck out, proceed, pull out, put away, be risen, [idiom] scarce, send with commandment, shoot forth, spread, spring out, stand out, [idiom] still, [idiom] surely, take forth (out), at any time, [idiom] to (and fro), utter. See also: Genesis 1:12; Exodus 9:33; Leviticus 26:45.

מִיכַ֤ל Mîykâl H4324 "Merab" N-proper

Michal, the daughter of King Saul, was married to David and is an important figure in the Bible. Her name is also spelled Merab, and she is mentioned in 1 Samuel 14:49. Michal's story is significant in the context of David's rise to power.

Definition: A woman of the tribe of Benjamin living at the time of United Monarchy, first mentioned at 1Sa.14.49; daughter of: Saul (H7586G) and Ahinoam (H0293); married to Adriel (H5741); sister of: Jonathan (H3083H), Abinadab (H0041H), Malchi-shua (H4444) and Michal (H4324); half-brother of: Ish-bosheth (H0378), Armoni (H0764) and Mephibosheth (H4648H) Another spelling of me.rav (מֵרָב "Merab" H4764) § Michal = "who is like God" daughter of king Saul, sister of Jonathan, wife of king David, and mother of five; given to David as wife for the bride price of 100 Philistine foreskins; while still married to David, her father gave her in marriage to another, Phaltiel; at the death of Saul, David forced her to return

Usage: Occurs in 17 OT verses. KJV: Michal. See also: 1 Samuel 14:49; 1 Samuel 25:44; 1 Chronicles 15:29.

בַּת bath H1323 "Bath (Shua)" N-fs

The Hebrew word for daughter is used to describe a female child or a woman, and can also be used figuratively. In the Bible, it is used to describe women like Bathsheba, the wife of Uriah and later of King David.

Definition: A woman living at the time of the Patriarchs, first mentioned at Gen.38.2; daughter of: Shua (H7770); married to Judah (H3063); mother of: Er (H6147), Onan (H0209) and Shelah (H7956) the wife of Uriah whom David had murdered, having had adulterous relations with her; subsequently wife of David and mother of Solomon, Shimea, Shobab, and Nathan (alternate spelling to 'Bathsheba')

Usage: Occurs in 498 OT verses. KJV: apple (of the eye), branch, company, daughter, [idiom] first, [idiom] old, [phrase] owl, town, village. See also: Genesis 5:4; Exodus 2:21; Ruth 1:13.

שָׁאוּל֙ Shâʼûwl H7586 "Shaul" N-proper

Shaul is a personal name meaning desired, given to several individuals in the Bible, including a Benjamite who became the first king of Israel and a Levite living during the time of the Divided Monarchy. He is mentioned in 1 Chronicles and 1 Samuel.

Definition: A man of the tribe of Levi living at the time of Divided Monarchy, first mentioned at 1Ch.6.24; son of: Uzziah (H5818H); father of: Elkanah (H0511I); also called Joel at 1Ch.6.36; Also named: yo.el (יוֹאֵל "Joel" H3100U) § Saul or Shaul = "desired" 1) a Benjamite, son of Kish, and the 1st king of Israel 2) an early king of Edom and a successor of Samlah 3) a son of Simeon 4) a Levite, son of Uzziah

Usage: Occurs in 335 OT verses. KJV: Saul, Shaul. See also: Genesis 36:37; 1 Samuel 16:22; 1 Samuel 24:5.

לִ/קְרַ֣את qirʼâh H7125 "befall" Prep | V-Qal-Inf-a

To encounter or meet someone or something, either by accident or on purpose, as seen in the story of Joseph meeting his brothers in Genesis 37:23. This word can also mean to befall or happen to someone. It is used in various contexts, including friendly or hostile encounters.

Definition: 1) (BDB) to encounter, befall, meet 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to meet, encounter 1a2) to befall (fig)

Usage: Occurs in 98 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] against (he come), help, meet, seek, [idiom] to, [idiom] in the way. See also: Genesis 14:17; 2 Samuel 10:9; Psalms 35:3.

דָּוִ֔ד 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.

וַ/תֹּ֗אמֶר ʼâmar H559 "to say" Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3fs

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.

מַה mâh H4100 "what?" Part

This Hebrew word means what or how, often used to ask questions or express surprise, like in Genesis when God asks Adam what he has done. It can also mean why or when, and is used in various ways throughout the Old Testament. It appears in many KJV translations, including how or what.

Definition: interr pron 1) what, how, of what kind 1a) (interrogative) 1a1) what? 1a2) of what kind 1a3) what? (rhetorical) 1a4) whatsoever, whatever, what 1b) (adverb) 1b1) how, how now 1b2) why 1b3) how! (exclamation) 1c) (with prep) 1c1) wherein?, whereby?, wherewith?, by what means? 1c2) because of what? 1c3) the like of what? 1c3a) how much?, how many?, how often? 1c3b) for how long? 1c4) for what reason?, why?, to what purpose? 1c5) until when?, how long?, upon what?, wherefore? indef pron 2) anything, aught, what may

Usage: Occurs in 655 OT verses. KJV: how (long, oft, (-soever)), (no-) thing, what (end, good, purpose, thing), whereby(-fore, -in, -to, -with), (for) why. See also: Genesis 2:19; Numbers 21:5; 1 Samuel 19:5.

נִּכְבַּ֨ד kâbad H3513 "to honor" V-Niphal-Perf-3ms

This word can mean to honor or make something weighty, like when God is glorified in Psalm 138, or to be heavy with burdens, as the Israelites were in Exodus 18.

Definition: : honour/glory 1) to be heavy, be weighty, be grievous, be hard, be rich, be honourable, be glorious, be burdensome, be honoured 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to be heavy 1a2) to be heavy, be insensible, be dull 1a3) to be honoured 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be made heavy, be honoured, enjoy honour, be made abundant 1b2) to get oneself glory or honour, gain glory 1c) (Piel) 1c1) to make heavy, make dull, make insensible 1c2) to make honourable, honour, glorify 1d) (Pual) to be made honourable, be honoured 1e) (Hiphil) 1e1) to make heavy 1e2) to make heavy, make dull, make unresponsive 1e3) to cause to be honoured 1f) (Hithpael) 1f1) to make oneself heavy, make oneself dense, make oneself numerous 1f2) to honour oneself

Usage: Occurs in 108 OT verses. KJV: abounding with, more grievously afflict, boast, be chargeable, [idiom] be dim, glorify, be (make) glorious (things), glory, (very) great, be grievous, harden, be (make) heavy, be heavier, lay heavily, (bring to, come to, do, get, be had in) honour (self), (be) honourable (man), lade, [idiom] more be laid, make self many, nobles, prevail, promote (to honour), be rich, be (go) sore, stop. See also: Genesis 13:2; Job 6:3; Psalms 15:4.

הַ/יּ֜וֹם yôwm H3117 "day" Art | N-ms

The Hebrew word 'yom' refers to a day, which can be a literal 24-hour period or a figurative space of time. It is used in the Bible to describe a wide range of time periods, from a single day to a year or a lifetime. The word 'yom' is used in many different contexts throughout the Bible.

Definition: : day/when/time/period 1) day, time, year 1a) day (as opposed to night) 1b) day (24 hour period) 1b1) as defined by evening and morning in Genesis 1 1b2) as a division of time 1b2a) a working day, a day's journey 1c) days, lifetime (pl.) 1d) time, period (general) 1e) year 1f) temporal references 1f1) today 1f2) yesterday 1f3) tomorrow

Usage: Occurs in 1930 OT verses. KJV: age, [phrase] always, [phrase] chronicals, continually(-ance), daily, ((birth-), each, to) day, (now a, two) days (agone), [phrase] elder, [idiom] end, [phrase] evening, [phrase] (for) ever(-lasting, -more), [idiom] full, life, as (so) long as (... live), (even) now, [phrase] old, [phrase] outlived, [phrase] perpetually, presently, [phrase] remaineth, [idiom] required, season, [idiom] since, space, then, (process of) time, [phrase] as at other times, [phrase] in trouble, weather, (as) when, (a, the, within a) while (that), [idiom] whole ([phrase] age), (full) year(-ly), [phrase] younger. See also: Genesis 1:5; Genesis 33:13; Exodus 23:15.

מֶ֣לֶךְ melek H4428 "King's" N-ms

This word refers to a king or royal person, like King David or King Saul. It can also describe something related to a king, like the King's Valley in Genesis. The Bible often uses this word to talk about the rulers of Israel.

Definition: King's (Valley) (Gen.14.17)

Usage: Occurs in 1919 OT verses. KJV: king, royal. See also: Genesis 14:1; Joshua 10:39; 1 Samuel 16:1.

יִשְׂרָאֵ֗ל Yisrâʼêl H3478 "Israel" N-proper

Israel is the symbolic name of Jacob, also referring to his descendants. Jacob, son of Isaac and Rebekah, had 12 sons who became the tribes of Israel, as told in Genesis 25:26. His story is crucial to the Bible's narrative.

Definition: A man living at the time of the Patriarchs, first mentioned at Gen.25.26; son of: Isaac (H3327) and Rebekah (H7259); brother of: Esau (H6215); married to Rachel (H7354), Leah (H3812), Zilpah (H2153) and Bilhah (H1090A); father of: Reuben (H7205), Simeon (H8095), Levi (H3878), Judah (H3063), Dan (H1835H), Naphtali (H5321), Gad (H1410), Asher (H0836), Issachar (H3485), Zebulun (H2074), Dinah (H1783), Joseph (H3130) and Benjamin (H1144); also called Jacob frequently § Israel = "God prevails" 1) the second name for Jacob given to him by God after his wrestling with the angel at Peniel 2) the name of the descendants and the nation of the descendants of Jacob 2a) the name of the nation until the death of Solomon and the split 2b) the name used and given to the northern kingdom consisting of the 10 tribes under Jeroboam; the southern kingdom was known as Judah 2c) the name of the nation after the return from exile

Usage: Occurs in 2231 OT verses. KJV: Israel. See also: Genesis 32:29; Exodus 13:18; Exodus 40:38.

אֲשֶׁ֨ר ʼăsher H834 "which" Rel

This Hebrew word is a conjunction that connects ideas and events in the Bible, like in the book of Genesis, where it's used to describe the relationship between God and His creation.

Definition: A: 1) (relative part.) 1a) which, who 1b) that which 2) (conj) 2a) that (in obj clause) 2b) when 2c) since 2d) as 2e) conditional if B: Beth+ 1) in (that) which 2) (adv) 2a) where 3) (conj) 3a) in that, inasmuch as 3b) on account of C: Mem+ 1) from (or than) that which 2) from (the place) where 3) from (the fact) that, since D: Kaph+ 1) (conj.), according as, as, when 1a) according to that which, according as, as 1b) with a causal force: in so far as, since 1c) with a temporal force: when

Usage: Occurs in 4440 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] after, [idiom] alike, as (soon as), because, [idiom] every, for, [phrase] forasmuch, [phrase] from whence, [phrase] how(-soever), [idiom] if, (so) that ((thing) which, wherein), [idiom] though, [phrase] until, [phrase] whatsoever, when, where ([phrase] -as, -in, -of, -on, -soever, -with), which, whilst, [phrase] whither(-soever), who(-m, -soever, -se). As it is indeclinable, it is often accompanied by the personal pronoun expletively, used to show the connection. See also: Genesis 1:7; Genesis 20:9; Genesis 31:16.

נִגְלָ֤ה gâlâh H1540 "to reveal" V-Niphal-Perf-3ms

This Hebrew word means to reveal or uncover something, often in a way that's embarrassing or shameful. It can also mean to exile someone, forcing them to leave their home. In some cases, it's used to describe God revealing himself to people.

Definition: : reveal[information] 1) to uncover, remove 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to uncover 1a2) to remove, depart 1a3) to go into exile 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) (reflexive) 1b1a) to uncover oneself 1b1b) to discover or show oneself 1b1c) to reveal himself (of God) 1b2) (passive) 1b2a) to be uncovered 1b2b) to be disclosed, be discovered 1b2c) to be revealed 1b3) to be removed 1c) (Piel) 1c1) to uncover (nakedness) 1c1a) nakedness 1c1b) general 1c2) to disclose, discover, lay bare 1c3) to make known, show, reveal 1d) (Pual) to be uncovered 1e) (Hiphil) to carry away into exile, take into exile 1f) (Hophal) to be taken into exile 1g) (Hithpael) 1g1) to be uncovered 1g2) to reveal oneself

Usage: Occurs in 167 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] advertise, appear, bewray, bring, (carry, lead, go) captive (into captivity), depart, disclose, discover, exile, be gone, open, [idiom] plainly, publish, remove, reveal, [idiom] shamelessly, shew, [idiom] surely, tell, uncover. See also: Genesis 9:21; Job 38:17; Psalms 18:16.

הַ/יּוֹם֙ yôwm H3117 "day" Art | N-ms

לְ/עֵינֵ֨י ʻayin H5869 "eye" Prep | N-cd

This word can mean a spring or fountain, but also refers to the eye or a source of something. It is often translated as affliction, outward appearance, or countenance, and is used in various contexts throughout the Bible.

Definition: : eye 1) eye 1a) eye 1a1) of physical eye 1a2) as showing mental qualities 1a3) of mental and spiritual faculties (fig.)

Usage: Occurs in 828 OT verses. KJV: affliction, outward appearance, [phrase] before, [phrase] think best, colour, conceit, [phrase] be content, countenance, [phrase] displease, eye((-brow), (-d), -sight), face, [phrase] favour, fountain, furrow (from the margin), [idiom] him, [phrase] humble, knowledge, look, ([phrase] well), [idiom] me, open(-ly), [phrase] (not) please, presence, [phrase] regard, resemblance, sight, [idiom] thee, [idiom] them, [phrase] think, [idiom] us, well, [idiom] you(-rselves). See also: Genesis 3:5; Exodus 34:9; Deuteronomy 28:67.

אַמְה֣וֹת ʼâmâh H519 "maidservant" N-fp

A maidservant is a female slave or servant, like the ones mentioned in the stories of Abraham and Sarah in the book of Genesis.

Definition: 1) maid-servant, female slave, maid, handmaid, concubine 1a) of humility (fig.)

Usage: Occurs in 49 OT verses. KJV: (hand-) bondmaid(-woman), maid(-servant). See also: Genesis 20:17; Judges 9:18; Psalms 86:16.

עֲבָדָ֔י/ו ʻebed H5650 "servant/slave" N-mp | Suff

This word refers to a servant or slave, often in the context of serving God or a human master. It can also describe a prophet or Levite. The KJV translates it as bondage, bondman, or servant.

Definition: 1) slave, servant 1a) slave, servant, man-servant 1b) subjects 1c) servants, worshippers (of God) 1d) servant (in special sense as prophets, Levites etc) 1e) servant (of Israel) 1f) servant (as form of address between equals) Aramaic equivalent: a.vad (עֲבַד "servant/slave" H5649)

Usage: Occurs in 714 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] bondage, bondman, (bond-) servant, (man-) servant. See also: Genesis 9:25; Exodus 11:3; 1 Samuel 8:16.

כְּ/הִגָּל֥וֹת gâlâh H1540 "to reveal" Prep | V-Niphal-Inf-a

נִגְל֖וֹת gâlâh H1540 "to reveal" V-Niphal-Inf-a

אַחַ֥ד ʼechâd H259 "one" 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.

הָ/רֵקִֽים rêyq H7386 "worthless" Art | Adj

In the Bible, this word describes something that is empty or worthless, like an empty vessel or a person without value. It is used to emphasize the importance of being filled with purpose or meaning.

Definition: 1) empty, vain 1a) empty (of vessels) 1b) empty, idle, worthless (ethically)

Usage: Occurs in 14 OT verses. KJV: emptied(-ty), vain (fellow, man). See also: Genesis 37:24; 2 Kings 4:3; Proverbs 12:11.

Study Notes — 2 Samuel 6:20

Show Verse Quote Highlights

Context
Cross References
2 Samuel 6:20 Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Reflection Questions
Gill's Exposition on 2 Samuel 6:20
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on 2 Samuel 6:20
Matthew Poole's Commentary on 2 Samuel 6:20
Trapp's Commentary on 2 Samuel 6:20
Ellicott's Commentary on 2 Samuel 6:20
Adam Clarke's Commentary on 2 Samuel 6:20
Cambridge Bible on 2 Samuel 6:20
Barnes' Notes on 2 Samuel 6:20
Whedon's Commentary on 2 Samuel 6:20
Sermons on 2 Samuel 6:20

Context — Michal’s Contempt for David

18When David had finished sacrificing the burnt offerings and peace offerings, he blessed the people in the name of the LORD of Hosts. 19Then he distributed to every man and woman among the multitude of Israel a loaf of bread, a date cake, and a raisin cake. And all the people departed, each to his own home.

20When David returned home to bless his own household, Saul’s daughter Michal came out to meet him. “How the king of Israel has distinguished himself today!” she said. “He has uncovered himself today in the sight of the maidservants of his subjects, like a vulgar person would do.”

21But David said to Michal, “I was dancing before the LORD, who chose me over your father and all his house when He appointed me ruler over the LORD’s people Israel. I will celebrate before the LORD, 22and I will humiliate and humble myself even more than this. Yet I will be honored by the maidservants of whom you have spoken.”

Cross References

	Reference	Text (BSB)
1	2 Samuel 6:16	As the ark of the LORD was entering the City of David, Saul’s daughter Michal looked down from a window and saw King David leaping and dancing before the LORD, and she despised him in her heart.
2	2 Samuel 6:14	And David, wearing a linen ephod, danced with all his might before the LORD,
3	Judges 9:4	So they gave him seventy shekels of silver from the temple of Baal-berith, with which Abimelech hired some worthless and reckless men to follow him.
4	Philippians 2:7–8	but emptied Himself, taking the form of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to death— even death on a cross.
5	Mark 3:21	When His family heard about this, they went out to take custody of Him, saying, “He is out of His mind.”
6	Psalms 30:1	I will exalt You, O LORD, for You have lifted me up and have not allowed my foes to rejoice over me.
7	1 Samuel 19:23–24	So Saul went to Naioth in Ramah. But the Spirit of God came upon even Saul, and he walked along prophesying until he came to Naioth in Ramah. Then Saul stripped off his robes and also prophesied before Samuel. And he collapsed and lay naked all that day and night. That is why it is said, “Is Saul also among the prophets?”
8	Psalms 101:2	I will ponder the way that is blameless— when will You come to me? I will walk in my house with integrity of heart.
9	Isaiah 53:2–3	He grew up before Him like a tender shoot, and like a root out of dry ground. He had no stately form or majesty to attract us, no beauty that we should desire Him. He was despised and rejected by men, a man of sorrows, acquainted with grief. Like one from whom men hide their faces, He was despised, and we esteemed Him not.
10	Joshua 24:15	But if it is unpleasing in your sight to serve the LORD, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your fathers served beyond the Euphrates, or the gods of the Amorites in whose land you are living. As for me and my house, we will serve the LORD!”

2 Samuel 6:20 Summary

[This verse shows that David's wife Michal was unhappy with the way he was worshiping the Lord, because she thought he was acting in a way that was undignified, but David didn't care what others thought, he just wanted to please the Lord. He was willing to be humble and vulnerable in his worship, which is an important part of our relationship with God, as seen in Psalm 100:4, which says that we should enter His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise. By focusing on pleasing the Lord, rather than seeking the approval of others, we can cultivate a deeper and more meaningful relationship with Him.]

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did Michal criticize David for his actions in this verse?

Michal criticized David because she was concerned about his reputation and how he was perceived by others, as seen in her comparison of his actions to those of a vulgar person, but David's heart was focused on worshiping the Lord, as expressed in 2 Samuel 6:21.

What was Michal's relationship to David and how did it influence her reaction?

Michal was Saul's daughter and David's wife, and her reaction was influenced by her family background and her own pride, as seen in her attempt to shame David for his actions, but David's response showed that he was more concerned with pleasing the Lord than with pleasing his wife or others, as seen in 2 Samuel 6:22.

How does this verse relate to the concept of worship and humility?

This verse highlights the importance of humility in worship, as David was willing to humble himself and be vulnerable in his worship, unlike Michal who was more concerned with appearances and social status, as seen in Psalm 51:17, which says that a broken and contrite heart is what the Lord desires.

What can we learn from David's response to Michal's criticism?

We can learn from David's response that our focus should be on pleasing the Lord, rather than seeking the approval of others, and that humility and a willingness to be vulnerable are essential components of true worship, as seen in Romans 12:1, which encourages us to offer our bodies as living sacrifices to God.

Reflection Questions

What are some ways that I can prioritize worship and humility in my own life, even if it means being vulnerable or looking foolish to others?
How can I balance the desire to please others with the need to please the Lord, and what are some biblical principles that can guide me in this?
What are some areas in my life where I may be more concerned with appearances or social status than with genuinely worshiping the Lord, and how can I surrender these areas to Him?
How can I cultivate a heart of humility and brokenness, like David's, and what role does worship play in this process?

Gill's Exposition on 2 Samuel 6:20

Then David returned to bless his household,.... His wife, children, and servants, to wish all happiness to them on this occasion, and pray to God for blessings on them temporal and spiritual.

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on 2 Samuel 6:20

Then David returned to bless his household. And Michal the daughter of Saul came out to meet David, and said, How glorious was the king of Israel to day, who uncovered himself to day in the eyes of

Matthew Poole's Commentary on 2 Samuel 6:20

Who uncovered himself; either, first, by stripping himself of his royal robes, that he might put on a Levitical ephod; or by discovering some part of his thighs or legs, as might possibly happen whilst he danced with all his might, as is said above, , considering that the men did then wear loose garments; or she speaks thus, not that he did so, but only by way of aggravation of his fault, and to vilify him the more, as is usual with persons in such cases. The handmaids of his servants; who either bore a part in the solemnity, as women sometimes did, ; or at least were spectators of it, and of David’ s carriage in it. As one of the vain fellows; as idle and light persons use to do.

Trapp's Commentary on 2 Samuel 6:20

2 Samuel 6:20 Then David returned to bless his household. And Michal the daughter of Saul came out to meet David, and said, How glorious was the king of Israel to day, who uncovered himself to day in the eyes of the handmaids of his servants, as one of the vain fellows shamelessly uncovereth himself!Ver. 20. To bless his household.] To show himself as good a householder as he was a king. See his care there. And this he calleth "a perfect way," as opposed to hypocrisy. Michal was not blessed, but cursed through her own default. Came out to meet David.] She could not keep in her chamber window; but must needs come out to tell him her mind. How glorious was the king of Israel today!] Words as full of pride and scorn as was possible. Barren Michal hath still too many sons, that make religion not more a form than a scorn: and no marvel that such are plagued with continual fruitlessness, as she. Who uncovered himself.] And did not her father Saul do as much when he prophesied at Naioth? Why then is that a fault in Titius that was none in Cajus? In the eyes of the handmaids.] Thus she proudly exaggerateth. As one of the vain fellows.] Scurriliter et histrionice, leaping and dancing. Nemo sobrius saltat, saith Cicero, who also accuseth a certain Roman lady, because she could sing and dance daintily. But how David danced, 2 Samuel 6:14. Iupiter nec cantat, nec citharam pulsat.

Ellicott's Commentary on 2 Samuel 6:20

(20) Returned.—Michal had seen David from the window as he passed by his house on his way with the ark to its tent. Now, having dismissed and blessed the people, he returns to bless those members of his household whom eastern custom had not allowed to take part in the ceremonies, and is met by Michal with her cutting irony. The account of this is omitted from the narrative in Chronicles.

Adam Clarke's Commentary on 2 Samuel 6:20

Verse 20. To bless his household.] This was according to the custom of the patriarchs, who were priests in their own families. It is worthy of remark, that David is called patriarch by Stephen, Acts 2:29, though living upwards of four hundred years after the termination of the patriarchal age. How glorious was the king of Israel] This is a strong irony. From what Michal says, it is probable that David used some violent gesticulations, by means of which some parts of his body became uncovered. But it is very probable that we cannot guess all that was implied in this reproach.

Cambridge Bible on 2 Samuel 6:20

20–23. Michal’s contemptuous pride rebuked by David 20. And Michal, &c.] The account of David’s meeting with Michal is omitted in 1 Chr. How glorious, &c.] Better, How honourable did the king of Israel make himself to-day. The E. V. weakens the point of David’s answer in 2 Samuel 6:22 by translating the same Hebrew word differently in the two verses. who uncovered himself, &c.] Stripped off his royal robe, and appeared in a plain ephod, as a worthless buffoon strips off his outer garment to play immodest antics. vain] = ‘empty,’ ‘worthless.’

Barnes' Notes on 2 Samuel 6:20

Then David returned ... - He had passed his house to accompany the ark to the tabernacle he had pitched for it, when Michal saw him dancing. He now returns to bless his household.

Whedon's Commentary on 2 Samuel 6:20

MICHAL’S REPROOF, 2 Samuel 6:20-23. 20. To bless his household — The people seem (2 Samuel 6:18) to have gladly received his blessing, but at his own home he met from one member, repulse.

Sermons on 2 Samuel 6:20

	Sermon	Description
	Dressing Up by John Fischer	John Fischer explores the concept of dressing up, not just in physical attire but in the context of life and faith. He questions the significance of clothing in expressing identity
	Fear and Joy in the Presence of God by Erlo Stegen	Erlo Stegen emphasizes the duality of fear and joy in the presence of God, using the story of David and Michal to illustrate the importance of God's presence in our lives. He highl
	Ark of the Covenant - Part 4 by Major Ian Thomas	In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of seeking the truth of God's word rather than being entertained by inspirational talks. He criticizes the tendency of Christ
	Samson - Part 2 by Leonard Ravenhill	In this sermon, the speaker discusses the importance of dying to oneself and surrendering to God's plans. He emphasizes that true success comes from God's triumph and that He will
	A Marriage Gone Sour by Chuck Smith	In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the topic of marriage and the challenges that many marriages face in today's society. He begins by praying for guidance and asks for God's w
	Through the Bible - 2 Samuel by Zac Poonen	In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of not grabbing or taking things for ourselves, but instead waiting for God's timing and provision. He uses the example of Ja
	(The Ark of the Covenant) 5. Entering Jerusalem by Roy Hession	In this sermon, the speaker discusses how often Christians rely on worldly methods and strategies to promote their faith and achieve success. He emphasizes that these methods are o