2 Samuel 7:7

2 Samuel 7:7 in Multiple Translations

Berean Standard Bible BSB

In all My journeys with all the Israelites, have I ever asked any of the leaders I appointed to shepherd My people Israel, ‘Why haven’t you built Me a house of cedar?’

King James Version KJV

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?

American Standard Version ASV

In all 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 be shepherd of my people Israel, saying, Why have ye not built me a house of cedar?

Bible in Basic English BBE

In all the places where I went with all the children of Israel, did I ever say to any of the judges of Israel, to whom I gave the care of my people Israel, Why have you not made me a house of cedar?

Free Bible Version FBV

But in all those travels with all of Israel did I ever ask any Israelite leader I'd ordered to take care of my people, ‘Why haven't you built a cedar house for me?’

Geneva Bible 1599 GNV

In al the places wherein I haue walked with all the children of Israel, spake I one worde with any of the tribes of Israel when I commanded the iudges to feede my people Israel? or sayde I, Why build ye not me an house of cedar trees?

Young's Literal Translation YLT

During all [the time] that I have walked up and down among all the sons of Israel, a word have I spoken with one of the tribes of Israel which I commanded to feed my people Israel, saying, 'Why have ye not built to Me a house of cedars?

World English Bible WEB

In all places in which I have walked with all the children of Israel, did I say a word to anyone from the tribes of Israel whom I commanded to be shepherd of my people Israel, saying, ‘Why have you not built me a house of cedar?’”’

Noah Webster Bible WBS

In all the places in which I have walked with all the children of Israel have I spoken a word with any of the tribes of Israel, whom I commanded to feed my people Israel, saying, Why do ye not build me a house of cedar?

Douay-Rheims 1899 DRV

In all the places that I have gone through with all the children of Israel, did ever I speak a word to any one of the tribes of Israel, whom I commanded to feed my people Israel, saying: Why have you not built me a house of cedar?

Translation for Translators T4T

Wherever I went with all the Israelis as they traveled, I never said [RHQ] to any of their leaders whom I appointed to lead them, “Why have you not built me a temple made of cedar wood?”’

Plain English Version PEV

I picked bosses for the Israel mob, to look after them. I didn’t say to any of those bosses, ‘Build me a nice house.’ I never said that.

Study Highlights

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Berean Amplified Bible — 2 Samuel 7:7

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 7:7 Interlinear (Deep Study)

BIB

HEB בְּ/כֹ֥ל אֲשֶֽׁר הִתְהַלַּכְתִּי֮ בְּ/כָל בְּנֵ֣י יִשְׂרָאֵל֒ הֲ/דָבָ֣ר דִּבַּ֗רְתִּי אֶת אַחַד֙ שִׁבְטֵ֣י יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל אֲשֶׁ֣ר צִוִּ֗יתִי לִ/רְע֛וֹת אֶת עַמִּ֥/י אֶת יִשְׂרָאֵ֖ל לֵ/אמֹ֑ר לָ֛/מָּה לֹֽא בְנִיתֶ֥ם לִ֖/י בֵּ֥ית אֲרָזִֽים

בְּ/כֹ֥ל kôl H3605 all Prep | N-ms

אֲשֶֽׁר ʼăsher H834 which Rel

הִתְהַלַּכְתִּי֮ hâlak H1980 to go V-Hithpael-Perf-1cs

בְּ/כָל kôl H3605 all Prep | N-ms

בְּנֵ֣י bên H1121 son N-mp

יִשְׂרָאֵל֒ Yisrâʼêl H3478 Israel N-proper

הֲ/דָבָ֣ר dâbâr H1697 Chronicles Part | N-ms

דִּבַּ֗רְתִּי dâbar H1696 to speak V-Piel-Perf-1cs

אֶת ʼêth H854 with Prep

אַחַד֙ ʼechâd H259 one Adj

שִׁבְטֵ֣י shêbeṭ H7626 tribe N-mp

יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל Yisrâʼêl H3478 Israel N-proper

אֲשֶׁ֣ר ʼăsher H834 which Rel

צִוִּ֗יתִי tsâvâh H6680 to command V-Piel-Perf-1cs

לִ/רְע֛וֹת râʻâh H7462 House of Shepherds Prep | V-Qal-Inf-a

אֶת ʼêth H853 Obj. DirObjM

עַמִּ֥/י ʻam H5971 Amaw N-ms | Suff

אֶת ʼêth H853 Obj. DirObjM

יִשְׂרָאֵ֖ל Yisrâʼêl H3478 Israel N-proper

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

לָ֛/מָּה mâh H4100 what? Prep | Part

לֹֽא lôʼ H3808 not Part

בְנִיתֶ֥ם bânâh H1129 to build V-Qal-Perf-2mp

לִ֖/י Prep | Suff

בֵּ֥ית bayith H1004 place N-ms

אֲרָזִֽים ʼerez H730 cedar N-mp

Hebrew Word Study

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Hebrew Word Reference — 2 Samuel 7:7

בְּ/כֹ֥ל kôl H3605 "all" Prep | N-ms

The Hebrew word for 'all' or 'everything' is used throughout the Bible, like in Genesis 1:31, where God sees all He has made as very good. It encompasses the entirety of something, whether people, things, or situations.

Definition: 1) all, the whole 1a) all, the whole of 1b) any, each, every, anything 1c) totality, everything Aramaic equivalent: kol (כֹּל "all" H3606)

Usage: Occurs in 4242 OT verses. KJV: (in) all (manner, (ye)), altogether, any (manner), enough, every (one, place, thing), howsoever, as many as, (no-) thing, ought, whatsoever, (the) whole, whoso(-ever). See also: Genesis 1:21; Genesis 17:10; Genesis 41:40.

אֲשֶֽׁר 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.

הִתְהַלַּכְתִּי֮ hâlak H1980 "to go" V-Hithpael-Perf-1cs

Means to walk or go, used in many different contexts in the Bible. It can describe physical movement, but also spiritual or emotional journeys. Appears in various forms, such as 'to go' or 'to walk'.

Definition: : walk/move 1) to go, walk, come 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to go, walk, come, depart, proceed, move, go away 1a2) to die, live, manner of life (fig.) 1b) (Piel) 1b1) to walk 1b2) to walk (fig.) 1c) (Hithpael) 1c1) to traverse 1c2) to walk about 1d) (Niphal) to lead, bring, lead away, carry, cause to walk

Usage: Occurs in 473 OT verses. KJV: (all) along, apace, behave (self), come, (on) continually, be conversant, depart, [phrase] be eased, enter, exercise (self), [phrase] follow, forth, forward, get, go (about, abroad, along, away, forward, on, out, up and down), [phrase] greater, grow, be wont to haunt, lead, march, [idiom] more and more, move (self), needs, on, pass (away), be at the point, quite, run (along), [phrase] send, speedily, spread, still, surely, [phrase] tale-bearer, [phrase] travel(-ler), walk (abroad, on, to and fro, up and down, to places), wander, wax, (way-) faring man, [idiom] be weak, whirl. See also: Genesis 2:14; Judges 4:9; 1 Kings 13:12.

בְּ/כָל kôl H3605 "all" Prep | N-ms

Definition: 1) all, the whole 1a) all, the whole of 1b) any, each, every, anything 1c) totality, everything Aramaic equivalent: kol (כֹּל "all" H3606)

בְּנֵ֣י bên H1121 "son" N-mp

In the Bible, this word means a son or descendant, and can also refer to a grandson, nation, or quality. It appears in 1 Chronicles 24, describing a Levite named Beno. The word is used to show family relationships and inheritance.

Definition: : child/son

Usage: Occurs in 3653 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] afflicted, age, (Ahoh-) (Ammon-) (Hachmon-) (Lev-) ite, (anoint-) ed one, appointed to, ([phrase]) arrow, (Assyr-) (Babylon-) (Egypt-) (Grec-) ian, one born, bough, branch, breed, [phrase] (young) bullock, [phrase] (young) calf, [idiom] came up in, child, colt, [idiom] common, [idiom] corn, daughter, [idiom] of first, [phrase] firstborn, foal, [phrase] very fruitful, [phrase] postage, [idiom] in, [phrase] kid, [phrase] lamb, ([phrase]) man, meet, [phrase] mighty, [phrase] nephew, old, ([phrase]) people, [phrase] rebel, [phrase] robber, [idiom] servant born, [idiom] soldier, son, [phrase] spark, [phrase] steward, [phrase] stranger, [idiom] surely, them of, [phrase] tumultuous one, [phrase] valiant(-est), whelp, worthy, young (one), youth. See also: Genesis 3:16; Genesis 23:3; Genesis 34:18.

יִשְׂרָאֵל֒ 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.

הֲ/דָבָ֣ר dâbâr H1697 "Chronicles" Part | N-ms

A word or thing, like a matter or affair, as seen in the book of Chronicles where it refers to the events and words of kings. It can also mean a cause or reason for something.

Definition: This name means word, speaking

Usage: Occurs in 1290 OT verses. KJV: act, advice, affair, answer, [idiom] any such (thing), because of, book, business, care, case, cause, certain rate, [phrase] chronicles, commandment, [idiom] commune(-ication), [phrase] concern(-ing), [phrase] confer, counsel, [phrase] dearth, decree, deed, [idiom] disease, due, duty, effect, [phrase] eloquent, errand, (evil favoured-) ness, [phrase] glory, [phrase] harm, hurt, [phrase] iniquity, [phrase] judgment, language, [phrase] lying, manner, matter, message, (no) thing, oracle, [idiom] ought, [idiom] parts, [phrase] pertaining, [phrase] please, portion, [phrase] power, promise, provision, purpose, question, rate, reason, report, request, [idiom] (as hast) said, sake, saying, sentence, [phrase] sign, [phrase] so, some (uncleanness), somewhat to say, [phrase] song, speech, [idiom] spoken, talk, task, [phrase] that, [idiom] there done, thing (concerning), thought, [phrase] thus, tidings, what(-soever), [phrase] wherewith, which, word, work. See also: Genesis 11:1; Exodus 23:8; Deuteronomy 18:21.

דִּבַּ֗רְתִּי dâbar H1696 "to speak" V-Piel-Perf-1cs

To speak or communicate, like God speaking to Moses in Exodus or a king commanding his people. It can also mean to promise or warn someone.

Definition: : speak/tell/command 1) to speak, declare, converse, command, promise, warn, threaten, sing 1a) (Qal) to speak 1b) (Niphal) to speak with one another, talk 1c) (Piel) 1c1) to speak 1c2) to promise 1d) (Pual) to be spoken 1e) (Hithpael) to speak 1f) (Hiphil) to lead away, put to flight

Usage: Occurs in 1049 OT verses. KJV: answer, appoint, bid, command, commune, declare, destroy, give, name, promise, pronounce, rehearse, say, speak, be spokesman, subdue, talk, teach, tell, think, use (entreaties), utter, [idiom] well, [idiom] work. See also: Genesis 8:15; Exodus 12:25; Leviticus 23:9.

אֶת ʼêth H854 "with" Prep

This Hebrew preposition means 'with' or 'near', indicating a close relationship or physical proximity. It's used in Genesis 1:26 to describe God's relationship with humanity, and in many other places to show connection or closeness.

Definition: 1) with, near, together with 1a) with, together with 1b) with (of relationship) 1c) near (of place) 1d) with (poss.) 1e) from...with, from (with other prep)

Usage: Occurs in 787 OT verses. KJV: against, among, before, by, for, from, in(-to), (out) of, with. Often with another prepositional prefix. See also: Genesis 4:1; Genesis 42:32; Numbers 1:5.

אַחַד֙ 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.

שִׁבְטֵ֣י shêbeṭ H7626 "tribe" N-mp

This word means a stick or staff, but also a clan or tribe, and can refer to a symbol of authority or a tool for punishing. It is used in the Bible to describe the rods used by shepherds or the scepters of kings.

Definition: : tribe 1) rod, staff, branch, offshoot, club, sceptre, tribe 1a) rod, staff 1b) shaft (of spear, dart) 1c) club (of shepherd's implement) 1d) truncheon, sceptre (mark of authority) 1e) clan, tribe

Usage: Occurs in 178 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] correction, dart, rod, sceptre, staff, tribe. See also: Genesis 49:10; 2 Samuel 24:2; Psalms 2:9.

יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל Yisrâʼêl H3478 "Israel" N-proper

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

אֲשֶׁ֣ר 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.

צִוִּ֗יתִי tsâvâh H6680 "to command" V-Piel-Perf-1cs

To command or give orders, as seen in the Bible when God gives charge to his people. It can also mean to appoint or ordain someone for a task. This word is used in various forms throughout the Old Testament.

Definition: 1) to command, charge, give orders, lay charge, give charge to, order 1a)(Piel) 1a1) to lay charge upon 1a2) to give charge to, give command to 1a3) to give charge unto 1a4) to give charge over, appoint 1a5) to give charge, command 1a6) to charge, command 1a7) to charge, commission 1a8) to command, appoint, ordain (of divine act) 1b) (Pual) to be commanded

Usage: Occurs in 475 OT verses. KJV: appoint, (for-) bid, (give a) charge, (give a, give in, send with) command(-er, -ment), send a messenger, put, (set) in order. See also: Genesis 2:16; Leviticus 10:13; Deuteronomy 12:11.

לִ/רְע֛וֹת râʻâh H7462 "House of Shepherds" Prep | V-Qal-Inf-a

This verb means to care for or tend to someone or something, like a shepherd with his flock. It can also mean to rule over or associate with someone as a friend, and is sometimes used to describe a close relationship.

Definition: Ra'ah = "pasturing" perh. "binding-house of the shepherds"

Usage: Occurs in 139 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] break, companion, keep company with, devour, eat up, evil entreat, feed, use as a friend, make friendship with, herdman, keep (sheep) (-er), pastor, [phrase] shearing house, shepherd, wander, waste. See also: Genesis 4:2; Isaiah 40:11; Psalms 23:1.

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.

עַמִּ֥/י ʻam H5971 "Amaw" N-ms | Suff

A people or nation is what this Hebrew word represents, like the nation of Israel in Exodus 33:13. It can also mean a tribe, troops, or attendants, and is used to describe a group of people gathered together. The word is often used to refer to the people of God.

Definition: This name means nation, people

Usage: Occurs in 1655 OT verses. KJV: folk, men, nation, people. See also: Genesis 11:6; Exodus 16:4; Leviticus 17:9.

אֶת ʼêth H853 "Obj." DirObjM

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.

יִשְׂרָאֵ֖ל Yisrâʼêl H3478 "Israel" N-proper

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

לֵ/אמֹ֑ר 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.

לָ֛/מָּה mâh H4100 "what?" Prep | 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.

לֹֽא lôʼ H3808 "not" Part

The Hebrew word for not or no is used to indicate absence or negation, as when God says no to the Israelites' requests, or when they disobey His commands.

Definition: 1) not, no 1a) not (with verb-absolute prohibition) 1b) not (with modifier-negation) 1c) nothing (subst) 1d) without (with particle) 1e) before (of time) Aramaic equivalent: la (לָא "not" H3809)

Usage: Occurs in 3967 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] before, [phrase] or else, ere, [phrase] except, ig(-norant), much, less, nay, neither, never, no((-ne), -r, (-thing)), ([idiom] as though...,(can-), for) not (out of), of nought, otherwise, out of, [phrase] surely, [phrase] as truly as, [phrase] of a truth, [phrase] verily, for want, [phrase] whether, without. See also: Genesis 2:5; Genesis 31:15; Exodus 4:9.

בְנִיתֶ֥ם bânâh H1129 "to build" V-Qal-Perf-2mp

The Hebrew word bânâh means to build something, like a house or a family. It can also mean to establish or repair something, and is used in various contexts throughout the Bible.

Definition: 1) to build, rebuild, establish, cause to continue 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to build, rebuild 1a2) to build a house (ie, establish a family) 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be built 1b2) to be rebuilt 1b3) established (of restored exiles) (fig.) 1b4) established (made permanent) 1b5) to be built up (of childless wife becoming the mother of a family through the children of a concubine) Aramaic equivalent: be.nah (בְּנָה "to build" H1124)

Usage: Occurs in 345 OT verses. KJV: (begin to) build(-er), obtain children, make, repair, set (up), [idiom] surely. See also: Genesis 2:22; 1 Kings 8:48; 2 Chronicles 20:8.

לִ֖/י "" Prep | Suff

בֵּ֥ית bayith H1004 "place" N-ms

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.

אֲרָזִֽים ʼerez H730 "cedar" N-mp

A cedar tree, known for its strength and durability, like the cedar wood used to build Solomon's temple in 1 Kings 5-6. The cedar tree was highly valued in ancient times for its timber and wood.

Definition: 1) cedar 1a) cedar tree 1b) cedar timber, cedar wood (in building) 1c) cedar wood (in purifications)

Usage: Occurs in 69 OT verses. KJV: cedar (tree). See also: Leviticus 14:4; 1 Chronicles 22:4; Psalms 29:5.

Study Notes — 2 Samuel 7:7

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Context
Cross References
2 Samuel 7:7 Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Reflection Questions
Gill's Exposition on 2 Samuel 7:7
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on 2 Samuel 7:7
Matthew Poole's Commentary on 2 Samuel 7:7
Trapp's Commentary on 2 Samuel 7:7
Ellicott's Commentary on 2 Samuel 7:7
Adam Clarke's Commentary on 2 Samuel 7:7
Cambridge Bible on 2 Samuel 7:7
Barnes' Notes on 2 Samuel 7:7
Whedon's Commentary on 2 Samuel 7:7
Sermons on 2 Samuel 7:7

Context — God’s Covenant with David

5“Go and tell My servant David that this is what the LORD says: Are you the one to build for Me a house to dwell in? 6For I have not dwelt in a house from the day I brought the Israelites up out of Egypt until this day, but I have moved about with a tent as My dwelling.

7In all My journeys with all the Israelites, have I ever asked any of the leaders I appointed to shepherd My people Israel, ‘Why haven’t you built Me a house of cedar?’

8Now then, you are to tell My servant David that this is what the LORD of Hosts says: I took you from the pasture, from following the flock, to be the ruler over My people Israel. 9I have been with you wherever you have gone, and I have cut off all your enemies from before you. Now I will make for you a name like that of the greatest in the land.

Cross References

	Reference	Text (BSB)
1	1 Chronicles 17:6	In all My journeys with all the Israelites, have I ever asked any of the leaders I appointed to shepherd My people, ‘Why haven’t you built Me a house of cedar?’
2	2 Samuel 5:2	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.’”
3	Leviticus 26:11–12	And I will make My dwelling place among you, and My soul will not despise you. I will walk among you and be your God, and you will be My people.
4	John 21:15–17	When they had finished eating, Jesus asked Simon Peter, “Simon son of John, do you love Me more than these?” “Yes, Lord,” he answered, “You know I love You.” Jesus replied, “Feed My lambs.” Jesus asked a second time, “Simon son of John, do you love Me?” “Yes, Lord,” he answered, “You know I love You.” Jesus told him, “Shepherd My sheep.” Jesus asked a third time, “Simon son of John, do you love Me?” Peter was deeply hurt that Jesus had asked him a third time, “Do you love Me?” “Lord, You know all things,” he replied. “You know I love You.” Jesus said to him, “Feed My sheep.
5	Matthew 2:6	‘But you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah, for out of you will come a ruler who will be the shepherd of My people Israel.’ ”
6	Deuteronomy 23:14	For the LORD your God walks throughout your camp to protect you and deliver your enemies to you. Your camp must be holy, lest He see anything unclean among you and turn away from you.
7	Isaiah 40:11	He tends His flock like a shepherd; He gathers the lambs in His arms and carries them close to His heart. He gently leads the nursing ewes.
8	Acts 20:28	Keep watch over yourselves and the entire flock of which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers. Be shepherds of the church of God, which He purchased with His own blood.
9	Ezekiel 34:15	I will tend My flock and make them lie down, declares the Lord GOD.
10	Ezekiel 34:23	I will appoint over them one shepherd, My servant David, and he will feed them. He will feed them and be their shepherd.

2 Samuel 7:7 Summary

This verse shows that God has been with the Israelites throughout their journeys and has not required a permanent house from them until now. God is speaking to David, saying that He has not asked any of the previous leaders to build Him a house, and this is a new development in their relationship (as seen in 2 Samuel 7:5). This conversation between God and David is part of a larger promise that God makes to David, to establish his dynasty and make a name for him (2 Samuel 7:9). This promise is a key part of God's plan to bring salvation to the world, and it ultimately points to the coming of Jesus Christ, who is the true King and Savior of God's people (Luke 1:69-70).

Frequently Asked Questions

What does this verse reveal about God's relationship with the Israelites?

This verse shows that God has been with the Israelites throughout their journeys, guiding and protecting them, as seen in Exodus 13:21 and Deuteronomy 1:33, and that He has not required a permanent house from them until now.

Why does God mention the leaders He appointed to shepherd His people Israel?

God mentions these leaders to emphasize that He has not asked any of them to build Him a house, highlighting that this is a new development in His relationship with David, as seen in 2 Samuel 7:5.

What is the significance of the house of cedar mentioned in this verse?

The house of cedar represents a permanent, luxurious dwelling, which God has not required from the Israelites until now, as seen in 1 Chronicles 17:1, where David wants to build a house for God.

How does this verse relate to God's larger plan for the Israelites?

This verse is part of God's promise to establish David's dynasty and make a name for him, as seen in 2 Samuel 7:9, which is a key part of God's plan to bring salvation to the world through the Messiah, as seen in Isaiah 11:1 and Luke 1:69-70.

Reflection Questions

What does it mean for God to 'journey' with His people, and how can I experience this in my own life?
How does God's statement about not asking for a house of cedar challenge my own ideas about what God requires from me?
In what ways can I, like David, be a leader who shepherds God's people and seeks to build a 'house' for Him, whether literal or figurative?
What are some ways that God has been with me throughout my own journey, even when I was not aware of it, and how can I cultivate a deeper sense of His presence in my life?

Gill's Exposition on 2 Samuel 7:7

In all [the places] wherein I have walked with all the children of Israel,.... [See comments on 2 Samuel 7:6] on the places mentioned there: spake I a word with any of the tribes of Israel; or rather

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on 2 Samuel 7:7

Matthew Poole's Commentary on 2 Samuel 7:7

Spake I a word? did I ever give any command about it? without which neither they did, nor thou shouldst attempt it. With any of the tribes: in , it is of the judges; and to them, not to the tribes, the following words agree, whom I commanded to feed my people Israel. Either therefore the tribes are here put synecdochically for the rulers of the tribes, as the word church is sometimes used for the governors of it; or the word here rendered tribes may be rendered sceptres, as it is used , and sceptres put for sceptre-bearers or rulers, as is very frequent.

Trapp's Commentary on 2 Samuel 7:7

2 Samuel 7:7 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?Ver. 7. Spake I a word.] They waited for my warrant for such an enterprise: and wilt not thou? Hold a while, and let thy sacrifice be offered with salt, thy zeal regulated by discretion: let this hold that by the heel, as Jacob did his brother Esau.

Ellicott's Commentary on 2 Samuel 7:7

(7) The tribes.—In the parallel place, 1 Chronicles 17:6, the word is “judges,” the difference in Hebrew being only of a single similar letter. But a like use of “tribes” for the judges sprung from them may be found in Psalms 78:67-68; 1 Chronicles 28:4.

Adam Clarke's Commentary on 2 Samuel 7:7

Verse 7. With any of the tribes] "Spake I a word to any of the JUDGES" is the reading in the parallel place, 1 Chronicles 17:6, and this is probably the true reading. Indeed, there is but one letter of difference between them, and letters which might be easily mistaken for each other: שבטי shibtey, tribes, is almost the same in appearance with שפטי shophetey, judges; the ב beth and the פ pe being the same letter, the apex under the upper stroke of the פ pe excepted. If this were but a little effaced in a MS., it would be mistaken for the other, and then we should have tribes instead of judges. This reading seems confirmed by 2 Samuel 7:11.

Cambridge Bible on 2 Samuel 7:7

7. with any of the tribes of Israel] 1 Chronicles 17:6 reads judges for tribes, and at first sight this appears to be required by the following words, “whom I commanded,” &c., which seem more applicable to an individual ruler than to a tribe. But the reading “tribes” is supported by the versions, and may be understood of the different tribes which through the Judges and leaders chosen from them successively attained the supremacy, as Ephraim in the time of Joshua, Dan in the days of Samson, Benjamin in the reign of Saul. Compare David’s expression in 1 Chronicles 28:4, “he hath chosen Judah to be the ruler,” and the reference to the choice of the tribe of Judah and the rejection of the tribe of Ephraim in Psalms 78:67-68. to feed] To tend, as a shepherd tends his sheep. Cp. note on ch. 2 Samuel 5:11. a house of cedar] Cp. 2 Samuel 7:2. A permanent sanctuary with beams of the most costly timber. See note on ch. 2 Samuel 5:11.

Barnes' Notes on 2 Samuel 7:7

The tribes of Israel - The duplicate passage reads judges (see margin and compare 2 Samuel 7:11).

Whedon's Commentary on 2 Samuel 7:7

7. With any of the tribes — In the persons of their representatives, the elders. In Chronicles the reading is judges of Israel. Hitherto there had been no command to build such a house as David proposed.

Sermons on 2 Samuel 7:7

	Sermon	Description
	Joash the Boy King by C.I. Scofield	C.I. Scofield delves into the story of Athaliah's wicked reign, highlighting the evil deed of destroying her own grandchildren and the wise measures taken by Jehoiada to protect Jo
	Bible Portraits of Christ 02 His Feet by James Booker	In this sermon, the speaker reflects on a televised program about the Olympics and a long-distance walking event. The speaker uses this analogy to illustrate a lesson about spendin
	The Tabernacle of God With Us by Joshua Daniel	This sermon emphasizes the importance of God's presence in our lives, highlighting the need for humility, truth, and righteousness. It discusses the consequences of breaking God's
	Brokenness Study #3 - the Process by Charles Stanley	In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of understanding God's targeting of our areas of brokenness. Brokenness, according to the speaker, is God's way of dealing wit
	I Go a Fishing by Alan Redpath	In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the story of Peter and his denial of Jesus. He emphasizes the importance of loyalty and devotion to God, especially in times of difficulty.
	Authentic Missions, Part One by K.P. Yohannan	In this sermon, Brother K. P. Johannon discusses the concept of authentic missions and what it looks like according to the teachings of Jesus. He begins by acknowledging that Jesus
	Lovest Thou Me by Alan Redpath	In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the story of Peter meeting Jesus after his resurrection. The speaker acknowledges that many of us may have experienced disillusionment, defe