CINXE.COM

<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "//www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="//www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><head><meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8" /><meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1" /><title>2 Samuel 2:1 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.</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/2_samuel/2-1.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/6/10_2Sa_02_01.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="2 Samuel 2:1 - David Anointed King of Judah" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="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." /><script type="application/javascript" src="https://scripts.webcontentassessor.com/scripts/8a2459b64f9cac8122fc7f2eac4409c8555fac9383016db59c4c26e3d5b8b157"></script><script src='https://qd.admetricspro.com/js/biblehub/biblehub-layout-loader-revcatch.js'></script><script id='HyDgbd_1s' src='https://prebidads.revcatch.com/ads.js' type='text/javascript' async></script><script>(function(w,d,b,s,i){var cts=d.createElement(s);cts.async=true;cts.id='catchscript'; cts.dataset.appid=i;cts.src='https://app.protectsubrev.com/catch_rp.js?cb='+Math.random(); document.head.appendChild(cts); }) (window,document,'head','script','rc-anksrH');</script></head><body><div id="fx"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx2"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="30" scrolling="no" src="/vmenus/2_samuel/2-1.htm" align="left" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div><div id="blnk"></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable"><tr><td><div id="fx5"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx6"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="245" scrolling="no" src="/bmc/2_samuel/2-1.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable3"><tr><td><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center" id="announce"><tr><td><div id="l1"><div id="breadcrumbs"><a href="/">Bible</a> > <a href="/2_samuel/">2 Samuel</a> > <a href="/2_samuel/2.htm">Chapter 2</a> > Verse 1</div><div id="anc"><iframe src="/anc.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></div><div id="anc2"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/anc2.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></div><div id="ad1"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/ad1.htm" width="100%" height="48" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table><div id="movebox2"><table border="0" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tr><td><div id="topheading"><a href="/2_samuel/1-27.htm" title="2 Samuel 1:27">◄</a> 2 Samuel 2:1 <a href="/2_samuel/2-2.htm" title="2 Samuel 2:2">►</a></div></tr></table></div><div align="center" class="maintable2"><table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><div id="topverse"> <a href="#audio" class="clickchap2" title="Context and Audio Bible"> Audio </a> <a href="#crossref" class="clickchap2" title="Cross References"> Cross </a> <a href="#study" class="clickchap2" title="Study Bible"> Study </a> <a href="#commentary" class="clickchap2" title="Commentary"> Comm </a> <a href="#lexicon" class="clickchap2" title="Lexicon"> Heb </a> </div><div id="leftbox"><div class="padleft"><div class="vheadingv">Verse<a href="/bsb/2_samuel/2.htm" class="clickchap" style="color:#001320" title="Click any translation name for full chapter">  (Click for Chapter)</a></div><div id="par"><a href="/niv/2_samuel/2.htm">New International Version</a> In the course of time, David inquired of the LORD. &#8220Shall I go up to one of the towns of Judah?&#8221 he asked. The LORD said, &#8220Go up.&#8221 David asked, &#8220Where shall I go?&#8221 &#8220To Hebron,&#8221 the LORD answered. <a href="/nlt/2_samuel/2.htm">New Living Translation</a> After this, David asked the LORD, “Should I move back to one of the towns of Judah?” “Yes,” the LORD replied. Then David asked, “Which town should I go to?” “To Hebron,” the LORD answered. <a href="/esv/2_samuel/2.htm">English Standard Version</a> After this David inquired of the LORD, “Shall I go up into any of the cities of Judah?” And the LORD said to him, “Go up.” David said, “To which shall I go up?” And he said, “To Hebron.” <a href="/bsb/2_samuel/2.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a> 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. <a href="/kjv/2_samuel/2.htm">King James Bible</a> 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. <a href="/nkjv/2_samuel/2.htm">New King James Version</a> It happened after this that David inquired of the LORD, saying, “Shall I go up to any of the cities of Judah?” And the LORD said to him, “Go up.” David said, “Where shall I go up?” And He said, “To Hebron.” <a href="/nasb_/2_samuel/2.htm">New American Standard Bible</a> Then it came about afterward that David inquired of the LORD, saying, “Shall I go up to one of the cities of Judah?” And the LORD said to him, “Go up.” So David said, “Where shall I go up?” And He said, “To Hebron.” <a href="/nasb/2_samuel/2.htm">NASB 1995</a> Then it came about afterwards that David inquired of the LORD, saying, &#8220Shall I go up to one of the cities of Judah?&#8221 And the LORD said to him, &#8220Go up.&#8221 So David said, &#8220Where shall I go up?&#8221 And He said, &#8220To Hebron.&#8221 <a href="/nasb77/2_samuel/2.htm">NASB 1977 </a> Then it came about afterwards that David inquired of the LORD, saying, “Shall I go up to one of the cities of Judah?” And the LORD said to him, “Go up.” So David said, “Where shall I go up?” And He said, “To Hebron.” <a href="/lsb/2_samuel/2.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a> Now it happened afterwards that David asked of Yahweh, saying, “Shall I go up to one of the cities of Judah?” And Yahweh said to him, “Go up.” So David said, “Where shall I go up?” And He said, “To Hebron.” <a href="/amp/2_samuel/2.htm">Amplified Bible</a> So it happened after this that David inquired of the LORD, saying, “Shall I go up into one of the cities of Judah?” And the LORD said to him, “Go up.” David asked, “Where shall I go?” And He said, “To Hebron.” <a href="/csb/2_samuel/2.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a> Some time later, David inquired of the LORD: “Should I go to one of the towns of Judah? ” The LORD answered him, “Go.” Then David asked, “Where should I go? ” “To Hebron,” the LORD replied. <a href="/hcsb/2_samuel/2.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a> Some time later, David inquired of the LORD: &#8220Should I go to one of the towns of Judah?&#8221 The LORD answered him, &#8220Go.&#8221 Then David asked, &#8220Where should I go?"&#8221 To Hebron,&#8221 the LORD replied. <a href="/asv/2_samuel/2.htm">American Standard Version</a> 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. <a href="/cev/2_samuel/2.htm">Contemporary English Version</a> Later, David asked the LORD, "Should I go back to one of the towns of Judah?" The LORD answered, "Yes." David asked, "Which town should I go to?" "Go to Hebron," the LORD replied. <a href="/erv/2_samuel/2.htm">English Revised Version</a> 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. <a href="/gwt/2_samuel/2.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a> After this, David asked the LORD, "Should I go to one of the cities of Judah?" "Go," the LORD answered him. "Where should I go?" David asked. "To Hebron," the LORD replied. <a href="/gnt/2_samuel/2.htm">Good News Translation</a> After this, David asked the LORD, "Shall I go and take control of one of the towns of Judah?" "Yes," the LORD answered. "Which one?" David asked. "Hebron," the LORD said. <a href="/isv/2_samuel/2.htm">International Standard Version</a> Some time later, David inquired of the LORD to ask, "Am I to move to any one of the cities of Judah?" The LORD told him, "Go." So David asked, "To which one?" He replied, "To Hebron." <a href="/msb/2_samuel/2.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a> 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. <a href="/net/2_samuel/2.htm">NET Bible</a> Afterward David inquired of the LORD, "Should I go up to one of the cities of Judah?" The LORD told him, "Go up." David asked, "Where should I go?" The LORD replied, "To Hebron." <a href="/nheb/2_samuel/2.htm">New Heart English Bible</a> It happened after this, that 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." <a href="/wbt/2_samuel/2.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a> 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. <a href="/web/2_samuel/2.htm">World English Bible</a> After this, David inquired of Yahweh, saying, “Shall I go up into any of the cities of Judah?” Yahweh said to him, “Go up.” David said, “Where shall I go up?” He said, “To Hebron.” <div class="vheading2">Literal Translations</div><a href="/lsv/2_samuel/2.htm">Literal Standard Version</a> And it comes to pass afterward, that David inquires of YHWH, saying, “Do I go up into one of the cities of Judah?” And YHWH says to him, “Go up.” And David says, “To where do I go up?” And He says, “To Hebron.” <a href="/ylt/2_samuel/2.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a> 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.' <a href="/slt/2_samuel/2.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a> And it will be after this, and David will ask in Jehovah, saying, Shall I go up into one of the cities of Judah? and Jehovah will say to him, Go up. And David will say, Whither shall I go up? and he will say, To Hebron.<div class="vheading2">Catholic Translations</div><a href="/drb/2_samuel/2.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a> 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. <a href="/cpdv/2_samuel/2.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a> And so, after these things, David consulted the Lord, saying, “Shall I ascend to one of the cities of Judah?” And the Lord said to him, “Ascend.” And David said, “To where shall I ascend?” And he responded to him, “To Hebron.” <a href="/nabre/2_samuel/2.htm">New American Bible</a> After this, David inquired of the LORD, “Shall I go up into one of the cities of Judah?” The LORD replied to him: Go up. Then David asked, “Where shall I go?” He replied: To Hebron. <a href="/nrsvce/2_samuel/2.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a> After this David inquired of the LORD, “Shall I go up into any of the cities of Judah?” The LORD said to him, “Go up.” David said, “To which shall I go up?” He said, “To Hebron.”<div class="vheading2">Translations from Aramaic</div><a href="/lamsa/2_samuel/2.htm">Lamsa Bible</a> AND it came to pass after this, that David inquired of the LORD, saying, Shall I go up to one 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. <a href="/hpbt/2_samuel/2.htm">Peshitta Holy Bible Translated</a> And it happened after this and David asked of LORD JEHOVAH and said: “Shall I ascend to one of the towns of Yehuda?” And LORD JEHOVAH said to him: “Go up.” And David said: “To which shall I ascend?” And he said to him: “To Khebron”<div class="vheading2">OT Translations</div><a href="/jps/2_samuel/2.htm">JPS Tanakh 1917</a> 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.' <a href="/sep/2_samuel/2.htm">Brenton Septuagint Translation</a> And it came to pass after this that David enquired of 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 said, To Chebron. <a href="/parallel/2_samuel/2-1.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv">Audio Bible</div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/_0ajZHUzMKw?start=257" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe> <div class="vheadingv">Context</div><a href="/bsb/2_samuel/2.htm">David Anointed King of Judah</a> 1<a href="/hebrew/1961.htm" title="1961: way·hî (Conj-w:: V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms) -- To fall out, come to pass, become, be. A primitive root; to exist, i.e. Be or become, come to pass."></a> <a href="/hebrew/310.htm" title="310: ’a·ḥă·rê- (Prep) -- The hind or following part. From 'achar; properly, the hind part; generally used as an adverb or conjunction, after.">Some time later,</a> <a href="/hebrew/3651.htm" title="3651: ḵên (Adv) -- So, thus. From kuwn; properly, set upright; hence just; but usually rightly or so."></a> <a href="/hebrew/1732.htm" title="1732: dā·wiḏ (N-proper-ms) -- Perhaps beloved one, a son of Jesse. Rarely; Daviyd; from the same as dowd; loving; David, the youngest son of Jesse.">David</a> <a href="/hebrew/7592.htm" title="7592: way·yiš·’al (Conj-w:: V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms) -- To ask, inquire. Or shael; a primitive root; to inquire; by implication, to request; by extension, to demand.">inquired</a> <a href="/hebrew/3068.htm" title="3068: Yah·weh (Prep-b:: N-proper-ms) -- The proper name of the God of Israel. From hayah; self-Existent or Eternal; Jehovah, Jewish national name of God.">of the LORD,</a> <a href="/hebrew/559.htm" title="559: lê·mōr (Prep-l:: V-Qal-Inf) -- To utter, say. A primitive root; to say."></a> <a href="/hebrew/5927.htm" title="5927: ha·’e·‘ĕ·leh (V-Qal-Imperf-1cs) -- A primitive root; to ascend, intransitively or actively; used in a great variety of senses, primary and secondary, literal and figurative.">“Should I go up</a> <a href="/hebrew/259.htm" title="259: bə·’a·ḥaṯ (Prep-b:: Number-fsc) -- One. A numeral from 'achad; properly, united, i.e. One; or first.">to one</a> <a href="/hebrew/5892.htm" title="5892: ‘ā·rê (N-fpc) -- Excitement. Or par; or ayar; from uwr a city in the widest sense.">of the towns</a> <a href="/hebrew/3063.htm" title="3063: yə·hū·ḏāh (N-proper-ms) -- From yadah; celebrated; Jehudah, the name of five Israelites; also of the tribe descended from the first, and of its territory.">of Judah?”</a> <a href="/hebrew/5927.htm" title="5927: ‘ă·lêh (V-Qal-Imp-ms) -- A primitive root; to ascend, intransitively or actively; used in a great variety of senses, primary and secondary, literal and figurative.">“Go up,”</a> <a href="/hebrew/3068.htm" title="3068: Yah·weh (N-proper-ms) -- The proper name of the God of Israel. From hayah; self-Existent or Eternal; Jehovah, Jewish national name of God.">the LORD</a> <a href="/hebrew/559.htm" title="559: way·yō·mer (Conj-w:: V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms) -- To utter, say. A primitive root; to say.">answered.</a> <a href="/hebrew/413.htm" title="413: ’ê·lāw (Prep:: 3ms) -- To, into, towards. "></a> <a href="/hebrew/1732.htm" title="1732: dā·wiḏ (N-proper-ms) -- Perhaps beloved one, a son of Jesse. Rarely; Daviyd; from the same as dowd; loving; David, the youngest son of Jesse.">Then David</a> <a href="/hebrew/559.htm" title="559: way·yō·mer (Conj-w:: V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms) -- To utter, say. A primitive root; to say.">asked,</a> <a href="/hebrew/575.htm" title="575: ’ā·nāh (Interrog) -- Where? whither?. Or manah; contracted from 'aiyn; where?; hence, whither?, when?; also hither and thither.">“Where</a> <a href="/hebrew/5927.htm" title="5927: ’e·‘ĕ·leh (V-Qal-Imperf-1cs) -- A primitive root; to ascend, intransitively or actively; used in a great variety of senses, primary and secondary, literal and figurative.">should I go?”</a> <a href="/hebrew/2275.htm" title="2275: ḥeḇ·rō·nāh (N-proper-fs:: 3fs) -- From cheber; seat of association; Chebron, a place in Palestine, also the name of two Israelites.">“To Hebron,”</a> <a href="/hebrew/559.htm" title="559: way·yō·mer (Conj-w:: V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms) -- To utter, say. A primitive root; to say.">replied the LORD.</a> 2So David went there with his two wives, Ahinoam of Jezreel and Abigail the widow of Nabal of Carmel.…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div> <a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><a href="/1_samuel/23-2.htm">1 Samuel 23:2</a> 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.” <a href="/1_samuel/30-8.htm">1 Samuel 30:8</a> and David inquired of the LORD: “Should I pursue these raiders? Will I overtake them?” “Pursue them,” the LORD replied, “for you will surely overtake them and rescue the captives.” <a href="/1_samuel/28-6.htm">1 Samuel 28:6</a> He inquired of the LORD, but the LORD did not answer him by dreams or Urim or prophets. <a href="/1_samuel/22-3.htm">1 Samuel 22:3-5</a> From there David went to Mizpeh of Moab, where he said to the king of Moab, “Please let my father and mother stay with you until I learn what God will do for me.” / So he left them in the care of the king of Moab, and they stayed with him the whole time David was in the stronghold. / Then the prophet Gad said to David, “Do not stay in the stronghold. Depart and go into the land of Judah.” So David left and went to the forest of Hereth. <a href="/1_samuel/16-1.htm">1 Samuel 16:1-3</a> Now the LORD said to Samuel, “How long are you going to mourn for Saul, since I have rejected him as king over Israel? Fill your horn with oil and go. I am sending you to Jesse of Bethlehem, for I have selected from his sons a king for Myself.” / “How can I go?” Samuel asked. “Saul will hear of it and kill me!” The LORD answered, “Take a heifer with you and say, ‘I have come to sacrifice to the LORD.’ / Then invite Jesse to the sacrifice, and I will show you what you are to do. You are to anoint for Me the one I indicate.” <a href="/1_samuel/10-22.htm">1 Samuel 10:22</a> So again they inquired of the LORD, “Has the man come here yet?” And the LORD replied, “Behold, he has hidden himself among the baggage.” <a href="/judges/20-18.htm">Judges 20:18</a> The Israelites set out, went up to Bethel, and inquired of God, “Who of us shall go up first to fight against the Benjamites?” “Judah will be first,” the LORD replied. <a href="/judges/1-1.htm">Judges 1:1</a> 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?” <a href="/genesis/46-2.htm">Genesis 46:2-4</a> And that night God spoke to Israel in a vision: “Jacob, Jacob!” He said. “Here I am,” replied Jacob. / “I am God,” He said, “the God of your father. Do not be afraid to go down to Egypt, for I will make you into a great nation there. / I will go down with you to Egypt, and I will surely bring you back. And Joseph’s own hands will close your eyes.” <a href="/numbers/27-21.htm">Numbers 27:21</a> He shall stand before Eleazar the priest, who will seek counsel for him before the LORD by the judgment of the Urim. At his command, he and all the Israelites with him—the entire congregation—will go out and come in.” <a href="/joshua/9-14.htm">Joshua 9:14</a> Then the men of Israel sampled their provisions but did not seek the counsel of the LORD. <a href="/proverbs/3-5.htm">Proverbs 3:5-6</a> 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. <a href="/isaiah/30-21.htm">Isaiah 30:21</a> And whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear this command behind you: “This is the way. Walk in it.” <a href="/jeremiah/42-2.htm">Jeremiah 42:2-3</a> Jeremiah the prophet and said, “May our petition come before you; pray to the LORD your God on behalf of this entire remnant. For few of us remain of the many, as you can see with your own eyes. / Pray that the LORD your God will tell us the way we should walk and the thing we should do.” <a href="/acts/13-22.htm">Acts 13:22</a> After removing Saul, He raised up David as their king and testified about him: ‘I have found David son of Jesse a man after My own heart; he will carry out My will in its entirety.’</div> <a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div>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, Where shall I go up? And he said, To Hebron.enquired<a href="/2_samuel/5-19.htm">2 Samuel 5:19,23</a> And David inquired of the LORD, saying, Shall I go up to the Philistines? wilt thou deliver them into mine hand? And the LORD said unto David, Go up: for I will doubtless deliver the Philistines into thine hand… <a href="/numbers/27-21.htm">Numbers 27:21</a> And he shall stand before Eleazar the priest, who shall ask counsel for him after the judgment of Urim before the LORD: at his word shall they go out, and at his word they shall come in, both he, and all the children of Israel with him, even all the congregation.<a href="/judges/1-1.htm">Judges 1:1</a> Now after the death of Joshua it came to pass, that the children of Israel asked the LORD, saying, Who shall go up for us against the Canaanites first, to fight against them?Hebron<a href="/2_samuel/2-11.htm">2 Samuel 2:11</a> And the time that David was king in Hebron over the house of Judah was seven years and six months.<a href="/2_samuel/5-1.htm">2 Samuel 5:1-3</a> Then came all the tribes of Israel to David unto Hebron, and spake, saying, Behold, we are thy bone and thy flesh… <a href="/2_samuel/15-7.htm">2 Samuel 15:7</a> And it came to pass after forty years, that Absalom said unto the king, I pray thee, let me go and pay my vow, which I have vowed unto the LORD, in Hebron.<div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/1_samuel/24-5.htm">Afterwards</a> <a href="/1_samuel/31-7.htm">Cities</a> <a href="/1_samuel/1-20.htm">Course</a> <a href="/2_samuel/1-17.htm">David</a> <a href="/1_samuel/30-31.htm">Hebron</a> <a href="/1_samuel/30-8.htm">Inquired</a> <a href="/2_samuel/1-18.htm">Judah</a> <a href="/1_samuel/27-10.htm">Time</a> <a href="/1_samuel/30-29.htm">Towns</a> <a href="/1_samuel/27-10.htm">Whither</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/2_samuel/8-1.htm">Afterwards</a> <a href="/2_samuel/2-3.htm">Cities</a> <a href="/2_samuel/8-1.htm">Course</a> <a href="/2_samuel/2-2.htm">David</a> <a href="/2_samuel/2-3.htm">Hebron</a> <a href="/2_samuel/5-19.htm">Inquired</a> <a href="/2_samuel/2-4.htm">Judah</a> <a href="/2_samuel/2-11.htm">Time</a> <a href="/2_samuel/2-3.htm">Towns</a> <a href="/2_samuel/13-13.htm">Whither</a><div class="vheading2">2 Samuel 2</div>1. <a href="/2_samuel/2-1.htm">David, by God's direction, with his company goes up to Hebron </a> 4. <a href="/2_samuel/2-4.htm">where he is made king of Judah</a> 5. <a href="/2_samuel/2-5.htm">He commends them of Jabesh Gilead for their king of Israel</a> 8. <a href="/2_samuel/2-8.htm">Abner makes Ishbosheth king of Israel</a> 12. <a href="/2_samuel/2-12.htm">A mortal skirmish between twelve of Abner's and twelve of Joab's men.</a> 18. <a href="/2_samuel/2-18.htm">Asahel is slain</a> 25. <a href="/2_samuel/2-25.htm">At Abner's motion, Joab sounds a retreat</a> 32. <a href="/2_samuel/2-32.htm">Asahel's burial</a> </div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:inline-block;width:200px;height:200px" data-ad-client="ca-pub-3753401421161123" data-ad-slot="3592799687"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheading"><table width="100%"><tr><td width="99%" valign="top"><a href="/study/2_samuel/2.htm">Study Bible</a></td><td width="1%" valign="top"><a href="/study/2_samuel/" title="Book Summary and Study">Book ◦</a> <a href="/study/chapters/2_samuel/2.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div>Some time later This phrase indicates a period of transition following the death of Saul and Jonathan. David had been living in Ziklag, a Philistine territory, after fleeing from Saul. The timing suggests a period of mourning and reflection, as well as a strategic pause before taking further action.David inquired of the LORD David's inquiry reflects his dependence on divine guidance, a recurring theme in his life. This practice of seeking God's will is seen throughout David's story, contrasting with Saul's failure to do so. It highlights the importance of prayer and seeking God's direction in decision-making.“Should I go up to one of the towns of Judah?” David's question shows his awareness of his anointing as king over Israel and his desire to align his actions with God's plan. Judah, his tribal homeland, is significant as it is the region where he would eventually establish his rule. This move is strategic, as it positions David to consolidate his power base.“Go up,” the LORD answered. God's affirmative response indicates divine approval and support for David's next steps. This assurance would have been crucial for David, providing him with confidence and legitimacy in his actions. It underscores the theme of divine sovereignty and guidance in the establishment of David's kingdom.Then David asked, “Where should I go?” David's follow-up question demonstrates his careful consideration and desire for specific guidance. It reflects his humility and recognition of the need for God's direction in every detail, not just in broad strokes.“To Hebron,” replied the LORD. Hebron is a city of great historical and spiritual significance. It was associated with the patriarchs Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, and served as a Levitical city of refuge. Choosing Hebron as the initial seat of David's reign connects his kingship to the covenantal promises made to the patriarchs. It also foreshadows the establishment of Jerusalem as the political and spiritual center of Israel, with Hebron serving as a precursor to David's eventual rule over all Israel.<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <a href="/topical/d/david.htm">David</a> The anointed king of Israel, who seeks God's guidance before making significant decisions. His inquiry reflects his dependence on God. 2. <a href="/topical/t/the_lord.htm">The LORD</a> The covenant God of Israel, who communicates with David, providing guidance and direction. 3. <a href="/topical/h/hebron.htm">Hebron</a> A significant city in Judah, which becomes David's first capital as king. It holds historical and spiritual importance as a city of refuge and a place associated with the patriarchs. 4. <a href="/topical/j/judah.htm">Judah</a> The tribe from which David hails, and the region where he is to establish his rule initially. 5. <a href="/topical/i/inquiry_of_the_lord.htm">Inquiry of the LORD</a> The act of seeking divine guidance, often through prayer or consultation with a prophet or priest, demonstrating a reliance on God's wisdom.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><a href="/topical/s/seeking_divine_guidance.htm">Seeking Divine Guidance</a> David's inquiry of the LORD before making a move teaches us the importance of seeking God's will in our decisions. We should prioritize prayer and discernment in our lives. <a href="/topical/o/obedience_to_god's_direction.htm">Obedience to God's Direction</a> Once God provides guidance, David obeys without hesitation. This demonstrates the importance of acting on God's instructions with faith and trust. <a href="/topical/s/significance_of_place.htm">Significance of Place</a> Hebron's selection as David's initial capital underscores the importance of historical and spiritual context in God's plans. We should consider how our own history and context can be used for God's purposes. <a href="/topical/g/god's_faithfulness.htm">God's Faithfulness</a> The LORD's response to David's inquiry shows His faithfulness in guiding those who seek Him. We can trust that God will lead us when we earnestly seek His will. <a href="/topical/l/leadership_and_humility.htm">Leadership and Humility</a> David's example of seeking God's guidance before assuming leadership roles highlights the need for humility and dependence on God in positions of authority.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_2_samuel_2.htm">Top 10 Lessons from 2 Samuel 2</a> <a href="/q/can_david's_talk_with_god_be_verified.htm">In 2 Samuel 2:1, how can David’s direct conversation with God be historically or archaeologically verified? </a> <a href="/q/david_and_ish-bosheth_conflict.htm">What happened between David and Ish-bosheth?</a> <a href="/q/what_are_the_key_events_in_2_samuel.htm">What are the key events in 2 Samuel?</a> <a href="/q/does_abner's_support_for_david_fit_history.htm">2 Samuel 3:12–13: Does Abner’s sudden support for David align with known tribal loyalties and historical realities of that era? </a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/2_samuel/2.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(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 <a href="/context/1_samuel/23-9.htm" title="And David knew that Saul secretly practiced mischief against him; and he said to Abiathar the priest, Bring here the ephod.">1Samuel 23:9-10</a> (comp. <a href="/2_samuel/22-20.htm" title="He brought me forth also into a large place: he delivered me, because he delighted in me.">2Samuel 22:20</a>; <a href="/2_samuel/23-1.htm" title="Now these be the last words of David. David the son of Jesse said, and the man who was raised up on high, the anointed of the God of Jacob, and the sweet psalmist of Israel, said,">2Samuel 23:1</a>; <a href="/2_samuel/23-4.htm" title="And he shall be as the light of the morning, when the sun rises, even a morning without clouds; as the tender grass springing out of the earth by clear shining after rain.">2Samuel 23:4</a>). 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," <a href="/numbers/13-22.htm" title="And they ascended by the south, and came to Hebron; where Ahiman, Sheshai, and Talmai, the children of Anak, were. (Now Hebron was built seven years before Zoan in Egypt.)">Numbers 13:22</a>), long the residence of Abraham (<a href="/genesis/13-18.htm" title="Then Abram removed his tent, and came and dwelled in the plain of Mamre, which is in Hebron, and built there an altar to the LORD.">Genesis 13:18</a>), and the place where he and Sarah, Isaac and Jacob, were buried. Its original name was Kirjath-arba (<a href="/genesis/23-2.htm" title="And Sarah died in Kirjatharba; the same is Hebron in the land of Canaan: and Abraham came to mourn for Sarah, and to weep for her.">Genesis 23:2</a>; <a href="/joshua/14-15.htm" title="And the name of Hebron before was Kirjatharba; which Arba was a great man among the Anakims. And the land had rest from war.">Joshua 14:15</a>, &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 (<a href="/numbers/13-23.htm" title="And they came to the brook of Eshcol, and cut down from there a branch with one cluster of grapes, and they bore it between two on a staff; and they brought of the pomegranates, and of the figs.">Numbers 13:23</a>). It was a priestly city (<a href="/context/joshua/21-10.htm" title="Which the children of Aaron, being of the families of the Kohathites, who were of the children of Levi, had: for theirs was the first lot.">Joshua 21:10-11</a>), and the most southerly of the cities of refuge (<a href="/joshua/20-7.htm" title="And they appointed Kedesh in Galilee in mount Naphtali, and Shechem in mount Ephraim, and Kirjatharba, which is Hebron, in the mountain of Judah.">Joshua 20:7</a>). Here was the home and the throne of David for the next seven and a half years (<a href="/2_samuel/2-11.htm" title="And the time that David was king in Hebron over the house of Judah was seven years and six months.">2Samuel 2:11</a>; <a href="/2_samuel/5-5.htm" title="In Hebron he reigned over Judah seven years and six months: and in Jerusalem he reigned thirty and three years over all Israel and Judah.">2Samuel 5:5</a>). 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. . . . <div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/2_samuel/2.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div>Verse 1. - Unto Hebron. As soon as David had assuaged his grief, his thoughts would naturally turn towards his country. Fuller news would reach him every day respecting the movements of the Philistines, who, after so decisive a victory, would quickly overrun all the central districts of Palestine, where the battle had been fought. And very bitter must David's feelings have been. Had he continued in Israel, he and his six hundred men would now have hastened to the rescue, and all the braver warriors of the land would have gathered round them. As it was, he was too entangled with the Philistines, and too much distrusted by the northern tribes, to be of much use. Still, we learn from <a href="/1_chronicles/12.htm">1 Chronicles 12</a>, that brave men did continually swell the number of his followers. Detachments of the tribes of Gad and Manasseh, instead of joining Saul at Gilboa, went to David as he withdrew to Ziklag. And while he remained there a considerable body of men from Benjamin and Judah came to him under the command of Amasa, David's nephew. So numerous were they as to alarm David, who went out to meet them, fearing lest they had come to betray him; and glad was he to hear their answer, "Thine are we, David, and on thy side, thou son of Jesse." Thus even as it was, his forces daily grew more numerous; for "from day today there came to David to help him, until it was a great host, like the host of God" (<a href="/1_chronicles/12-22.htm">1 Chronicles 12:22</a>). But there was no national acknowledgment. With his numbers thus continually increasing, David was encouraged to make some attempt for the deliverance of Israel; but his position was one of serious danger. Great was the risk, but he knew where to go for guidance, and determines, therefore, to put the matter into God's hand. He summons Abiathar with the ephod, and, in the presence of his captains, asks for permission to go up to some city of his own tribe. The answer is favourable, and Hebron is the city selected. It was a place of ancient sanctity, was well situated in the mountains of Judah for defence, and as the Philistines bad not yet invaded that region, but probably would soon try to ravage it, the people would be sure to welcome the presence of one who brought with him a powerful body of trained men. <a href="/commentaries/2_samuel/2-1.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a> <a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Hebrew</div>Some time later, אַֽחֲרֵי־ (’a·ḥă·rê-) Preposition <a href="/hebrew/strongs_310.htm">Strong's 310: </a> The hind or following part David דָּוִ֨ד (dā·wiḏ) Noun - proper - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_1732.htm">Strong's 1732: </a> David -- perhaps 'beloved one', a son of Jesse inquired וַיִּשְׁאַל֩ (way·yiš·’al) Conjunctive waw | Verb - Qal - Consecutive imperfect - third person masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_7592.htm">Strong's 7592: </a> To inquire, to request, to demand of the LORD, בַּֽיהוָ֤ה ׀ (Yah·weh) Preposition-b | Noun - proper - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_3068.htm">Strong's 3068: </a> LORD -- the proper name of the God of Israel “Should I go up הַאֶעֱלֶ֗ה (ha·’e·‘ĕ·leh) Verb - Qal - Imperfect - first person common singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_5927.htm">Strong's 5927: </a> To ascend, in, actively to one בְּאַחַת֙ (bə·’a·ḥaṯ) Preposition-b | Number - feminine singular construct <a href="/hebrew/strongs_259.htm">Strong's 259: </a> United, one, first of the towns עָרֵ֣י (‘ā·rê) Noun - feminine plural construct <a href="/hebrew/strongs_5892.htm">Strong's 5892: </a> Excitement of Judah?” יְהוּדָ֔ה (yə·hū·ḏāh) Noun - proper - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_3063.htm">Strong's 3063: </a> Judah -- 'praised', a son of Jacob, also the southern kingdom, also four Israelites “Go up,” עֲלֵ֑ה (‘ă·lêh) Verb - Qal - Imperative - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_5927.htm">Strong's 5927: </a> To ascend, in, actively the LORD יְהוָ֛ה (Yah·weh) Noun - proper - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_3068.htm">Strong's 3068: </a> LORD -- the proper name of the God of Israel answered. וַיֹּ֧אמֶר (way·yō·mer) Conjunctive waw | Verb - Qal - Consecutive imperfect - third person masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_559.htm">Strong's 559: </a> To utter, say Then David דָּוִ֛ד (dā·wiḏ) Noun - proper - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_1732.htm">Strong's 1732: </a> David -- perhaps 'beloved one', a son of Jesse asked, וַיֹּ֧אמֶר (way·yō·mer) Conjunctive waw | Verb - Qal - Consecutive imperfect - third person masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_559.htm">Strong's 559: </a> To utter, say “Where אָ֥נָה (’ā·nāh) Interrogative <a href="/hebrew/strongs_575.htm">Strong's 575: </a> Where?, whither?, when?, hither and thither should I go?” אֶעֱלֶ֖ה (’e·‘ĕ·leh) Verb - Qal - Imperfect - first person common singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_5927.htm">Strong's 5927: </a> To ascend, in, actively “To Hebron,” חֶבְרֹֽנָה׃ (ḥeḇ·rō·nāh) Noun - proper - feminine singular | third person feminine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_2275.htm">Strong's 2275: </a> Hebron -- 'association, league', a city in southern Judah replied the LORD. וַיֹּ֥אמֶר (way·yō·mer) Conjunctive waw | Verb - Qal - Consecutive imperfect - third person masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_559.htm">Strong's 559: </a> To utter, say <div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/2_samuel/2-1.htm">2 Samuel 2:1 NIV</a> <a href="/nlt/2_samuel/2-1.htm">2 Samuel 2:1 NLT</a> <a href="/esv/2_samuel/2-1.htm">2 Samuel 2:1 ESV</a> <a href="/nasb/2_samuel/2-1.htm">2 Samuel 2:1 NASB</a> <a href="/kjv/2_samuel/2-1.htm">2 Samuel 2:1 KJV</a> <a href="//bibleapps.com/2_samuel/2-1.htm">2 Samuel 2:1 BibleApps.com</a> <a href="//bibliaparalela.com/2_samuel/2-1.htm">2 Samuel 2:1 Biblia Paralela</a> <a href="//holybible.com.cn/2_samuel/2-1.htm">2 Samuel 2:1 Chinese Bible</a> <a href="//saintebible.com/2_samuel/2-1.htm">2 Samuel 2:1 French Bible</a> <a href="/catholic/2_samuel/2-1.htm">2 Samuel 2:1 Catholic Bible</a> <a href="/2_samuel/2-1.htm">OT History: 2 Samuel 2:1 It happened after this that David inquired (2Sa iiSam 2 Sam ii sam) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/2_samuel/1-27.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="2 Samuel 1:27"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="2 Samuel 1:27" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/2_samuel/2-2.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="2 Samuel 2:2"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="2 Samuel 2:2" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>