This verse from 2 Samuel 17:22 describes the hurried and complete crossing of the Jordan River by David and his entire company as they fled from Absalom's rebellion. Let's break it down:
"Then David arose, and all the people who were with him...": This sets the scene. David, the king, acted decisively. "All the people who were with him" indicates a large group including soldiers, loyal supporters, family, and likely other dependents. Their loyalty to David meant they were risking everything to follow him.
"...and they passed over the Jordan.": This is the central action. Crossing the Jordan River was a significant logistical undertaking, especially with a large group and presumably supplies. It was a tangible act of separating themselves from Absalom and the potential threat he represented.
"By the morning light there lacked not one of them who had not gone over the Jordan.": This is the key part of the verse, emphasizing:
Speed: The phrase "by the morning light" underscores how quickly they worked throughout the night. The rebellion was hot on their heels so every second counted.
Completeness: "There lacked not one of them who had not gone over" signifies that everyone made it across. No one was left behind. This is crucial. It demonstrates David's care for his followers, their dedication to him, and the success of their escape.
Sense of Relief/Accomplishment: Successfully crossing the river represented a major hurdle overcome. It put a physical barrier between David and Absalom's immediate threat.
In essence, the verse emphasizes the urgency, the unity of David's followers, and the successful completion of a dangerous escape. It paints a picture of a large group of people making a difficult and risky journey, motivated by loyalty and a desire to protect David. The fact that everyone made it across highlights the effectiveness of their efforts and the sense of relief they must have felt.
Context within the larger story: This verse comes in the midst of Absalom's rebellion against his father, David. David is fleeing Jerusalem for his life. This crossing is part of a strategic retreat to gather forces and plan his counterattack. The successful crossing here bolsters David's position and sets the stage for his eventual victory. It signifies that despite the immediate setback, David retains loyal support and has the capacity to fight back.
This verse from 2 Samuel 17:22 describes the hurried and complete crossing of the Jordan River by David and his entire company as they fled from Absalom's rebellion. Let's break it down:
"Then David arose, and all the people who were with him...": This sets the scene. David, the king, acted decisively. "All the people who were with him" indicates a large group including soldiers, loyal supporters, family, and likely other dependents. Their loyalty to David meant they were risking everything to follow him.
"...and they passed over the Jordan.": This is the central action. Crossing the Jordan River was a significant logistical undertaking, especially with a large group and presumably supplies. It was a tangible act of separating themselves from Absalom and the potential threat he represented.
"By the morning light there lacked not one of them who had not gone over the Jordan.": This is the key part of the verse, emphasizing:
Speed: The phrase "by the morning light" underscores how quickly they worked throughout the night. The rebellion was hot on their heels so every second counted.
Completeness: "There lacked not one of them who had not gone over" signifies that everyone made it across. No one was left behind. This is crucial. It demonstrates David's care for his followers, their dedication to him, and the success of their escape.
Sense of Relief/Accomplishment: Successfully crossing the river represented a major hurdle overcome. It put a physical barrier between David and Absalom's immediate threat.
In essence, the verse emphasizes the urgency, the unity of David's followers, and the successful completion of a dangerous escape. It paints a picture of a large group of people making a difficult and risky journey, motivated by loyalty and a desire to protect David. The fact that everyone made it across highlights the effectiveness of their efforts and the sense of relief they must have felt.
Context within the larger story: This verse comes in the midst of Absalom's rebellion against his father, David. David is fleeing Jerusalem for his life. This crossing is part of a strategic retreat to gather forces and plan his counterattack. The successful crossing here bolsters David's position and sets the stage for his eventual victory. It signifies that despite the immediate setback, David retains loyal support and has the capacity to fight back.