2 samuel 5:1 - Then all the tribes of Israel came to David at Hebron, and spoke, saying, “Behold, we are your bone and your flesh.

Generated Verse: 2 samuel 5:1

What does "2 samuel 5:1" mean?


The verse "Then all the tribes of Israel came to David at Hebron, and spoke, saying, “Behold, we are your bone and your flesh" (2 Samuel 5:1) is a pivotal moment in the history of Israel, signifying the unification of the kingdom under David's rule. Here's a breakdown of its meaning:

"Then all the tribes of Israel came to David at Hebron": This indicates a formal and united delegation from all the tribes of Israel. Hebron was a significant location, as David had already been anointed king over Judah there. Their coming to Hebron demonstrates a widespread consensus to accept David as their leader.

"Behold, we are your bone and your flesh": This is the key statement. It's a declaration of kinship and shared heritage. It conveys several important ideas:

Kinship and Shared Identity: The phrase emphasizes a close familial bond. They are saying, in essence, "We are family. We share the same ancestry and blood." This acknowledges David as one of their own, not a foreign conqueror or a distant ruler.
Loyalty and Allegiance: By acknowledging their shared "bone and flesh," they are pledging their loyalty and support to David. It's a statement of commitment to his leadership and a promise to stand by him.
Union and Integration: The phrase implies a desire for unity. After years of division and internal conflict, particularly between the tribes of Judah (David's tribe) and the northern tribes, this statement represents a desire for integration and a shared national identity under David's rule.
Accountability: It can also imply that because they are 'bone and flesh', David is accountable to them and their well-being. He has a responsibility to care for them as a good king should.

In summary, the verse signifies:

The end of the fragmented period of Israel's history following Saul's death.
The unification of all the tribes under David's kingship.
A declaration of kinship, loyalty, and a desire for national unity among the tribes.
It solidifies David's position as the legitimate and accepted king of all Israel.

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