This verse from 2 Samuel 5:9 summarizes a key aspect of David's reign after becoming king of all Israel: establishing Jerusalem as the capital. Let's break it down:
"David lived in the stronghold...": This refers to the stronghold of Zion, a fortified area of Jerusalem that was previously held by the Jebusites. David conquered it, establishing it as his royal residence and the political center of the unified kingdom.
"...and called it David’s city.": By taking the stronghold and making it his own, David symbolically claimed Jerusalem and renamed it "David's City" (or "City of David"). This signified his ownership and his intention to make it the heart of his kingdom.
"David built around from Millo and inward.": This is the most debated part of the verse. Here's a breakdown of interpretations:
Millo: The "Millo" is a structure (or complex of structures) in Jerusalem, its exact nature is still debated among archaeologists and biblical scholars. Common interpretations include:
A rampart or filling: Some believe the Millo was a large earthwork or stone structure used to level the ground or reinforce the city's defenses, possibly filling a gap or terracing the area.
A fortress or fortified building: Others think it was a specific fortified structure within the city.
"Built around from Millo and inward": This phrase implies that David expanded the city's walls and infrastructure. The "inward" part suggests he focused on construction and development within the existing city limits, specifically from the area of the Millo towards the inner parts of Jerusalem. This could involve reinforcing existing structures, building new residential areas, or creating administrative buildings.
In Summary:
The verse describes David consolidating his power by:
1. Capturing Jerusalem: Taking the stronghold of Zion.
2. Establishing a Capital: Renaming it "David's City" and making it his residence.
3. Expanding and Fortifying the City: Building around the Millo and within the city walls, likely strengthening defenses and expanding the city's habitable area.
Significance:
This verse highlights the importance of Jerusalem in the establishment of the Israelite kingdom. David's capture and development of the city laid the foundation for its future role as the religious and political center of Israel, eventually housing the Temple and becoming a symbol of God's covenant with David and his descendants.
This verse from 2 Samuel 5:9 summarizes a key aspect of David's reign after becoming king of all Israel: establishing Jerusalem as the capital. Let's break it down:
"David lived in the stronghold...": This refers to the stronghold of Zion, a fortified area of Jerusalem that was previously held by the Jebusites. David conquered it, establishing it as his royal residence and the political center of the unified kingdom.
"...and called it David’s city.": By taking the stronghold and making it his own, David symbolically claimed Jerusalem and renamed it "David's City" (or "City of David"). This signified his ownership and his intention to make it the heart of his kingdom.
"David built around from Millo and inward.": This is the most debated part of the verse. Here's a breakdown of interpretations:
Millo: The "Millo" is a structure (or complex of structures) in Jerusalem, its exact nature is still debated among archaeologists and biblical scholars. Common interpretations include:
A rampart or filling: Some believe the Millo was a large earthwork or stone structure used to level the ground or reinforce the city's defenses, possibly filling a gap or terracing the area.
A fortress or fortified building: Others think it was a specific fortified structure within the city.
"Built around from Millo and inward": This phrase implies that David expanded the city's walls and infrastructure. The "inward" part suggests he focused on construction and development within the existing city limits, specifically from the area of the Millo towards the inner parts of Jerusalem. This could involve reinforcing existing structures, building new residential areas, or creating administrative buildings.
In Summary:
The verse describes David consolidating his power by:
1. Capturing Jerusalem: Taking the stronghold of Zion.
2. Establishing a Capital: Renaming it "David's City" and making it his residence.
3. Expanding and Fortifying the City: Building around the Millo and within the city walls, likely strengthening defenses and expanding the city's habitable area.
Significance:
This verse highlights the importance of Jerusalem in the establishment of the Israelite kingdom. David's capture and development of the city laid the foundation for its future role as the religious and political center of Israel, eventually housing the Temple and becoming a symbol of God's covenant with David and his descendants.