2 samuel 6:18 - When David had finished offering the burnt offering and the peace offerings, he blessed the people in the name of Yahweh of Armies.

Generated Verse: 2 samuel 6:18

What does "2 samuel 6:18" mean?


This verse, 2 Samuel 6:18, comes at the end of a pivotal moment in David's reign: the successful bringing of the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem. Let's break down what the verse means:

"When David had finished offering the burnt offering and the peace offerings...": This refers to sacrificial offerings made to God.
Burnt offering: A sacrifice wholly consumed by fire, symbolizing complete dedication and atonement.
Peace offering (or fellowship offering): A sacrifice where a portion was burned for God, a portion was eaten by the priests, and a portion was eaten by the offerer and their family/friends. It symbolized fellowship with God and thanksgiving. The fact that both types of offerings were made underscores the significance of the event. David was ensuring proper atonement and establishing a covenant of peace with God.

"...he blessed the people...": David, as the king and chosen leader, pronounced a blessing upon the people of Israel. This was not just a casual "good luck"; it was a formal invocation of God's favor, protection, and prosperity upon them.

"...in the name of Yahweh of Armies.": This is crucial. David was not blessing them in his own name or by his own authority. He was acting as God's representative and invoking the authority and power of God himself.

Yahweh: This is the covenant name of God, emphasizing His faithfulness and relationship with Israel. It is often translated as "LORD" (all caps) in English translations.
of Armies (or Lord of Hosts): This title emphasizes God's power and sovereignty, not just over Israel but over all creation. It highlights God's role as the commander of heavenly armies, suggesting His ability to protect and defend His people. It also emphasizes God's control over all the forces of the universe.

In Summary:

This verse describes the culmination of a momentous occasion. David, after leading the people in a successful religious ceremony, offered sacrifices to atone for past mistakes (likely related to the initial failed attempt to move the Ark) and to establish a covenant of peace and fellowship. He then blessed the people, acting as God's representative and invoking the full power and authority of "Yahweh of Armies" to bring favor and protection upon them.

Significance and Context:

Legitimizing David's Kingship: Bringing the Ark to Jerusalem and leading the people in worship was a way for David to solidify his rule and establish Jerusalem as the religious center of Israel.
Establishing a Covenant Relationship: The sacrifices and the blessing reaffirmed the covenant relationship between God and Israel, a relationship crucial for their well-being and prosperity.
Symbolic Act: The entire event was a powerful symbol of God's presence among His people and His blessing upon them. It showed God's favor towards David and Israel.
A Model for Worship: The event set a precedent for future acts of worship and devotion to God in Israel. It shows the proper way to approach God with sacrifices and with reverence.

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