Overview of 2 Samuel 2:1–9:13

These chapters constitute the high point of the book of Samuel, as David finally ascends the throne of Israel and secures the stability and expansion of his realm.

When Saul and his heir, Jonathan, die on Mount Gilboa (1 Samuel 31), David is free to claim the throne as the Lord’s anointed. Whereas the account in Chronicles passes over the period between Saul’s death and David’s acceptance by all Israel (1 Chron. 11:1–3), here it is related that at first only his own tribe of Judah acknowledges him as king in Hebron (2 Sam. 2:1–4a). For seven years Saul’s remaining supporters, including Abner and Ish-bosheth, maintain a rival northern regime before both are killed in suspicious circumstances, though not with David’s connivance (2:8–4:12). David’s rule is then accepted by the northern tribes and he is anointed as king of all Israel (5:1–5). He next captures Jerusalem and makes it his capital (5:6–16). He also wins decisive victories over the Philistines (5:17–25), brings the ark to Jerusalem (ch. 6), and has his dynasty blessed and secured by divine covenant (ch. 7). A summary of David’s victories and of his leading officials displays the security and well-being of his realm (ch. 8), while his personal graciousness is highlighted by his treatment of Mephibosheth (ch. 9).