They came to Mahanaim - So they returned to the place whence they set out. See 2 Samuel 2:12 . This was the commencement of the civil wars between Israel and Judah, and properly the commencement of the division of the two kingdoms, through which both nations were deluged with blood. read more
EXPOSITION Unto Hebron. As soon as David had assuaged his grief, his thoughts would naturally turn towards his country. Fuller news would reach him every day respecting the movements of the Philistines, who, after so decisive a victory, would quickly overrun all the central districts of Palestine, where the battle had been fought. And very bitter must David's feelings have been. Had he continued in Israel, he and his six hundred men would now have hastened to the rescue, and all the... read more
Inquiring of God. David had now arrived at a very important point in his career. Saul being dead, his way to the throne was cleared; but the next step to take was doubtful. Under these circumstances he adopted the course usual to him when in difficulty. He "inquired of the Lord," sought directions from him as to what he should do. The high priest, Abiathar, was with him with the ephod ( 1 Samuel 30:7 ), and by means of the Urim and Thummim could ascertain for him the Divine will. By this... read more
( ZIGLAG , HEBRON ) Divine guidance. "David inquired of the Lord" ( 2 Samuel 2:1 ). A new chapter in the life of David now opens. By the death of Saul and Jonathan the obstacles to his accession were, in part, removed. The time of patient waiting was gone, and the time for decisive action come. As he had not run before he was sent, so he did not expect , without running, to attain. But he would not take a step without the approval and direction of God. His inquiry pertained to... read more
The facts are: 1 . David, knowing that time was come for action, and being in doubt as to what movement would further the end in view, seeks guidance of God. 2 . Not only does he obtain sanction to enter Judah, but is even instructed to make Hebron his headquarters. 3 . Entering the district around Hebron with his family and attendants, he is anointed by the men of Judah over the tribe of Judah. 4 . Being informed of the kind and valiant act of the men of Jabesh-Gilead ( 1... read more
They dwelt in the cities of Hebron. Not only had David wives, whom he took with him to Hebron, but many of his warriors were married, and thus they and their households formed a numerous body of people, for whom Hebron could scarcely find accommodation. Moreover they had flocks and herds captured from the Amalekites, for which they needed pasturage. And therefore David dispersed them in the towns and villages of which Hebron was the capital, posting them in such a manner as to render it easy... read more
They anointed David. Samuel's anointing ( 1 Samuel 16:13 ) had been private, and, if we may judge by the manner in which Eliab treated David ( 1 Samuel 17:28 ), even his own family had not attached much importance to it. It was nevertheless the indication of Jehovah's purpose, and now the anointing of David by the elders of Judah was the first step towards its accomplishment. And this was an independent act, though the knowledge of Samuel's anointing had prepared the way for it; and... read more
( HEBRON .) David anointed King of Judah. Course of events: 1 . David's message to the men of Jabesh ( 2 Samuel 2:5-7 ). 2 . Ishbosheth made King of Israel by Abner ( 2 Samuel 2:8-11 ). 3 . Civil war, and the death of Asahel ( 2 Samuel 2:12-32 ). 4 . Increasing strength of the house of David ( 2 Samuel 3:1-5 ). 5 . Dissension between Ishbosheth and Abner. 6 . Abner's negotiations with David, restoration of Michal, communication with the tribes, and... read more
( HEBRON .) Commendation. The first recorded act of David after he became king was of a kingly character. It is not improbable that the persons who informed him of what the men of Jabesh had done supposed that he had little love for the memory of Saul, and was apprehensive of Opposition from his "house" ( 2 Samuel 2:8 ), and wished to excite his jealousy against them; seeking to insinuate themselves into his confidence by detraction from the good name of others. But, instead of... read more
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Adam Clarke's Commentary on the Bible - 2 Samuel 2:27
And Joab said - The meaning of this verse appears to be this: If Abner had not provoked the battle, (see 2 Samuel 2:14 ;), Joab would not have attacked the Israelites that day; as his orders were probably to act on the defensive. Therefore the blame fell upon Israel. read more