Verse 8
8. The word of the Lord came to me Probably by Nathan, but not at the time referred to in 1 Chronicles 17:3, and 2 Samuel 7:4. At that time Jehovah opened to David’s prophetic eye that Messianic future which ever after was his joy and song; but at another time he sent Nathan again to explain to him the reason, as here given, why he should not build the temple of Jehovah.
Because thou hast shed much blood upon the earth in my sight The wars of David were not carried on against God’s will. In many cases they were expressly ordered by Jehovah, and often called the “wars of the Lord.” In order to the establishment of Israel in Canaan wars and bloodshed were unavoidable. Nevertheless, the bloodshed and barbarity of war were not in harmony with the profound symbolism of peace, sabbatic quiet, and thoughtful repose, which were to be embodied in the house of Jehovah. Hence David’s unfitness to build the temple. Comp. 1 Kings 5:3.
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