King James Version

What Does 2 Samuel 1:7 Mean?

2 Samuel 1:7 in the King James Version says “And when he looked behind him, he saw me, and called unto me. And I answered, Here am I. Here: Heb. Behold me” — study this verse from 2 Samuel chapter 1 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“And when he looked behind him, he saw me, and called unto me. And I answered, Here am I. Here: Heb. Behold me”

2 Samuel 1:7 · KJV

Context

5

And David said unto the young man that told him, How knowest thou that Saul and Jonathan his son be dead?

6

And the young man that told him said, As I happened by chance upon mount Gilboa, behold, Saul leaned upon his spear; and, lo, the chariots and horsemen followed hard after him.

7

And when he looked behind him, he saw me, and called unto me. And I answered, Here am I. Here: Heb. Behold me

8

And he said unto me, Who art thou? And I answered him, I am an Amalekite.

9

He said unto me again, Stand, I pray thee, upon me, and slay me: for anguish is come upon me, because my life is yet whole in me. anguish: or, my coat of mail (or, my embroidered coat) hindereth me, that my, etc

Read 2 Samuel 1 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
And when he looked behind him, he saw me, and called unto me. And I answered, Here am I.

This verse contributes to the narrative of David Learns of Saul's Death, emphasizing honoring God's anointed, genuine grief. The Hebrew terminology emphasizes David's respect for God's anointed (mashiach, מָשִׁיחַ) even after death. David's lament (vv. 19-27) represents some of Scripture's finest poetry, expressing genuine grief without compromising theological truth about Saul's disobedience. Cross-references to 1 Samuel demonstrate narrative continuity while developing themes of covenant faithfulness and proper mourning.

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Historical & Cultural Context

The historical setting of 2 Samuel 1 occurs during David's reign (circa 1010-970 BCE) over Israel's united monarchy. Archaeological discoveries, including the Tel Dan inscription mentioning the 'House of David,' corroborate biblical historicity. Ancient Near Eastern customs regarding honoring God's anointed, genuine grief provide crucial background. The geopolitical situation involved regional powers—Philistines, Ammonites, Arameans, Moabites, Edomites—as David consolidated and expanded Israel's territory. Cultural practices concerning kingship, warfare, covenant relationships, family dynamics, and religious observance differed significantly from modern Western contexts, requiring careful attention to avoid anachronistic interpretation while extracting timeless theological principles applicable across cultures and eras.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does this passage deepen your understanding of honoring God's anointed, genuine grief?
  2. What does this verse reveal about God's character, and how should that shape your worship and obedience?
  3. In what specific ways can you apply this truth to your current circumstances and relationships this week?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 7 words
וַיִּ֥פֶן1 of 7

“And when he looked”

H6437

to turn; by implication, to face, i.e., appear, look, etc

אַֽחֲרָ֖יו2 of 7

“behind”

H310

properly, the hind part; generally used as an adverb or conjunction, after (in various senses)

וַיִּרְאֵ֑נִי3 of 7

“him he saw”

H7200

to see, literally or figuratively (in numerous applications, direct and implied, transitive, intransitive and causative)

וַיִּקְרָ֣א4 of 7

“me and called”

H7121

to call out to (i.e., properly, address by name, but used in a wide variety of applications)

אֵלָ֔י5 of 7
H413

near, with or among; often in general, to

וָֽאֹמַ֖ר6 of 7

“unto me And I answered”

H559

to say (used with great latitude)

הִנֵּֽנִי׃7 of 7
H2005

lo!; also (as expressing surprise) if

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of 2 Samuel. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

2 Samuel 1:7 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to 2 Samuel 1:7 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

2 Samuel 9:6Isaiah 65:1Judges 9:54Isaiah 6:81 Samuel 22:12

Test Your Knowledge

2 Samuel 1 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapter2 Samuel Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

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