King James Version

What Does 2 Samuel 19:27 Mean?

2 Samuel 19:27 in the King James Version says “And he hath slandered thy servant unto my lord the king; but my lord the king is as an angel of God: do therefore what i...” — study this verse from 2 Samuel chapter 19 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“And he hath slandered thy servant unto my lord the king; but my lord the king is as an angel of God: do therefore what is good in thine eyes.”

2 Samuel 19:27 · KJV

Context

25

And it came to pass, when he was come to Jerusalem to meet the king, that the king said unto him, Wherefore wentest not thou with me, Mephibosheth?

26

And he answered, My lord, O king, my servant deceived me: for thy servant said, I will saddle me an ass, that I may ride thereon, and go to the king; because thy servant is lame.

27

And he hath slandered thy servant unto my lord the king; but my lord the king is as an angel of God: do therefore what is good in thine eyes.

28

For all of my father's house were but dead men before my lord the king: yet didst thou set thy servant among them that did eat at thine own table. What right therefore have I yet to cry any more unto the king? dead: Heb. men of death

29

And the king said unto him, Why speakest thou any more of thy matters? I have said, Thou and Ziba divide the land.

Read 2 Samuel 19 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
And he hath slandered thy servant unto my lord the king; but my lord the king is as an angel of God: do therefore what is good in thine eyes.

This verse contributes to the narrative of David's Return, emphasizing restoration, leadership wisdom. David's return to Jerusalem requires political wisdom as he navigates competing factions. His restoration of enemies (Shimei) and reward of supporters demonstrates leadership discernment. Theological themes include wise leadership during restoration, the complexity of post-crisis reconciliation, balancing justice and mercy, and the necessity of moving forward despite ongoing tensions.

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Historical & Cultural Context

The historical setting of 2 Samuel 19 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 restoration, leadership wisdom 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 restoration, leadership wisdom?
  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 · 12 words
וַיְרַגֵּ֣ל1 of 12

“And he hath slandered”

H7270

to walk along; but only in specifically, applications, to reconnoiter, to be a tale-bearer (i.e., slander); to lead about

בְּעַבְדְּךָ֔2 of 12

“thy servant”

H5650

a servant

אֶל3 of 12
H413

near, with or among; often in general, to

וַֽאדֹנִ֤י4 of 12

“but my lord”

H113

sovereign, i.e., controller (human or divine)

הַמֶּ֙לֶךְ֙5 of 12

“the king”

H4428

a king

וַֽאדֹנִ֤י6 of 12

“but my lord”

H113

sovereign, i.e., controller (human or divine)

הַמֶּ֙לֶךְ֙7 of 12

“the king”

H4428

a king

כְּמַלְאַ֣ךְ8 of 12

“is as an angel”

H4397

a messenger; specifically, of god, i.e., an angel (also a prophet, priest or teacher)

הָֽאֱלֹהִ֔ים9 of 12

“of God”

H430

gods in the ordinary sense; but specifically used (in the plural thus, especially with the article) of the supreme god; occasionally applied by way of

וַֽעֲשֵׂ֥ה10 of 12

“do”

H6213

to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application

הַטּ֖וֹב11 of 12

“therefore what is good”

H2896

good (as an adjective) in the widest sense; used likewise as a noun, both in the masculine and the feminine, the singular and the plural (good, a good

בְּעֵינֶֽיךָ׃12 of 12

“in thine eyes”

H5869

an eye (literally or figuratively); by analogy, a fountain (as the eye of the landscape)

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 19:27 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 19:27 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

2 Samuel 14:202 Samuel 14:172 Samuel 16:31 Samuel 29:9Jeremiah 9:4Psalms 101:5

Test Your Knowledge

2 Samuel 19 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapter2 Samuel Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

Continue Your Study

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