King James Version

What Does 2 Samuel 20:24 Mean?

2 Samuel 20:24 in the King James Version says “And Adoram was over the tribute: and Jehoshaphat the son of Ahilud was recorder: recorder: or, remembrancer” — study this verse from 2 Samuel chapter 20 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“And Adoram was over the tribute: and Jehoshaphat the son of Ahilud was recorder: recorder: or, remembrancer”

2 Samuel 20:24 · KJV

Context

22

Then the woman went unto all the people in her wisdom. And they cut off the head of Sheba the son of Bichri, and cast it out to Joab. And he blew a trumpet, and they retired from the city, every man to his tent. And Joab returned to Jerusalem unto the king. retired: Heb. were scattered

23

Now Joab was over all the host of Israel: and Benaiah the son of Jehoiada was over the Cherethites and over the Pelethites:

24

And Adoram was over the tribute: and Jehoshaphat the son of Ahilud was recorder: recorder: or, remembrancer

25

And Sheva was scribe: and Zadok and Abiathar were the priests:

26

And Ira also the Jairite was a chief ruler about David. a chief: or, a prince

Read 2 Samuel 20 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
And Adoram was over the tribute: and Jehoshaphat the son of Ahilud was recorder:

This verse contributes to the narrative of Sheba's Rebellion, emphasizing ongoing challenges to authority. Sheba's rebellion demonstrates that David's troubles continue despite Absalom's defeat. The wise woman's intervention prevents unnecessary bloodshed. Theological themes include ongoing resistance to God's appointed leader, the value of wisdom in crisis resolution, the danger of divisive rhetoric, and God's provision of unexpected solutions through unlikely people.

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Historical & Cultural Context

The historical setting of 2 Samuel 20 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 ongoing challenges to authority 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 ongoing challenges to authority?
  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
וַֽאֲדֹרָ֖ם1 of 7

“And Adoram”

H151

adoram (or adoniram), an israelite

עַל2 of 7
H5921

above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications

הַמַּ֑ס3 of 7

“was over the tribute”

H4522

properly, a burden (as causing to faint), i.e., a tax in the form of forced labor

וִיהֽוֹשָׁפָ֥ט4 of 7

“and Jehoshaphat”

H3092

jehoshaphat, the name of six israelites; also of a valley near jerusalem

בֶּן5 of 7

“the son”

H1121

a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or

אֲחִיל֖וּד6 of 7

“of Ahilud”

H286

achilud, an israelite

הַמַּזְכִּֽיר׃7 of 7

“was recorder”

H2142

properly, to mark (so as to be recognized), i.e., to remember; by implication, to mention; to be male

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 20:24 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 20:24 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

1 Kings 12:181 Kings 4:31 Kings 4:6

Test Your Knowledge

2 Samuel 20 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapter2 Samuel Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

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