King James Version

What Does 2 Samuel 22:30 Mean?

2 Samuel 22:30 in the King James Version says “For by thee I have run through a troop: by my God have I leaped over a wall. run: or, broken — study this verse from 2 Samuel chapter 22 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

For by thee I have run through a troop: by my God have I leaped over a wall. run: or, broken

2 Samuel 22:30 · KJV


Context

28

And the afflicted people thou wilt save: but thine eyes are upon the haughty, that thou mayest bring them down.

29

For thou art my lamp, O LORD: and the LORD will lighten my darkness. lamp: or, candle

30

For by thee I have run through a troop: by my God have I leaped over a wall. run: or, broken

31

As for God, his way is perfect; the word of the LORD is tried: he is a buckler to all them that trust in him. tried: or, refined

32

For who is God, save the LORD? and who is a rock, save our God?


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
For by thee I have run through a troop: by my God have I leaped over a wall.

This verse contributes to the narrative of David's Song, emphasizing praising God for deliverance. David's psalm of deliverance (parallel to Psalm 18) celebrates God's faithfulness throughout his tumultuous reign. The Hebrew poetry employs vivid imagery of divine intervention, warrior language, and covenant terminology. Theological themes include praising God for deliverance, reviewing God's faithfulness in retrospect, the righteousness of God's judgments, and anticipation of ultimate victory through God's anointed (messianic overtones).

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Historical & Cultural Context

The historical setting of 2 Samuel 22 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 praising God for deliverance 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 praising God for deliverance?
  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
כִּ֥י1 of 7
H3588

(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed

בְכָ֖ה2 of 7
H0
אָר֣וּץ3 of 7

For by thee I have run

H7323

to run (for whatever reason, especially to rush)

גְּד֑וּד4 of 7

through a troop

H1416

a crowd (especially of soldiers)

בֵּֽאלֹהַ֖י5 of 7

by my 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

אֲדַלֶּג6 of 7

have I leaped over

H1801

to spring

שֽׁוּר׃7 of 7

a wall

H7791

a wall (as going about)


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 22:30 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 22:30 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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