King James Version

What Does 2 Samuel 22:32 Mean?

2 Samuel 22:32 in the King James Version says “For who is God, save the LORD? and who is a rock, save our God?” — study this verse from 2 Samuel chapter 22 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

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

2 Samuel 22:32 · KJV

Salvation

Context

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?

33

God is my strength and power: and he maketh my way perfect. maketh: Heb. riddeth, or, looseth

34

He maketh my feet like hinds' feet: and setteth me upon my high places. maketh: Heb. equalleth

Read 2 Samuel 22 full chapter

Commentary

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

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 · 9 words
כִּ֥י1 of 9
H3588

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

מִי2 of 9
H4310

who? (occasionally, by a peculiar idiom, of things); also (indefinitely) whoever; often used in oblique construction with prefix or suffix

אֵ֖ל3 of 9

“For who is God”

H410

strength; as adjective, mighty; especially the almighty (but used also of any deity)

מִֽבַּלְעֲדֵ֥י4 of 9

“save”

H1107

except, without, besides

יְהוָ֑ה5 of 9

“the LORD”

H3068

(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god

וּמִ֥י6 of 9
H4310

who? (occasionally, by a peculiar idiom, of things); also (indefinitely) whoever; often used in oblique construction with prefix or suffix

צ֖וּר7 of 9

“and who is a rock”

H6697

properly, a cliff (or sharp rock, as compressed); generally, a rock or boulder; figuratively, a refuge; also an edge (as precipitous)

מִֽבַּלְעֲדֵ֥י8 of 9

“save”

H1107

except, without, besides

אֱלֹהֵֽינוּ׃9 of 9

“our 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

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 22:32 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 22:32 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

1 Samuel 2:2Deuteronomy 32:31Isaiah 44:8Isaiah 44:6Jeremiah 10:6-7Isaiah 45:21

Test Your Knowledge

2 Samuel 22 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapter2 Samuel Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

Continue Your Study

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