King James Version

What Does 2 Samuel 22:42 Mean?

2 Samuel 22:42 in the King James Version says “They looked, but there was none to save; even unto the LORD, but he answered them not.” — study this verse from 2 Samuel chapter 22 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“They looked, but there was none to save; even unto the LORD, but he answered them not.”

2 Samuel 22:42 · KJV

Salvation

Context

40

For thou hast girded me with strength to battle: them that rose up against me hast thou subdued under me. subdued: Heb. caused to bow

41

Thou hast also given me the necks of mine enemies, that I might destroy them that hate me.

42

They looked, but there was none to save; even unto the LORD, but he answered them not.

43

Then did I beat them as small as the dust of the earth, I did stamp them as the mire of the street, and did spread them abroad.

44

Thou also hast delivered me from the strivings of my people, thou hast kept me to be head of the heathen: a people which I knew not shall serve me.

Read 2 Samuel 22 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
They looked, but there was none to save; even unto the LORD, but he answered them not.

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
יִשְׁע֖וּ1 of 7

“They looked”

H8159

to gaze at or about (properly, for help); by implication, to inspect, consider, compassionate, be nonplussed (as looking around in amazement) or bewil

וְאֵ֣ין2 of 7
H369

a nonentity; generally used as a negative particle

מֹשִׁ֑יעַ3 of 7

“but there was none to save”

H3467

properly, to be open, wide or free, i.e., (by implication) to be safe; causatively, to free or succor

אֶל4 of 7
H413

near, with or among; often in general, to

יְהוָ֖ה5 of 7

“even unto the LORD”

H3068

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

וְלֹ֥א6 of 7
H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

עָנָֽם׃7 of 7

“but he answered”

H6030

properly, to eye or (generally) to heed, i.e., pay attention; by implication, to respond; by extension to begin to speak; specifically to sing, shout,

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 22:42 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 22:42 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Isaiah 1:151 Samuel 28:6Proverbs 1:28Micah 3:4Matthew 7:22-23Job 27:9

Test Your Knowledge

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

Continue Your Study

Read 2 Samuel 22 with CommentaryAll 2 Samuel ChaptersComplete 2 Samuel QuizBible CharactersNave's Topical BibleAll Bible Quizzes