King James Version

What Does 2 Samuel 23:39 Mean?

2 Samuel 23:39 in the King James Version says “Uriah the Hittite: thirty and seven in all.” — study this verse from 2 Samuel chapter 23 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“Uriah the Hittite: thirty and seven in all.”

2 Samuel 23:39 · KJV

Context

37

Zelek the Ammonite, Naharai the Beerothite, armourbearer to Joab the son of Zeruiah,

38

Ira an Ithrite, Gareb an Ithrite,

39

Uriah the Hittite: thirty and seven in all.

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Uriah the Hittite: thirty and seven in all.

This verse contributes to the narrative of Last Words and Mighty Men, emphasizing legacy, faithful servants. David's last words emphasize the eternal covenant God established (v. 5) and declare principles of righteous rule. The accounts of David's mighty men demonstrate extraordinary courage and devotion. The water-drawing incident reveals David's unwillingness to value his comfort above his soldiers' lives. Theological themes include the importance of final testimonies, the eternal nature of God's covenant, the value of faithful servants, and the necessity of sacrificial leadership.

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Historical & Cultural Context

The historical setting of 2 Samuel 23 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 legacy, faithful servants 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 legacy, faithful servants?
  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 · 5 words
אֽוּרִיָּה֙1 of 5

“Uriah”

H223

urijah, the name of one hittite and five israelites

הַֽחִתִּ֔י2 of 5

“the Hittite”

H2850

a chittite, or descendant of cheth

כֹּ֖ל3 of 5
H3605

properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)

שְׁלֹשִׁ֥ים4 of 5

“thirty”

H7970

thirty; or (ordinal) thirtieth

וְשִׁבְעָֽה׃5 of 5

“and seven”

H7651

seven (as the sacred full one); also (adverbially) seven times; by implication, a week; by extension, an indefinite number

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 23:39 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 23:39 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

2 Samuel 11:32 Samuel 12:9Matthew 1:61 Kings 15:52 Samuel 11:6-271 Chronicles 11:41

Test Your Knowledge

2 Samuel 23 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapter2 Samuel Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

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