King James Version
What Does 2 Samuel 7:4 Mean?
“And it came to pass that night, that the word of the LORD came unto Nathan, saying,”
Context
2
That the king said unto Nathan the prophet, See now, I dwell in an house of cedar, but the ark of God dwelleth within curtains.
3
And Nathan said to the king, Go, do all that is in thine heart; for the LORD is with thee.
4
And it came to pass that night, that the word of the LORD came unto Nathan, saying,
5
Go and tell my servant David, Thus saith the LORD, Shalt thou build me an house for me to dwell in? my servant: Heb. to my servant, to David
6
Whereas I have not dwelt in any house since the time that I brought up the children of Israel out of Egypt, even to this day, but have walked in a tent and in a tabernacle.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(4) **That night.**—The night following Nathan’s conversation with David, when the prophet’s mind would have been full of what he had heard, and thus prepared for the Divine communication. That communication is distinctly marked as coming from a source external to the prophet himself, by its being in direct opposition to his own view already expressed.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
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 7:4 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 7:4
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge