King James Version
What Does 2 Samuel 8:16 Mean?
“And Joab the son of Zeruiah was over the host; and Jehoshaphat the son of Ahilud was recorder; recorder: or, remembrancer, or, writer of chronicles”
Context
14
And he put garrisons in Edom; throughout all Edom put he garrisons, and all they of Edom became David's servants. And the LORD preserved David whithersoever he went.
15
And David reigned over all Israel; and David executed judgment and justice unto all his people.
16
And Joab the son of Zeruiah was over the host; and Jehoshaphat the son of Ahilud was recorder; recorder: or, remembrancer, or, writer of chronicles
17
And Zadok the son of Ahitub, and Ahimelech the son of Abiathar, were the priests; and Seraiah was the scribe; scribe: or, secretary
18
And Benaiah the son of Jehoiada was over both the Cherethites and the Pelethites; and David's sons were chief rulers. chief rulers: or, princes
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(16) **Was recorder.**—This was a different office from that of “the scribe” (filled by Seraiah), and appears from 2Kings 18:18-37; 2Chronicles 34:8, to have been one of considerable importance. (Comp. also Esther 6:1.) His duty is supposed to have been something like that of the modern “chancellor,” and he not only registered the king’s decrees, but was his adviser. The same person continued to fill the office in the early years of Solomon’s reign (1Kings 4:3).
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 8:16 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 8:16
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge