King James Version
What Does 2 Samuel 8:5 Mean?
“And when the Syrians of Damascus came to succour Hadadezer king of Zobah, David slew of the Syrians two and twenty thousand men.”
Context
3
David smote also Hadadezer, the son of Rehob, king of Zobah, as he went to recover his border at the river Euphrates. Hadadezer: or, Hadarezer
4
And David took from him a thousand chariots, and seven hundred horsemen, and twenty thousand footmen : and David houghed all the chariot horses, but reserved of them for an hundred chariots. from: or, of his. chariots: as 1.Chr.18.4
5
And when the Syrians of Damascus came to succour Hadadezer king of Zobah, David slew of the Syrians two and twenty thousand men.
6
Then David put garrisons in Syria of Damascus: and the Syrians became servants to David, and brought gifts. And the LORD preserved David whithersoever he went.
7
And David took the shields of gold that were on the servants of Hadadezer, and brought them to Jerusalem.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(5) **Syrians of Damascus.**—So called from their capital, this being the most powerful branch of the Syrian race.
**Two and twenty thousand men.**—Josephus (*Ant. vii.* 5, § 2) quotes from the historian Nicolaus a mention of the defeat of Hadad at this place by David.
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 8:5 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 8:5
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge