What happensPermalink
After Ish-bosheth’s death, the elders of Israel come to Hebron, make a covenant with David before the Lord, and anoint him king over all Israel. David captures Jerusalem from the Jebusites, renaming it the City of David and making it his capital. There he builds his palace, strengthens the Millo, and fathers many sons. When the Philistines attack, David inquires of the Lord and twice defeats them, driving them out of Israel’s hill country.
Why it mattersPermalink
This chapter compresses much of David’s reign, highlighting his unification of Israel and establishment of Jerusalem as the nation’s political and spiritual center. His victories over the Philistines demonstrate God’s power with him, reversing Israel’s earlier defeats under Saul. The covenant at Hebron foreshadows the greater Davidic covenant in chapter 7, where God will bind Himself to David’s dynasty forever.
Key versePermalink
Nevertheless, David took the stronghold of Zion, that is, the city of David.