“Achar David”

 “And it came to pass after this, that David enquired of the LORD, saying, Shall I go up into any of the cities of Judah? And the LORD said unto him, Go up. And David said, Whither shall I go up? And he said, Unto Hebron.” (2 Samuel 2:1)

Background

Saul and Jonathon had been killed leading Israel. Samuel had anointed Saul as the first King of Israel. Samuel had also anointed David to be Saul’s successor. The Kingdoms surrounding Israel had a succession that stayed within a family group. If the King dies, a Queen, or Prince would assume control of the Kingdom. There was no family connection between Saul and David.

Where to Go

David’s question about where he should go was not open-ended, but more directed, “Shall I go up into any of the cities of Judah?” David knew he had been anointed by Samuel as King of all Israel, he was not in a hurry to take that position. David is looking to God for direction.

God tells David to “Go up” into Judah, and David asked further, “Whither shall I go up?”. God replied, “Unto Hebron.”

David took God at his word. He packed up his family and followers to Hebron and settled his followers in the cities surrounding Hebron. The people of Hebron anointed him King of Judah.

Jabeshgilead

The first time we hear about Jabeshgilead is during the time of the Judges when Jephthah delivered Gilead from the Ammonites. The area of Gilead had been under constant pressure from the Ammonites. With Israel wanting a King, the countries around Israel realize there is unrest among the Tribes of Israel. Saul was anointed King of Israel. Saul’s first battle was with the Ammonites, and God delivered the Ammonites into Saul’s hand.

When Saul died, the people of Jabeshgilead buried Saul.

“5And David sent messengers unto the men of Jabeshgilead, and said unto them, Blessed be ye of the LORD, that ye have shewed this kindness unto your lord, even unto Saul, and have buried him.

6And now the LORD shew kindness and truth unto you: and I also will requite you this kindness, because ye have done this thing.

7Therefore now let your hands be strengthened, and be ye valiant: for your master Saul is dead, and also the house of Judah have anointed me king over them.” (2 Samuel 2:5-7)

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