2 Samuel 24:2

2 Samuel 24:2 in Multiple Translations

Berean Standard Bible BSB

So the king said to Joab the commander of his army, who was with him, “Go now throughout the tribes of Israel from Dan to Beersheba and register the troops, so that I may know their number.”

King James Version KJV

For the king said to Joab the captain of the host, which was with him, Go now through all the tribes of Israel, from Dan even to Beer-sheba, and number ye the people, that I may know the number of the people.

American Standard Version ASV

And the king said to Joab the captain of the host, who was with him, Go now to and fro through all the tribes of Israel, from Dan even to Beer-sheba, and number ye the people, that I may know the sum of the people.

Bible in Basic English BBE

And the king said to Joab and the captains of the army, who were with him, Go now through all the tribes of Israel, from Dan as far as Beer-sheba, and have all the people numbered, so that I may be certain of the number of the people.

Free Bible Version FBV

So David told Joab, the army commander, “Go and count the Israelites from Dan to Beersheba, so I can have a total number.”

Geneva Bible 1599 GNV

For the King said to Ioab the captaine of the hoste, which was with him, Goe speedily now through all the tribes of Israel, from Dan euen to Beer-sheba, and nomber ye the people, that I may knowe the nomber of the people.

Young's Literal Translation YLT

And the king saith unto Joab, head of the host that [is] with him, 'Go to and fro, I pray thee, through all the tribes of Israel, from Dan even unto Beer-Sheba, and inspect ye the people — and I have known the number of the people.'

World English Bible WEB

The king said to Joab the captain of the army, who was with him, “Now go back and forth through all the tribes of Israel, from Dan even to Beersheba, and count the people, that I may know the sum of the people.”

Noah Webster Bible WBS

For the king said to Joab the captain of the host, who was with him, Go now through all the tribes of Israel, from Dan even to Beer-sheba, and number ye the people, that I may know the number of the people.

Douay-Rheims 1899 DRV

And the king said to Joab the general of his army: Go through all the tribes of Israel from Dan to Bersabee, and number ye the people that I may know the number of them.

Translation for Translators T4T

So the king said to Joab, the commander of his army, “Go with your officers through all the tribes of Israel, from Dan city in the far north to Beersheba town in the far south, and count the people, in order that I may know how many people there are who are able to be soldiers in the army.”

Study Highlights

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Berean Amplified Bible — 2 Samuel 24:2

BAB

Word Study

Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.

Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.

2 Samuel 24:2 Interlinear (Deep Study)

BIB

HEB וַ/יֹּ֨אמֶר הַ/מֶּ֜לֶךְ אֶל יוֹאָ֣ב שַׂר הַ/חַ֣יִל אֲשֶׁר אִתּ֗/וֹ שֽׁוּט נָ֞א בְּ/כָל שִׁבְטֵ֤י יִשְׂרָאֵל֙ מִ/דָּן֙ וְ/עַד בְּאֵ֣ר שֶׁ֔בַע וּ/פִקְד֖וּ אֶת הָ/עָ֑ם וְ/יָ֣דַעְתִּ֔י אֵ֖ת מִסְפַּ֥ר הָ/עָֽם

וַ/יֹּ֨אמֶר ʼâmar H559 to say Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms

הַ/מֶּ֜לֶךְ melek H4428 King's Art | N-ms

אֶל ʼêl H413 to(wards) Prep

יוֹאָ֣ב Yôwʼâb H3097 Joab N-proper

שַׂר sar H8269 ruler N-ms

הַ/חַ֣יִל chayil H2428 Helech Art | N-ms

אֲשֶׁר ʼăsher H834 which Rel

אִתּ֗/וֹ ʼêth H854 with Prep | Suff

שֽׁוּט shûwṭ H7751 to rove V-Qal-Impv-2ms

נָ֞א nâʼ H4994 please Part

בְּ/כָל kôl H3605 all Prep | N-ms

שִׁבְטֵ֤י shêbeṭ H7626 tribe N-mp

יִשְׂרָאֵל֙ Yisrâʼêl H3478 Israel N-proper

מִ/דָּן֙ Dân H1835 Dan Prep | N-proper

וְ/עַד ʻad H5704 till Conj | Prep

בְּאֵ֣ר Bᵉʼêr Shebaʻ H884 Beersheba N-proper

שֶׁ֔בַע Bᵉʼêr Shebaʻ H884 Beersheba Adj

וּ/פִקְד֖וּ pâqad H6485 to reckon Conj | V-Qal-Impv-2mp

אֶת ʼêth H853 Obj. DirObjM

הָ/עָ֑ם ʻam H5971 Amaw Art | N-ms

וְ/יָ֣דַעְתִּ֔י yâdaʻ H3045 to know Conj | V-Qal-1cs

אֵ֖ת ʼêth H853 Obj. DirObjM

מִסְפַּ֥ר miçpâr H4557 number N-ms

הָ/עָֽם ʻam H5971 Amaw Art | N-ms

Hebrew Word Study

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Hebrew Word Reference — 2 Samuel 24:2

וַ/יֹּ֨אמֶר ʼâmar H559 "to say" Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms

This Hebrew word means to say or speak, and it's used in many different ways in the Bible. It can mean to command, promise, or think, and it's translated in the KJV as 'answer', 'appoint', or 'command'.

Definition: 1) to say, speak, utter 1a) (Qal) to say, to answer, to say in one's heart, to think, to command, to promise, to intend 1b) (Niphal) to be told, to be said, to be called 1c) (Hithpael) to boast, to act proudly 1d) (Hiphil) to avow, to avouch Aramaic equivalent: a.mar (אֲמַר "to say" H0560)

Usage: Occurs in 4337 OT verses. KJV: answer, appoint, avouch, bid, boast self, call, certify, challenge, charge, [phrase] (at the, give) command(-ment), commune, consider, declare, demand, [idiom] desire, determine, [idiom] expressly, [idiom] indeed, [idiom] intend, name, [idiom] plainly, promise, publish, report, require, say, speak (against, of), [idiom] still, [idiom] suppose, talk, tell, term, [idiom] that is, [idiom] think, use (speech), utter, [idiom] verily, [idiom] yet. See also: Genesis 1:3; Genesis 18:23; Genesis 25:32.

הַ/מֶּ֜לֶךְ melek H4428 "King's" Art | N-ms

This word refers to a king or royal person, like King David or King Saul. It can also describe something related to a king, like the King's Valley in Genesis. The Bible often uses this word to talk about the rulers of Israel.

Definition: King's (Valley) (Gen.14.17)

Usage: Occurs in 1919 OT verses. KJV: king, royal. See also: Genesis 14:1; Joshua 10:39; 1 Samuel 16:1.

אֶל ʼêl H413 "to(wards)" Prep

This Hebrew word means 'to' or 'toward', showing direction or movement. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus, to indicate where someone is going. The KJV translates it in various ways, like 'about', 'according to', or 'against'.

Definition: 1) to, toward, unto (of motion) 2) into (limit is actually entered) 2a) in among 3) toward (of direction, not necessarily physical motion) 4) against (motion or direction of a hostile character) 5) in addition to, to 6) concerning, in regard to, in reference to, on account of 7) according to (rule or standard) 8) at, by, against (of one's presence) 9) in between, in within, to within, unto (idea of motion to)

Usage: Occurs in 4205 OT verses. KJV: about, according to, after, against, among, as for, at, because(-fore, -side), both...and, by, concerning, for, from, [idiom] hath, in(-to), near, (out) of, over, through, to(-ward), under, unto, upon, whether, with(-in). See also: Genesis 1:9; Genesis 21:14; Genesis 31:13.

יוֹאָ֣ב Yôwʼâb H3097 "Joab" N-proper

Joab was a prominent Israelite, his name means Jehovah is father. He was King David's nephew and army general, playing a key role in the Bible, including in the books of Samuel and Kings.

Definition: A man living at the time of Exile and Return, only mentioned at Ezr.8.9 § Joab = "Jehovah is father" 1) son of David's sister Zeruiah and general of David's army 2) a Judaite descendant of Kenaz 3) a post exilic family

Usage: Occurs in 124 OT verses. KJV: Joab. See also: 1 Samuel 26:6; 2 Samuel 19:2; Psalms 60:2.

שַׂר sar H8269 "ruler" N-ms

A leader or person in charge, like a prince or captain, as seen in the Bible with King David and other rulers.

Definition: 1) prince, ruler, leader, chief, chieftain, official, captain 1a) chieftain, leader 1b) vassal, noble, official (under king) 1c) captain, general, commander (military) 1d) chief, head, overseer (of other official classes) 1e) heads, princes (of religious office) 1f) elders (of representative leaders of people) 1g) merchant-princes (of rank and dignity) 1h) patron-angel 1i) Ruler of rulers (of God) 1j) warden

Usage: Occurs in 368 OT verses. KJV: captain (that had rule), chief (captain), general, governor, keeper, lord,(-task-)master, prince(-ipal), ruler, steward. See also: Genesis 12:15; 1 Kings 22:32; 2 Chronicles 32:21.

הַ/חַ֣יִל chayil H2428 "Helech" Art | N-ms

This word represents strength, might, or power, whether physical, financial, or military. In the Bible, it's used to describe the strength of God or the wealth of a nation, as seen in Deuteronomy 8:17-18.

Definition: § Helech = "your army" a place near Arvad and Gammad

Usage: Occurs in 221 OT verses. KJV: able, activity, ([phrase]) army, band of men (soldiers), company, (great) forces, goods, host, might, power, riches, strength, strong, substance, train, ([phrase]) valiant(-ly), valour, virtuous(-ly), war, worthy(-ily). See also: Genesis 34:29; 2 Chronicles 13:3; Psalms 18:33.

אֲשֶׁר ʼăsher H834 "which" Rel

This Hebrew word is a conjunction that connects ideas and events in the Bible, like in the book of Genesis, where it's used to describe the relationship between God and His creation.

Definition: A: 1) (relative part.) 1a) which, who 1b) that which 2) (conj) 2a) that (in obj clause) 2b) when 2c) since 2d) as 2e) conditional if B: Beth+ 1) in (that) which 2) (adv) 2a) where 3) (conj) 3a) in that, inasmuch as 3b) on account of C: Mem+ 1) from (or than) that which 2) from (the place) where 3) from (the fact) that, since D: Kaph+ 1) (conj.), according as, as, when 1a) according to that which, according as, as 1b) with a causal force: in so far as, since 1c) with a temporal force: when

Usage: Occurs in 4440 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] after, [idiom] alike, as (soon as), because, [idiom] every, for, [phrase] forasmuch, [phrase] from whence, [phrase] how(-soever), [idiom] if, (so) that ((thing) which, wherein), [idiom] though, [phrase] until, [phrase] whatsoever, when, where ([phrase] -as, -in, -of, -on, -soever, -with), which, whilst, [phrase] whither(-soever), who(-m, -soever, -se). As it is indeclinable, it is often accompanied by the personal pronoun expletively, used to show the connection. See also: Genesis 1:7; Genesis 20:9; Genesis 31:16.

אִתּ֗/וֹ ʼêth H854 "with" Prep | Suff

This Hebrew preposition means 'with' or 'near', indicating a close relationship or physical proximity. It's used in Genesis 1:26 to describe God's relationship with humanity, and in many other places to show connection or closeness.

Definition: 1) with, near, together with 1a) with, together with 1b) with (of relationship) 1c) near (of place) 1d) with (poss.) 1e) from...with, from (with other prep)

Usage: Occurs in 787 OT verses. KJV: against, among, before, by, for, from, in(-to), (out) of, with. Often with another prepositional prefix. See also: Genesis 4:1; Genesis 42:32; Numbers 1:5.

שֽׁוּט shûwṭ H7751 "to rove" V-Qal-Impv-2ms

In the Bible, this Hebrew word means to row a boat or travel by sea, like the mariners in Psalm 107:23. It involves pushing forth with oars. The KJV translates it as 'go' or 'row' in different contexts.

Definition: 1) to go, go or rove about, go to and fro 1a) (Qal) to go or rove about 1b) (Polel) to go to and fro, go eagerly or quickly to and fro 1c) (Hithpolel) to run to and fro

Usage: Occurs in 13 OT verses. KJV: go (about, through, to and fro), mariner, rower, run to and fro. See also: Numbers 11:8; Jeremiah 5:1; Jeremiah 49:3.

נָ֞א nâʼ H4994 "please" Part

The Hebrew word 'nâ'' is used to express a polite request, like 'please' or 'I pray', and is often added to verbs to make them more polite. In the Bible, it appears in passages like Ezra's reading of the law to the people.

Definition: 1) I (we) pray, now, please 1a) used in entreaty or exhortation

Usage: Occurs in 374 OT verses. KJV: I beseech (pray) thee (you), go to, now, oh. See also: Genesis 12:11; Judges 4:19; 1 Kings 13:6.

בְּ/כָל kôl H3605 "all" Prep | N-ms

The Hebrew word for 'all' or 'everything' is used throughout the Bible, like in Genesis 1:31, where God sees all He has made as very good. It encompasses the entirety of something, whether people, things, or situations.

Definition: 1) all, the whole 1a) all, the whole of 1b) any, each, every, anything 1c) totality, everything Aramaic equivalent: kol (כֹּל "all" H3606)

Usage: Occurs in 4242 OT verses. KJV: (in) all (manner, (ye)), altogether, any (manner), enough, every (one, place, thing), howsoever, as many as, (no-) thing, ought, whatsoever, (the) whole, whoso(-ever). See also: Genesis 1:21; Genesis 17:10; Genesis 41:40.

שִׁבְטֵ֤י shêbeṭ H7626 "tribe" N-mp

This word means a stick or staff, but also a clan or tribe, and can refer to a symbol of authority or a tool for punishing. It is used in the Bible to describe the rods used by shepherds or the scepters of kings.

Definition: : tribe 1) rod, staff, branch, offshoot, club, sceptre, tribe 1a) rod, staff 1b) shaft (of spear, dart) 1c) club (of shepherd's implement) 1d) truncheon, sceptre (mark of authority) 1e) clan, tribe

Usage: Occurs in 178 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] correction, dart, rod, sceptre, staff, tribe. See also: Genesis 49:10; 2 Samuel 24:2; Psalms 2:9.

יִשְׂרָאֵל֙ Yisrâʼêl H3478 "Israel" N-proper

Israel is the symbolic name of Jacob, also referring to his descendants. Jacob, son of Isaac and Rebekah, had 12 sons who became the tribes of Israel, as told in Genesis 25:26. His story is crucial to the Bible's narrative.

Definition: A man living at the time of the Patriarchs, first mentioned at Gen.25.26; son of: Isaac (H3327) and Rebekah (H7259); brother of: Esau (H6215); married to Rachel (H7354), Leah (H3812), Zilpah (H2153) and Bilhah (H1090A); father of: Reuben (H7205), Simeon (H8095), Levi (H3878), Judah (H3063), Dan (H1835H), Naphtali (H5321), Gad (H1410), Asher (H0836), Issachar (H3485), Zebulun (H2074), Dinah (H1783), Joseph (H3130) and Benjamin (H1144); also called Jacob frequently § Israel = "God prevails" 1) the second name for Jacob given to him by God after his wrestling with the angel at Peniel 2) the name of the descendants and the nation of the descendants of Jacob 2a) the name of the nation until the death of Solomon and the split 2b) the name used and given to the northern kingdom consisting of the 10 tribes under Jeroboam; the southern kingdom was known as Judah 2c) the name of the nation after the return from exile

Usage: Occurs in 2231 OT verses. KJV: Israel. See also: Genesis 32:29; Exodus 13:18; Exodus 40:38.

מִ/דָּן֙ Dân H1835 "Dan" Prep | N-proper

Dan was a son of Jacob and the founder of one of the twelve tribes of Israel. The tribe of Dan was known for its skills in warfare and is mentioned in the book of Genesis.

Definition: A man of the tribe of Dan living at the time of the Patriarchs, first mentioned at Gen.30.6; son of: Israel (H3478) and Bilhah (H1090A); brother of: Naphtali (H5321); half-brother of: Reuben (H7205), Simeon (H8095), Levi (H3878), Judah (H3063), Gad (H1410), Asher (H0836), Issachar (H3485), Zebulun (H2074), Dinah (H1783), Joseph (H3130) and Benjamin (H1144); father of: Hushim (H2366B) § Dan = "a judge" 1) the 5th son of Jacob, the 1st of Bilhah, Rachel's handmaid 2) the tribe descended from Dan, the son of Jacob 3) a city in Dan, the most northern landmark of Palestine

Usage: Occurs in 63 OT verses. KJV: Daniel See also: Genesis 14:14; Judges 13:25; Jeremiah 4:15.

וְ/עַד ʻad H5704 "till" Conj | Prep

This Hebrew word means until or as far as, describing a point in time or space. It's used in the Bible to set boundaries or limits, like in Exodus when describing the Israelites' journey.

Definition: prep 1) as far as, even to, until, up to, while, as far as 1a) of space 1a1) as far as, up to, even to 1b) in combination 1b1) from...as far as, both...and (with 'min' -from) 1c) of time 1c1) even to, until, unto, till, during, end 1d) of degree 1d1) even to, to the degree of, even like conj 2) until, while, to the point that, so that even Aramaic equivalent: ad (עַד "till" H5705)

Usage: Occurs in 1128 OT verses. KJV: against, and, as, at, before, by (that), even (to), for(-asmuch as), (hither-) to, [phrase] how long, into, as long (much) as, (so) that, till, toward, until, when, while, ([phrase] as) yet. See also: Genesis 3:19; Exodus 32:20; Numbers 23:24.

בְּאֵ֣ר Bᵉʼêr Shebaʻ H884 "Beersheba" N-proper

Beersheba was a city in Palestine, located at the south edge of Israel, and its name means 'well of the sevenfold oath'. It was an important place in the Bible.

Definition: § Beer-sheba = "well of the sevenfold oath" a city at the south edge of Israel

Usage: Occurs in 33 OT verses. KJV: Beer-shebah. See also: Genesis 21:14; 2 Samuel 17:11; Amos 8:14.

שֶׁ֔בַע Bᵉʼêr Shebaʻ H884 "Beersheba" Adj

Beersheba was a city in Palestine, located at the south edge of Israel, and its name means 'well of the sevenfold oath'. It was an important place in the Bible.

Definition: § Beer-sheba = "well of the sevenfold oath" a city at the south edge of Israel

Usage: Occurs in 33 OT verses. KJV: Beer-shebah. See also: Genesis 21:14; 2 Samuel 17:11; Amos 8:14.

וּ/פִקְד֖וּ pâqad H6485 "to reckon" Conj | V-Qal-Impv-2mp

This word means to visit or oversee, and can imply a range of actions, from friendly to hostile. It is used in various contexts, including appointing, avenging, or delivering something into someone's care. The KJV translates it in many ways, including appoint, avenge, or commit.

Definition: : list/count 1) to attend to, muster, number, reckon, visit, punish, appoint, look after, care for 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to pay attention to, observe 1a2) to attend to 1a3) to seek, look about for 1a4) to seek in vain, need, miss, lack 1a5) to visit 1a6) to visit upon, punish 1a7) to pass in review, muster, number 1a8) to appoint, assign, lay upon as a charge, deposit 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be sought, be needed, be missed, be lacking 1b2) to be visited 1b3) to be visited upon 1b4) to be appointed 1b5) to be watched over 1c) (Piel) to muster, call up 1d) (Pual) to be passed in review, be caused to miss, be called, be called to account 1e) (Hiphil) 1e1) to set over, make overseer, appoint an overseer 1e2) to commit, entrust, commit for care, deposit 1f) (Hophal) 1f1) to be visited 1f2) to be deposited 1f3) to be made overseer, be entrusted 1g) (Hithpael) numbered 1h) (Hothpael) numbered

Usage: Occurs in 269 OT verses. KJV: appoint, [idiom] at all, avenge, bestow, (appoint to have the, give a) charge, commit, count, deliver to keep, be empty, enjoin, go see, hurt, do judgment, lack, lay up, look, make, [idiom] by any means, miss, number, officer, (make) overseer, have (the) oversight, punish, reckon, (call to) remember(-brance), set (over), sum, [idiom] surely, visit, want. See also: Genesis 21:1; Numbers 26:47; Psalms 8:5.

אֶת ʼêth H853 "Obj." DirObjM

In the original Hebrew, this word points out the object of a verb or preposition, like 'namely' or 'even'. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus. It's not directly translated in English, but helps clarify the meaning of sentences.

Definition: sign of the definite direct object, not translated in English but generally preceding and indicating the accusative Aramaic equivalent: yat (יָת "whom" H3487)

Usage: Occurs in 6782 OT verses. KJV: (as such unrepresented in English). See also: Genesis 1:1; Genesis 10:8; Genesis 19:21.

הָ/עָ֑ם ʻam H5971 "Amaw" Art | N-ms

A people or nation is what this Hebrew word represents, like the nation of Israel in Exodus 33:13. It can also mean a tribe, troops, or attendants, and is used to describe a group of people gathered together. The word is often used to refer to the people of God.

Definition: This name means nation, people

Usage: Occurs in 1655 OT verses. KJV: folk, men, nation, people. See also: Genesis 11:6; Exodus 16:4; Leviticus 17:9.

וְ/יָ֣דַעְתִּ֔י yâdaʻ H3045 "to know" Conj | V-Qal-1cs

The Hebrew word for to know means to ascertain by seeing, and is used in many senses, including to learn, perceive, and recognize, as seen in various KJV translations.

Definition: 1) to know 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to know 1a1a) to know, learn to know 1a1b) to perceive 1a1c) to perceive and see, find out and discern 1a1d) to discriminate, distinguish 1a1e) to know by experience 1a1f) to recognise, admit, acknowledge, confess 1a1g) to consider 1a2) to know, be acquainted with 1a3) to know (a person carnally) 1a4) to know how, be skilful in 1a5) to have knowledge, be wise 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be made known, be or become known, be revealed 1b2) to make oneself known 1b3) to be perceived 1b4) to be instructed 1c) (Piel) to cause to know 1d) (Poal) to cause to know 1e) (Pual) 1e1) to be known 1e2) known, one known, acquaintance (participle) 1f) (Hiphil) to make known, declare 1g) (Hophal) to be made known 1h) (Hithpael) to make oneself known, reveal oneself Aramaic equivalent: ye.da (יְדַע "to know" H3046)

Usage: Occurs in 874 OT verses. KJV: acknowledge, acquaintance(-ted with), advise, answer, appoint, assuredly, be aware, (un-) awares, can(-not), certainly, comprehend, consider, [idiom] could they, cunning, declare, be diligent, (can, cause to) discern, discover, endued with, familiar friend, famous, feel, can have, be (ig-) norant, instruct, kinsfolk, kinsman, (cause to let, make) know, (come to give, have, take) knowledge, have (knowledge), (be, make, make to be, make self) known, [phrase] be learned, [phrase] lie by man, mark, perceive, privy to, [idiom] prognosticator, regard, have respect, skilful, shew, can (man of) skill, be sure, of a surety, teach, (can) tell, understand, have (understanding), [idiom] will be, wist, wit, wot. See also: Genesis 3:5; Leviticus 5:4; Judges 21:12.

אֵ֖ת ʼêth H853 "Obj." DirObjM

Definition: sign of the definite direct object, not translated in English but generally preceding and indicating the accusative Aramaic equivalent: yat (יָת "whom" H3487)

Usage: Occurs in 6782 OT verses. KJV: (as such unrepresented in English). See also: Genesis 1:1; Genesis 10:8; Genesis 19:21.

מִסְפַּ֥ר miçpâr H4557 "number" N-ms

This word refers to a number or quantity, whether large or small, and can also mean a narrative or story. It is used in many biblical contexts to describe counting or recounting events. In the Bible, it appears in passages about census and genealogy.

Definition: 1) number, tale 1a) number 1a1) number 1a2) innumerable (with negative) 1a3) few, numerable (alone) 1a4) by count, in number, according to number (with prep) 1b) recounting, relation

Usage: Occurs in 129 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] abundance, account, [idiom] all, [idiom] few, (in-) finite, (certain) number(-ed), tale, telling, [phrase] time. See also: Genesis 34:30; 1 Chronicles 12:24; Psalms 40:13.

הָ/עָֽם ʻam H5971 "Amaw" Art | N-ms

Definition: This name means nation, people

Usage: Occurs in 1655 OT verses. KJV: folk, men, nation, people. See also: Genesis 11:6; Exodus 16:4; Leviticus 17:9.

Study Notes — 2 Samuel 24:2

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Context
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2 Samuel 24:2 Summary
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Gill's Exposition on 2 Samuel 24:2
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on 2 Samuel 24:2
Matthew Poole's Commentary on 2 Samuel 24:2
Trapp's Commentary on 2 Samuel 24:2
Cambridge Bible on 2 Samuel 24:2
Barnes' Notes on 2 Samuel 24:2
Whedon's Commentary on 2 Samuel 24:2
Sermons on 2 Samuel 24:2

Context — David’s Military Census

1Again the anger of the LORD burned against Israel, and He stirred up David against them, saying, “Go and take a census of Israel and Judah.”

2So the king said to Joab the commander of his army, who was with him, “Go now throughout the tribes of Israel from Dan to Beersheba and register the troops, so that I may know their number.”

3But Joab replied to the king, “May the LORD your God multiply the troops a hundred times over, and may the eyes of my lord the king see it. But why does my lord the king want to do such a thing?” 4Nevertheless, the king’s word prevailed against Joab and against the commanders of the army. So Joab and the commanders of the army departed from the presence of the king to register the troops of Israel.

Cross References

	Reference	Text (BSB)
1	2 Samuel 3:10	to transfer the kingdom from the house of Saul and to establish the throne of David over Israel and Judah, from Dan to Beersheba.”
2	Judges 20:1	Then all the Israelites from Dan to Beersheba and from the land of Gilead came out, and the congregation assembled as one man before the LORD at Mizpah.
3	2 Samuel 20:23	Now Joab was over the whole army of Israel; Benaiah son of Jehoiada was over the Cherethites and Pelethites;
4	2 Chronicles 32:25–26	But because his heart was proud, Hezekiah did not repay the favor shown to him. Therefore wrath came upon him and upon Judah and Jerusalem. Then Hezekiah humbled the pride of his heart—he and the people of Jerusalem—so that the wrath of the LORD did not come upon them during the days of Hezekiah.
5	2 Samuel 23:37	Zelek the Ammonite, Naharai the Beerothite, the armor-bearer of Joab son of Zeruiah,
6	2 Chronicles 32:31	And so when ambassadors of the rulers of Babylon were sent to him to inquire about the wonder that had happened in the land, God left him alone to test him, that He might know all that was in Hezekiah’s heart.
7	1 Chronicles 21:2	So David said to Joab and the commanders of the troops, “Go and count the Israelites from Beersheba to Dan and bring me a report, so that I may know their number.”
8	2 Samuel 17:11	Instead, I advise that all Israel from Dan to Beersheba—a multitude like the sand on the seashore—be gathered to you, and that you yourself lead them into battle.
9	Proverbs 29:23	A man’s pride will bring him low, but a humble spirit will obtain honor.
10	2 Samuel 8:16	Joab son of Zeruiah was over the army; Jehoshaphat son of Ahilud was the recorder;

2 Samuel 24:2 Summary

In 2 Samuel 24:2, King David tells his army commander, Joab, to count the troops so he can know their number. This action, influenced by God's anger towards Israel, as stated in 2 Samuel 24:1, shows how King David was focusing on his own strength rather than trusting in God's power and provision, similar to how God provided for the Israelites in the wilderness, as seen in Exodus 16:1-36. This verse reminds us to trust in God's sovereignty and provision, rather than relying on our own abilities or resources, as encouraged in Proverbs 3:5-6, where we are told to trust in the Lord with all our heart and lean not on our own understanding.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did King David want to count his troops?

King David wanted to count his troops to know their number, possibly to assess his military strength, as seen in 2 Samuel 24:2, but this action was also influenced by God's anger towards Israel, as stated in 2 Samuel 24:1.

What was the role of Joab in this scenario?

Joab was the commander of King David's army, and he was instructed by the king to go throughout the tribes of Israel and register the troops, as seen in 2 Samuel 24:2, but Joab questioned the king's motives, as stated in 2 Samuel 24:3.

Is taking a census always a bad thing?

Not always, but in this case, it was driven by King David's pride and lack of trust in God, as hinted in 2 Samuel 24:1, unlike the census in Numbers 1:1-3, which was commanded by God to organize the Israelites for their journey to the Promised Land.

How does this verse relate to the rest of the Bible?

This verse is part of a larger story of God's relationship with His people, Israel, and King David's role in it, similar to how God related to His people in Exodus 30:12, where a census was also taken, but with a focus on atonement and redemption.

Reflection Questions

What are the potential dangers of trusting in numbers and military strength rather than in God's power and provision?
How can we, like Joab, discern when our leaders or we ourselves are acting out of pride or a lack of trust in God?
What are some ways we can cultivate a deeper trust in God's sovereignty and provision in our lives, rather than relying on our own strength or resources?
How does this verse encourage or challenge us to reflect on our own motivations and actions, and to seek God's guidance and wisdom?

Gill's Exposition on 2 Samuel 24:2

For the king said to Joab the captain of the host, which [was] with him,.... Or who was with him, even Joab, who was now at court, and was a counsellor of David, as well as his general; or which army

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on 2 Samuel 24:2

For the king said to Joab the captain of the host, which was with him, Go now through all the tribes of Israel, from Dan even to Beersheba, and number ye the people, that I may know the number of the people.

Matthew Poole's Commentary on 2 Samuel 24:2

Which expression points at David’ s sin in this matter, that he numbered them, not by direction from God, nor for any important business of the church or kingdom; but out of mere curiosity, and pride, and vain-glory; accompanied either with a secret distrust of God’ s promise; or rather, with a carnal confidence in the numbers of his people; all which were great sins, and were so manifest, that not only God saw them, and all the degrees and aggravations of them, in David; but even Joab and the captains of the host were very sensible of them, ,4.

Trapp's Commentary on 2 Samuel 24:2

2 Samuel 24:2 For the king said to Joab the captain of the host, which [was] with him, Go now through all the tribes of Israel, from Dan even to Beersheba, and number ye the people, that I may know the number of the people.Ver. 2. That I may know the number of the people.] As I have lately taken notice and made a catalogue of my worthies, and the forces under their command. This Augustus Caesar might do for his pleasure, and carry it away without punishment. Not so David. God will take that from others that he will not bear with in his own. The Philistines might cart the ark, but David smarted for so doing.

Cambridge Bible on 2 Samuel 24:2

2. For the king said] And the king said: yielding to the temptation to which he was subjected by permission of God through the instrumentality of Satan. the host] The word for host in 2 Samuel 24:2; 2 Samuel 24:4 is different from that generally used of the Israelite army, and perhaps indicates that this chapter was derived from a different source. number ye] It is stated in 1 Chronicles 21:2 that the commission was given to “Joab and to the captains (or princes) of the people.” Their cooperation is here implied by the use of the plural, and by 2 Samuel 24:4. They were associated with Joab in the work, just as the princes of the tribes were associated with Moses and Aaron in taking the census (Numbers 1:4 ff.), and this indicates that the census had some military object in view.

Barnes' Notes on 2 Samuel 24:2

1 Chronicles 21:2, supplies some missing words. This passage should run, as at 2 Samuel 24:4, “And the king said to Joab and to the princes of the host who were with him,” etc. (compare 1 Chronicles 27:22).

Whedon's Commentary on 2 Samuel 24:2

1. Again — After the penal famine described in 2 Samuel 21:1. He moved David against them — By permitting Satan to insinuate unholy thoughts and purposes into his heart. Compare 1 Chronicles 21:1.

Sermons on 2 Samuel 24:2

	Sermon	Description
	Ingratitude to God—a Heinous but General Iniquity by Samuel Davies	Samuel Davies preaches about the heinous sin of ingratitude towards God, highlighting the universal practice of ingratitude despite the abundant blessings and deliverances received
	Temptation From All Sides by J.H. Newman	John Henry Newman reflects on the hidden weaknesses and secret faults that can betray even the most faithful followers of God, using examples like Peter, David, and Hezekiah who st
	The Lord's Dealings With His People by Robert Murray M'Cheyne	Greek Word Studies for an aid_number 35423 preaches on the concept of retribution, emphasizing the giving back in return for something received, whether in a good or bad sense. The
	Testing and Trials by Erlo Stegen	In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of giving all honor, praise, and glory to God. He encourages the listeners to have a heart filled with gratitude and thanks t
	The Hour of Isolation by David Wilkerson	David Wilkerson speaks about the experience of divine silence and the feelings of confusion and isolation that can accompany it. He reflects on the times when God seems distant, ur
	Proving Man by David Wilkerson	David Wilkerson emphasizes that God often proves man through trials and tests, suggesting that our current struggles may be part of God's plan to reveal what is truly in our hearts
	Some Deep Considerations Concerning the State of Israel by Isaac Penington	Greek Word Studies delves into the concept of being tested, highlighting that testing can be for good or evil depending on the intent of the tester and the response of the one bein