2 Samuel 5:1-3
Chapter 5
1
David, King of Israel
All the tribes of Israel came to David at Hebron and said: “We are your bone and flesh.2
In the past, when Saul was king over us, it was you who led Israel. And the Lord said to you, ‘You shall be the shepherd of my people Israel, and you shall be commander over Israel.’”
3
Before the Lord, King David agreed with the elders of Israel who came to him at Hebron. They anointed him king of Israel.
Commentaries
David, King of Israel.
With Abner and Ishbaal gone, David becomes the center of all hopes. A growing sense of brotherhood replaces Israel’s opposition to Judah. What Abimelech told the men of Shechem to support his claim to the throne (Judges 9) is reflected in how the tribes recognize David. The covenant between the king and the people has a constitutional tone, implying an oath of mutual loyalty and often including several clauses. The elders, as leaders of the entire population, serve as mediators in the anointing process.