2 Samuel 2:6 (KJV)

What does 2 Samuel 2:6 mean?

2 Samuel 2:6 is a blessing spoken by David, asking the LORD to show kindness and faithfulness to the people he is addressing, and promising that he himself will repay their kindness because of what they have done. The verse expresses gratitude and a desire for God’s favor to rest on those who acted loyally.

David is speaking to the men of Jabesh-gilead, who had shown respect by burying Saul after his death. In this moment, David is not yet king over all Israel, and he is reaching out to Saul’s supporters with words of appreciation and reassurance. The verse highlights David’s respect for their loyalty and his wish to build trust and goodwill.

The Hebrew behind 2 Samuel 2:6

• "Kindness" (חֶסֶד, ḥesed): This word often means steadfast love or loyal kindness, not just a general niceness. David is asking God to show a deep, covenant-type loyalty to these men, reflecting the seriousness of their action.
• "Truth" (אֱמֶת, ’emet): This word carries the sense of faithfulness or reliability. David’s blessing is for both God’s loyal love and His dependability to be shown to these men.
• "Requite" (עָשָׂה, ‘asah): This is the same verb as "shew" and "done" in this verse, meaning "to do" or "to act." David is promising to respond to their kindness with action, not just words.

Why 2 Samuel 2:6 matters

• This verse shows David’s diplomatic wisdom as he seeks to honor Saul’s supporters and build bridges during a tense transition of leadership.
• The use of the words for "kindness" and "truth" points to values that are central in relationships—both with God and among people—in the Old Testament.
• The verse connects to the larger theme of loyalty and respect for God’s chosen leaders, even in difficult times, and sets the tone for how David will seek to rule.