2 Samuel 22:35 (KJV)

What does 2 Samuel 22:35 mean?

2 Samuel 22:35 says that God trains the speaker’s hands for battle, giving such strength and skill that he can bend or break a bow made of strong metal. The verse credits God with making the speaker capable and powerful in warfare, beyond ordinary human ability.

David is the one speaking these words, singing a song of thanks to God after being delivered from his enemies. David describes how God has personally equipped him for battle, using vivid language to show that his military success and even his physical strength come from God’s instruction and help.

The Hebrew behind 2 Samuel 22:35

• "teacheth" (לָמַד, lamad): This word means to instruct or train. Here, it emphasizes that David’s ability in war is not self-taught but comes from God’s direct teaching.
• "bow" (קֶשֶׁת, qeshet) and "steel" (נְחוּשָׁה, nekhushah): The word translated "steel" more often refers to bronze or copper in the Hebrew Bible, not modern steel. This suggests the bow is made of a very strong metal, highlighting the extraordinary strength needed to bend or break it.
• "broken" (נָתַק, nathaq): This word can mean to pull apart or snap. The sense is that David’s arms, empowered by God, can do what would normally be impossible for a person.

Why 2 Samuel 22:35 matters

• The verse clarifies that David’s victories and strength are not just due to his own skill or power, but are gifts from God’s training and support.
• The mention of a "bow of steel" (likely bronze) being broken by David’s arms uses an image of superhuman strength to stress how God’s help goes beyond normal human limits.
• This verse fits into David’s larger song of praise in 2 Samuel 22, where he recounts many ways God has rescued and empowered him, making it clear that every success is ultimately God’s doing.