2 Samuel 24:22 (KJV)

What does 2 Samuel 24:22 mean?

2 Samuel 24:22 shows Araunah offering King David everything needed for a sacrifice—his oxen, the threshing tools, and other equipment for wood—so David can make an offering as he sees fit. Araunah is freely giving these things to David, showing respect and generosity to the king in a moment of crisis.

In this verse, Araunah (the owner of the threshing floor) is speaking directly to King David, who has come to buy the site to build an altar to God. The situation is tense because Israel is experiencing a plague, and David is seeking to stop it by making a sacrifice. Araunah’s willingness to give up his valuable possessions without hesitation highlights his honor and the seriousness of the moment.

The Hebrew behind 2 Samuel 24:22

• אֲרוַנָּה (Araunah, 'Araunah'): This is the name of the Jebusite who owns the land and resources David needs. His identity as a non-Israelite adds weight to his generous offer.
• מֶלֶךְ (melekh, "king"): Araunah addresses David as "the king," showing deep respect and acknowledging David’s authority.
• בָּקָר (baqar, "oxen"): The oxen are not just animals but valuable assets, offered here for sacrifice, which would have been a significant gift.
• עֵצִים (etzim, "wood"): The mention of wood, coming from the threshing instruments and other tools, shows Araunah’s thoroughness in providing everything needed for the burnt offering.

Why 2 Samuel 24:22 matters

• This verse clears up any idea that David was forcing Araunah to give up his property; instead, Araunah is offering it willingly and generously.
• The verse emphasizes the seriousness of David’s mission to stop the plague, showing how others are drawn into the urgency and gravity of the situation.
• It connects to the wider passage by setting up David’s response, where David insists on paying for the offering, highlighting the principle that true sacrifice costs something.