2 Samuel 3:5 (KJV)

What does 2 Samuel 3:5 mean?

2 Samuel 3:5 lists Ithream as the sixth son born to David while he was in Hebron, specifying that Ithream’s mother was Eglah, one of David’s wives. This verse finishes a record of David’s sons born during his early reign in Hebron, highlighting the growth of his family and household.

The verse is part of a longer passage that names David’s wives and the sons born to them during his time as king in Hebron, before he ruled all Israel. The writer is simply recording historical details about David’s family, showing the increasing size and complexity of his household as his power grew.

The Hebrew behind 2 Samuel 3:5

• אִתְרְעָם (Ithream, transliterated "Ithream") is the name of David’s sixth son mentioned here. The name itself is unique in the Bible and its meaning is uncertain, but its inclusion marks the completeness of the list.
• עֶגְלָה (Eglah, transliterated "Eglah") is the name of David’s wife who bore Ithream. The word can also mean "heifer" in Hebrew, but here it is used as a personal name, possibly hinting at her character or background.
• נוֹלְדוּ (born, transliterated "noldu") is from the root meaning "to be born." The verse uses this word to summarize that all these sons were born to David in Hebron, emphasizing their legitimate place in his family line.
• חֶבְרוֹן (Hebron, transliterated "Chevron") refers to the city where David reigned for seven and a half years before moving his capital to Jerusalem. Mentioning Hebron roots these family events in a specific historical and geographical context.

Why 2 Samuel 3:5 matters

• This verse helps clarify the order and parentage of David’s sons, which becomes important later in the story of David’s family and the struggles over succession.
• By listing Eglah as David’s wife and Ithream as her son, the verse shows that David’s household included multiple wives and children, reflecting the customs of royal families in the ancient Near East.
• The mention of Hebron ties David’s growing family to a key period in his rise to power, connecting personal family details to the larger story of his kingship.