2 Samuel 5:13 (KJV)

What does 2 Samuel 5:13 mean?

2 Samuel 5:13 reports that after King David moved from Hebron to Jerusalem, he took more wives and concubines, and more sons and daughters were born to him there. The verse simply records this expansion of David’s family as part of his growing power and status as king.

This verse is part of a historical account describing David’s early reign over all Israel. The writer is noting how David’s move to Jerusalem marked a new phase in his kingship, including the practice—common for ancient Near Eastern rulers—of taking multiple wives and concubines (secondary wives) to strengthen alliances and display royal prestige. The mention of more children born to David highlights the growth of his household and the establishment of his dynasty in Jerusalem.

The Hebrew behind 2 Samuel 5:13

• "Concubines" (פִּילַגְשִׁים, pilagshim): This word refers to women who had a recognized relationship with a man but held a lower status than wives. In David’s context, having concubines was a sign of royal status, but these women did not have the same rights as primary wives.
• "Wives" (נָשִׁים, nashim): This is the standard Hebrew word for wives. The verse distinguishes between wives and concubines, showing that David’s household included both.
• "Jerusalem" (יְרוּשָׁלַיִם, Yerushalayim) and "Hebron" (חֶבְרוֹן, Chevron): The move from Hebron to Jerusalem marks a significant shift in David’s reign, as Jerusalem becomes the political and spiritual center for Israel.

Why 2 Samuel 5:13 matters

• This verse clarifies that David’s family and royal household grew significantly after he established Jerusalem as his capital, reflecting his increased power and influence.
• The distinction between wives and concubines helps readers understand the social and political customs of ancient Israelite kingship.
• By noting the birth of more sons and daughters, the verse sets up later narratives about David’s children and the complexities that arise within his family.