2 Samuel 8:5 (KJV)

What does 2 Samuel 8:5 mean?

2 Samuel 8:5 describes how the Syrians from Damascus came to help Hadadezer, the king of Zobah, in battle, but David defeated them and killed 22,000 Syrian soldiers. This verse highlights a significant military victory for David over both Hadadezer and his Syrian allies.

The setting is a record of King David’s military campaigns as told in the book of 2 Samuel. David is expanding his kingdom and facing opposition from neighboring rulers. When the Syrians (from Damascus) arrive to support Hadadezer, David’s forces overcome them, showing his growing strength and the weakening of his enemies.

The Hebrew behind 2 Samuel 8:5

• דַּמֶּשֶׂק (Dammesek, transliterated "Damascus"): This word refers specifically to the well-known city and region of Damascus, which was a major center in Syria. Its mention shows that powerful allies were involved in the conflict.
• עָזַר (ʿazar, transliterated "succour"): This word means "to help" or "to give aid." The Syrians were not just bystanders but active supporters of Hadadezer, making David’s victory more significant.
• הִכָּה (hikah, transliterated "slew"): This verb means "to strike" or "to defeat," often used in the context of battle. The use of this word emphasizes the completeness of David’s victory.

Why 2 Samuel 8:5 matters

• This verse shows that David’s victories were not just over isolated enemies but also over coalitions of powerful neighboring nations, underlining the scale of his success.
• The mention of specific numbers and places (like Damascus and 22,000 men) gives a sense of the historical reality and the magnitude of the conflict.
• It connects to the wider passage by showing how David’s reign was marked by decisive military action, which helped to secure Israel’s borders and establish his rule.