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2 Samuel 24:20 - Araunah's Humility and Reverence | JesusChat

2 Samuel 24:20 - Verse Explanation

Verse Spotlight

Picture this: Araunah looks up and sees King David coming towards him with his entourage. In that moment, he feels a rush of respect and honor. So, he rushes out to meet them and bows down, pressing his face to the ground. It’s a powerful gesture that shows his humility and recognition of the king’s authority. This isn’t just a casual meeting; it’s a moment filled with emotion and reverence, highlighting the importance of acknowledging those in positions of leadership.

Who Wrote It

This book, 2 Samuel, is often attributed to the prophet Samuel and other writers who followed his story. They wanted to capture the essence of Israel's journey and leadership. By including this detail about Araunah, the writer emphasizes the respect owed to leaders, as well as the humility that we all should have before God and others. It gives us a glimpse into the culture of honor and the importance of recognizing the roles that people play in our lives.

What It Means

Where and When

This was written in a time when Israel was establishing itself as a nation under a monarchy. The people had gone through a lot—wars, leadership struggles, and a search for identity. This moment happens after a severe judgment from God, and David’s actions are a response to that. Understanding this era—when kings were seen as God’s representatives on earth—helps us grasp why Araunah’s respectful gesture was so significant. It was a time of high stakes, where every action could lead to favor or wrath from God.

Why It Matters

This verse matters today because it speaks to the value of humility and respect in our relationships. Just like Araunah recognized the importance of honoring the king, you can apply this to your life by treating others—especially those in authority or leadership—with respect. It’s a reminder that showing humility can lead to greater understanding and connection with those around you, and even with God. In a world where we often prioritize our own opinions and pride, this verse encourages us to pause, recognize others, and approach life with a heart of honor.

How to Apply

Think about someone in your life—maybe a teacher, a boss, or even a family member—who deserves your respect. This week, take a moment to acknowledge them. You could write a note expressing your appreciation, or simply tell them how much you value their role in your life. Additionally, spend some time reflecting on how you approach your relationship with God. Are you coming to Him with a heart that’s open and humble? Consider finding a quiet moment to express your gratitude and recognize His authority in your life.

About 2 Samuel

Purpose

To record David's reign as king and establish the Davidic covenant.

Author

The prophets Nathan and Gad, who served as court historians during David's reign. They had intimate access to David and recorded both his triumphs and failures with brutal honesty.

Historical Context

Written: 1010-970 BC. David's 40-year reign over Israel and the establishment of Jerusalem as capital.

Significance

Establishes the Davidic covenant and shows both David's greatness and his humanity.

Key Themes

Davidic Covenant, Leadership, Consequences of Sin, God's Mercy, Kingdom Establishment

Interesting Facts

David conquered Jerusalem and made it Israel's capital - it's been the Jewish capital for 3,000 years
David's sin with Bathsheba led to family tragedy that lasted generations
David wrote Psalm 51 after Nathan confronted him about his sin

Prophecies

The Davidic Covenant - David's throne would be established forever (2 Samuel 7:12-16) Fulfilled: Jesus Christ, who will reign on David's throne eternally (1000 years later)
The Messiah would be David's son and Lord (implied in the covenant) Fulfilled: Jesus, called 'Son of David' throughout the New Testament (1000 years later)

2 Samuel Chapter 24 Overview

2 Samuel 24 presents a pivotal moment in King David's reign, marking the culmination of his life and leadership. The chapter begins with God's anger against Israel, leading to David's decision to conduct a census of the people. This act, motivated by a desire for military confidence rather than reliance on God, is met with opposition from Joab, David's commander, who urges the king to reconsider. Despite Joab's hesitations, David's command prevails, and a census is conducted, revealing a total of 1.3 million fighting men in Israel and Judah. However, after the census, David's heart is troubled, and he confesses his sin to God, realizing that he acted foolishly. In response, God sends the prophet Gad to present David with three options for punishment: three years of famine, three months of fleeing from enemies, or three days of pestilence. David chooses to fall into God’s hands, acknowledging His mercy over human judgment. This leads to a devastating plague that claims the lives of 70,000 men across Israel. As the angel of destruction approaches Jerusalem, God relents and commands the angel to stop, sparing the city. Moved by the devastation and recognizing his own culpability, David pleads for mercy, asking that the punishment be directed at himself and his household instead of the innocent people. Following this act of repentance, Gad instructs David to build an altar to the Lord on the threshing floor of Araunah the Jebusite. David obeys, signifying his contrition and desire to atone for his actions. This altar becomes a critical site for future worship and sacrifices, leading to the establishment of the Temple in Jerusalem, which is of great significance in Israel's religious history.

THE HOLY BIBLE

2 Samuel·Chapter 24

verse1

2 Samuel Chapter 24

, Again anger of Lord kindled Israel, David Israel Judah.

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verse2

2 Samuel Chapter 24

So the to the of the who was with him, Go all the of from to and the that I may the of the

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verse3

2 Samuel Chapter 24

But to the May the your to the a they are, while the of my the still it, but why does my the in this

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verse4

2 Samuel Chapter 24

But Joab commanders army. Joab commanders army presence king number people Israel.

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verse5

2 Samuel Chapter 24

They the and and the that is in the of the toward and on to

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verse6

2 Samuel Chapter 24

Then they to and to in the of the Hittites; and they to and from they went to

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verse7

2 Samuel Chapter 24

and to the of and to all the of the and and they to the of at

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verse8

2 Samuel Chapter 24

So when they had through all the they to at the of and

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verse9

2 Samuel Chapter 24

the of the of the to the : Israel there 800,000 valiant who the sword, the of Judah 500,000.

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verse10

2 Samuel Chapter 24

after had numbered people. David Lord, have sinned what have done. now, Lord, away iniquity your servant, have done very

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verse11

2 Samuel Chapter 24

And when in the the of the came to the

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verse12

2 Samuel Chapter 24

and to Thus the things I you. of them, that I may it to you.

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verse13

2 Samuel Chapter 24

So to him, to him, of to you in Or will you while they you? Or there be days pestilence in consider, decide answer I return to him sent me.

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verse14

2 Samuel Chapter 24

Then to I am in Let us into the of the for his is but let me not into the of

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verse15

2 Samuel Chapter 24

So the a on from the until the And there of the from to 70,000 men.

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verse16

2 Samuel Chapter 24

And when the his toward to it, the from the and to the who was the It is now your And the of the was by the of the

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verse17

2 Samuel Chapter 24

Then to the when he the who was the and Behold, I have and I have But these what have they Please let your be against me and against my

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verse18

2 Samuel Chapter 24

And that to and to him, Go an to the on the of the

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verse19

2 Samuel Chapter 24

So at the Lord

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verse20

2 Samuel Chapter 24

And when he the and his toward him. And and to the with his to the

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verse21

2 Samuel Chapter 24

And Why has my the to his To the from you, in order to an to the that the may be from the

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verse22

2 Samuel Chapter 24

Then Let my the and what seems are the for the and the and the of the for the

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verse23

2 Samuel Chapter 24

All this, O to the And to the May the your you.

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verse24

2 Samuel Chapter 24

But the to No, but will it from you for a will not to the my that cost me So the and the for of

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verse25

2 Samuel Chapter 24

And there an to the and and So the responded to the for the and the was from

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Scripture quotations are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), ©2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. ESV Text Edition: 2025. The ESV text may not be quoted in any publication made available to the public by a Creative Commons license. The ESV may not be translated in whole or in part into any other language. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

Opening Your Bible

Opening Your Bible

2 Samuel·Chapter 24

Chapter Context

Key Biblical Words (Word Study)

Reflection Question

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Personal Prayer

Frequently Asked Questions

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Old Testament

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