2 Samuel 5:2
ESV
In times past, when Saul was king over us, it was you who led out and brought in Israel. And the Lord said to you, ‘You shall be shepherd of my people Israel, and you shall be prince over Israel.’"
NIV
In the past, while Saul was king over us, you were the one who led Israel on their military campaigns. And the Lord said to you, ‘You will shepherd my people Israel, and you will become their ruler.’ "
NASB
Previously, when Saul was king over us, you were the one who led Israel out and in. And the Lord said to you, ‘You will shepherd My people Israel, and you will be a leader over Israel.’?'
CSB
Even while Saul was king over us, you were the one who led us out to battle and brought us back. The Lord also said to you, ‘You will shepherd my people Israel, and you will be ruler over Israel.’"
NLT
In the past, when Saul was our king, you were the one who really led the forces of Israel. And the Lord told you, ‘You will be the shepherd of my people Israel. You will be Israel’s leader.’'
KJV
Also in time past, when Saul was king over us, thou wast he that leddest out and broughtest in Israel: and the Lord said to thee, Thou shalt feed my people Israel, and thou shalt be a captain over Israel.
NKJV
Also, in time past, when Saul was king over us, you were the one who led Israel out and brought them in; and the Lord said to you, ‘You shall shepherd My people Israel, and be ruler over Israel.’ ”
What does 2 Samuel 5:2 mean?
The people of Israel have gathered at Hebron to finally and officially acknowledge David as the king over a united nation. They have acknowledged they are all related by blood as Israelites (2 Samuel 5:1). They remember the glory days of Saul's kingdom after David became a commander over Saul's army, going out into battle against the Philistines and returning with reports of great success (1 Samuel 18:12–14).The people also acknowledge the most important reason for their allegiance: the Lord Himself chose David. It may have been well-known in Israel that the Lord had said to David that he would become "prince" or "leader" over Israel. Abigail referenced God's promise when begging David not to take revenge against her husband and household (1 Samuel 25:30).
The people also reference the prophecy that David will become the shepherd to the people, describing a leader who is more than just successful in battle but also one who cares for the people and leads the nation in the best direction for everyone. The end of Psalm 78 also describes David as the shepherd boy who became the shepherd of God's people:
"He chose David his servant
and took him from the sheepfolds;
from following the nursing ewes he brought him
to shepherd Jacob his people,
Israel his inheritance.
With upright heart he shepherded them
and guided them with his skillful hand"
–Psalm 78:70–72.
