And David said unto God, Is it not I that commanded the people to be numbered? even I it is that have sinned and done evil indeed; but as for these sheep, what have they done? let thine hand, I pray thee, O LORD my God, be on me, and on my father’s house; but not on thy people, that they should be plagued.
David said to God, 'Wasn't it me who commanded the people to be counted? I'm the one who sinned and did wrong. But these people are like innocent sheep, what did they do wrong? Please, LORD my God, let your punishment fall on me and my family, but not on your people who shouldn't have to suffer for this.'
David takes full responsibility for his sin of conducting an unauthorized census and pleads with God to punish him instead of the innocent people.
📚 Historical Context
In the historical context of ancient Israel, King David ordered a census of his people, which was seen as an act of pride and distrust in God's provision rather than reliance on divine strength. This decision provoked God's anger, leading to a severe plague upon the nation as a judgment. David, upon recognizing his error, confessed his sin and interceded for the innocent people, asking God to direct the punishment toward himself instead.
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