And the time that he reigned over Israel was forty years; seven years reigned he in Hebron, and thirty and three years reigned he in Jerusalem.
David ruled over Israel for a total of forty years. He ruled for seven years from the city of Hebron, and then for thirty-three years from Jerusalem.
This verse summarizes King David's forty-year reign over Israel, noting where he ruled from during different periods of his kingship.
📚 Historical Context
David first became king over the tribe of Judah in Hebron around 1010 BC, while the other tribes initially followed Saul's son. After seven years, all the tribes united under David's rule, and he moved his capital to Jerusalem, which he had conquered from the Jebusites. This verse appears at the end of David's life as he passes the throne to his son Solomon.
Ask the AI Assistant
Have a question about this chapter or verse? Ask below for a clear explanation.