And again the anger of the LORD was kindled against Israel, and he moved David against them to say, Go, number Israel and Judah.
Once again the LORD's anger burned against Israel, and he prompted David to act against them by saying, 'Go and count all the people in Israel and Judah.'
God was angry with Israel again, so he influenced King David to do something that would bring consequences on the nation by taking a census.
📚 Historical Context
This event occurred near the end of David's reign over Israel, around 970 BC. Taking a census was often associated with military preparations or taxation, and in Israel's case, it may have reflected David's growing pride in his military strength rather than trust in God. The parallel account in 1 Chronicles 21:1 attributes this temptation to Satan, showing how God can use even evil influences to accomplish his purposes.
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