2 Samuel 10:2 Meaning and Explanation
“Then said David, I will shew kindness unto Hanun the son of Nahash, as his father shewed kindness unto me. And David sent to comfort him by the hand of his servants for his father. And David's servants came into the land of the children of Ammon.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →David resolves to repay the late king's past kindness by sending envoys to comfort the grieving son.
What Does 2 Samuel 10:2 Mean?
David remembers that Nahash, Hanun's father, had once shown him kindness, likely during the years David fled from Saul. Now, hearing of the king's death, David sends a delegation of comfort to the bereaved son. It is an act of gratitude and goodwill, honoring an old bond across a generation.
Here is the gospel rhythm of kindness answered with kindness, mercy remembered and returned. David does not wait to be asked; he reaches out first, seeking the good of a neighbor in grief. Such open-handed compassion echoes the heart of God, who comforts the mourning and shows steadfast love to a thousand generations.
2 Samuel 10:2 in the Original Language
hesed (חֶסֶד), 'kindness' -- loyal, steadfast love that honors a covenant bond.
Frequently Asked Questions About 2 Samuel 10:2
What does 2 Samuel 10:2 mean?
David resolves to repay the late king's past kindness by sending envoys to comfort the grieving son.