The (Second) Book of Samuel: chapters 22 & 23

Welcome to 2 Samuel, Shmuel part Bet, chapters twenty two and twenty three

Episode 49: David's Swan Songs

Previously on the book of Shmuel part Bet, we began the coda of the book with two perplexing stories. The first was David’s acquiescing to the killing of nearly the entire remaining family of Shaul by the Give’onim in order to end a 3 year famine. The second was David’s near death experience with one Ishbi B’nob, where he is saved by Avishai. That encounter spelled the end of David’s military career and it seems it precipitated the Batsheva incident. 

These chapters contain a poem which concludes with a victory song. There is some clear artistry in that songs begin and end the book, with the song of Chana being mirrored here. Chapter 22 is identical or nearly identical to Psalms 18 which was written when David was saved from Shaul and perhaps other enemies.

The next chapter contains another song and the exploits of David's mighty heroes. Many of the names of the warriors are interpreted midrashically.

Thanks for listening.

Please help us spread Torah by subscribing, rating and reviewing this show.