The (Second) Book of Samuel: chapter 6a

Welcome to 2 Samuel, Shmuel part Bet, chapter vav, part a

Episode 35: Carried Away

After having reached the zenith of his political career King David seeks to synthesize his kingship with Hashem by escorting the Ark (last seen early in Shmuel part Aleph) to his newfound capital, Jerusalem. All seemed to be going well, until tragedy struck. Death leads the disbanding of the cavalcade; David is unsure if his mission is in line with God's intent. After divine blessing is shown the parade resumes.

Later David comes home to bless his wife only to be berated for his behavior. David responds in kind and the chapter ends with a punishment of the last vestige of Shaul's children.

But we are only scratching the surface. Why did the Aron seem to fall? What went wrong the first time and right the second? Who is the mysterious Oved-Edom and why in fact was Uzzah killed?

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Bonus: Loin Girding Instructions (h/t Dr. Charles)

The (Second) Book of Samuel: chapters 4 & 5

Welcome to 2 Samuel, Shmuel part Bet, chapters daled and heh

Episode 34: From Cellophane to Camelot

[We begin with a rousing rendition of Mr. Cellophane (Chicago the Musical)]

Previously on the book of Shmuel (part Bet) we saw how David dealt with a very politically sensitive issue. Avner, who was essentially the puppet master behind the kingship of Ish-Boshet had no sooner agreed to switch to David’s side and unite the monarchy under him, when he is ignominiously murdered by David’s head of the army. We pointed out that while Daid is able to distance himself from that act, he nevertheless capitalizes on it to have Avner buried not in Binyamin but in Yehuda.

This week we will once again see David’s enemies eliminated without his knowledge or consent. Once that is sorted it is finally time for David’s monarchy and character arc to reach its pinnacle. Everything goes right, and for a time we are able to enter Camelot. Let’s savor it while it lasts.

The (Second) Book of Samuel: chapter 3

Welcome to 2 Samuel, Shmuel part Bet, chapter 3

Episode 33: If You Be Mine

Previously on the book of Shmuel (part Bet) we saw Avner emerge as a major character, being both a king maker and a king’s nephew slayer. The skill involved in his murder of Asa’el is not trifling and surprisingly redounds against him. We also saw that when kings are absent, the troops may decide to act brashly, with an outcome that, it seems nobody really wanted. As we move to chapter 3 Avner again takes center stage. Two wrongs perhaps lead to a third and David will once again have to account for events beyond his control.

David, ever the consummate politician, contends with yet another removal of his enemy against his will. Will he manage to unite the monarchy when members of his own army threaten to tear it asunder? Thanks for joining, I hope you enjoy and would be grateful if you could recommend this channel to a friend.