2 Samuel 24:13
So Gad came to David, and told him, and said unto him, Shall seven years of famine come unto thee in thy land? or wilt thou flee three months before thine enemies, while they pursue thee? or that there be three days' pestilence in thy land? now advise, and see what answer I shall return to him that sent me.
2 Samuel 24:13 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from 2 Samuel 24:13 depicts a conversation between the prophet Gad and King David. Gad presents David with three options for punishment from the Lord for counting the people of Israel. The options include seven years of famine, fleeing from enemies for three months, or three days of pestilence. This verse showcases the importance of seeking guidance and counsel from spiritual leaders when faced with difficult decisions. Gad's question to David forces him to make a choice that will bring consequences to the land of Israel. The verse also highlights the concept of divine retribution and the need for repentance when one goes against God's will. In the end, David's decision will determine the fate of his people and the consequences they will face.
Theological Overview
Within this verse, we see the prophet Gad coming to David with a message from God regarding a choice of punishments for David's sin. The options presented to David – seven years of famine, three months of fleeing from enemies, or three days of pestilence – represent the consequences of his actions. This passage delves into the theological interpretation of God's justice and the consequences of disobedience. It shows how even great leaders like David are subject to God's judgment when they stray from His will. The word "advise" in this verse challenges David to make a decision that will impact not only his own life but also the lives of his people. Through this interaction between David and Gad, we are reminded of the importance of seeking God's guidance in all decisions and the gravity of the choices we make. Ultimately, this passage serves as a lesson in the consequences of sin and the need for repentance and seeking forgiveness from the Lord.
2 Samuel 24:13 in other translations
American Standard Version
So Gad came to David, and told him, and said unto him, Shall seven years of famine come unto thee in thy land? or wilt thou flee three months before thy foes while they pursue thee? or shall there be three days' pestilence in thy land? now advise thee, and consider what answer I shall return to him that sent me.
World English Bible
So Gad came to David, and told him, and said to him, “Shall seven years of famine come to you in your land? Or will you flee three months before your foes while they pursue you? Or shall there be three days’ pestilence in your land? Now answer, and consider what answer I shall return to him who sent me.”
Douay-Rheims
And when Gad was come to David, he told him, saying: Either seven years of famine shall come to thee in thy land: or thou shalt flee three months before thy adversaries, and they shall pursue thee: or for three days there shall be a pestilence in thy land. Now therefore deliberate, and see what answer I shall return to him that sent me.
Geneva Bible (1599)
So Gad came to Dauid, and shewed him, and said vnto him, Wilt thou that seuen yeeres famine come vpon thee in thy lande, or wilt thou flee three moneths before thine enemies, they following thee, or that there bee three dayes pestilence in thy land? nowe aduise thee, and see, what answere I shall giue to him that sent me.