It seems David's path to the throne has hit another stumbling block. After Saul's death, David is only initially able to secure the loyalty of the kingdom of Judah. Saul's son Ish-bosheth (with the help of Saul's general Abner) becomes king of the rest of Israel. Based on the narrative direction of the First Book of Samuel, this isn't the outcome I would've expected. David's ascent has been steady, his only hurdle being Saul himself. He seems as one revered by the people. And his kingship was all but inevitable once Saul left the picture. But where there is God's Will there will always be a force at work against It. The forces, gathered from a place of darkness, do not want David to be king. The Israelites are thus left divided for some time before things break into hostilities. And this is the bulk of 2 Samuel 2. The scenes are striking. First, the clash of the 24 warriors. 12 of David's men, 12 of Ish-bosheth's, like gladiators fighting to the death. They are all slain in the conflict and nothing is accomplished. Then the generals Abner and Joab, fighting on behalf of their kings. The death of Asahel escalates things. Abner's men defeated, and his ignominious march back home. By the end of the chapter it is clear David has the upper hand. But the kingdoms aren't united. The armies are bickering. Joab's brother slain. Animosities flaring up. The transition from Saul to David appears to be anything but a smooth one.
No comments:
Post a Comment