2 Samuel 24:21

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What Does This Mean?

In this verse, David asks Araunah to sell his threshing floor so he can build an altar to God and stop the plague affecting the people. Araunah is surprised by the king's request, and David explains his purpose clearly.

Explained for Children

Imagine you have a big, annoying bug problem in your garden. Your neighbor, who has a special tool to fix it, might be surprised if you came over and asked to borrow it. That's what David did here; he asked Araunah for his threshing floor to build an altar and stop the plague.

Historical Background

This verse is part of the historical narrative written by the authors of the Books of Samuel, believed to be written in the 6th or 5th century BCE. It describes a pivotal moment in David's reign when he needed to appease God to stop a plague affecting the Israelites.

Living It Out Today

In modern times, this story can inspire us to seek out places or tools that help us connect with God in times of crisis. For example, if you're going through a tough time, finding a quiet place or a supportive community might help you feel closer to God.

Topics

• faith
• prayer
• salvation
• divine intervention
• atonement
• worship

Related Verses

• 1 Chronicles 21:22
• Exodus 34:14
• 1 Kings 3:5
• Psalms 50:12
• Matthew 13:44

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the purpose of building an altar on Araunah's threshing floor?

David wanted to build an altar to offer sacrifices to God, which he believed would stop the plague affecting the people, showing his faith in God's power to heal and protect.

Why was Araunah surprised by David's request?

Araunah was surprised because he did not expect the king to ask for his personal property, especially for such a significant purpose. This shows the unexpected nature of God's call and the importance of being ready to respond.

How did the people benefit from David's actions?

By building an altar and making sacrifices, David sought God's intervention, which resulted in the plague stopping. This shows how leadership and faith can positively impact a community.

What can we learn about communication from this interaction?

This exchange shows the importance of clear communication and understanding motives. David clearly explained his intentions to Araunah, which helped facilitate the transaction and achieve his goal.