CHAPTER XVII

David consults Nathan about building a temple for God, 1, 2. God sends him an answer by Nathan, informing him that Solomon shall build the house, 3-14. David receives the Divine purpose with humility and joy, and gives God praise, 15-27.

NOTES ON CHAP. XVII

Verse 1. Now it came to pass] See every thing recorded in this chapter amply detailed in the notes on 2 Sam. vii. 1, &c.

Verse 5. But have gone from tent to tent] "I have transferred my tabernacle from Gilgal to Nob, from Nob to Shiloh, and from Shiloh to Gibeon." -Targum and Jarchi.

Verse 9. Neither shall the children of wickedness] They shall no more be brought into servitude as they were in the time they sojourned in Egypt.

This is what is here referred to.

Verse 12. I will establish his throne for ever.] David was a type of Christ; and concerning him the prophecy is literally true. See Isa. ix. 7, where there is evidently the same reference.

Verse 13. I will not take my mercy away from him] I will not cut off his family from the throne, as I did that of his predecessor Saul.

Verse 16. And what is mine house, that thou hast brought me hitherto?] I am not of any regal family, and have no natural right to the throne.

Verse 25. Hath found in his heart to pray] The Targum expresses a full sense: "Therefore thy servant hath found an opening of mouth, that he might pray before Thee."

Verse 27. For thou blessest, O Lord] "Thou beginnest to bless the house of thy servant, therefore it shall be blessed for ever." -T.