So all the elders of Israel came to the king to Hebron, and King David made a covenant with them in Hebron before the LORD; and they anointed David king over Israel.
ExplanationCommentary
Verse 3. Ancients; princes of the tribes, and officers, ( Calmet.) with all the chief magistrates. Bible.—The high priest, Abiathar, received the oaths of allegiance from the people, and of the king, who promised to govern according to the laws of God. The ark was probably present, and innumerable sacrifices offered on this solemn occasion, as was usual. 1 Chronicles 12:26. Hebron continued to be a place of sacrifices. Calmet. 15:7. Calmet.—David had erected here a temporary altar and tabernacle, where Abiathar officiated in his pontifical robes, as it was not safe for the people to go into the dominions of Isboseth, either to Gabaon or to Cariathiarim. Tostat.—Israel, acknowledging the right which David had to the throne, by God’s appointment. Bible. Worthington.