Name
The title “2 Samuel” is derived from the name of Samuel, who was a prophet and the central character reporting the events of this time period. Originally the books of 1 Samuel and 2 Samuel were a single book known simply as Samuel. However, when the books were translated into Greek (about 150 B.C.), the books of Samuel and Kings were combined into one large book (titled First, Second, Third, and the Fourth Kingdom). Later 1 and 2 Samuel were again separated from the books of Kings. Note: in the Latin and Vulgate Bibles, they are referred to as First, Second, Third, and Fourth Kings.
Author
The book of 2 Samuel does not specifically name an author. 1 Chronicles 29:29 states that the prophets Nathan and Gad were alive at this time recording events in Israel’s history, so it is possible that they may have contributed to 2 Samuel.
Genre
History
Literary Form
Historical Narrative
Time Frame
The record of 2 Samuel begins at following the death of Saul, tracking David’s rise to power, his reign as king over Judah and Israel. 2 Samuel ends with details of Absalom’s (David’s son) rebellion against his father, and David’s last days.
Emphasis
The book of 2 Samuel emphasizes
- David’s grief over Saul’s death.
- David’s rise to power and reign as king of Judah.
- David’s military victories.
- The uniting of the northern and southern kingdoms.
- Absalom’s rebellion against David
Outline
Chapters 1-10 record David’s military victories, while chapter 11-24 record his personal defeats. The turning point comes in chapter 11 and David’s sin of adultery.
- David’s response to Saul’s death 1:1 – 4:12
- David’s reign as king over Judah and Israel 5:1 – 15:6
- Absalom’s rebellion and David’s final days as king 15:7 – 24:25
