Old Testament
2 Samuel 24:21
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Araunah asked, "Why has my lord the king come to his servant?" David answered, "To buy your threshing floor to build an altar to the LORD, so the plague may be stopped from the people."
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And Araunah said, Wherefore is my lord the king come to his servant? And David said, To buy the threshingfloor of thee, to build an altar unto the LORD, that the plague may be stayed from the people.
What 2 Samuel 24:21 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, King David approaches Araunah to purchase his threshing floor. David's intention is to build an altar to the LORD, which is a significant act of worship and repentance. The context reveals that a plague has struck the people, and David seeks to stop it through this offering. Araunah, recognizing the king's authority, is surprised by the visit. He is willing to give the threshing floor for free, showing his respect and willingness to help. However, David insists on buying it, emphasizing the importance of making a genuine sacrifice. This moment highlights the value of personal responsibility and the need for sincere actions in seeking forgiveness and healing. David's choice to pay for the land reflects his understanding that true worship requires a cost, both materially and spiritually. It serves as a reminder that our offerings to God should come from a place of sacrifice and commitment, not just convenience or obligation. This story encourages us to take meaningful steps in our relationship with God, especially during difficult times.
How to apply 2 Samuel 24:21 to your life
When facing challenges, consider what sacrifices you can make to strengthen your relationship with God. Reflect on how your actions can demonstrate your commitment to Him. True worship often requires us to give something of value, whether time, resources, or effort, to show our sincerity and dedication to our faith. Embrace the opportunity to grow through these acts of devotion and service to others. Remember, every small step counts.
Curated for this public verse page. 2 Samuel Summary
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Illustrated scene from David's story: The Census and the Threshing Floor (2 Samuel 24:1–25)
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David
Photo: Diego Delso, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 3.0. Source. Location: Tell es-Sultan, Jericho, West Bank. Resized for the web.
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The city of palm trees, whose walls fell in Joshua's day.
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At a Glance — the Book of 2 Samuel
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Samuel, Nathan, and Gad
- Written
- Around 930 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- The Israelites of the early monarchy
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does 2 Samuel 24:21 mean?
In this verse, King David approaches Araunah to buy his threshing floor to build an altar to the LORD. This act is meant to stop a plague affecting the people, highlighting the importance of sincere worship and sacrifice.
What is the significance of the threshing floor in 2 Samuel 24:21?
The threshing floor symbolizes a place of sacrifice and worship. David's decision to purchase it rather than accept it for free shows his commitment to making a genuine offering to God.
What does this verse teach about sacrifice?
This verse teaches that sacrifices made in worship should come from a place of commitment and responsibility. David's choice to pay for the threshing floor emphasizes that meaningful acts of devotion often require giving something valuable.
How does 2 Samuel 24:21 relate to repentance?
In 2 Samuel 24:21, David's act of purchasing the threshing floor to build an altar signifies his repentance and desire to seek God's mercy. It illustrates that true repentance involves taking tangible steps to restore one's relationship with God.
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