1 Kings 2:11
New International Version
He had reigned forty years over Israel—seven years in Hebron and thirty-three in Jerusalem.

New Living Translation
David had reigned over Israel for forty years, seven of them in Hebron and thirty-three in Jerusalem.

English Standard Version
And the time that David reigned over Israel was forty years. He reigned seven years in Hebron and thirty-three years in Jerusalem.

Berean Standard Bible
The length of David’s reign over Israel was forty years—seven years in Hebron and thirty-three years in Jerusalem.

Berean Literal Bible
And the days that David reigned over Israel were forty years—in Hebron he reigned seven years and in Jerusalem he reigned thirty-three years.

King James Bible
And the days that David reigned over Israel were forty years: seven years reigned he in Hebron, and thirty and three years reigned he in Jerusalem.

New King James Version
The period that David reigned over Israel was forty years; seven years he reigned in Hebron, and in Jerusalem he reigned thirty-three years.

New American Standard Bible
Now the days that David reigned over Israel were forty years: in Hebron he reigned for seven years, and in Jerusalem he reigned for thirty-three years.

NASB 1995
The days that David reigned over Israel were forty years: seven years he reigned in Hebron and thirty-three years he reigned in Jerusalem.

NASB 1977
And the days that David reigned over Israel were forty years: seven years he reigned in Hebron, and thirty-three years he reigned in Jerusalem.

Legacy Standard Bible
And the time which David reigned over Israel was forty years; in Hebron he reigned seven years and in Jerusalem he reigned thirty-three years.

Amplified Bible
The time that David reigned over Israel was forty years: he reigned seven years in Hebron and thirty-three years in Jerusalem.

Berean Annotated Bible
The length of David’s (beloved) reign over Israel (he wrestles with God) was forty years—seven years in Hebron (association) and thirty-three years in Jerusalem (city of peace).

Christian Standard Bible
The length of time David reigned over Israel was forty years: he reigned seven years in Hebron and thirty-three years in Jerusalem.

Holman Christian Standard Bible
The length of time David reigned over Israel was 40 years: he reigned seven years in Hebron and 33 years in Jerusalem.

American Standard Version
And the days that David reigned over Israel were forty years; seven years reigned he in Hebron, and thirty and three years reigned he in Jerusalem.

English Revised Version
And the days that David reigned over Israel were forty years: seven years reigned he in Hebron, and thirty and three years reigned he in Jerusalem.

GOD'S WORD® Translation
He ruled as king of Israel for 40 years. He ruled for 7 years in Hebron and for 33 years in Jerusalem.

Good News Translation
He had been king of Israel for forty years, ruling seven years in Hebron and thirty-three years in Jerusalem.

International Standard Version
David had reigned over Israel for 40 years. He reigned in Hebron for seven years and in Jerusalem for 33 years.

NET Bible
David reigned over Israel forty years; he reigned in Hebron seven years, and in Jerusalem thirty-three years.

New Heart English Bible
The days that David reigned over Israel were forty years; he reigned seven years in Hebron, and he reigned thirty-three years in Jerusalem.

Webster's Bible Translation
And the days that David reigned over Israel were forty years: seven years reigned he in Hebron, and thirty and three years reigned he in Jerusalem.
Majority Text Translations
Majority Standard Bible
The length of David’s reign over Israel was forty years—seven years in Hebron and thirty-three years in Jerusalem.

World English Bible
The days that David reigned over Israel were forty years; he reigned seven years in Hebron, and he reigned thirty-three years in Jerusalem.
Literal Translations
Literal Standard Version
and the days that David has reigned over Israel [are] forty years; he has reigned seven years in Hebron, and he has reigned thirty-three years in Jerusalem.

Berean Literal Bible
And the days that David reigned over Israel were forty years—in Hebron he reigned seven years and in Jerusalem he reigned thirty-three years.

Young's Literal Translation
and the days that David hath reigned over Israel are forty years, in Hebron he hath reigned seven years, and in Jerusalem he hath reigned thirty and three years.

Smith's Literal Translation
And the days that David reigned over Israel, forty years: in Hebron he reigned seven years, and in Jerusalem he reigned thirty and three years.
Catholic Translations
Douay-Rheims Bible
And the days that David reigned in Israel, were forty gears: in Hebron he reigned seven years, in Jerusalem thirty-three.

Catholic Public Domain Version
Now the days during which David reigned over Israel are forty years: he reigned seven years in Hebron, thirty-three in Jerusalem.

New American Bible
David was king over Israel for forty years: he was king seven years in Hebron and thirty-three years in Jerusalem.

New Revised Standard Version
The time that David reigned over Israel was forty years; he reigned seven years in Hebron, and thirty-three years in Jerusalem.
Translations from Aramaic
Lamsa Bible
And the time that David reigned over Israel was forty years; seven years he reigned in Hebron, and thirty-three years he reigned in Jerusalem.

Peshitta Holy Bible Translated
And the days when David reigned over Israel were forty years. In Khebruun he reigned seven years and in Jerusalem he reigned thirty and three years.
OT Translations
JPS Tanakh 1917
And the days that David reigned over Israel were forty years: seven years reigned he in Hebron, and thirty and three years reigned he in Jerusalem.

Brenton Septuagint Translation
And the days which David reigned over Israel were forty years; he reigned seven years in Chebron, and thirty-three years in Jerusalem.

Additional Translations ...
Audio Bible



Context
David's Reign and Death
10Then David rested with his fathers and was buried in the City of David. 11The length of David’s reign over Israel was forty years— seven years in Hebron and thirty-three years in Jerusalem. 12So Solomon sat on the throne of his father David, and his kingdom was firmly established.…

Cross References
The length of David’s reign over Israel was forty years—

2 Samuel 5:4-5
David was thirty years old when he became king, and he reigned forty years. / In Hebron he reigned over Judah seven years and six months, and in Jerusalem he reigned thirty-three years over all Israel and Judah.

1 Chronicles 29:27
The length of David’s reign over Israel was forty years—seven years in Hebron and thirty-three years in Jerusalem.

Psalm 78:70-72
He chose David His servant and took him from the sheepfolds; / from tending the ewes He brought him to be shepherd of His people Jacob, of Israel His inheritance. / So David shepherded them with integrity of heart and guided them with skillful hands.
seven years in Hebron

2 Samuel 2:11
And the length of time that David was king in Hebron over the house of Judah was seven years and six months.

2 Samuel 5:1-3
Then all the tribes of Israel came to David at Hebron and said, “Here we are, your own flesh and blood. / Even in times past, while Saul was king over us, you were the one who led Israel out and brought them back. And to you the LORD said, ‘You will shepherd My people Israel, and you will be ruler over them.’” / So all the elders of Israel came to the king at Hebron, where King David made with them a covenant before the LORD. And they anointed him king over Israel.

1 Chronicles 11:1-3
Then all Israel came together to David at Hebron and said, “Here we are, your own flesh and blood. / Even in times past, while Saul was king, you were the one who led Israel out and brought them back. And the LORD your God said, ‘You will shepherd My people Israel, and you will be ruler over them.’” / So all the elders of Israel came to the king at Hebron, where David made a covenant with them before the LORD. And they anointed him king over Israel, according to the word of the LORD through Samuel.
and thirty-three years in Jerusalem.

1 Chronicles 3:4
These six sons were born to David in Hebron, where he reigned seven years and six months. And David reigned in Jerusalem thirty-three years,

2 Samuel 5:6-10
Now the king and his men marched to Jerusalem against the Jebusites who inhabited the land. The Jebusites said to David: “You will never get in here. Even the blind and lame can repel you.” For they thought, “David cannot get in here.” / Nevertheless, David captured the fortress of Zion (that is, the City of David). / On that day he said, “Whoever attacks the Jebusites must use the water shaft to reach the lame and blind who are despised by David.” That is why it is said, “The blind and the lame will never enter the palace.” …

1 Chronicles 14:1-2
Now Hiram king of Tyre sent envoys to David, along with cedar logs, stonemasons, and carpenters, to build a palace for him. / And David realized that the LORD had established him as king over Israel and had highly exalted his kingdom for the sake of His people Israel.
1 Kings 2:10
Then David rested with his fathers and was buried in the City of David.

1 Kings 3:3
And Solomon loved the LORD and walked in the statutes of his father David, except that he sacrificed and burned incense on the high places.

1 Kings 11:42-43
Thus the time that Solomon reigned in Jerusalem over all Israel was forty years. / And Solomon rested with his fathers and was buried in the city of his father David. And his son Rehoboam reigned in his place.

1 Chronicles 28:5
And of all my sons—for the LORD has given me many sons—He has chosen Solomon my son to sit on the throne of the kingdom of the LORD over Israel.

1 Chronicles 29:23
So Solomon sat on the throne of the LORD as king in place of his father David. He prospered, and all Israel obeyed him.

2 Samuel 7:12-13
And when your days are fulfilled and you rest with your fathers, I will raise up your descendant after you, who will come from your own body, and I will establish his kingdom. / He will build a house for My Name, and I will establish the throne of his kingdom forever.

1 Kings 1:30
I will carry out this very day exactly what I swore to you by the LORD, the God of Israel: Surely your son Solomon will reign after me, and he will sit on my throne in my place.”


Treasury of Scripture

And the days that David reigned over Israel were forty years: seven years reigned he in Hebron, and thirty and three years reigned he in Jerusalem.

reigned over

2 Samuel 5:4
David was thirty years old when he began to reign, and he reigned forty years.

1 Chronicles 29:26,27
Thus David the son of Jesse reigned over all Israel…

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David Forty Hebron Israel Jerusalem Reigned Seven Thirty Thirty-Three Three Time
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David Forty Hebron Israel Jerusalem Reigned Seven Thirty Thirty-Three Three Time
1 Kings 2
1. David, having given a charge to Solomon
3. of Reverence
5. of Joab
7. of Barzillai
8. of Shimei
10. Solomon succeeds
12. Adonijah, moving Bathsheba to ask unto Solomon for Abishag,
13. is put to death
26. Abiathar, having his life given him, is deprived of the priesthood
28. Joab fleeing to the horns of the altar, is there slain
35. Benaiah is put in Joab's room, and Zadfok in Abiathar's
36. Shimei, confined to Jerusalem, by occasion of going to Gath, is put to death.












The length of David’s reign over Israel was forty years—
David's reign is significant in biblical history, marking a period of consolidation and expansion for Israel. The number forty often symbolizes a period of testing or trial in the Bible, as seen in the forty years of Israel's wilderness wanderings (Numbers 14:33-34) and Jesus' forty days of fasting (Matthew 4:2). David's forty-year reign can be seen as a time of establishing God's kingdom on earth, setting the stage for the future Messianic kingdom.

seven years in Hebron—
Hebron, located in the southern part of Judah, was an ancient city with deep patriarchal roots, being the burial place of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob (Genesis 23:19, 25:9, 35:27-29). David's initial reign in Hebron reflects his acceptance by the tribe of Judah, his own tribe, before becoming king over all Israel. This period was marked by civil strife, as David's rule was contested by Saul's remaining supporters, particularly Ish-bosheth, Saul's son (2 Samuel 2:8-11).

and thirty-three years in Jerusalem.
Jerusalem, a Jebusite city, was captured by David and established as the political and spiritual capital of Israel (2 Samuel 5:6-9). The choice of Jerusalem was strategic, as it was centrally located and not previously dominated by any single tribe, promoting unity among the tribes. David's reign in Jerusalem is characterized by significant developments, including the bringing of the Ark of the Covenant to the city (2 Samuel 6:12-17) and the establishment of the Davidic Covenant, promising an everlasting dynasty (2 Samuel 7:12-16). Jerusalem's significance is further highlighted in prophecy and typology, as it becomes the focal point of Messianic expectations and the future reign of Christ (Isaiah 2:2-4, Revelation 21:2).

Persons / Places / Events
1. David
The second king of Israel, known for his heart for God, his military conquests, and his role in establishing Jerusalem as the political and spiritual center of Israel.

2. Hebron
A city in the southern part of Judah where David first reigned as king over the tribe of Judah for seven years. It holds historical significance as a city of refuge and a patriarchal burial site.

3. Jerusalem
The city where David reigned for thirty-three years over all Israel. It became the capital and spiritual center of Israel, housing the Ark of the Covenant and later the Temple built by Solomon.

4. Israel
The united kingdom under David's rule, consisting of all twelve tribes. David's reign marked a period of consolidation and expansion for the nation.

5. Reign of David
A significant period in biblical history characterized by military victories, the establishment of Jerusalem, and the preparation for the building of the Temple.
Teaching Points
The Importance of Leadership
David's reign exemplifies the impact of godly leadership. His heart for God and his dedication to justice and righteousness set a standard for future leaders.

God's Sovereignty in History
The duration and success of David's reign demonstrate God's sovereign hand in establishing and guiding His chosen leaders.

The Significance of Place
Hebron and Jerusalem were not just political centers but also spiritual landmarks. They remind us of the importance of dedicating our spaces to God.

Legacy and Preparation
David's reign was not just about his accomplishments but also about preparing for the future, particularly in setting the stage for Solomon's temple. Our actions today can lay the groundwork for future generations.

Faithfulness in Different Seasons
David's reign in Hebron and Jerusalem shows that God calls us to be faithful in different seasons and places, each with its unique challenges and opportunities.
Bible Study Questions and Answers
1. What is the meaning of 1 Kings 2:11?

2. How does 1 Kings 2:11 reflect on David's reign and legacy?

3. What lessons can we learn from David's 40-year reign in 1 Kings 2:11?

4. How does David's reign compare to other kings in biblical history?

5. How can David's leadership inspire us in our personal spiritual journeys?

6. What does 1 Kings 2:11 teach about God's faithfulness to His promises?

7. How does 1 Kings 2:11 reflect on the legacy of King David's reign?

8. What theological significance does David's 40-year reign hold in 1 Kings 2:11?

9. How does 1 Kings 2:11 influence the understanding of biblical leadership?

10. What are the top 10 Lessons from 1 Kings 2?

11. Who were the children of King David?

12. Why did David desire Bathsheba despite her being married?

13. Are biblical numbers accurate?

14. In 2 Samuel 15:7, why do some sources say “forty years” while others say “four years,” and which is correct?
What Does 1 Kings 2:11 Mean
The length of David’s reign over Israel

“The length of David’s reign over Israel was…” (1 Kings 2:11)

• Scripture presents David’s rule as an indivisible historical fact (2 Samuel 5:4–5).

• His reign marks the transition from tribal confederation to a united monarchy, laying groundwork for Solomon’s peace (1 Kings 2:12).

Acts 13:22, 36 affirms David’s life as part of God’s unfolding redemptive plan.


Forty years

“…forty years—”

• Forty often signals a complete period in God’s dealings (Genesis 7:4; Exodus 16:35; Matthew 4:2).

• David’s full forty–year reign highlights the completeness of God’s purpose for him, from shepherd to seasoned king (Psalm 78:70–72).

• It also parallels the earlier forty–year reign of Saul (Acts 13:21), showing a balanced succession in Israel’s first two kings.


Seven years in Hebron

“…seven years in Hebron…”

• Hebron, in Judah, was David’s first royal seat (2 Samuel 2:1–4).

• During these seven years (2 Samuel 2:11) David ruled only Judah while Saul’s son Ish-bosheth reigned over the northern tribes, illustrating the lingering division after Saul’s death (2 Samuel 3:1).

• The number seven underscores God’s perfect timing in moving David from a regional to a national throne (Genesis 2:2–3).


Thirty-three years in Jerusalem

“…and thirty-three years in Jerusalem.”

• After capturing Jerusalem from the Jebusites (2 Samuel 5:6–10), David established the city as political and spiritual capital, bringing the ark there (1 Chronicles 15:3, 29).

• Thirty-three years of united rule reflect stability and covenant fulfillment, anticipating the eternal throne promised in 2 Samuel 7:12–16.

• Jerusalem’s choice aligns with God’s selection of a place for His Name to dwell (Psalm 132:13–14), foreshadowing the Messianic King (Luke 1:32).


summary

1 Kings 2:11 records, with literal precision, God’s orderly leadership through David: a complete forty-year reign, first seven years in Hebron over Judah, then thirty-three in Jerusalem over all Israel. Each time segment demonstrates God’s faithfulness, the maturation of David’s kingdom, and the preparation for Solomon’s peaceful rule and, ultimately, for the greater Son of David whose kingdom is everlasting.

Verse 11. - And the days that David reigned over Israel were forty years: seven years reigned he in Hebron, and thirty and three years reigned he in Jerusalem [as elsewhere (1 Chronicles 29:27), the historian has disregarded the fraction of a year in giving the length of David's reign. He reigned at Hebron, according to 2 Samuel 5:5, "seven years and six months."

CHAPTER 2:12-25. ADONIJAH'S INTRIGUE.

Parallel Commentaries ...


Hebrew
The length
וְהַיָּמִ֗ים (wə·hay·yā·mîm)
Conjunctive waw, Article | Noun - masculine plural
Strong's 3117: A day

of David's
דָּוִד֙ (dā·wiḏ)
Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 1732: David -- perhaps 'beloved one', a son of Jesse

reign
מָלַ֤ךְ (mā·laḵ)
Verb - Qal - Perfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 4427: To reign, inceptively, to ascend the throne, to induct into royalty, to take counsel

over
עַל־ (‘al-)
Preposition
Strong's 5921: Above, over, upon, against

Israel
יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל (yiś·rā·’êl)
Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 3478: Israel -- 'God strives', another name of Jacob and his desc

[was] forty
אַרְבָּעִ֖ים (’ar·bā·‘îm)
Number - common plural
Strong's 705: Forty

years—
שָׁנָ֑ה (šā·nāh)
Noun - feminine singular
Strong's 8141: A year

seven
שֶׁ֣בַע (še·ḇa‘)
Number - feminine singular
Strong's 7651: Seven, seven times, a week, an indefinite number

years
שָׁנִ֔ים (šā·nîm)
Noun - feminine plural
Strong's 8141: A year

in Hebron
בְּחֶבְר֤וֹן (bə·ḥeḇ·rō·wn)
Preposition-b | Noun - proper - feminine singular
Strong's 2275: Hebron -- 'association, league', a city in southern Judah

and thirty-three
שְׁלֹשִׁ֥ים (šə·lō·šîm)
Number - common plural
Strong's 7970: Thirty, thirtieth

years
שָׁנִֽים׃ (šā·nîm)
Noun - feminine plural
Strong's 8141: A year

in Jerusalem.
וּבִירוּשָׁלִַ֣ם (ū·ḇî·rū·šā·lim)
Conjunctive waw, Preposition-b | Noun - proper - feminine singular
Strong's 3389: Jerusalem -- probably 'foundation of peace', capital city of all Israel


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OT History: 1 Kings 2:11 The days that David reigned over Israel (1Ki iKi i Ki 1 Kg 1kg)
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