2 Samuel 2:1-32

David made King over Judah, Ishdosheth over israel. Asahel slain by Abner

1. Shall I go up?] The defeat and death of Saul had entirely changed David's position. He had, for some time to come, nothing to fear from Abner, who was occupied elsewhere (2 Samuel 2:8). The Philistines would not molest him, as he was their vassal. But even so, he asks God's wishes, before he takes the decisive step. Hebron] There were several reasons which rendered Hebron suitable. It was fairly central, was a celebrated town, and David had friends there (1 Samuel 30:31). It was 14 m. distant from his birthplace, Bethlehem. No other town in Judah, while Jerusalem was still in Canaanite hands, had the same claim.