MPV Commentary

1-4. The anger of the Lord was again kindled against Israel, and He moved David to say, "Go, number Israel and Judah." This incident is linked to previous tokens of God's wrath in the three years' famine (2Sa 21:1). Although God cannot tempt anyone (Jas 1:13), Scripture often describes Him as doing what He merely permits to be done. In this case, Satan was the active mover, while God withdrew His supporting grace, allowing the great tempter to prevail against David.

The order was given to Joab, who presented strong objections to the measure, using every argument to dissuade the king from his purpose (see 1Ch 21:3). However, the sacred history notes that all the distinguished officers were overruled by David's inflexible resolution.

5. They began the census in the eastern parts of the Hebrew kingdom, crossing Jordan into the land of Gad, which extends about sixty miles and is usually dry but shows signs of being swept by a torrent in winter (De 2:36). The progress was northward, then westward along the coast to the southern extremities of the country.

6. They continued their journey through the land of Tahtim-hodshi, which refers to the recently acquired territory of the Hagarites conquered by Saul (1Ch 5:10). After nine months and twenty days, they completed the enumeration in Jerusalem.

9. Joab gave David the total number of people, but there is a discrepancy between this account and 1Ch 21:5, which states three hundred thousand fewer. This difference can be reconciled by noting that there were twelve divisions of generals with monthly duties, each commanding twenty-four thousand men (1Ch 27:1-15). Additionally, a separate detachment of twelve thousand attended the twelve princes of the tribes, making a total of three hundred thousand. These troops were not included in this book because they served as a regular militia.