2 Samuel 24:7

And came to the strong holde of Tyre, and to all the cities of the Hiuites, and of the Canaanites: and they went out to the South of Iudah, euen to Beer-sheba. 2 Samuel 24:7 (KJV)

This verse is part of the account in 2 Samuel where King David ordered a census of the people of Israel. Prior to this, David had reigned as king for many years, and the decision to count the military‑age population is presented in the narrative as an act of pride and a lack of trust in God’s provision. The census is portrayed as a serious sin because it reflects a reliance on human strength rather than on the blessing and guidance of the Lord.

The verse records that David’s officials travelled far and wide: they came to the stronghold of Tyre, a powerful Phoenician city known for its maritime strength, and to all the cities of the Hivites and the Canaanites, the indigenous peoples of the land God had promised to Israel. Their journey continued to the south of Judah, even to Beersheba, the southernmost city of the kingdom. This geographic sweep shows that the census mission covered the entire breadth of the nation, from northern coastal strongholds to the remote southern territories.

God was displeased with David’s action and offered him three choices for punishment. David chose to fall into the hands of the Lord rather than face human judgment. As a result, a severe plague struck Israel, and according to the text, seventy thousand men died.

The broader lesson of the passage is a reminder of the importance of humility and reliance on God. Pride and self‑confidence in numbers or resources lead to divine judgment, while trust in God’s provision is essential for faithful leadership. The story underscores the consequences of pride and the need for humility before God.