2 Samuel 24:23

All these things did Araunah, as a king, give unto the king. And Araunah said unto the king, The Lord thy God accept thee.

2 Samuel 24:23 (KJV)

Context

King David had ordered a census of Israel, an act that showed trust in military strength rather than in God. The Lord sent a plague, which stopped at the threshing floor of Araunah the Jebusite. David went there to buy the land and offer sacrifices to end the judgment.

Meaning

Araunah, also called Ornan in 1 Chronicles 21, gave David everything needed for worship: the threshing floor, the oxen, and the implements. The phrase “as a king” may mean he was of royal descent among the Jebusites. His words, “The Lord thy God accept thee,” show that he recognized David’s God and sincerely desired that David’s offering be received. This blessing expresses a heartfelt wish for divine favor upon the sacrifice.

Biblical connections

David refused to accept the gift as free, saying he would not offer to the Lord that which cost him nothing (2 Samuel 24:24). This shows that true worship involves personal sacrifice. The threshing floor later became the site of the temple (2 Chronicles 3:1), turning a place of judgment into a place of mercy. The narrative also foreshadows Christ, who offered Himself once for all, providing permanent atonement for sin.

Application

Araunah’s generosity challenges believers to give willingly and cheerfully to support worship. His blessing reminds us to desire God’s acceptance, not through empty ritual, but through sincere faith. David’s insistence on paying the full price teaches that costly obedience honors God more than convenient gifts. God values a contrite heart and sincere worship over mere ritual.

Reflection

This event points to the cross, where judgment and mercy meet. Just as the plague stopped at the threshing floor, so sin’s penalty is removed through Christ’s sacrifice. Believers can approach God with confidence, knowing that He accepts those who come with a contrite heart and a willing spirit.