COMMENTARY

Old Testament: 2 Samuel 7:1-14a
Through Nathan, Yahweh refuses David's intention of building a temple and informs David that his son will build it. Scholars consider this chapter the most controversial in 2 Samuel. It is a temple necessary for religion. This pericope deals with the first half of the chapter. The situation is this: The ark of the covenant is now in Jerusalem but housed in only a tent (tabernacle) made of curtains. David, having conquered his enemies, has peace and begins to consider internal affairs. He tells the prophet Nathan of his plans, and Nathan approves. However, Yahweh does not and sends Nathan back to David to tell him he is not to build a temple, for his son (seed) will do it and assures David that even without a temple his blessing would continue to…