Meaning
To establish means to set up, make firm, confirm, or cause something to endure. It may refer to founding something, securing its position, or making it stable.
Biblical Usage
In 2 Samuel 7:12, the LORD promises David that He will establish the kingdom of David’s seed.
In 2 Samuel 7:13, the LORD declares that He will stablish the throne of his kingdom for ever.
In 2 Samuel 7:16, David’s house, kingdom, and throne are described as established for ever before him.
These passages concern God’s promise regarding David’s house and kingdom.
Original Languages
Hebrew: The verb כּוּן (kun) means to establish, make firm, prepare, or set securely in place. Forms of this verb occur in 2 Samuel 7:12 and in the statement concerning David’s throne in 2 Samuel 7:16.
The Hebrew text of 2 Samuel 7:16 also uses וְנֶאְמַן (vene’eman), from אָמַן (aman), in the statement concerning David’s house and kingdom. This verb conveys the sense of being firm, confirmed, or established.
Greek: στηρίζω (stērizō) means to establish, strengthen, or make firm. It is a related Greek word, not the original language of 2 Samuel.
Key References
- 2 Samuel 7:12 — The LORD promises to establish the kingdom of David’s seed.
- 2 Samuel 7:13 — The LORD declares that He will stablish the throne of his kingdom for ever.
- 2 Samuel 7:16 — David’s house, kingdom, and throne are described as established for ever.
Related Terms
Kingdom; Throne; Covenant