2 Samuel 5:20

So David went to Baal-perazim, where he defeated the Philistines and said, "Like a bursting flood, the LORD has burst out against my enemies before me." So he called that place Baal-perazim.

Study Bible

So David went to Baal-perazim
David, having recently been anointed king over all Israel, strategically moves to Baal-perazim to confront the Philistines. This location is significant as it is near the Valley of Rephaim, a frequent battleground between Israel and the Philistines. The name Baal-perazim means "Lord of Breakthroughs," indicating a place where God intervenes decisively. This event marks a turning point in David's military campaigns, showcasing his reliance on divine guidance.

where he defeated the Philistines
The Philistines were a persistent threat to Israel, often challenging their sovereignty. David's victory here is not just a military success but a fulfillment of God's promise to establish his kingdom. This defeat of the Philistines demonstrates God's favor upon David and his role as the chosen king. It also foreshadows the eventual subjugation of the Philistines under David's rule, as seen in later chapters.

and said, “Like a bursting flood, the LORD has burst out against my enemies before me.”
David attributes his victory to the LORD, using the metaphor of a bursting flood to describe the overwhelming and unstoppable nature of God's intervention. This imagery reflects the sudden and powerful defeat of the Philistines, emphasizing that it was God's power, not merely human effort, that secured the victory. This acknowledgment of divine assistance is a recurring theme in David's life, highlighting his dependence on God.

So he called that place Baal-perazim
By naming the place Baal-perazim, David memorializes the event as a testament to God's deliverance. This act of naming serves as a reminder to future generations of God's faithfulness and power. It also reinforces the idea that God is actively involved in the affairs of His people, providing breakthroughs in times of need. This naming practice is common in the Old Testament, where significant events are often commemorated by naming locations, as seen with places like Bethel and Gilgal.

Persons / Places / Events

1. David
The anointed king of Israel, known for his faithfulness to God and his military prowess. In this passage, he leads Israel to victory over the Philistines.

2. Baal-perazim
The location where David defeated the Philistines. The name means "Lord of Breakthroughs," signifying God's intervention in the battle.

3. Philistines
A recurring enemy of Israel, known for their advanced military technology and frequent conflicts with the Israelites.

4. The LORD (Yahweh)
The God of Israel, who is credited by David for the victory over the Philistines, emphasizing His role as the divine warrior.

5. Battle
The event where David, under God's guidance, defeats the Philistines, demonstrating God's power and faithfulness to His people.

Teaching Points

God as the Source of Victory
Recognize that true victory comes from God, who fights on behalf of His people. Trust in His power and timing.

Divine Breakthroughs
Just as God broke through David's enemies, He can break through the challenges and obstacles in our lives. Seek His guidance and intervention.

Naming and Remembering God's Acts
Like David naming the place Baal-perazim, we should remember and commemorate God's faithfulness and breakthroughs in our lives.

Faith and Obedience
David's success was rooted in his obedience to God's instructions. We should strive to follow God's will in our decisions and actions.

Spiritual Warfare
Understand that our battles are not just physical but spiritual. Equip yourself with prayer and the Word of God to face challenges.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does David's acknowledgment of God's role in his victory at Baal-perazim challenge us to view our own successes and achievements?

2. In what ways can we identify and commemorate the "breakthroughs" God has provided in our lives, similar to David naming Baal-perazim?

3. How can the account of David's victory at Baal-perazim encourage us in times of spiritual or personal battles?

4. What lessons can we learn from David's obedience to God in this passage, and how can we apply them to our daily walk with Christ?

5. How does the concept of God as a "breaker" or one who breaks through obstacles connect with other biblical accounts of deliverance and victory?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Chronicles 14:11
This parallel account of the same event reinforces the significance of God's intervention in David's victory.

Isaiah 28:21
Refers to God's acts at Baal-perazim, highlighting His power to deliver and break through obstacles.

Psalm 18:29
David's psalm of praise, where he acknowledges God's strength in overcoming his enemies, similar to the breakthrough at Baal-perazim.