Overview:
To'u is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the context of the reign of King David. He is noted for his diplomatic relationship with David, which is indicative of the broader political and military alliances during that period. To'u is also referred to as Tou in some translations.

Biblical References:
To'u is mentioned in 1 Chronicles 18:9-10. The Berean Standard Bible provides the following account:

"When King Tou of Hamath heard that David had defeated the entire army of Hadadezer king of Zobah, he sent his son Hadoram to King David to greet him and bless him because David had fought against Hadadezer and defeated him, for Hadadezer had been at war with Tou. Hadoram brought all kinds of articles of gold, silver, and bronze."

Historical Context:
To'u was the king of Hamath, a significant city-state located in the region of modern-day Syria. During the time of King David, Hamath was an important center of trade and political influence. The mention of To'u in the biblical narrative highlights the geopolitical dynamics of the Near East during the early monarchy of Israel.

Diplomatic Relations:
The relationship between To'u and David is characterized by mutual respect and diplomacy. To'u's decision to send his son Hadoram to David with gifts signifies a gesture of peace and alliance. This act was likely motivated by a shared interest in countering the threat posed by Hadadezer, king of Zobah, who was a common adversary.

Theological Significance:
From a theological perspective, the account of To'u's interaction with David underscores the theme of divine favor and the establishment of David's kingdom. The alliances and victories achieved by David are often seen as a fulfillment of God's promises to Israel. To'u's acknowledgment of David's success can be interpreted as recognition of the divine blessing upon David's reign.

Cultural and Political Implications:
The exchange between To'u and David reflects the complex network of alliances and enmities that characterized the ancient Near East. It illustrates how smaller states like Hamath navigated the power struggles between larger entities. The gifts brought by Hadoram symbolize the tribute and respect offered to a powerful ally, reinforcing David's status as a formidable leader.

Conclusion:
The brief mention of To'u in the biblical text provides insight into the broader historical and political landscape of the time. His interaction with David highlights the importance of diplomacy and alliances in the ancient world, as well as the recognition of David's divinely sanctioned leadership.

The Miracle at the Pool of Bethesda. --The Words of Christ in The
... dei'knutai en tais autothi li'mnais didu'mois, hon ekatera men ek ton kat' e'tos
hueton pleroutai, thatera de` paradoxos pephoinigme'non dei'knusi to` u'dor, i ...
/.../section 143 the miracle at.htm

Appendix ii. Conflation and the So-Called Neutral Text.
... John. See (1) iii.15, me` apo'letai, or e'che zoe`n aio'nion; (2) iv.14, ou me`
dipse'se eis to`n aiona or to` u'dor o` do'so auto gene'setai en auto? ...
/.../appendix ii conflation and the.htm

An Analysis of Augustin's Writings against the Donatists.
... the ear of all classes, the presbyter next affected a poem, "Psalmus contra Partem
Donati," in the art of an Abecedarium, running the letters to U. The line ...
/.../chapter ii name analysis of.htm

To'u (2 Occurrences)
To'u. Tou, To'u. Touch . Multi-Version Concordance To'u (2 Occurrences).
1 Chronicles 18:9 When Tou king of Hamath heard that David ...
/t/to'u.htm - 6k

Tou (4 Occurrences)
... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia TOU. to'-oo (to`u; Codex Vaticanus Thoa;
Codex Alexandrinus Thoou): King of Hamath. As an enemy ...
/t/tou.htm - 8k

Touch (82 Occurrences)

/t/touch.htm - 35k

Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus