第70章 大卫作王时代
§1
第70章 大卫作王时代
§2
Chap. 70 - The Reign of David
§3
大卫登基作以色列王之后，即开始选一个形势较胜的地点作他的京城。结果他选定了离希伯仑六十里路的一个地方作国家未来的首都。在约书亚还未率领他的军队过约旦河之前，这个地方叫作撒冷。在这个地方的附近，亚伯拉罕曾证明他对上帝的忠诚。在大卫行加冕礼之前八百年，这里曾出过一位至高上帝的祭司麦基洗德。此地居全国的中心，居高临下，四山环抱，地势非常险要。它位于便雅悯和犹大的边界上，与以法莲地接壤，其他支派的人来这里也很便利。[1]{PP 703.1}
§4
As soon as David was established on the throne of Israel he began to seek a more appropriate location for the capital of his realm. Twenty miles from Hebron a place was selected as the future metropolis of the kingdom. Before Joshua had led the armies of Israel over Jordan it had been called Salem. Near this place Abraham had proved his loyalty to God. Eight hundred years before the coronation of David it had been the home of Melchizedek, the priest of the most high God. It held a central and elevated position in the country and was protected by an environment of hills. Being on the border between Benjamin and Judah, it was in close proximity to Ephraim and was easy of access to the other tribes.{PP 703.1}[1]
§5
希伯来人要占领这个地点，必须先赶出那里剩下的迦南人，因为他们盘踞在锡安山和摩利亚山的堡垒里。这堡垒叫作耶布斯，住在那里的居民叫作耶布斯人。历代以来，人都以耶布斯为难破的坚城，这时居然被约押所率领的希伯来人包围攻取了；大卫因约押的勇武，就立他为以色列军队的元帅。于是耶布斯就成了国都，这外邦的名字就改称为耶路撒冷。[2]{PP 703.2}
§6
In order to secure this location the Hebrews must dispossess a remnant of the Canaanites, who held a fortified position on the mountains of Zion and Moriah. This stronghold was called Jebus, and its inhabitants were known as Jebusites. For centuries Jebus had been looked upon as impregnable; but it was besieged and taken by the Hebrews under the command of Joab, who, as the reward of his valor, was made commander-in-chief of the armies of Israel. Jebus now became the national capital, and its heathen name was changed to Jerusalem.{PP 703.2}[2]
§7
这时，地中海滨富庶的推罗城的王希兰要与以色列王结盟，便帮助大卫在耶路撒冷建造宫殿。他从推罗差遣使节、建筑师和工匠，运来许多贵重的木料、香柏木和其他珍奇的材料。[3]{PP 703.3}
§8
Hiram, king of the wealthy city of Tyre, on the Mediterranean Sea, now sought an alliance with the king of Israel, and lent his aid to David in the work of erecting a palace at Jerusalem. Ambassadors were sent from Tyre, accompanied by architects and workmen and long trains laden with costly wood, cedar trees, and other valuable material.{PP 703.3}[3]
§9
以色列国在大卫的治理之下日臻强盛；因为攻取耶布斯的堡垒，以及与推罗王希兰的结盟，就惹起了非利士人的仇视；他们就开始以强大的兵力侵入以色列国，在离耶路撒冷不远的利乏音谷中摆阵。大卫和他的战士则退到锡安的堡垒里，等候上帝的指示。“大卫求问耶和华说：我可以上去攻打非利士人吗？你将他们交在我手里吗？耶和华说，你可以上去，我必将非利士人交在你手里。”（撒下5:17-25）[4]{PP 703.4}
§10
The increasing strength of Israel in its union under David, the acquisition of the stronghold of Jebus, and the alliance with Hiram, king of Tyre, excited the hostility of the Philistines, and they again invaded the country with a strong force, taking up their position in the valley of Rephaim, but a short distance from Jerusalem. David with his men of war retired to the stronghold of Zion, to await divine direction. And David inquired of the Lord, saying, Shall I go up to the Philistines? wilt thou deliver them into mine hand? And the Lord said unto David, Go up: for I will doubtless deliver the Philistines into thine hand.{PP 703.4}[4]
§11
大卫立时前去攻打敌人，将他们击败，杀灭了他们，并把他们所带确保胜利的神像都掳来了。非利士人因战败之辱大为愤怒，乃聚集更大的兵力卷土重来。他们又“布散在利乏音谷。”大卫又求问耶和华；那伟大的“自有永有者”就亲自指挥以色列的军队。[5]{PP 704.1}
§12
David advanced upon the enemy at once, defeated and destroyed them, and took from them the gods which they had brought with them to ensure their victory. Exasperated by the humiliation of their defeat, the Philistines gathered a still larger force, and returned to the conflict. And again they spread themselves in the valley of Rephaim. Again David sought the Lord and the great I AM took the direction of the armies of Israel.{PP 704.1}[5]
§13
上帝指示大卫说道：“不要一直的上去，要转到他们后头，从桑林对面攻打他们；你听见桑树梢上有脚步的声音，就要出战，因为那时耶和华已经在你前头去攻打非利士人的军队。”如果大卫像扫罗一样随着自己的方策，他就不能得到成功。因他遵着耶和华所吩咐的去行，“攻打非利士人的军队，从基遍直到基色，于是大卫的名传扬到列国；耶和华使列国都惧怕他。”（代上14:14-17）[6]{PP 704.2}
§14
God instructed David, saying, Thou shalt not go up; but fetch a compass behind them, and come upon them over against the mulberry trees. And let it be, when thou hearest the sound of a going in the tops of the mulberry trees, that then thou shalt bestir thyself: for then shall the Lord go out before thee, to smite the host of the Philistines. If David, like Saul, had chosen his own way, success would not have attended him. But he did as the Lord had commanded, and he smote the host of the Philistines from Gibeon even to Gazer. And the fame of David went out into all lands; and the Lord brought the fear of him upon all nations. 1 Chronicles 14:16, 17.{PP 704.2}[6]
§15
这时大卫的王位业已稳固，没有外敌的侵扰，国内太平，他就想完成一项怀藏已久的宿愿，就是把上帝的约柜迎到耶路撒冷来。约柜放在基列耶琳已经多年了，基列耶琳固然离耶路撒冷只有二十七里路，但一国的首都乃是理当享有这上帝同在之象征物的尊荣的。[7]{PP 704.3}
§16
Now that David was firmly established upon the throne and free from the invasions of foreign foes, he turned to the accomplishment of a cherished purpose--to bring up the ark of God to Jerusalem. For many years the ark had remained at Kirjath-jearim, nine miles distant; but it was fitting that the capital of the nation should be honored with the token of the divine Presence.{PP 704.3}[7]
§17
大卫招集了以色列中的首领三万人；因为他定意要在这一次举行盛大的欢庆之际，铺张一个轰轰烈烈的场面；民众都欣然响应了。大祭司和他担任圣职的弟兄，各支派的首领和主要人物，都聚集在基列耶琳。大卫因圣洁的热情容光焕发。他们将上帝的约柜从亚比拿达家中抬出来，放在新车上，用牛拉着，有亚比拿达的两个儿子在旁伺候。[8]{PP 704.4}
§18
David summoned thirty thousand of the leading men of Israel, for it was his purpose to make the occasion a scene of great rejoicing and imposing display. The people responded gladly to the call. The high priest, with his brethren in sacred office and the princes and leading men of the tribes, assembled at Kirjath-jearim. David was aglow with holy zeal. The ark was brought out from the house of Abinadab and placed upon a new cart drawn by oxen, while two of the sons of Abinadab attended it.{PP 704.4}[8]
§19
以色列众人随在后面，欢呼歌唱，众人的歌声与乐器的旋律互相谐和；“大卫和以色列的全家，在耶和华面前用……琴、瑟、鼓、钹、锣，作乐。”（撒下6:5）以色列人很久没有看到这样欢乐的盛会了。这伟大的行列，以虔敬的喜乐心情在山岭和山谷之间曲折前进，向圣城走去。[9]{PP 704.5}
§20
The men of Israel followed with exultant shouts and songs of rejoicing, a multitude of voices joining in melody with the sound of musical instruments; David and all the house of Israel played before the Lord . . . on harps, and on psalteries, and on timbrels, and on cornets, and on cymbals. It had been long since Israel had witnessed such a scene of triumph. With solemn gladness the vast procession wound its way along the hills and valleys toward the Holy City.{PP 704.5}[9]
§21
但是“到了拿艮的禾场，因为牛失前蹄，乌撒就伸手扶住上帝的约柜。上帝耶和华向乌撒发怒；因这错误击杀他，他就死在上帝的约柜旁。”于是恐怖忽然临到这欢乐的群众。大卫大吃一惊，不胜惶恐，心中就对上帝的公义发生疑问了。他本来一心一意地要尊荣这个上帝与他们同在的象征，而上帝为什么降下这可怕的刑罚，使这欢乐的场面变成忧愁悲哀呢？大卫觉得靠近约柜不甚安全，所以决定把它留在当时所在之处。于是就在附近找一个地方，就是迦特人俄别以东的家中，把它放在那里。[10]{PP 705.1}
§22
But when they came to Nachons threshing floor, Uzzah put forth his hand to the ark of God, and took hold of it; for the oxen shook it. And the anger of the Lord was kindled against Uzzah, and God smote him there for his rashness; [MARGINAL READING] and there he died by the ark of God. A sudden terror fell upon the rejoicing throng. David was astonished and greatly alarmed, and in his heart he questioned the justice of God. He had been seeking to honor the ark as the symbol of the divine presence. Why, then, had that fearful judgment been sent to turn the season of gladness into an occasion of grief and mourning? Feeling that it would be unsafe to have the ark near him, David determined to let it remain where it was. A place was found for it nearby, at the house of Obed-edom the Gittite.{PP 705.1}[10]
§23
乌撒的死亡，乃是对违犯上帝极明白之命令的刑罚。关于运送约柜的事，耶和华曾借着摩西赐下特别的指示，除了亚伦的子孙中的祭司之外，谁都不可摸约柜，约柜还没有遮盖起来之先，谁也不可观看。上帝的指示是：“哥辖的子孙就要来抬，只是不可摸圣物，免得他们死亡。”（民4:15）祭司要先把约柜遮盖起来，然后哥辖人必须用杠将柜抬起，这杠是常穿在柜旁的金环内，总不抽出来的。对于负责照料圣幕的帷幔、木板和柱子的革顺和米拉利的子孙，摩西给他们车子和牛，以便搬运所交托他们的物件。“但车与牛都没有交给哥辖子孙；因为他们办的是圣所的事在肩头上抬圣物。”（民7:9）这样看来，他们从基列耶琳搬约柜的时候，他们是无可推诿地直接忽略了耶和华的训示。[11]{PP 705.2}
§24
The fate of Uzzah was a divine judgment upon the violation of a most explicit command. Through Moses the Lord had given special instruction concerning the transportation of the ark. None but the priests, the descendants of Aaron, were to touch it, or even to look upon it uncovered. The divine direction was, The sons of Kohath shall come to bear it: but they shall not touch any holy thing, lest they die. Numbers 4:15. The priests were to cover the ark, and then the Kohathites must lift it by the staves, which were placed in rings upon each side of the ark and were never removed. To the Gershonites and Merarites, who had in charge the curtains and boards and pillars of the tabernacle, Moses gave carts and oxen for the transportation of that which was committed to them. But unto the sons of Kohath he gave none: because the service of the sanctuary belonging unto them was that they should bear upon their shoulders. Numbers 7:9. Thus in the bringing of the ark from Kirjath-jearim there had been a direct and inexcusable disregard of the Lords directions.{PP 705.2}[11]
§25
大卫和他的百姓会合，来举办这一件神圣的工作，是以欢欣乐意的心情来从事的；但因为不是遵着耶和华的指示而作的，他不能悦纳他们的服务。非利士人不知道上帝的律例，所以当他们把约柜送回以色列地时，虽把它放在车上运来，耶和华也认可他们这样作了。可是以色列人手中有上帝的圣旨，有关于搬运约柜之事的明白记载，所以他们忽略了这些指示，就是侮辱了上帝。乌撒则犯了更大的擅专之罪。他曾违犯了上帝的律法，故对约柜的神圣性感觉麻木了，他身上还有未曾承认的罪，竟敢冒犯上帝的禁令，而擅自触那代表上帝临格的象征。上帝不能接受一部分的顺从，不容许人在遵守他诫命的事上疏忽大意。他要借着那降在乌撒身上的刑罚使全以色列人得到深刻的印象，知道严格注意上帝命令的重要性。这样，一个人的死亡可以令百姓悔改，免得上帝的刑罚降在千万人身上。[12]{PP 705.3}
§26
David and his people had assembled to perform a sacred work, and they had engaged in it with glad and willing hearts; but the Lord could not accept the service, because it was not performed in accordance with His directions. The Philistines, who had not a knowledge of Gods law, had placed the ark upon a cart when they returned it to Israel, and the Lord accepted the effort which they made. But the Israelites had in their hands a plain statement of the will of God in all these matters, and their neglect of these instructions was dishonoring to God. Upon Uzzah rested the greater guilt of presumption. Transgression of Gods law had lessened his sense of its sacredness, and with unconfessed sins upon him he had, in face of the divine prohibition, presumed to touch the symbol of Gods presence. God can accept no partial obedience, no lax way of treating His commandments. By the judgment upon Uzzah He designed to impress upon all Israel the importance of giving strict heed to His requirements. Thus the death of that one man, by leading the people to repentance, might prevent the necessity of inflicting judgments upon thousands.{PP 705.3}[12]
§27
大卫觉得自己的心还没有完全与上帝和好，他既看到乌撒被击杀，就惧怕约柜，深恐上帝会因他的什么罪而降刑罚在他身上。虽然俄别以东欢迎这神圣的象征到他家中，他的喜乐还带着战战兢兢的心情，但仍能作上帝赐福与顺从之人的证据。以色列人都注意这个迦特人和他的家庭，要看看将有什么事会临到他们。“耶和华赐福给俄别以东和他的全家。”[13]{PP 706.1}
§28
Feeling that his own heart was not wholly right with God, David, seeing the stroke upon Uzzah, had feared the ark, lest some sin on his part should bring judgments upon him. But Obed-edom, though he rejoiced with trembling, welcomed the sacred symbol as the pledge of Gods favor to the obedient. The attention of all Israel was now directed to the Gittite and his household; all watched to see how it would fare with them. And the Lord blessed Obed-edom, and all his household.{PP 706.1}[13]
§29
上帝的谴责在大卫身上已经生效。他因此空前地体会到上帝律法的神圣，以及严格顺从的必要。上帝施恩给俄别以东全家，使大卫再希望约柜会使他和他的百姓蒙福。[14]{PP 706.2}
§30
Upon David the divine rebuke accomplished its work. He was led to realize as he had never realized before the sacredness of the law of God and the necessity of strict obedience. The favor shown to the house of Obed-edom led David again to hope that the ark might bring a blessing to him and to his people.{PP 706.2}[14]
§31
过了三个月，他决意再作一次搬运约柜的尝试，这时他认真地注意遵着耶和华指示的每一项细目去行。他又招集了国内的重要人物，于是有很多的人会集在迦特人住处的周围。这一次是以恭敬的态度，由上帝所指派的人用肩抬起约柜；会众则摆列成行，大家带着战兢的心情前进。抬约柜的人走了六步，号筒发出了停步的信号。大卫就献“牛，与肥羊”为祭。于是有喜乐代替一时战兢恐惧的心情。这时王已脱下他的王袍，穿上祭司所穿的细麻布以弗得。这并不是表明他已擅取了祭司的职权，因为除了祭司之外，普通的人有时也可以穿以弗得的。而他的意思，则是要在这圣洁的崇事中，在上帝面前与他的百姓处于同等的地位。那一天，只有耶和华要受尊荣，唯有他是崇敬的对象。[15]{PP 706.3}
§32
At the end of three months he resolved to make another attempt to remove the ark, and he now gave earnest heed to carry out in every particular the directions of the Lord. Again the chief men of the nation were summoned, and a vast assemblage gathered about the dwelling place of the Gittite. With reverent care the ark was now placed upon the shoulders of men of divine appointment, the multitude fell into line, and with trembling hearts the vast procession again set forth. After advancing six paces the trumpet sounded a halt. By Davids direction sacrifices of oxen and fatlings were to be offered. Rejoicing now took the place of trembling and terror. The king had laid aside his royal robes and had attired himself in a plain linen ephod, such as was worn by the priests. He did not by this act signify that he assumed priestly functions, for the ephod was sometimes worn by others besides the priests. But in this holy service he would take his place as, before God, on an equality with his subjects. Upon that day Jehovah was to be adored. He was to be the sole object of reverence.{PP 706.3}[15]
§33
于是，那漫长的行列又向前移动，琴、钹、号、锣的音乐，与众人唱歌的声音，响彻云霄。大卫极其快乐地按着歌声的节奏，“在耶和华面前跳舞。”[16]{PP 707.1}
§34
Again the long train was in motion, and the music of harp and cornet, trumpet and cymbal, floated heavenward, blended with the melody of many voices. And David danced before the Lord, in his gladness keeping time to the measure of the song.{PP 707.1}[16]
§35
大卫以极恭敬喜乐的心情在耶和华面前跳舞，却被一般爱好宴乐的人引用作现代舞会的口实；但这种诡辩是没有根据的。今日的舞会是与愚妄的事和夜半的狂饮纵欲分不开的。在这种场合中，人常因追求享乐而把健康和道德都牺牲了。时常往舞厅去的人，绝不会以上帝作他思想和尊敬的对象；而且祷告和赞美的诗歌，在他们聚集的场所总是不相宜的。这一个试验就足以决定这个问题了。凡能减弱人爱好属灵事物之心和为上帝服务之乐的娱乐，都是基督徒不应当追求的。古代运送约柜时赞美上帝的音乐和舞蹈，与现代的跳舞没有一点相似的地方。前者足以令人记念上帝，并高举他的圣名。后者乃是撒但的诡计，足以使人忘记上帝，并侮辱上帝。[17]{PP 707.2}
§36
Davids dancing in reverent joy before God has been cited by pleasure lovers in justification of the fashionable modern dance, but there is no ground for such an argument. In our day dancing is associated with folly and midnight reveling. Health and morals are sacrificed to pleasure. By the frequenters of the ballroom God is not an object of thought and reverence; prayer or the song of praise would be felt to be out of place in their assemblies. This test should be decisive. Amusements that have a tendency to weaken the love for sacred things and lessen our joy in the service of God are not to be sought by Christians. The music and dancing in joyful praise to God at the removal of the ark had not the faintest resemblance to the dissipation of modern dancing. The one tended to the remembrance of God and exalted His holy name. The other is a device of Satan to cause men to forget God and to dishonor Him.{PP 707.2}[17]
§37
这欢呼的行列，随着他们看不见之王的神圣象征走近首都。守望者在城墙上猝然发出打开圣城之门的歌声：“众城门哪，你们要抬起头来；永久的门户，你们要被举起；那荣耀的王将要进来。”[18]{PP 707.3}
§38
The triumphal procession approached the capital, following the sacred symbol of their invisible King. Then a burst of song demanded of the watchers upon the walls that the gates of the Holy City should be thrown open: Lift up your heads, O ye gates; And be ye lift up, ye everlasting doors; And the King of glory shall come in.{PP 707.3}[18]
§39
一队唱诗和奏乐的人回答说：“荣耀的王是谁呢？”[19]{PP 707.4}
§40
A band of singers and players answered: Who is this King of glory?{PP 707.4}[19]
§41
另有一队人应着说：“就是有力有能的耶和华。在战场上有能的耶和华。”[20]{PP 707.5}
§42
From another company came the response: The Lord strong and mighty, The Lord mighty in battle. {PP 707.5}[20]
§43
于是千百人的和声，联合高唱以下的复句：“众城门哪，你们要抬起头来；永久的门户，你们要被举起；那荣耀的王将要进来。”[21]{PP 708.1}
§44
Then hundreds of voices, uniting, swelled the triumphal chorus: Lift up your heads, O ye gates; Even lift them up, ye everlasting doors; And the King of glory shall come in.{PP 708.1}[21]
§45
于是又听见有快乐的声音发问说：“荣耀的王是谁呢？”只听大众的声音，“如同众水的声音，”狂喜地回答说：“万军之耶和华，他是荣耀的王。”（诗24:7-10）[22]{PP 708.2}
§46
Again the joyful interrogation was heard, Who is this King of glory? And the voice of the great multitude, like the sound of many waters, was heard in the rapturous reply: The Lord of hosts, He is the King of glory. Psalm 24:7-10.{PP 708.2}[22]
§47
然后城门大开，行列进去了。约柜在恭敬敬畏的气氛中，放在事先准备好迎接它的帐幕里。在神圣地院子内筑了祭坛，焚烧平安祭、燔祭的烟和馨香的烟云，连同以色列人的赞美祈祷，都升到天上去了。礼成后，王亲自为百姓祝福，并分送食物和酒给他们，借愉心神。[23]{PP 708.3}
§48
Then the gates were opened wide, the procession entered, and with reverent awe the ark was deposited in the tent that had been prepared for its reception. Before the sacred enclosure altars for sacrifice were erected; the smoke of peace offerings and burnt offerings, and the clouds of incense, with the praises and supplications of Israel, ascended to heaven. The service ended, the king himself pronounced a benediction upon his people. Then with regal bounty he caused gifts of food and wine to be distributed for their refreshment.{PP 708.3}[23]
§49
以色列各支派都有代表参加这一次的盛会，就是大卫王登基以来最神圣的典礼。上帝的灵曾降在王身上，于是当夕阳西照，会幕浴在神圣的光芒中时，他心中充满了感谢，因为约柜——就是上帝同在的象征，这时已经那么靠近以色列王的宝座了。[24]{PP 708.4}
§50
All the tribes had been represented in this service, the celebration of the most sacred event that had yet marked the reign of David. The Spirit of divine inspiration had rested upon the king, and now as the last beams of the setting sun bathed the tabernacle in a hallowed light, his heart was uplifted in gratitude to God that the blessed symbol of His presence was now so near the throne of Israel.{PP 708.4}[24]
§51
大卫一路沉思默想着回宫去了，“要给眷属祝福。”但是那里有一个人看到这一次欢乐的场面，她的心与那被感动了的大卫的心，大不相同。“耶和华的约柜进了大卫城的时候，扫罗的女儿米甲从窗户里观看，见大卫王在耶和华面前踊跃跳舞，心里就轻视他。”米甲在轻蔑憎嫌之余，不能等待大卫回到宫里就出去迎接王，在王面前说了一些苦毒的话，其语气极尽苛刻尖酸之能事：[25]{PP 708.5}
§52
Thus musing, David turned toward his palace, to bless his household. But there was one who had witnessed the scene of rejoicing with a spirit widely different from that which moved the heart of David. As the ark of the Lord came into the city of David, Michal Sauls daughter looked through a window, and saw King David leaping and dancing before the Lord; and she despised him in her heart. In the bitterness of her passion she could not await Davids return to the palace, but went out to meet him, and to his kindly greeting poured forth a torrent of bitter words. Keen and cutting was the irony of her speech:{PP 708.5}[25]
§53
“以色列王今日在臣仆的婢女眼前露体，如同一个轻贱人无耻露体一样，有好大的荣耀啊！”[26]{PP 708.6}
§54
How glorious was the king of Israel today, who uncovered himself today in the eyes of the handmaids of his servants, as one of the vain fellows shamelessly uncovereth himself! {PP 708.6}[26]
§55
大卫觉得米甲所轻视所侮辱的，乃是上帝的崇事。所以他就严厉地回答说：“这是在耶和华面前；耶和华已拣选我，废了你父和你父的全家，立我作耶和华民之以色列的君，所以我必在耶和华面前跳舞。我也必更加卑微，自己看为轻贱；你所说的那些婢女，他们倒要尊敬我。”在大卫的谴责之外，加上耶和华的不悦，又因了米甲的骄矜傲慢，她“直到死日，没有生养儿女。”[27]{PP 711.1}
§56
David felt that it was the service of God which Michal had despised and dishonored, and he sternly answered: It was before the Lord, which chose me before thy father, and before all his house, to appoint me ruler over the people of the Lord, over Israel: therefore will I play before the Lord. And I will yet be more vile than thus, and will be base in mine own sight: and of the maidservants which thou hast spoken of, of them shall I be had in honor. To Davids rebuke was added that of the Lord: because of her pride and arrogance, Michal had no child unto the day of her death.{PP 711.1}[27]
§57
搬运约柜的圣礼在以色列人心中留下了永不能磨灭的印象，使他们对圣所的崇事发生更大的兴趣，并对耶和华重新发出热心。大卫尽能力所及，企图用各样方法来加深这些印象。这时歌唱圣诗就成了礼拜的一部分。大卫写作许多诗篇，不但作祭司在圣所中供职之用，也作为百姓每年往国家的祭坛去过节时，在路上歌唱之用。这些诗歌发生的影响很大，结果使全国脱离了拜偶像的风俗。四围列国的人民看到以色列的兴盛，就对以色列的上帝有了正确的认识，因为他为他的百姓行了这样大的事。[28]{PP 711.2}
§58
The solemn ceremonies attending the removal of the ark had made a lasting impression upon the people of Israel, arousing a deeper interest in the sanctuary service and kindling anew their zeal for Jehovah. David endeavored by every means in his power to deepen these impressions. The service of song was made a regular part of religious worship, and David composed psalms, not only for the use of the priests in the sanctuary service, but also to be sung by the people in their journeys to the national altar at the annual feasts. The influence thus exerted was far-reaching, and it resulted in freeing the nation from idolatry. Many of the surrounding peoples, beholding the prosperity of Israel, were led to think favorably of Israels God, who had done such great things for His people.{PP 711.2}[28]
§59
摩西所建造的会幕，以及圣所崇事所属的一切器具，除了约柜之外，仍留在基比亚。大卫的意思，是要使耶路撒冷成为全国信仰的中心。他曾为自己建造了宫殿，他觉得上帝的约柜仍在帐幕里是不相宜的。所以他决意要为约柜建造一座壮丽的圣殿，借以表示以色列民重视他们的王耶和华与他们同在的光荣。他把自己的意思告诉了先知拿单，拿单便鼓励他说：“你可以照你的心意而行，因为耶和华与你同在。”[29]{PP 711.3}
§60
The tabernacle built by Moses, with all that appertained to the sanctuary service, except the ark, was still at Gibeah. It was Davids purpose to make Jerusalem the religious center of the nation. He had erected a palace for himself, and he felt that it was not fitting for the ark of God to rest within a tent. He determined to build for it a temple of such magnificence as should express Israels appreciation of the honor granted the nation in the abiding presence of Jehovah their King. Communicating his purpose to the prophet Nathan, he received the encouraging response, Do all that is in thine heart; for the Lord is with thee.{PP 711.3}[29]
§61
当夜耶和华的话临到拿单，叫他传给王一个信息。大卫不得享有亲自为上帝建造殿宇的光荣，但上帝应许赐福给他和他的子孙以及以色列国。“万军之耶和华如此说，我从羊圈中将你召来，叫你不再跟从羊群，立你作我民以色列的君。你无论往哪里去，我常与你同在，剪除你的一切仇敌；我必使你得大名，好像世上大大有名的人一样。我必为我民以色列选定一个地方，栽培他们，使他们住自己的地方，不再迁移。凶恶之子也不像从前扰害他们。”[30]{PP 711.4}
§62
But that same night the word of the Lord came to Nathan, giving him a message for the king. David was to be deprived of the privilege of building a house for God, but he was granted an assurance of the divine favor to him, to his posterity, and to the kingdom of Israel: Thus saith Jehovah of hosts; I took thee from the sheepcote, from following the sheep, to be ruler over My people, over Israel; and I was with thee whithersoever thou wentest, and have cut off all thine enemies out of thy sight, and have made thee a great name, like unto the name of the great men that are in the earth. Moreover I will appoint a place for My people Israel, and will plant them, that they may dwell in a place of their own, and move no more; neither shall the children of wickedness afflict them any more, as beforetime.{PP 711.4}[30]
§63
因大卫存心要为上帝建造殿宇，所以上帝应许他说：“我耶和华应许你，必为你建立家室，……我必使你的后裔接续你的位，……他必为我的名建造殿宇，我必坚定他的国位，直到永远。”[31]{PP 712.1}
§64
As David had desired to build a house for God, the promise was given. The Lord telleth thee that He will make thee a house. . . . I will set up thy seed after thee. . . . He shall build a house for My name, and I will stablish the throne of his kingdom forever.{PP 712.1}[31]
§65
所宣布大卫不能为上帝建殿的原因，乃是：“你流了多人的血，打了多次大仗；你不可为我的名建造殿宇。……你要生一个儿子，他必作太平的人；我必使他安静，不被四围的仇敌扰乱；他的名要叫所罗门。（即太平之意。）他在位的日子，我必使以色列人平安康泰。他必为我的名建造殿宇。”（代上22:7-10）[32]{PP 712.2}
§66
The reason why David was not to build the temple was declared: Thou hast shed blood abundantly, and hast made great wars: thou shalt not build a house unto My name. . . . Behold, a son shall be born to thee, who shall be a man of rest; and I will give him rest from all his enemies: . . . his name shall be Solomon [peaceable], and I will give peace and quietness unto Israel in his days. He shall build a house for My name. 1 Chronicles 22:8-10.{PP 712.2}[32]
§67
大卫虽然不能达到他最高的心愿，但他以感激的心接受了以上的信息。他说：“主耶和华啊！我是谁，我的家算什么？你竟使我到这地步呢。主耶和华啊！这在你眼中还看为小，又应许你仆人的家至于久远。”于是他重新向上帝立约。[33]{PP 712.3}
§68
Though the cherished purpose of his heart had been denied, David received the message with gratitude. Who am I, O Lord God? he exclaimed, and what is my house, that Thou hast brought me hitherto? And this was yet a small thing in Thy sight, O Lord God; but Thou hast spoken also of Thy servants house for a great while to come; and he then renewed his covenant with God.{PP 712.3}[33]
§69
大卫知道，假若遂了他的心愿，就可以尊荣自己的名，并为自己的政权增光；但他愿意放弃自己的意向，而顺从上帝的旨意。像这样表现感恩的顺从，即使在基督徒中也是少见的啊！那些过了中年的人，往往会坚执要完成心中愿望的大事，而实际上却是他们所不配担任的，这是多么常见的事啊！上帝的美意往往会向他们说话，如同他的先知对大卫说话一样。指明他们所愿望作的工，上帝并没有分派他们。他们的工作乃是准备条件，而使别人可以完成这工；可是许多人不能存感恩的心，顺服上帝的指示，反而退后，好像自己是被疏远，被拒绝了。他们觉得自己既不能作那最喜欢作的事，索性什么事都不肯作了。许多人坚执地一定要保留他们所不能担负的责任，徒然企图成就他们所无力成就的工作，而他们所能作的事反倒忽略不作。因为他们缺少这种合作的精神，所以更大的工作就受拦阻或挫折了。[34]{PP 712.4}
§70
David knew that it would be an honor to his name and would bring glory to his government to perform the work that he had purposed in his heart to do, but he was ready to submit his will to the will of God. The grateful resignation thus manifested is rarely seen, even among Christians. How often do those who have passed the strength of manhood cling to the hope of accomplishing some great work upon which their hearts are set, but which they are unfitted to perform! Gods providence may speak to them, as did His prophet to David, declaring that the work which they so much desire is not committed to them. It is theirs to prepare the way for another to accomplish it. But instead of gratefully submitting to the divine direction, many fall back as if slighted and rejected, feeling that if they cannot do the one thing which they desire to do, they will do nothing. Many cling with desperate energy to responsibilities which they are incapable of bearing, and vainly endeavor to accomplish a work for which they are insufficient, while that which they might do, lies neglected. And because of this lack of co-operation on their part the greater work is hindered or frustrated.{PP 712.4}[34]
§71
大卫在与约拿单所立的约中，应许到他脱离仇敌骚扰的时候，要施恩给扫罗的家。这时王在正昌盛之时，就想起这约，他问臣仆说：“扫罗家还有剩下的人没有？我要因约拿单的缘故向他施恩。”有人告诉他，约拿单还有一个儿子，名叫米非波设，从小是瘸腿的。当扫罗在耶斯列被非利士人打败的时候，他的乳母抱着他逃跑，曾把他跌在地上，这样就使他终身残废了。于是大卫召那青年人到王宫来，非常仁慈地接待他。王又把扫罗的家产归还他，好供给他家中的使用；而约拿单的儿子本人，则要经常作王的宾客，天天与王同席。米非波设因曾听大卫仇敌的报告，对大卫怀有很深的成见。看他是一个篡位者；但王接待他的度量和礼貌，以及不断向他所施的仁慈，赢得了这个青年人的心，他就像他父亲约拿单一样，亲热地依恋着大卫，觉得自己与上帝所拣选的王旨趣一致了。[35]{PP 713.1}
§72
David, in his covenant with Jonathan, had promised that when he should have rest from his enemies he would show kindness to the house of Saul. In his prosperity, mindful of this covenant, the king made inquiry, Is there yet any that is left of the house of Saul, that I may show him kindness for Jonathans sake? He was told of a son of Jonathan, Mephibosheth, who had been lame from childhood. At the time of Sauls defeat by the Philistines at Jezreel, the nurse of this child, attempting to flee with him, had let him fall, thus making him a lifelong cripple. David now summoned the young man to court and received him with great kindness. The private possessions of Saul were restored to him for the support of his household; but the son of Jonathan was himself to be the constant guest of the king, sitting daily at the royal table. Through reports from the enemies of David, Mephibosheth had been led to cherish a strong prejudice against him as a usurper; but the monarchs generous and courteous reception of him and his continued kindness won the heart of the young man; he became strongly attached to David, and, like his father Jonathan, he felt that his interest was one with that of the king whom God had chosen.{PP 713.1}[35]
§73
大卫的国位坚立之后。国内大享太平。四围的民族看到以色列国的统一和强盛，就觉得最好还是断了公开敌对的念头；而大卫则忙于整顿国事，也不暇开启战端。虽然如此，他终于和以色列人的宿仇非利士人和摩押人开战，并胜了他们，使他们纳贡。[36]{PP 713.2}
§74
After Davids establishment upon the throne of Israel the nation enjoyed a long interval of peace. The surrounding peoples, seeing the strength and unity of the kingdom, soon thought it prudent to desist from open hostilities; and David, occupied with the organization and upbuilding of his kingdom, refrained from aggressive war. At last, however, he made war upon Israels old enemies, the Philistines, and upon the Moabites, and succeeded in overcoming both and making them tributary.{PP 713.2}[36]
§75
后来，四围的列国竟组成联军来攻击大卫的王国，结果他反倒胜利了，因之他的国威大振。这个敌对的联盟实在是由于邻国嫉妒大卫势力的增强，完全不是由他自己所招惹。[37]{PP 713.3}
§76
Then there was formed against the kingdom of David a vast coalition of the surrounding nations, out of which grew the greatest wars and victories of his reign and the most extensive accessions to his power. This hostile alliance, which really sprang from jealousy of Davids increasing power, had been wholly unprovoked by him. The circumstances that led to its rise were these:{PP 713.3}[37]
§77
其原委是这样的：亚扪王拿辖去世的消息传到了耶路撒冷；拿辖曾在大卫逃避扫罗的时候厚待他。所以如今大卫为对亚扪王在他遭难时所给他的帮助表示感激起见，就差遣使者去慰唁那继拿辖作亚扪王的儿子哈嫩。“大卫说：我要照哈嫩的父亲拿辖厚待我的恩典厚待哈嫩。”（撒下10:2）[38]{PP 714.1}
§78
Tidings were received at Jerusalem announcing the death of Nahash, king of the Ammonites--a monarch who had shown kindness to David when he was a fugitive from the rage of Saul. Now, desiring to express his grateful appreciation of the favor shown him in his distress, David sent ambassadors with a message of sympathy to Hanun, the son and successor of the Ammonite king. Said David, I will show kindness unto Hanun the son of Nahash, as his father showed kindness unto me.{PP 714.1}[38]
§79
但是这有礼貌的聘问反被人误会了。原来亚们人憎恨真神上帝，因而与以色列人结了深仇。拿辖向大卫施恩，完全是因了敌对以色列的王扫罗。这时，大卫的吊唁被哈嫩的谋士曲解了。“他们对他们的主哈嫩说，大卫差人来安慰你，你想他是尊敬你父亲吗？他差臣仆来不是详察窥探，要倾覆这城吗？”大约五十年前，当基列雅比人被亚扪人围困而向他们求和的时候，拿辖曾听从他谋士的建议提出苛刻的条件，要剜掉一切雅比人的右眼。如今亚扪人仍然清楚地记得，以色列王怎样粉碎了他们残酷的计划，拯救了他们所要加以侮辱并残害的百姓，所以他们仍然存着仇恨以色列人的心。他们不能体会到大卫慰唁中所含的豁达大度。当撒但控制人心时，他就要激起仇恨和猜疑来，并曲解别人的好意。哈嫩听了他谋士的话，竟以大卫的使者为奸细，把他们大大侮辱一番。[39]{PP 714.2}
§80
But his courteous act was misinterpreted. The Ammonites hated the true God and were the bitter enemies of Israel. The apparent kindness of Nahash to David had been prompted wholly by hostility to Saul as king of Israel. The message of David was misconstrued by Hanuns counselors. They said unto Hanun their lord, Thinkest thou that David doth honor thy father, that he hath sent comforters unto thee? hath not David rather sent his servants unto thee, to search the city, and to spy it out, and to overthrow it? It was by the advice of his counselors that Nahash, half a century before, had been led to make the cruel condition required of the people of Jabesh-gilead, when, besieged by the Ammonites, they sued for a covenant of peace. Nahash had demanded the privilege of thrusting out all their right eyes. The Ammonites still vividly remembered how the king of Israel had foiled their cruel design, and had rescued the people whom they would have humbled and mutilated. The same hatred of Israel still prompted them. They could have no conception of the generous spirit that had inspired Davids message. When Satan controls the minds of men he will excite envy and suspicion which will misconstrue the very best intentions. Listening to his counselors, Hanun regarded Davids messengers as spies, and loaded them with scorn and insult.{PP 714.2}[39]
§81
亚扪人这样毫无拘束地从心中实现他们罪恶的意念，就向大卫暴露出真实的面目来。因为上帝的旨意，并不愿以色列人向这个背信的外邦人缔结盟约。[40]{PP 714.3}
§82
The Ammonites had been permitted to carry out the evil purposes of their hearts without restraint, that their real character might be revealed to David. It was not Gods will that Israel should enter into a league with this treacherous heathen people.{PP 714.3}[40]
§83
古时和现今一样，国家所派的使节乃是神圣不可侵犯的。有国际公法保障他们，身体不得受伤害或侮辱。使臣乃是代表国家，任何加在他身上的侮辱，也必要立时予以报复的。亚扪人知道自己既侮辱了以色列人，势必引起他们的报复，于是随即备战。“亚扪人知道大卫憎恶他们，哈嫩和亚扪人就打发人，拿一千他连得银子，从米所波大米、亚兰玛迦、琐巴雇战车和马兵。于是雇了三万二千辆战车，……亚扪人也从他们的城里出来，聚集交战。”（代上19:6-7,13）[41]{PP 714.4}
§84
In ancient times, as now, the office of ambassador was held sacred. By the universal law of nations it ensured protection from personal violence or insult. The ambassador standing as a representative of his sovereign, any indignity offered to him demanded prompt retaliation. The Ammonites, knowing that the insult offered to Israel would surely be avenged, made preparation for war. When the children of Ammon saw that they had made themselves odious to David, Hanun and the children of Ammon sent a thousand talents of silver to hire them chariots and horsemen out of Mesopotamia, and out of Syria-maachah, and out of Zobah. So they hired thirty and two thousand chariots. . . . And the children of Ammon gathered themselves together from their cities, and came to battle. 1 Chronicles 19:6, 7.{PP 714.4}[41]
§85
这实在是一支难以抵御的联军。这与亚扪人结盟的民族所占的区域，从伯拉大河直到地中海。迦南的北部和东部都被敌人的军队包围了，要消灭以色列国。[42]{PP 715.1}
§86
It was indeed a formidable alliance. The inhabitants of the region lying between the river Euphrates and the Mediterranean Sea had leagued with the Ammonites. The north and east of Canaan was encircled with armed foes, banded together to crush the kingdom of Israel.{PP 715.1}[42]
§87
希伯来人并没有等敌人侵入他们的国内。他们的军队在约押帅领之下，渡过了约旦河，直捣亚扪人的京城。当这希伯来的元帅率领大军上阵时，他设法鼓起他们的勇气说：“我们都当刚强，为本国的民和上帝的城邑作大丈夫；愿耶和华凭他的意旨而行。”联军在第一次战役上就被击败了。但他们不甘服输，第二年又卷土重来。亚兰人调集他的军队，威胁以色列国。大卫看出这次战争的结果关系重大，所以亲自出征；靠着上帝的帮助，他给联军以非常沉重的打击，以至亚兰人不但从黎巴嫩直到伯拉大河全都溃退，而且后来还向以色列人进贡。大卫又用全力攻击亚扪人，攻取了他们的堡垒，亚扪全地就都归服以色列了。[43]{PP 715.2}
§88
The Hebrews did not wait for the invasion of their country. Their forces, under Joab, crossed the Jordan and advanced toward the Ammonite capital. As the Hebrew captain led his army to the field he sought to inspire them for the conflict, saying, Be of good courage, and let us behave ourselves valiantly for our people, and for the cities of our God: and let the Lord do that which is good in His sight. 1 Chronicles 19:13. The united forces of the allies were overcome in the first engagement. But they were not yet willing to give over the contest, and the next year renewed the war. The king of Syria gathered his forces, threatening Israel with an immense army. David, realizing how much dependent upon the result of this contest, took the field in person, and by the blessing of God inflicted upon the allies a defeat so disastrous that the Syrians, from Lebanon to the Euphrates, not only gave up the war, but became tributary to Israel. Against the Ammonites David pushed the war with vigor, until their strongholds fell and the whole region came under the dominion of Israel.{PP 715.2}[43]
§89
那威胁国家的危险，借着上帝的帮助，反而成了国家空前兴盛的阶梯。为纪念上帝非常的拯救起见，大卫歌唱说：耶和华是活神。愿我的磐石被人称颂，愿救我的上帝被人尊崇。这位上帝，就是那为我伸冤、使众民服在我以下的。你救我脱离仇敌，又把我举起，高过那些起来攻击我的；你救我脱离强暴的人。耶和华啊，因此我要在外邦中称谢你，歌颂你的名。耶和华赐极大的救恩给他所立的王，施慈爱给他的受膏者，就是给大卫和他的后裔，直到永远。”（诗18:46-50）[44]{PP 715.3}
§90
The dangers which had threatened the nation with utter destruction proved, through the providence of God, to be the very means by which it rose to unprecedented greatness. In commemorating his remarkable deliverances, David sings: The Lord liveth; and blessed be my rock; and exalted be the God of my salvation: Even the God that executeth vengeance for me, and subdueth peoples under me. He rescueth me from mine enemies: Yea, Thou liftest me up above them that rise up against me: Thou deliverest me from the violent man. Therefore I will give thanks unto Thee, O Lord, among the nations, And will sing praises unto Thy name. Great deliverance giveth He to His king; And sheweth loving-kindness to His anointed, To David and to his seed, forevermore. Psalm 18:46-50, R.V.{PP 715.3}[44]
§91
在大卫所作的一切诗歌中，他把耶和华是他们的力量和拯救这一种思想，印刻在他百姓的心中：“君王不能因兵多得胜，勇士不能因力大得救；靠马得救是枉然的，马也不能因力大救人。”“上帝啊，你是我的王，求你出令，使雅各得胜。我们靠你要推倒我们的敌人，靠你的名要践踏那起来攻击我们的人。因为我必不靠我的弓，我的刀也不能使我得胜。唯你救了我们脱离敌人，使恨我们的人羞愧。”“有人靠车，有人靠马，但我们要提到耶和华我们上帝的名。”（诗33:16-17；44:4-7；20:7）[45]{PP 716.1}
§92
And throughout the songs of David the thought was impressed on his people that Jehovah was their strength and deliverer: There is no king saved by the multitude of a host: A mighty man is not delivered by much strength. A horse is a vain thing for safety: Neither shall he deliver any by his great strength. Psalm 33:16, 17. Thou art my King, O God: Command deliverances for Jacob. Through Thee will we push down our enemies: Through Thy name will we tread them under that rise up against us. For I will not trust in my bow, Neither shall my sword save me. But Thou hast saved us from our enemies, And hast put them to shame that hated us. Psalm 44:4-7. Some trust in chariots, and some in horses: But we will remember the name of Jehovah our God. Psalm 20:7.{PP 716.1}[45]
§93
这时以色列国已经完全应验上帝所赐给亚伯拉罕，以后又向摩西重申的应许：“我已赐给你的后裔，从埃及河直到伯拉大河之地。”（创15:18；申11:22-25）以色列已经成为一个强大的国家，为四围的列国所尊敬，所畏惧。因之大卫的权柄在国内极大。他得到百姓的爱戴和效忠，是任何时代的君王所罕能得到的。他曾尊荣了上帝，所以上帝如今也使他得尊荣了。[46]{PP 716.2}
§94
The kingdom of Israel had now reached in extent the fulfillment of the promise given to Abraham, and afterward repeated to Moses: Unto thy seed have I given this land, from the river of Egypt unto the great river, the river Euphrates. Genesis 15:18. Israel had become a mighty nation, respected and feared by surrounding peoples. In his own realm Davids power had become very great. He commanded, as few sovereigns in any age have been able to command, the affections and allegiance of his people. He had honored God, and God was now honoring him.{PP 716.2}[46]
§95
但是在兴盛之中潜伏着危机。大卫正在表面上得到最辉煌的成功时，却临到了极大的危险，并遭到最可耻的失败。[47]{PP 716.3}
§96
But in the midst of prosperity lurked danger. In the time of his greatest outward triumph David was in the greatest peril, and met his most humiliating defeat.{PP 716.3}[47]