Book of 2 Samuel - Chapter 7 - Verse 12

This verse from the Bible, specifically 2 Samuel 7:12, holds a significant meaning in the context of the establishment of King David's kingdom. The phrase "And when thy days be fulfilled, and thou shalt sleep with thy fathers" refers to the end of David's life, indicating that his reign will come to an end. The term "sleep with thy fathers" is a metaphor for death, suggesting that David will rest with his ancestors once his time on earth is complete. The next part of the verse, "I will set up thy seed after thee, which shall proceed out of thy bowels," alludes to the promise of God to establish a dynasty through David's descendants. This promise is fulfilled through the lineage of Jesus Christ, who is considered by Christians as the ultimate fulfillment of the prophecy. The final part of the verse, "and I will establish his kingdom," signifies the everlasting kingdom that God will establish through David's seed, ultimately pointing to the reign of Jesus as the Messiah.

When looking at the theological interpretation of this verse, the phrase "sleep with thy fathers" is a common euphemism used in the Bible to refer to death. This verse is part of a promise made by God to King David, stating that his descendant will establish a kingdom after him. This promise is often interpreted as a foreshadowing of the coming of Jesus Christ, who is considered to be the ultimate fulfillment of this prophecy. The phrase "proceed out of thy bowels" emphasizes the physical lineage through which this descendant will come, highlighting the importance of lineage and continuity in God's covenant with David. The establishment of this kingdom is seen as a sign of God's faithfulness to his promises and his ongoing plan of redemption for humanity. This verse demonstrates the interconnectedness of the Old and New Testaments, showing how the promises God made to his people in the past ultimately find their fulfillment in Jesus Christ.