9. At strife. The death of Absalom had left the land in a state of disorganization. There were probably many different groups, all at odds with one another. Some of Absalom’s strong adherents were obviously slow to welcome David back to his throne. Others were perhaps entirely indifferent to the Davidic dynasty and willing to have almost anyone else than David as king. David, of course, still had many supporters. Under the circumstances, however, he had no great desire to return to Jerusalem to take his throne.
The king saved us. The good deeds of David were recalled. He had saved his people from the hands of their enemies and now he had been driven from the country and was living in exile. They contended that he ought to be brought back. Evidently many of the people were vexed at the slowness and indecision of the leaders.