The Second Book of Samuel - Introduction
Without a break, the story begun in 1 Samuel continues in 2 Samuel (see Introduction to 1 Samuel ). The focus of the narrative is on David the king, first (chs. 1–8 ) on the establishment of his rule in Judah and in Israel, then (chs. 9–20 ) on events largely related to the issue of succession to the throne. Chapters 21–24 appear to be an intrusive appendix concerning David's reign (see 21.1–24.25 n. ), but the throne succession narrative is concluded in 1 Kings chs. 1–2 .
Beginning with 8.1–18 , the relationship of the report in 2 Samuel to that in the books of Chronicles is such that the annotations which cross-reference to the latter work deserve special attention.