2 Samuel 3:36

36 Everyone at the funeral took notice - and liked what they saw. In fact everything the king did was applauded by the people.

2 Samuel 3:36 Meaning and Commentary

2 Samuel 3:36

And all the people took notice [of it]
Not only of his oath, that he would not eat food till evening, but of his whole conduct at the funeral of Abner; the sorrow he expressed for his death, and the oration he made on account of it, in which he pretty severely reflected on his murderer:

and it pleased them;
that he showed such a concern for his death, and that it was a clear case he had no hand in it:

as whatsoever the king did pleased all the people;
what he did at this time, burying Abhor with so much pomp and ceremony; and indeed he had so much the hearts of the people, and such a share in their affections, and they had such an high opinion of him, that all that he did in public and private affairs they reckoned well done; they were highly approved of by them, such an interest had he in them.

2 Samuel 3:36 In-Context

34 You were a free man, free to go and do as you wished - Yet you fell as a victim in a street brawl. And all the people wept - a crescendo of crying!
35 They all came then to David, trying to get him to eat something before dark. But David solemnly swore, "I'll not so much as taste a piece of bread, or anything else for that matter, before sunset, so help me God!"
36 Everyone at the funeral took notice - and liked what they saw. In fact everything the king did was applauded by the people.
37 It was clear to everyone that day, including all Israel, that the king had nothing to do with the death of Abner son of Ner.
38 The king spoke to his servants: "You realize, don't you, that today a prince and hero fell victim of foul play in Israel?
Published by permission. Originally published by NavPress in English as THE MESSAGE: The Bible in Contemporary Language copyright 2002 by Eugene Peterson. All rights reserved.