including the land, the animals, and even the wood for the fire—as long as he did not have to give up his own life or the lives of any family members. Along with the material aspects, Araunah also offered the king the prayerful wish that “the LORD your God” might “accept you” (v. 23). 24:24–25 Although Araunah’s offer probably was sincere, David knew that compensation for land, animals, and goods was a moral necessity in human society (cf. Gen 23:7–16). Thus, he insisted on paying Araunah a fair
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