Previously, the men of Judah had not supported David (see 1 Samuel 23:19–24; 1 Samuel 26:1).1 Now, following the death of Saul and David's arrival at Hebron, the men of Judah publicly declared that they recognized David as their king.2 He had already been recognized as God’s chosen king when he was anointed by Samuel (1 Samuel 16:1–23); now he was formally recognized also by the men of Judah. Informally they already knew that he would be king (see 1 Samuel 25:30–31).3 The fact that David had cared for them (1 Samuel 30:26–31) and married women from the local area would have strengthened his support in Judah.4
4 And the men of Judah came, and there they anointed David king over the house of Judah.When they told David, “It was the men of Jabesh-gilead who buried Saul,”