Introduction

Araunah, also known as Ornan in some biblical texts, is a significant figure in the Old Testament, particularly in the narrative concerning King David's purchase of a threshing floor. This event is pivotal as it leads to the establishment of the site for Solomon's Temple. Araunah's actions exemplify the virtue of liberality, demonstrating a willingness to give generously and selflessly.

Biblical Account

The primary account of Araunah is found in 2 Samuel 24 and 1 Chronicles 21. In these passages, King David seeks to build an altar to the Lord to stop a plague that had come upon Israel as a result of his sin in conducting a census. The prophet Gad instructs David to erect an altar on the threshing floor of Araunah the Jebusite.

Araunah's Generosity

When David approaches Araunah to purchase the threshing floor, Araunah exhibits remarkable liberality. In 2 Samuel 24:22-23 , Araunah offers not only the threshing floor but also oxen for burnt offerings and threshing sledges and yokes for wood, saying, "Let my lord the king take whatever pleases him and offer it up. Here are the oxen for the burnt offering, and here are the threshing sledges and ox yokes for the wood. O king, Araunah gives all this to the king." This act of generosity is significant, as Araunah, a Jebusite, shows a willingness to support the worship of the God of Israel.

David's Response

Despite Araunah's generous offer, David insists on purchasing the threshing floor, stating in 2 Samuel 24:24 , "I will not offer to the LORD my God burnt offerings that cost me nothing." David's insistence on paying for the site underscores the importance of sacrifice and personal cost in worship, but it also highlights Araunah's liberality in his willingness to give freely.

Theological Significance

Araunah's liberality is not merely an act of kindness but is deeply theological. His willingness to give to the king for the purpose of worship reflects a recognition of the sovereignty of God and the importance of supporting God's chosen leader. This act of giving becomes foundational for the future site of the Temple, a central place of worship for Israel.

Legacy

Araunah's liberality is remembered as a model of selfless giving. His actions facilitated the cessation of a divine judgment and contributed to the establishment of a sacred site. The narrative of Araunah serves as a reminder of the blessings that can flow from generous and willing hearts, and it underscores the importance of supporting God's work with open hands and hearts.2 Samuel 24:22
And Araunah said to David, Let my lord the king take and offer up what seems good to him: behold, here be oxen for burnt sacrifice, and threshing instruments and other instruments of the oxen for wood.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

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