The Bible verse 1 Chronicles 18:9 from the King James Version reads: "Now when Tou king of Hamath heard how David had smitten all the host of Hadarezer king of Zobah;"

This verse is a part of the larger narrative of David's military victories and conquests as he establishes and expands his kingdom. To understand the full meaning and significance of this verse, it is important to examine it in the context of the surrounding verses and the broader historical and cultural context of the Old Testament.

In the preceding verses of 1 Chronicles 18, we learn that David had defeated the Philistines, the Moabites, and the Syrians, and had established his authority over these neighboring nations. The verse in question here refers to Tou, the king of Hamath, who hears about David's victory over Hadarezer, the king of Zobah. This victory demonstrates David's military prowess and his ability to subdue neighboring kingdoms, solidifying his power and influence in the region.

The historical context of this verse is significant in understanding its deeper meaning. The Old Testament is replete with the theme of conquest and the establishment of Israel as a dominant force in the ancient Near East. David's conquests, as depicted in 1 Chronicles, are a manifestation of this theme. The verse serves to emphasize David's military strength and the expansion of his kingdom, reflecting the broader narrative of the Israelites' rise to power in the ancient world.

Symbolically, this verse can also be interpreted as a demonstration of God's favor and support for David as the chosen king of Israel. Throughout the Old Testament, the concept of divine favor and intervention is a recurring theme, and David's military victories are often framed as evidence of God's blessing upon him. The defeat of Hadarezer and the subsequent fear it instilled in Tou, the king of Hamath, can be seen as a reflection of the strength and authority that God has bestowed upon David.

Additionally, this verse sheds light on the theme of leadership and the responsibilities that come with it. David's successes in battle are emblematic of his role as a ruler and his duty to protect and defend his people from external threats. The verse underscores the importance of strong leadership and the willingness to confront and overcome adversaries for the greater good of the nation.

In conclusion, 1 Chronicles 18:9, within the broader context of David's military victories, reflects themes of conquest, divine favor, and leadership. It serves as a testament to David's strength as a ruler and the pivotal role he played in shaping the destiny of Israel. The verse also underscores the broader historical and cultural context of the Old Testament, where military conquest and the establishment of political power were crucial elements in the development of the ancient Israelite nation. As such, this verse holds deep significance not only within the narrative of David's reign but also in the larger theological and historical framework of the Old Testament.