The Angel of the LORD is a significant figure in the Hebrew Scriptures, often depicted as a divine messenger who carries out God's will. One of the most notable appearances of the Angel of the LORD occurs in the context of Jerusalem, particularly during the reign of King David.

1. The Census and the Plague:

The account of the Angel of the LORD at Jerusalem is primarily found in 2 Samuel 24 and 1 Chronicles 21. King David, incited by Satan (1 Chronicles 21:1) or moved by the LORD (2 Samuel 24:1), conducts a census of Israel and Judah, an act that displeases God. As a result, God offers David three choices for punishment: three years of famine, three months of fleeing from enemies, or three days of plague. David chooses the plague, saying, "Let us fall into the hands of the LORD, for His mercy is great; but do not let me fall into the hands of men" (2 Samuel 24:14).

2. The Angel's Role in the Plague:

The Angel of the LORD is sent to execute the plague, resulting in the death of 70,000 men from Dan to Beersheba (2 Samuel 24:15). As the Angel stretches out his hand to destroy Jerusalem, the LORD relents from the calamity and commands the Angel, "Enough! Withdraw your hand" (2 Samuel 24:16). The Angel of the LORD is then seen by David standing by the threshing floor of Araunah the Jebusite.

3. David's Intercession and the Altar:

Upon seeing the Angel, David and the elders, clothed in sackcloth, fall facedown. David pleads with God, acknowledging his sin and asking that the punishment be upon him and his family rather than the people (1 Chronicles 21:17). God commands David through the prophet Gad to build an altar on the threshing floor of Araunah. David purchases the site, builds the altar, and offers burnt offerings and peace offerings. The LORD answers by sending fire from heaven upon the altar, and the plague is halted (1 Chronicles 21:26-27).

4. Theological Significance:

The appearance of the Angel of the LORD at Jerusalem underscores several theological themes. It highlights the seriousness of sin and the necessity of atonement. David's actions demonstrate the importance of repentance and intercession. The event also foreshadows the future significance of the site, as the threshing floor of Araunah becomes the location for Solomon's Temple (2 Chronicles 3:1).

5. The Identity of the Angel of the LORD:

The identity of the Angel of the LORD has been a subject of theological discussion. In various passages, the Angel speaks as God, accepts worship, and exhibits divine attributes, leading some to view the Angel as a theophany or a pre-incarnate appearance of Christ. In the context of Jerusalem, the Angel's actions and the LORD's direct communication with him further emphasize his unique role as a divine agent.

The Angel of the LORD at Jerusalem serves as a powerful reminder of God's justice, mercy, and the need for faithful obedience to His commands.