2 Samuel · Chapter 2

V. 1. Enquired-By Urim. Thus David begins at the right end, and lays his foundation in God’s counsel and assistance. Shall I go-He asked not whether he should take the kingdom; for that was appointed before; and he would not offend God, nor dishonour his ordinance with unnecessary enquiries; but only where he should enter upon it; whether in Judah, as he supposed, because of his relation to that tribe, and his interest in it; or in some other tribe: for he doth not limit God, but resolves exactly to follow his counsels. Hebron-Which was next to Jerusalem (part whereof the Jebusites now possessed) the chief city of that tribe, and a city of the priests, and in the very center of that tribe, to which the whole tribe might speedily resort, when need required. And the sepulchres of the patriarchs adjoining to Hebron, would remind him of the ancient promise.

Verse 1. David inquired of the Lord] By means of Abiathar the priest; for he did not know whether the different tribes were willing to receive him, though he was fully persuaded that God had appointed him king over Israel.

Unto Hebron.] The metropolis of the tribe of Judah, one of the richest regions in Judea. The mountains of Hebron were famed for fruits, herbage, and honey; and many parts were well adapted for vines, olives, and different kinds of grain, abounding in springs of excellent water, as the most accurate travellers have asserted.

Verse 1. David inquired of the Lord — By Urim. When he had given a due time to his grief and mourning for Saul and Jonathan, he applied himself to God, who had appointed him to the kingdom, to know by what means he should best be put in possession of it. He did not inquire whether he should take the kingdom; for God had already signified his appointment of that, and David would not offend him nor dishonour his ordinance by unnecessary inquiries; but only where and at what time he should enter upon it; whether in Judah, as he supposed, because of his relation to that tribe and his interest in it, or in some other tribe; for he does not limit God, but resolves exactly to follow his instructions. Thus David begins at the right end, and lays his foundation in God’s counsel and assistance. Thus, in all our affairs, we ought to apply to God by prayer and supplication for his direction and aid.

He said, Unto Hebron — Which, next to Jerusalem, (part whereof the Jebusites now possessed,) was the chief city of the tribe of Judah, a city of the priests, and situated in the very centre of that tribe, to which all the people might speedily resort when need required. It stood on the top of a ridge of high mountains, equally famed for fruits, herbage, and honey. According to Mr. Sandys, who seems to have surveyed the whole region round it with uncommon rapture, and the very learned and accurate Dr. Shaw, who also considered it with singular care and attention, it was not only delightfully pleasant, but admirably fitted for olives and vineyards, and in many parts for grain and pasture. It seems therefore to have been a region peculiarly fitted for the reception of David and his men, with less inconvenience to the country than in most other places; for here they might have bread to the full, and be refreshed with springs of excellent water. Add to this, that it was a patriarchal city, venerable for the sepulchres of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, which would remind David of the ancient promises. See Delaney and Shaw’s Travels.

DAVID KING IN HEBRON, AND ISHBOSHETH KING IN MAHANAIM, 1-11.

1. After this — After his lamentation over the death of Saul and Jonathan. Inquired of the Lord — By the urim of the priest Abiathar. Compare 1 Samuel 23:9-12. Shall I go up — David knew that he was to be king, but how to attain the throne he knew not. He had no unholy ambition, and in matters of so great responsibility he wished Jehovah to guide him. Hebron — The ancient city of the patriarchs. See on Genesis 13:18, and Joshua 10:3. It was inexpedient for David longer to abide in the land of the Philistines, and Hebron, because of its peculiarly sacred associations and its central position in the tribe of Judah, was a most appropriate place for David to begin his reign. But it should be observed that, though he received divine counsel to go up to Hebron, he was not divinely advised to receive the kingdom from a single tribe. See note on verse 4.

DAVID KING IN HEBRON, AND ISHBOSHETH KING IN MAHANAIM, 1-11.

1. After this — After his lamentation over the death of Saul and Jonathan. Inquired of the Lord — By the urim of the priest Abiathar. Compare 1 Samuel 23:9-12. Shall I go up — David knew that he was to be king, but how to attain the throne he knew not. He had no unholy ambition, and in matters of so great responsibility he wished Jehovah to guide him. Hebron — The ancient city of the patriarchs. See on Genesis 13:18, and Joshua 10:3. It was inexpedient for David longer to abide in the land of the Philistines, and Hebron, because of its peculiarly sacred associations and its central position in the tribe of Judah, was a most appropriate place for David to begin his reign. But it should be observed that, though he received divine counsel to go up to Hebron, he was not divinely advised to receive the kingdom from a single tribe. See note on verse 4.

V. 3. Dwelt in-That is, the cities or towns belonging to Hebron, which was the Metropolis. For in Hebron itself there was not space for them all, because it was filled with priests, and with David’s court.

Verse 3. They dwelt in the cities of Hebron — That is, the cities or towns belonging to Hebron, which was the metropolis. For in Hebron itself there was not space for them all, because it was filled with priests, and with David’s court.

3. Cities of Hebron — Cities situated round about Hebron; dependent towns. He took care, says Patrick, to provide for his followers and their families, according to every one’s merit.

V. 4. Anointed-This they did upon just grounds, because not only the kingdom was promised to that tribe, but David was designed and anointed by God, whose will both they and all Israel were obliged to obey. And they resolved not to neglect their duty, though they saw the other tribes would. Yet their modesty is observable, they make him king of Judah only, and not of all Israel. And therefore there was need of a third anointing to the kingdom over all Israel, which he had 2 Samuel 5:3, that first anointing; 1 Samuel 16:13, was only a designation of the person who should be king, but not an actual inauguration of him to the kingdom.

Verse 4. Anointed David king] He was anointed before by Samuel, by which he acquired jus ad regnum, a right TO the kingdom; by the present anointing he had jus in regno, authority OVER the kingdom. The other parts of the kingdom were, as yet, attached to the family of Saul.

Verse 4. The men of Judah came and anointed David king — This they did on just grounds, because not only the sovereignty had been promised to that tribe, but David was designed and had been appointed by God, and at his express command anointed by Samuel to the regal office. This had long ceased to be a secret. Jonathan had known it perfectly. Saul himself had been no stranger to it; and Abner, the general of his army, was not ignorant of it, as appears by his words to Ish-bosheth, (2 Samuel 3:8, 9,) and his message to the elders of Israel; and it was now universally known, at least to the men of Judah, and was the avowed reason why they advanced David to the throne. And it was reason sufficient, God’s will being obligatory upon all, and all being indispensably bound to obey it. This had been the sole foundation of Saul’s title to the kingdom, and on this ground only the Israelites had accepted him for their king. But this ground of claim Ish-bosheth, Saul’s son, had not, for he had not been appointed by God nor anointed by Samuel, or any other prophet. Indeed, properly speaking, he had no ground of claim at all, as the crown was never made hereditary in Saul’s family, but remained entirely at God’s disposal, who was the supreme king and governor of Israel, The men of Judah therefore were resolved to comply with the will and appointment of God, and not to neglect their duty, although they saw that the other tribes would neglect theirs. Yet they act with modesty; they make him king of Judah only, and not of all Israel. “Whether they did this with more despatch,” says Delaney, “to influence the determinations of the other tribes in his favour; or, whether it was delayed until their dispositions were sounded upon the point, is nowhere said. This, however, is certain, that one tribe’s acting separate and independent of the rest, was of dangerous example; nor could any thing but the divine authority justify it; and therefore it is not probable that this step was taken until all other expedients for a unanimous election had failed. And here he began the division of the kingdom, so lately predicted by Samuel;” as also, in part, the accomplishment of the prophecy delivered by Jacob, (Genesis 49:10,) that the sceptre should be settled in Judah.

4-7. This message to the men of Jabesh-gilead was well-timed and skilfully presented. It showed David’s tenderness and respect for Saul, and in a measure served to remove from his advancement to royalty the appearance of usurpation and rebellion. But the proclamation that he had been anointed king over the house of Judah was an indirect announcement that it would be to the interest of the men of Jabesh to acknowledge him as Saul’s successor. This part of his message was, therefore, open to criticism, since it was a sort of political bid for their obedience and influence.

V. 5. Kindness-This respect and affection. For as it is, an act of inhumanity to deny burial to the dead; so it is an act of mercy and kindness to bury them.

Verse 5. David sent messengers unto-Jabesh-gilead] This was a generous and noble act, highly indicative of the grandeur of David’s mind. He respected Saul as his once legitimate sovereign; he loved Jonathan as his most intimate friend. The former had greatly injured him, and sought his destruction; but even this did not cancel his respect for him, as the anointed of God, and as the king of Israel. This brings to my remembrance that fine speech of Saurin, when speaking of the banishment of the Protestants from France by the revocation of the edict of Nantes. He thus at the Hague apostrophizes Louis XIV., their persecutor: Et toi, prince redoubtable, que j’honorai jadis comme mon roi, et que je respecte encore comme le fleau do Seigneur. “And thou, O formidable prince, whom I once honoured as my king, and whom I still reverence as the scourge of the Lord!”

Verses 5-7. That ye have showed this kindness — This respect and affection. For as it is an act of inhumanity to deny burial to the dead, so it is an act of mercy and kindness to bury them. The Lord show kindness and truth unto you — That is, true and real kindness; not in words only, but also in actions, as you have done to your king. I also will requite you — So far am I from being offended with you for this kindness to my late enemy. This shows the great generosity of David’s spirit, who expressed such affection and gratitude to those who had honoured the dead body of one that hated and sought to kill him. Let your hands be strengthened — Be not afraid lest the Philistines should punish you for this act, but take courage. For, &c. — Or rather, though your master Saul be dead — And so your hearts might faint, as if you were now as sheep without a shepherd. The house of Judah have anointed me king — This he mentions that they might not be discouraged on the ground of their wanting one to head them, for he intimates that, being invested with the royal dignity by the tribe of Judah, he would look upon himself as bound to protect them also.

4-7. This message to the men of Jabesh-gilead was well-timed and skilfully presented. It showed David’s tenderness and respect for Saul, and in a measure served to remove from his advancement to royalty the appearance of usurpation and rebellion. But the proclamation that he had been anointed king over the house of Judah was an indirect announcement that it would be to the interest of the men of Jabesh to acknowledge him as Saul’s successor. This part of his message was, therefore, open to criticism, since it was a sort of political bid for their obedience and influence.

V. 6. Kindness and truth-That is, true and real kindness; not in words only, but also in actions, as you have done to your king. I will requite-So far am I from being offended with you for this kindness to my late enemy.

Verses 5-7. That ye have showed this kindness — This respect and affection. For as it is an act of inhumanity to deny burial to the dead, so it is an act of mercy and kindness to bury them. The Lord show kindness and truth unto you — That is, true and real kindness; not in words only, but also in actions, as you have done to your king. I also will requite you — So far am I from being offended with you for this kindness to my late enemy. This shows the great generosity of David’s spirit, who expressed such affection and gratitude to those who had honoured the dead body of one that hated and sought to kill him. Let your hands be strengthened — Be not afraid lest the Philistines should punish you for this act, but take courage. For, &c. — Or rather, though your master Saul be dead — And so your hearts might faint, as if you were now as sheep without a shepherd. The house of Judah have anointed me king — This he mentions that they might not be discouraged on the ground of their wanting one to head them, for he intimates that, being invested with the royal dignity by the tribe of Judah, he would look upon himself as bound to protect them also.

6. Kindness and truth — Prominent marks of the divine government. Compare Exodus 34:6. Kind to his people by being true to his promises. I will also requite you this kindness — Rather, I also do you this kindness, namely, the attention and honour shown in the blessings I give you through these messengers. Some have thought that David here promises them future favours, but in that case the words this kindness would refer to their act towards Saul, and make the following because ye have done this thing, redundant.

V. 7. Be valiant-Be not afraid lest the Philistines should punish you for this fact, but take good courage, I will defend you. For, &c.-Or, though your master Saul be dead, and so your hearts may faint, as if you were now sheep without a shepherd.

Verse 7. Now let your hands be strengthened] David certainly wished to attach the men of Jabesh to his interest; he saw that they were generous and valiant, and must be of great service to him whose part they espoused; and he was no doubt afraid that they would attach themselves to the house of Saul, in consideration of the eminent services Saul had rendered them in rescuing them from Nahash, king of the Ammonites.

Verses 5-7. That ye have showed this kindness — This respect and affection. For as it is an act of inhumanity to deny burial to the dead, so it is an act of mercy and kindness to bury them. The Lord show kindness and truth unto you — That is, true and real kindness; not in words only, but also in actions, as you have done to your king. I also will requite you — So far am I from being offended with you for this kindness to my late enemy. This shows the great generosity of David’s spirit, who expressed such affection and gratitude to those who had honoured the dead body of one that hated and sought to kill him. Let your hands be strengthened — Be not afraid lest the Philistines should punish you for this act, but take courage. For, &c. — Or rather, though your master Saul be dead — And so your hearts might faint, as if you were now as sheep without a shepherd. The house of Judah have anointed me king — This he mentions that they might not be discouraged on the ground of their wanting one to head them, for he intimates that, being invested with the royal dignity by the tribe of Judah, he would look upon himself as bound to protect them also.

7. Your master Saul is dead — And therefore ye are without a king unless ye acknowledge me, as the house of Judah have done. Surely they could not misunderstand his wishes, but the presence of the Israelitish army under Abner in Gilead made it imprudent and hazardous for the single town of Jabesh to declare for David.

V. 8. Abner-Tho’ ambition and desire of rule, because he knew that Ishbosheth would have only the name of king, whilst he had the power.

Verse 8. Abner the son of Ner] This man had long been one of the chief captains of Saul’s army, and commander-in-chief on several occasions; he was probably envious of David’s power, by whom he had often been out-generalled in the field.

Verse 8. Abner took Ish-bosheth — Abner was not only Saul’s general, but his near kinsman also, and in this instance his interest and ambition, and perhaps also envy, strongly influenced him. He knew that Ish-bosheth, if advanced to the sovereignty, would only have the name of a king, while he himself had the power. It appears, however, sufficiently from the sequel of his history, that he was well acquainted with David’s divine designation to the throne; but should he now submit to it he must no more hope for the chief command of the army. Joab was in possession of that under David, and well deserved to be so; and it was not probable he would displace him, a tried friend and a near kinsman, (being the son of Zeruiah, David’s sister,) to make way for an inveterate enemy newly reconciled. Nor was this all; Ish-bosheth was Abner’s near kinsman; whom, if he did not support, the interest of his tribe and of his family must fall with his own. Add to all this, that Abner commanded under Saul in all the expeditions he made against David; and it appears sufficiently from the history that David was greatly an over-match for him in all military conduct. Thus envy, ambition, interest, and personal pique led him to espouse the cause of Ish-bosheth, whom he brought over Jordan with him to Mahanaim, a place in the tribe of Gad, (Joshua 13:26,) which he chose for his residence, the better to gain that part of the country to his interest, to be more out of the reach of David’s and the Philistines’ incursions, and to have the better opportunity of recruiting his army among a people not only brave and courageous, but well affected to the cause he had espoused. See Delaney.

8. Captain of Saul’s host — Abner’s position and influence in the army rendered it meet for him, at the present emergency, to look after the interests of the family of his fallen king. His action in making Ishbosheth king may have been hastened by this message of David to the men of Jabesh-gilead. Ishbosheth — Called also Eshbaal. 1 Chronicles 8:33. He was the fourth and only surviving son of Saul Mahanaim — A place of importance on the east side of the Jordan, probably at the modern Mahneh, but its site has not been satisfactorily determined. See on Genesis 32:2, and Joshua 13:26. The reason of Abner’s anointing Ishbosheth king in one of the cities east of the Jordan was, because the chief cities of the west were now in the hands of Philistines, and Mahanaim was especially appropriate from its sacred associations.

V. 9. Gilead-Largely so taken, for all the land of Israel beyond Jordan. Ashurites-That is, the tribe of Asher, as the Chaldee paraphrast and others understand it. Jezreel-A large and rich valley situate in the borders of the tribes of Zebulun, Issachar and Naphtali, and so put for them all. All Israel-Except Judah.

Verse 9. Made him king over Gilead] These were places beyond Jordan; for as the Philistines had lately routed the Israelites, they were no doubt in possession of some of the principal towns, and were now enjoying the fruits of their victory. Abner was therefore afraid to bring the new king to any place where he was likely to meet with much resistance, till he had got his army well recruited.

Who the Ashurites were is not generally agreed; probably men of the tribe of Ashur.

Verses 9-11. He made him king over Gilead — Over all the tribes on the other side Jordan, which are comprehended under this name. Over the Ashurites — That is, the tribe of Asher, as the Chaldee paraphrast and others understand it. Over Jezreel — A large and rich valley, situate in the borders of the tribes of Zebulun, Issachar, and Naphtali, and so put for them all. And over all Israel — All the tribes on this side Jordan, save only the tribe of Judah. Ish-bosheth was forty years old — Being born in the year that Saul was made king; for Saul reigned forty years, Acts 13:41. And reigned two years — Before there was any hostility between him and David, which, after it began, continued five years and a half, during which time David resided in Hebron, and was king over the tribe of Judah, and Ish-bosheth reigned over Israel, or rather Abner, for that general had the power, and left him only the name of a king.

9. Gilead — The mountainous region east of the Jordan. See map, page

234. The Ashurites — Who these were it is impossible to determine. They could not have been the people of Asshur, (Assyria,) nor the Asshurim of Genesis 25:3. Better is the reading of the Chaldee, the house of Asher, by which is meant the territory of the tribe of Asher in the north of Palestine, and the adjacent country north of the plain of Jezreel. The Vulgate, Syriac, and Arabic read, the Geshurites. But these could not have been the Geshurites of 1 Samuel 27:8, nor is it likely that Ishbosheth reigned over the kingdom of Talmai, whose daughter David had taken to wife. 2 Samuel 3:3. Jezreel — The city and great plain of this name. See on Joshua 15:56; 17:16. This great plain was mainly occupied by the tribes of Issachar and Zebulun. Over all Israel — With the exception, of course, of Judah, over which David had been anointed king. The recovering of all the territory specified in this verse, and the subjecting of it to Ishbosheth, probably occupied Abner and his army some time. See on verse 10.

V. 10. Two years-Namely, before the following war broke out, which continued five years.

Verse 10. Ish-bosheth-reigned two years.] It is well observed that Ish-bosheth reigned all the time that David reigned in Hebron, which was seven years and six months. Perhaps the meaning of the writer is this: Ish-bosheth reigned two years before any but the tribe of Judah had attached themselves to the interest of David. Some think that Abner in effect reigned the last five years of Ish-bosheth, who had only the name of king after the first two years. Or the text may be understood thus: When Ish-bosheth had reigned two years over Israel, he was forty years of age. Houbigant, dissatisfied with all the common modes of solution, proposes to read hnv tyvv shishshith shanah, six years, for the שנים שתים shetayim shanim, two years, of the text, which he contends is a solecism; for in pure Hebrew the words would be שתים שנה as they are everywhere read in the first book; and hnv is the reading of eleven of Kennicott’s MSS., and nine of Deuteronomy Rossi’s; but the number two is acknowledged by all the ancient versions, and by all the MSS. yet collated. The critical reader may examine Houbigant on the place. After all, probably the expedition mentioned in the succeeding verses is that to which the writer refers, and from which he dates. Ish-bosheth had reigned two years without any rupture with David or his men, till under the direction of Abner, captain of his host, the Israelites passed over Jordan, from Mahanaim to Gibeon, and being opposed by Joab, captain of David’s host, that battle took place which is described in the following verses.

Verses 9-11. He made him king over Gilead — Over all the tribes on the other side Jordan, which are comprehended under this name. Over the Ashurites — That is, the tribe of Asher, as the Chaldee paraphrast and others understand it. Over Jezreel — A large and rich valley, situate in the borders of the tribes of Zebulun, Issachar, and Naphtali, and so put for them all. And over all Israel — All the tribes on this side Jordan, save only the tribe of Judah. Ish-bosheth was forty years old — Being born in the year that Saul was made king; for Saul reigned forty years, Acts 13:41. And reigned two years — Before there was any hostility between him and David, which, after it began, continued five years and a half, during which time David resided in Hebron, and was king over the tribe of Judah, and Ish-bosheth reigned over Israel, or rather Abner, for that general had the power, and left him only the name of a king.

10. Ishbosheth… reigned two years — The next verse informs us that David reigned in Hebron ever Judah seven years and six months, and therefore we must naturally conclude that for five years and six months the other tribes of Israel were without an acknowledged king. It is altogether gratuitous to assume, as some critics have done, that Ishbosheth reigned all the time that David reigned in Hebron. It is probable, however, that David was king in Hebron some time before Ishbosheth began to reign. David seems to have been anointed very soon after Saul’s death, but it must have taken Abner some time to gather up the scattered army and recover from the defeat and losses of Gilboa sufficiently to attend to the inauguration of Ishbosheth. So it is likely that David reigned in Hebron a year or more before the son of Saul was anointed at Mahanaim. Then followed two years of strife and bickering between the two governments, which was of sufficient length to be called “long war.” 2 Samuel 3:1. And after both Abner and Ishbosheth had been vilely assassinated, it is but natural to suppose that the northern tribes would wait some years to observe the manner of David’s government before they all came together to acknowledge and anoint him king. See on 2 Samuel 5:1.

Verses 9-11. He made him king over Gilead — Over all the tribes on the other side Jordan, which are comprehended under this name. Over the Ashurites — That is, the tribe of Asher, as the Chaldee paraphrast and others understand it. Over Jezreel — A large and rich valley, situate in the borders of the tribes of Zebulun, Issachar, and Naphtali, and so put for them all. And over all Israel — All the tribes on this side Jordan, save only the tribe of Judah. Ish-bosheth was forty years old — Being born in the year that Saul was made king; for Saul reigned forty years, Acts 13:41. And reigned two years — Before there was any hostility between him and David, which, after it began, continued five years and a half, during which time David resided in Hebron, and was king over the tribe of Judah, and Ish-bosheth reigned over Israel, or rather Abner, for that general had the power, and left him only the name of a king.

DAVID KING IN HEBRON, AND ISHBOSHETH KING IN MAHANAIM, 1-11.

1. After this — After his lamentation over the death of Saul and Jonathan. Inquired of the Lord — By the urim of the priest Abiathar. Compare 1 Samuel 23:9-12. Shall I go up — David knew that he was to be king, but how to attain the throne he knew not. He had no unholy ambition, and in matters of so great responsibility he wished Jehovah to guide him. Hebron — The ancient city of the patriarchs. See on Genesis 13:18, and Joshua 10:3. It was inexpedient for David longer to abide in the land of the Philistines, and Hebron, because of its peculiarly sacred associations and its central position in the tribe of Judah, was a most appropriate place for David to begin his reign. But it should be observed that, though he received divine counsel to go up to Hebron, he was not divinely advised to receive the kingdom from a single tribe. See note on verse 4.

V. 12. Went out-To fight with David’s army, and to bring back the rest of the kingdom to Saul’s house.

Verses 12, 13. Abner and the servants of Ish-bosheth went out to Gibeon — They passed over Jordan into the country of Benjamin, where Gibeon was, (Joshua 18:25,) to fight with Judah, and to bring them into subjection to Saul’s son. It ought to be remarked, that David did not begin any hostility, but waited to see how God would dispose of things in his favour. And Joab and the servants of David went out — To oppose the designs of the Israelites, Joab being the chief commander of David’s forces. And met together by the pool of Gibeon — Where the two opposite armies put themselves in a posture for battle.

Verse 12. Mahanaim. See Genesis 32:2.

THE BATTLE OF GIBEON, 12-32.

12. Went out from Mahanaim — That is, marched out from the capital of the kingdom of Ishbosheth. Having been successful in bringing all the northern and eastern tribes to acknowledge Ishbosheth as king, Abner seems to have thought to bring over the tribe of Judah also. He at least began the fight. Gibeon — The modern el-Jib, a few miles northwest of Jerusalem. See on Joshua 9:3.

V. 13. Met-That is, met the opposite army, and put themselves in a posture for battle.

Verses 12, 13. Abner and the servants of Ish-bosheth went out to Gibeon — They passed over Jordan into the country of Benjamin, where Gibeon was, (Joshua 18:25,) to fight with Judah, and to bring them into subjection to Saul’s son. It ought to be remarked, that David did not begin any hostility, but waited to see how God would dispose of things in his favour. And Joab and the servants of David went out — To oppose the designs of the Israelites, Joab being the chief commander of David’s forces. And met together by the pool of Gibeon — Where the two opposite armies put themselves in a posture for battle.

13. Joab — Who here appears as leader of David’s men, but was not made captain of his hosts till after the capture of the Jebusites. Chap. 5:8, and 1 Chronicles 11:6. The pool of Gibeon — The same as the great waters of Gibeon mentioned Jeremiah 41:12. It is probably identical with the great reservoir still seen just northeast of the city, and supplied with water from a fine fountain in the rocks just above it. The fountain “is in a cave excavated in and under the high rock, so as to form a large subterranean reservoir. Not far below it, among the olive trees, are the remains of another open reservoir, about the size of that at Hebron, perhaps one hundred and twenty feet in length by one hundred feet in breadth. It was doubtless anciently intended to receive the superfluous waters of the cavern.” — Robinson.

V. 14. And play-That is, shew their prowess and dexterity in fighting together. He speaks like a vain-glorious and cruel man, and a soldier of fortune, that esteemed it a sport to see men wounding and killing one another. So this he designed, partly for their mutual recreation and trial of skill; and partly, that by this occasion they might be engaged in a battle. But he is unworthy the name of a man, who is thus prodigal of human blood.

Verse 14. Let the young men-play before us.] This was diabolical play, where each man thrust his sword into the body of the other, so that the twenty-four (twelve on each side) fell down dead together! But this was the signal for that sanguinary skirmish which immediately took place.

Verse 14. Abner said, Let the young men now arise, and play before us — That is, show their prowess and dexterity in fighting together, or make trial of their courage and strength, that we may see which of us has the braver soldiers. He speaks like a vain-glorious and cruel man, and a soldier of fortune, that esteemed it a sport to see men wounding and killing one another. So this he designed, partly for their mutual recreation, and trial of skill; and partly, that by this occasion they might be engaged in a battle. But he is unworthy the name of a man who is thus prodigal of human blood.

Ver. 14. Abner said to Joab, &c. He did this in confidence that his twelve men would conquer, and make Joab’s army flee. Why had he not challenged Joab to single combat?

14. Let the young men now arise, and play before us — Implying that the contest between the house of Saul and the house of David should be decided by this action of the young warriors. This would save a needless effusion of blood, and Joab accepted the challenge. qjc, to play, would thus mean the war play of single combat, and the bloody consequences showed that this was the understanding of the contending parties.

Verses 15-17. There went over twelve of Benjamin — Ish-bosheth’s men were still most forward to begin hostilities. They caught, &c. — That is, each of the servants of David last mentioned, or every one of both sides caught the man that was his opposite; by the head — That is, by the hair of the head, which they wore very long in those days. And thrust his sword into his fellow’s side — Killed his opponent. So they fell down together — Either all the twelve men of Benjamin, slain by the servants of David, or else the whole four and twenty fell down dead together. That place was called Hel-kath-hazzurim — Or, The field of rocks, that is, of men who stood like rocks, immoveable, each one dying on the spot where he fought. There was a sore battle that day — The men of Israel, it seems, enraged at the loss of their valiant men, began a general battle.

THE BATTLE OF GIBEON, 12-32.

12. Went out from Mahanaim — That is, marched out from the capital of the kingdom of Ishbosheth. Having been successful in bringing all the northern and eastern tribes to acknowledge Ishbosheth as king, Abner seems to have thought to bring over the tribe of Judah also. He at least began the fight. Gibeon — The modern el-Jib, a few miles northwest of Jerusalem. See on Joshua 9:3.

V. 16. By the head-By the hair of the head, which after their manner was of a considerable length. Helkath-kazzurim-Or, the field of rock; that is, of men who stood like rocks unmovable, each one dying upon the spot where he fought.

Verse 16. Caught every one his fellow by the head] Probably by the beard, if these persons were not too young to have one, or by the hair of the head. Alexander ordered all the Macedonians to shave their beards; and being asked by Parmenio why they should do so, answered, “Dost thou not know that in battle there is no better hold than the beard?” Helkath-hazzurim] “The portion of the mighty;” or, “The inheritance of those who were slain,” according to the Targum.

Verses 15-17. There went over twelve of Benjamin — Ish-bosheth’s men were still most forward to begin hostilities. They caught, &c. — That is, each of the servants of David last mentioned, or every one of both sides caught the man that was his opposite; by the head — That is, by the hair of the head, which they wore very long in those days. And thrust his sword into his fellow’s side — Killed his opponent. So they fell down together — Either all the twelve men of Benjamin, slain by the servants of David, or else the whole four and twenty fell down dead together. That place was called Hel-kath-hazzurim — Or, The field of rocks, that is, of men who stood like rocks, immoveable, each one dying on the spot where he fought. There was a sore battle that day — The men of Israel, it seems, enraged at the loss of their valiant men, began a general battle.

Ver. 16. Helkath-hazzurim. Ager robustorum, the field of the strong or the brave. The LXX, the field of the sword.

16. By the head — By the hair of the head or by the beard. Alexander, before entering into battle, ordered his men to shave their beards, because, said he, “in battle there is no better hold for the enemy than a beard.” They fell down together — The whole twenty-four of them. “The left-handed Benjamites, and the right-handed men of Judah — their sword hands thus coming together — seized each his adversary by the head, and the whole number fell by the mutual wounds they received.” — Stanley. Helkath-hazzurim — Hebrew, smoothness of the rocks; apparently in reference to a smooth, rocky surface on which the combatants fought. Other explanations of the name have been given, as, the field of the plotters; field of strong men; field of swords; field of sharp edges; but none of them are sufficiently careful of the meaning of the Hebrew words.

Verses 15-17. There went over twelve of Benjamin — Ish-bosheth’s men were still most forward to begin hostilities. They caught, &c. — That is, each of the servants of David last mentioned, or every one of both sides caught the man that was his opposite; by the head — That is, by the hair of the head, which they wore very long in those days. And thrust his sword into his fellow’s side — Killed his opponent. So they fell down together — Either all the twelve men of Benjamin, slain by the servants of David, or else the whole four and twenty fell down dead together. That place was called Hel-kath-hazzurim — Or, The field of rocks, that is, of men who stood like rocks, immoveable, each one dying on the spot where he fought. There was a sore battle that day — The men of Israel, it seems, enraged at the loss of their valiant men, began a general battle.

17. There was a very sore battle — The bloody combat just described brought on a general engagement between the two armies, in which David and his men were victorious.

Verse 18. Asahel was as light of foot as a wild roe] To be swift of foot was deemed a great accomplishment in the heroes of antiquity; podav wkuv acilleuv, the swift-footed Achilles, is an epithet which Homer gives to that hero no less than thirty times in the course of the Ilias. It has a qualification also among the Roman soldiers; they were taught both to run swiftly, and to swim well.

Verses 18, 19. Three sons of Zeruiah — She was David’s sister, and therefore these were his nephews. Asahel was light of foot as a wild roe — He was a gallant man, and one of David’s twelve captains, remarkably valiant, but more remarkably swift. Asahel pursued after Abner — Being desirous of the glory, either of taking or killing the greatest man in Israel.

18. Three sons of Zeruiah — Zeruiah was their mother, and a sister of David. “Their father is unknown, but seems to have resided at Beth-lehem, and to have died before his sons, as we find mention of his sepulchre at that place. Verse 32. They all exhibit the activity and courage of David’s constitutional character. But they never rise beyond this to the nobler qualities which lift him above the wild soldiers and chieftains of the time. Asahel, who was cut off in his youth, and seems to have been the darling of the family, is only known to us from his gazelle-like agility. Abishai and Joab are alike in their implacable revenge. Joab, however, combines with these ruder qualities something of a more statesmanlike character, which brings him more nearly to a level with his youthful uncle, and unquestionably gives him the second place in the whole history of David’s reign.” — Stanley.

Verses 18, 19. Three sons of Zeruiah — She was David’s sister, and therefore these were his nephews. Asahel was light of foot as a wild roe — He was a gallant man, and one of David’s twelve captains, remarkably valiant, but more remarkably swift. Asahel pursued after Abner — Being desirous of the glory, either of taking or killing the greatest man in Israel.

THE BATTLE OF GIBEON, 12-32.

12. Went out from Mahanaim — That is, marched out from the capital of the kingdom of Ishbosheth. Having been successful in bringing all the northern and eastern tribes to acknowledge Ishbosheth as king, Abner seems to have thought to bring over the tribe of Judah also. He at least began the fight. Gibeon — The modern el-Jib, a few miles northwest of Jerusalem. See on Joshua 9:3.

THE BATTLE OF GIBEON, 12-32.

12. Went out from Mahanaim — That is, marched out from the capital of the kingdom of Ishbosheth. Having been successful in bringing all the northern and eastern tribes to acknowledge Ishbosheth as king, Abner seems to have thought to bring over the tribe of Judah also. He at least began the fight. Gibeon — The modern el-Jib, a few miles northwest of Jerusalem. See on Joshua 9:3.

V. 21. And take, &c.-If thou art ambitious to get a trophy or mark of thy valour, desist from me who am an old and experienced captain, and go to some young and raw soldier; try thy skill upon him, and take away his arms from him.

Verse 21. Take thee his armour.] It seems Asahel wished to get the armour of Abner as a trophy; this also was greatly coveted by ancient heroes. Abner wished to spare him, for fear of exciting Joab’s enmity; but as Asahel was obstinate in the pursuit, and was swifter of foot than Abner, the latter saw that he must either kill or be killed, and therefore he turned his spear and ran it through the body of Asahel. This turning about that he might pierce him is what we translate “the hinder end of his spear.” This slaying of Asahel cost Abner his life, as we shall find in the next chapter.

Verses 21, 22. Abner said, Turn thee aside, &c. — If thou art ambitions to get a trophy or mark of thy valour, desist from me, who am an old and experienced captain, and go to some young and raw soldier; try thy skill upon him, and take away his arms from him. Abner was very unwilling to kill Asahel, which he knew he was able to do, and therefore he endeavoured, by fair speeches and motives, to induce him to desist from his design of attacking him. How should I hold up my face to Joab thy brother? — Who was a fierce man, and who, Abner knew, would study revenge.

21. Lay thee hold on one of the young men — One of the common soldiers. Take thee his armour — Asahel’s object was to slay Abner and take his armour as a trophy.

Verses 21, 22. Abner said, Turn thee aside, &c. — If thou art ambitions to get a trophy or mark of thy valour, desist from me, who am an old and experienced captain, and go to some young and raw soldier; try thy skill upon him, and take away his arms from him. Abner was very unwilling to kill Asahel, which he knew he was able to do, and therefore he endeavoured, by fair speeches and motives, to induce him to desist from his design of attacking him. How should I hold up my face to Joab thy brother? — Who was a fierce man, and who, Abner knew, would study revenge.

22. Wherefore should I smite thee to the ground — Abner knew that his youthful pursuer was no match for him in strategy or war, and he did not wish to kill him because of the personal enmity that would thus arise between himself and Joab. See note on 2 Samuel 3:39.

V. 23. And died-So Asahel’s swiftness, which he presumed on so much, only forwarded his fate! With it he ran upon his death, instead of running from it.

Verse 23. He fell down there and died — So Asahel’s swiftness, which he presumed on so much, only forwarded his fate: with it he ran upon his death, instead of running from it. As many as came to the place stood still — Ceased from the pursuit; fearing, perhaps, the same fate if they followed further; or staying out of respect to Asahel, that his body might not be exposed to any indignity.

23. He refused to turn aside — He believed that he could conquer Abner, and he was unwilling to lose the opportunity of gaining that honour. The hinder end of the spear — Which was sharpened, so as to stick in the ground when not in use. 1 Samuel 26:7. Under the fifth rib — Rather, in the abdomen. The Hebrew word comes from the root cmj, to be fat. Stood still — Horror stricken at the bloody sight.

24. Ammah… Giah — Places now unknown. Such incidental allusions to places long since forgotten furnish evidence of the genuineness and credibility of the history.

THE BATTLE OF GIBEON, 12-32.

12. Went out from Mahanaim — That is, marched out from the capital of the kingdom of Ishbosheth. Having been successful in bringing all the northern and eastern tribes to acknowledge Ishbosheth as king, Abner seems to have thought to bring over the tribe of Judah also. He at least began the fight. Gibeon — The modern el-Jib, a few miles northwest of Jerusalem. See on Joshua 9:3.

V. 26. Bitterness-It will produce dreadful effects. Brethren-By nation and religion: whom therefore they should not pursue with so fierce a rage, as if they were pursuing the Philistines.

Verse 26. Bitterness in the latter end — It will produce dreadful effects. In civil wars, as Cicero speaks, (Familiar Epist., lib. 4.,) all things are miserable, and nothing more miserable than victory itself, which makes the conqueror do many things against his will, to satisfy those by whom he conquers. Joab seems to have been very sensible of this, from his withdrawing his forces so readily from the pursuit. From following their brethren — By nation and religion; descended from one common ancestor of Israel, and worshipping one and the same God. How forcible is this argument, even if applied to all men, and how ought it to induce all kings and princes to avoid all wars as much as possible, forasmuch as all mankind are brethren, and made of one blood.

26. Shall the sword devour for ever — Shall there be no cessation of the conflict already so disastrous to us all? It will be bitterness in the latter end — Bitter because of the losses on either side, and still more bitter from the fact that it might have been avoided.

V. 27. Unless, &c.-Unless thou hadst made the motion that they should fight, ver. 14. It was thou, not I, that gave the first occasion of this fight. Abner was the sole cause of this war; otherwise all things had been ended by an amicable agreement: which might have been made that very morning, if he had so pleased.

Verse 27. And Joab said] The meaning of this verse appears to be this: If Abner had not provoked the battle, (see 2 Samuel 2:14,) Joab would not have attacked the Israelites that day; as his orders were probably to act on the defensive. Therefore the blame fell upon Israel.

Verse 27. Unless thou hadst spoken, &c. — Made the motion that they should fight, giving a rash challenge; surely in the morning the people had gone up — The armies had parted in peace, without any act of hostility: it was thou, not I, that gave the first occasion of this fight. This plainly shows that Joab’s instructions were not to begin hostilities, and that Abner was the sole cause of the war. Had it not been for him, all things might have been settled by an amicable agreement that very morning. Some, however, understand Joab’s words differently: they consider him as swearing solemnly, that inasmuch as Abner had given the challenge, and proposed fighting, if he had not also begun the parley for cessation, he and his men would have pursued him and Ish-bosheth’s vanquished army the whole night.

27. Unless thou hadst spoken — As thou didst this morning, saying, “Let the young men arise and play.” Verse 14. That challenge provoked the war. Had it not been uttered the two armies would have separated without fight or bloodshed.

Verses 28, 29. So Joab blew a trumpet — Caused a retreat to be sounded. Neither fought they any more — Neither at that time, nor probably at any other, in a pitched battle. And Abner and his men walked all that night — He made the best of his way to Jordan; crossed it, and rested nowhere until he came to Mahanaim, that he might get out of the reach of David’s forces.

THE BATTLE OF GIBEON, 12-32.

12. Went out from Mahanaim — That is, marched out from the capital of the kingdom of Ishbosheth. Having been successful in bringing all the northern and eastern tribes to acknowledge Ishbosheth as king, Abner seems to have thought to bring over the tribe of Judah also. He at least began the fight. Gibeon — The modern el-Jib, a few miles northwest of Jerusalem. See on Joshua 9:3.

Verse 29. They came to Mahanaim.] So they returned to the place whence they set out. See 2 Samuel 2:12. This was the commencement of the civil wars between Israel and Judah, and properly the commencement of the division of the two kingdoms, through which both nations were deluged with blood.

II SAMUEL

Verses 28, 29. So Joab blew a trumpet — Caused a retreat to be sounded. Neither fought they any more — Neither at that time, nor probably at any other, in a pitched battle. And Abner and his men walked all that night — He made the best of his way to Jordan; crossed it, and rested nowhere until he came to Mahanaim, that he might get out of the reach of David’s forces.

29. Through the plain — The valley of the Jordan. Bithron — Literally, the broken or divided place. As no locality bearing this name is ever afterwards mentioned, and the Hebrew word has the article — all the Bithron — it probably designates not a single place, but the broken and intersected region beyond the Jordan through which one must pass in order to go from the river to Mahanaim.

Verse 30. There lacked of David’s servants nineteen men — This renders it probable that the twelve men of Judah, who in the beginning of the fight engaged in combat with as many men of Benjamin, were not killed; for if they were, then there would have been no more than seven men killed in the subsequent battle; which is not likely.

30. Nineteen men and Asahel — Whilst Abner lost three hundred and sixty men. But Abner’s army had been weakened and disheartened by the defeat at Gilboa, and perhaps by other subsequent struggles with the Philistines, whilst Joab’s men were probably all picked warriors, who had for years followed David, and taken lessons from his consummate military skill.

THE BATTLE OF GIBEON, 12-32.

12. Went out from Mahanaim — That is, marched out from the capital of the kingdom of Ishbosheth. Having been successful in bringing all the northern and eastern tribes to acknowledge Ishbosheth as king, Abner seems to have thought to bring over the tribe of Judah also. He at least began the fight. Gibeon — The modern el-Jib, a few miles northwest of Jerusalem. See on Joshua 9:3.

V. 32. In Bethlehem-The rest they buried in the field of battle, but Asahel in the sepulchre of his father. Thus are distinctions made upon earth, even between the dust of some and of others! But in the resurrection no difference will be made but between good and bad; which will remain for ever.

Verse 32. They took up Asahel, and buried him in the sepulchre of his father — The rest they buried in the field of battle. Thus are distinctions made on earth, even between the dust of some and of others! But in the resurrection no difference will be made, except between good and bad, which will remain for ever. Joab and his men went all night — Having carried Asahel to Beth-lehem and buried him there, they marched all the next night toward Hebron, Joab hastening home to give an account of his conduct to David.

32. Came to Hebron at break of day — Literally, it became light to them, in Hebron. Perhaps the day after the burial of Asahel is meant, as it was sunset when the pursuit ceased. Verse 24. But it was not impossible for David’s men to have taken Asahel from the wilderness of Gibeon to Beth-lehem, a distance of twelve or fifteen miles, buried him, and gone on to Hebron, fourteen miles further, in the course of a single night. Joab and his hardy companions were used to long marches and rapid movements.