II Samuel 3: Navigating Power, Politics, and Personal Grief
Now there was long war between the house of Saul and the house of David: but David waxed stronger and stronger, and the house of Saul waxed weaker and weaker.
And unto David were sons born in Hebron: and his firstborn was Amnon, of Ahinoam the Jezreelitess;
And his second, Chileab, of Abigail the wife of Nabal the Carmelite; and the third, Absalom the son of Maacah the daughter of Talmai king of Geshur;
And the fourth, Adonijah the son of Haggith; and the fifth, Shephatiah the son of Abital;
And the sixth, Ithream, by Eglah David’s wife. These were born to David in Hebron.
And it came to pass, while there was war between the house of Saul and the house of David, that Abner made himself strong for the house of Saul.
And Saul had a concubine, whose name was Rizpah, the daughter of Aiah: and Ish–bosheth said to Abner, Wherefore hast thou gone in unto my father’s concubine?
Then was Abner very wroth for the words of Ish–bosheth, and said, Am I a dog’s head, which against Judah do shew kindness this day unto the house of Saul thy father, to his brethren, and to his friends, and have not delivered thee into the hand of David, that thou chargest me to day with a fault concerning this woman?
So do God to Abner, and more also, except, as the Lord hath sworn to David, even so I do to him;
To translate the kingdom from the house of Saul, and to set up the throne of David over Israel and over Judah, from Dan even to Beer–sheba.
And he could not answer Abner a word again, because he feared him.
And Abner sent messengers to David on his behalf, saying, Whose is the land? saying also, Make thy league with me, and, behold, my hand shall be with thee, to bring about all Israel unto thee.
And he said, Well; I will make a league with thee: but one thing I require of thee, that is, Thou shalt not see my face, except thou first bring Michal Saul’s daughter, when thou comest to see my face.
And David sent messengers to Ish–bosheth Saul’s son, saying, Deliver me my wife Michal, which I espoused to me for an hundred foreskins of the Philistines.
And Ish–bosheth sent, and took her from her husband, even from Phaltiel the son of Laish.
And her husband went with her along weeping behind her to Bahurim. Then said Abner unto him, Go, return. And he returned.
And Abner had communication with the elders of Israel, saying, Ye sought for David in times past to be king over you:
Now then do it: for the Lord hath spoken of David, saying, By the hand of my servant David I will save my people Israel out of the hand of the Philistines, and out of the hand of all their enemies.
And Abner also spake in the ears of Benjamin: and Abner went also to speak in the ears of David in Hebron all that seemed good to Israel, and that seemed good to the whole house of Benjamin.
So Abner came to David to Hebron, and twenty men with him. And David made Abner and the men that were with him a feast.
And Abner said unto David, I will arise and go, and will gather all Israel unto my lord the king, that they may make a league with thee, and that thou mayest reign over all that thine heart desireth. And David sent Abner away; and he went in peace.
And, behold, the servants of David and Joab came from pursuing a troop, and brought in a great spoil with them: but Abner was not with David in Hebron; for he had sent him away, and he was gone in peace.
When Joab and all the host that was with him were come, they told Joab, saying, Abner the son of Ner came to the king, and he hath sent him away, and he is gone in peace.
Then Joab came to the king, and said, What hast thou done? behold, Abner came unto thee; why is it that thou hast sent him away, and he is quite gone?
Thou knowest Abner the son of Ner, that he came to deceive thee, and to know thy going out and thy coming in, and to know all that thou doest.
And when Joab was come out from David, he sent messengers after Abner, which brought him again from the well of Sirah: but David knew it not.
And when Abner was returned to Hebron, Joab took him aside in the gate to speak with him quietly, and smote him there under the fifth rib, that he died, for the blood of Asahel his brother.
And afterward when David heard it, he said, I and my kingdom are guiltless before the Lord for ever from the blood of Abner the son of Ner:
Let it rest on the head of Joab, and on all his father’s house; and let there not fail from the house of Joab one that hath an issue, or that is a leper, or that leaneth on a staff, or that falleth on the sword, or that lacketh bread.
So Joab and Abishai his brother slew Abner, because he had slain their brother Asahel at Gibeon in the battle.
And David said to Joab, and to all the people that were with him, Rend your clothes, and gird you with sackcloth, and mourn before Abner. And king David himself followed the bier.
And they buried Abner in Hebron: and the king lifted up his voice, and wept at the grave of Abner; and all the people wept.
And the king lamented over Abner, and said, Died Abner as a fool dieth?
Thy hands were not bound, nor thy feet put into fetters: as a man falleth before wicked men, so fellest thou. And all the people wept again over him.
And when all the people came to cause David to eat meat while it was yet day, David sware, saying, So do God to me, and more also, if I taste bread, or ought else, till the sun be down.
And all the people took notice of it, and it pleased them: as whatsoever the king did pleased all the people.
For all the people and all Israel understood that day that it was not of the king to slay Abner the son of Ner.
And the king said unto his servants, Know ye not that there is a prince and a great man fallen this day in Israel?
And I am this day weak, though anointed king; and these men the sons of Zeruiah be too hard for me: the Lord shall reward the doer of evil according to his wickedness.
II Samuel 3 unveils a complex tapestry of political maneuvering, shifting allegiances, and profound personal grief, all playing out against the backdrop of a kingdom in transition. This chapter, crucial to understanding the consolidation of David's reign, highlights the intricate relationships between key players and the far-reaching consequences of their actions. This chapter reveals not only the political landscape of the time but also offers valuable insights into human nature, leadership, and the challenges of navigating a world marred by ambition and violence.
The Slow but Steady Rise of David (II Samuel 3:1-5)
The chapter opens by emphasizing the growing strength of David's house and the corresponding decline of Saul's (II Samuel 3:1). This "long war" wasn't just a clash of armies, but a struggle between two kingdoms, with God clearly blessing David's ascent. The author then lists David's first six sons, each born to a different mother in Hebron (II Samuel 3:2-5). While polygamy was a common practice for ancient kings, it deviated from God's intended design for marriage and the specific instructions for Israel's king (Deuteronomy 17:17). The mention of Maacah, daughter of King Talmai of Geshur, suggests that at least one of David's marriages was a strategic alliance.
It's noteworthy that three of these sons – Amnon, Absalom, and Adonijah – will later play tragic roles in David's life. Their stories serve as a stark reminder that even a man after God's own heart is not immune to the consequences of sin, which can ripple through generations, bringing immense grief and turmoil. These sons would commit terrible sins, including incest, murder, and rebellion, foreshadowing the devastating impact of David's own future transgressions (II Samuel 11:1–12:15) on his family.
Abner's Shifting Allegiance (II Samuel 3:6-19)
The dynamics begin to shift dramatically when Ish-bosheth accuses Abner, the commander of Saul's army, of sleeping with Saul's concubine, Rizpah (II Samuel 3:7). In that culture, such an act was seen as a direct challenge to the throne, an attempt to seize power. Abner, a proud and powerful figure, is incensed by the accusation, viewing it as an insult and a betrayal of his loyalty to the house of Saul. He retaliates by accusing Ish-bosheth of being a traitor (II Samuel 3:8). The text notes that Ish-bosheth was afraid to respond to Abner, highlighting Abner's immense power and influence (II Samuel 3:11).
This confrontation marks a turning point. Abner, fueled by anger and perhaps a desire for greater power, decides to switch his allegiance to David. He offers to make a covenant with David, promising to bring all of Israel under his rule (II Samuel 3:12). David accepts the offer, but with one condition: the return of his first wife, Michal, Saul's daughter (II Samuel 3:13). Michal had been given to another man after David fled from Saul (I Samuel 18:27; 25:44). Legally, she was still David's wife, making David the rightful heir to Saul's throne as Saul's son-in-law. David's request was not merely sentimental; it was a strategic move to solidify his claim to the throne. He retrieves Michal from Paltiel (II Samuel 3:15).
Abner then embarks on a campaign to win support for David among the elders of Israel (II Samuel 3:17). He reminds them of God's promise that David was chosen to deliver Israel from its enemies, including the Philistines (II Samuel 3:18). He even approaches the Benjamites, Saul's own tribe, to gain their support. Finally, Abner brings news of his successful negotiations to David in Hebron (II Samuel 3:19).
David's Diplomacy and Joab's Jealousy (II Samuel 3:20-39)
David welcomes Abner and his entourage, hosting a banquet in their honor (II Samuel 3:20). Abner confidently promises to unite all of Israel under David's leadership, paving the way for him to become king over the entire nation (II Samuel 3:21). David, understandably pleased, sends Abner away in peace (II Samuel 3:21-23). The author emphasizes this detail, highlighting David's good faith and lack of suspicion.
However, the peace is short-lived. When Joab, David's commander, returns to Hebron and learns of Abner's visit, he is consumed by fury (II Samuel 3:22-23). Joab accuses Abner of being a spy, deceiving David (II Samuel 3:24-25). While it's difficult to definitively know Joab's motives, several factors likely contributed to his anger: revenge for the death of his brother Asahel (whom Abner had killed in self-defense), a desire to protect David's throne, and perhaps jealousy that Abner might become a rival for the command of David's army.
Driven by his rage, Joab deceives David and plots Abner's murder (II Samuel 3:26). He sends a message to Abner, feigning a desire for further consultation. When Abner returns, Joab lures him aside and, under the guise of private conversation, fatally stabs him in revenge for Asahel's death (II Samuel 3:27). Joab's brother, Abishai, is also implicated in the plot (II Samuel 3:30).
David is devastated by the news of Abner's murder. He recognizes that Abner's death undermines his efforts to unite Israel and consolidate his kingdom (II Samuel 3:28-29). To distance himself from Joab's treachery, David publicly declares his innocence before the Lord and pronounces a severe curse on Joab and his descendants.
David goes to great lengths to demonstrate his genuine grief for Abner. He commands mourning for Abner (II Samuel 3:31), walks behind the coffin (II Samuel 3:31), weeps at the tomb (II Samuel 3:32), composes a lament (II Samuel 3:33-34), and fasts (II Samuel 3:35). These acts of mourning are not merely for show; they are crucial for demonstrating to the people of Israel that David was not complicit in Abner's death and that he is not seeking the throne through evil means.
The people of Israel and all the troops recognize David's innocence (II Samuel 3:36-37). David acknowledges the violent nature of Joab and his brother, the sons of Zeruiah (II Samuel 3:38-39), but laments that he is powerless to discipline them. The fact that Zeruiah was David's half-sister may explain his reluctance to take action. David's closing words, "I am weak today, though anointed king; and these men, the sons of Zeruiah, are too strong for me," reveal the limitations of his power and the challenges he faces in asserting his authority.
II Samuel 3 is a powerful reminder of the complexities of leadership, the ever-present threat of violence, and the devastating consequences of personal ambition. It highlights the importance of integrity, the need for wise counsel, and the enduring power of grief. The chapter serves as a poignant illustration of the human condition, reminding us that even those in positions of power are not immune to the struggles and temptations that beset us all.
Now there was long war between the house of Saul and the house of David: but David waxed stronger and stronger, and the house of Saul waxed weaker and weaker.
And unto David were sons born in Hebron: and his firstborn was Amnon, of Ahinoam the Jezreelitess;
And his second, Chileab, of Abigail the wife of Nabal the Carmelite; and the third, Absalom the son of Maacah the daughter of Talmai king of Geshur;
And the fourth, Adonijah the son of Haggith; and the fifth, Shephatiah the son of Abital;
And the sixth, Ithream, by Eglah David’s wife. These were born to David in Hebron.
And it came to pass, while there was war between the house of Saul and the house of David, that Abner made himself strong for the house of Saul.
And Saul had a concubine, whose name was Rizpah, the daughter of Aiah: and Ish–bosheth said to Abner, Wherefore hast thou gone in unto my father’s concubine?
Then was Abner very wroth for the words of Ish–bosheth, and said, Am I a dog’s head, which against Judah do shew kindness this day unto the house of Saul thy father, to his brethren, and to his friends, and have not delivered thee into the hand of David, that thou chargest me to day with a fault concerning this woman?
So do God to Abner, and more also, except, as the Lord hath sworn to David, even so I do to him;
To translate the kingdom from the house of Saul, and to set up the throne of David over Israel and over Judah, from Dan even to Beer–sheba.
And he could not answer Abner a word again, because he feared him.
And Abner sent messengers to David on his behalf, saying, Whose is the land? saying also, Make thy league with me, and, behold, my hand shall be with thee, to bring about all Israel unto thee.
And he said, Well; I will make a league with thee: but one thing I require of thee, that is, Thou shalt not see my face, except thou first bring Michal Saul’s daughter, when thou comest to see my face.
And David sent messengers to Ish–bosheth Saul’s son, saying, Deliver me my wife Michal, which I espoused to me for an hundred foreskins of the Philistines.
And Ish–bosheth sent, and took her from her husband, even from Phaltiel the son of Laish.
And her husband went with her along weeping behind her to Bahurim. Then said Abner unto him, Go, return. And he returned.
And Abner had communication with the elders of Israel, saying, Ye sought for David in times past to be king over you:
Now then do it: for the Lord hath spoken of David, saying, By the hand of my servant David I will save my people Israel out of the hand of the Philistines, and out of the hand of all their enemies.
And Abner also spake in the ears of Benjamin: and Abner went also to speak in the ears of David in Hebron all that seemed good to Israel, and that seemed good to the whole house of Benjamin.
So Abner came to David to Hebron, and twenty men with him. And David made Abner and the men that were with him a feast.
And Abner said unto David, I will arise and go, and will gather all Israel unto my lord the king, that they may make a league with thee, and that thou mayest reign over all that thine heart desireth. And David sent Abner away; and he went in peace.
And, behold, the servants of David and Joab came from pursuing a troop, and brought in a great spoil with them: but Abner was not with David in Hebron; for he had sent him away, and he was gone in peace.
When Joab and all the host that was with him were come, they told Joab, saying, Abner the son of Ner came to the king, and he hath sent him away, and he is gone in peace.
Then Joab came to the king, and said, What hast thou done? behold, Abner came unto thee; why is it that thou hast sent him away, and he is quite gone?
Thou knowest Abner the son of Ner, that he came to deceive thee, and to know thy going out and thy coming in, and to know all that thou doest.
And when Joab was come out from David, he sent messengers after Abner, which brought him again from the well of Sirah: but David knew it not.
And when Abner was returned to Hebron, Joab took him aside in the gate to speak with him quietly, and smote him there under the fifth rib, that he died, for the blood of Asahel his brother.
And afterward when David heard it, he said, I and my kingdom are guiltless before the Lord for ever from the blood of Abner the son of Ner:
Let it rest on the head of Joab, and on all his father’s house; and let there not fail from the house of Joab one that hath an issue, or that is a leper, or that leaneth on a staff, or that falleth on the sword, or that lacketh bread.
So Joab and Abishai his brother slew Abner, because he had slain their brother Asahel at Gibeon in the battle.
And David said to Joab, and to all the people that were with him, Rend your clothes, and gird you with sackcloth, and mourn before Abner. And king David himself followed the bier.
And they buried Abner in Hebron: and the king lifted up his voice, and wept at the grave of Abner; and all the people wept.
And the king lamented over Abner, and said, Died Abner as a fool dieth?
Thy hands were not bound, nor thy feet put into fetters: as a man falleth before wicked men, so fellest thou. And all the people wept again over him.
And when all the people came to cause David to eat meat while it was yet day, David sware, saying, So do God to me, and more also, if I taste bread, or ought else, till the sun be down.
And all the people took notice of it, and it pleased them: as whatsoever the king did pleased all the people.
For all the people and all Israel understood that day that it was not of the king to slay Abner the son of Ner.
And the king said unto his servants, Know ye not that there is a prince and a great man fallen this day in Israel?
And I am this day weak, though anointed king; and these men the sons of Zeruiah be too hard for me: the Lord shall reward the doer of evil according to his wickedness.
II Samuel 3 unveils a complex tapestry of political maneuvering, shifting allegiances, and profound personal grief, all playing out against the backdrop of a kingdom in transition. This chapter, crucial to understanding the consolidation of David's reign, highlights the intricate relationships between key players and the far-reaching consequences of their actions. This chapter reveals not only the political landscape of the time but also offers valuable insights into human nature, leadership, and the challenges of navigating a world marred by ambition and violence.
The Slow but Steady Rise of David (II Samuel 3:1-5)
The chapter opens by emphasizing the growing strength of David's house and the corresponding decline of Saul's (II Samuel 3:1). This "long war" wasn't just a clash of armies, but a struggle between two kingdoms, with God clearly blessing David's ascent. The author then lists David's first six sons, each born to a different mother in Hebron (II Samuel 3:2-5). While polygamy was a common practice for ancient kings, it deviated from God's intended design for marriage and the specific instructions for Israel's king (Deuteronomy 17:17). The mention of Maacah, daughter of King Talmai of Geshur, suggests that at least one of David's marriages was a strategic alliance.
It's noteworthy that three of these sons – Amnon, Absalom, and Adonijah – will later play tragic roles in David's life. Their stories serve as a stark reminder that even a man after God's own heart is not immune to the consequences of sin, which can ripple through generations, bringing immense grief and turmoil. These sons would commit terrible sins, including incest, murder, and rebellion, foreshadowing the devastating impact of David's own future transgressions (II Samuel 11:1–12:15) on his family.
Abner's Shifting Allegiance (II Samuel 3:6-19)
The dynamics begin to shift dramatically when Ish-bosheth accuses Abner, the commander of Saul's army, of sleeping with Saul's concubine, Rizpah (II Samuel 3:7). In that culture, such an act was seen as a direct challenge to the throne, an attempt to seize power. Abner, a proud and powerful figure, is incensed by the accusation, viewing it as an insult and a betrayal of his loyalty to the house of Saul. He retaliates by accusing Ish-bosheth of being a traitor (II Samuel 3:8). The text notes that Ish-bosheth was afraid to respond to Abner, highlighting Abner's immense power and influence (II Samuel 3:11).
This confrontation marks a turning point. Abner, fueled by anger and perhaps a desire for greater power, decides to switch his allegiance to David. He offers to make a covenant with David, promising to bring all of Israel under his rule (II Samuel 3:12). David accepts the offer, but with one condition: the return of his first wife, Michal, Saul's daughter (II Samuel 3:13). Michal had been given to another man after David fled from Saul (I Samuel 18:27; 25:44). Legally, she was still David's wife, making David the rightful heir to Saul's throne as Saul's son-in-law. David's request was not merely sentimental; it was a strategic move to solidify his claim to the throne. He retrieves Michal from Paltiel (II Samuel 3:15).
Abner then embarks on a campaign to win support for David among the elders of Israel (II Samuel 3:17). He reminds them of God's promise that David was chosen to deliver Israel from its enemies, including the Philistines (II Samuel 3:18). He even approaches the Benjamites, Saul's own tribe, to gain their support. Finally, Abner brings news of his successful negotiations to David in Hebron (II Samuel 3:19).
David's Diplomacy and Joab's Jealousy (II Samuel 3:20-39)
David welcomes Abner and his entourage, hosting a banquet in their honor (II Samuel 3:20). Abner confidently promises to unite all of Israel under David's leadership, paving the way for him to become king over the entire nation (II Samuel 3:21). David, understandably pleased, sends Abner away in peace (II Samuel 3:21-23). The author emphasizes this detail, highlighting David's good faith and lack of suspicion.
However, the peace is short-lived. When Joab, David's commander, returns to Hebron and learns of Abner's visit, he is consumed by fury (II Samuel 3:22-23). Joab accuses Abner of being a spy, deceiving David (II Samuel 3:24-25). While it's difficult to definitively know Joab's motives, several factors likely contributed to his anger: revenge for the death of his brother Asahel (whom Abner had killed in self-defense), a desire to protect David's throne, and perhaps jealousy that Abner might become a rival for the command of David's army.
Driven by his rage, Joab deceives David and plots Abner's murder (II Samuel 3:26). He sends a message to Abner, feigning a desire for further consultation. When Abner returns, Joab lures him aside and, under the guise of private conversation, fatally stabs him in revenge for Asahel's death (II Samuel 3:27). Joab's brother, Abishai, is also implicated in the plot (II Samuel 3:30).
David is devastated by the news of Abner's murder. He recognizes that Abner's death undermines his efforts to unite Israel and consolidate his kingdom (II Samuel 3:28-29). To distance himself from Joab's treachery, David publicly declares his innocence before the Lord and pronounces a severe curse on Joab and his descendants.
David goes to great lengths to demonstrate his genuine grief for Abner. He commands mourning for Abner (II Samuel 3:31), walks behind the coffin (II Samuel 3:31), weeps at the tomb (II Samuel 3:32), composes a lament (II Samuel 3:33-34), and fasts (II Samuel 3:35). These acts of mourning are not merely for show; they are crucial for demonstrating to the people of Israel that David was not complicit in Abner's death and that he is not seeking the throne through evil means.
The people of Israel and all the troops recognize David's innocence (II Samuel 3:36-37). David acknowledges the violent nature of Joab and his brother, the sons of Zeruiah (II Samuel 3:38-39), but laments that he is powerless to discipline them. The fact that Zeruiah was David's half-sister may explain his reluctance to take action. David's closing words, "I am weak today, though anointed king; and these men, the sons of Zeruiah, are too strong for me," reveal the limitations of his power and the challenges he faces in asserting his authority.
II Samuel 3 is a powerful reminder of the complexities of leadership, the ever-present threat of violence, and the devastating consequences of personal ambition. It highlights the importance of integrity, the need for wise counsel, and the enduring power of grief. The chapter serves as a poignant illustration of the human condition, reminding us that even those in positions of power are not immune to the struggles and temptations that beset us all.