2 Samuel 3:27

Arabic KEH Ketab El Hayat (كتاب الحياة)

وَعِنْدَمَا رَجَعَ أَبْنَيْرُ إِلَى حَبْرُونَ انْتَحَى بِهِ يُوآبُ جَانِباً عِنْدَ مُنْتَصَفِ بَوَّابَةِ الْمَدِينَةِ، وَكَأَنَّهُ يُرِيدُ أَنْ يُسِرَّ إِلَيْهِ بِشَيْءٍ، وَطَعَنَهُ فِي بَطْنِهِ فَمَاتَ انْتِقَاماً لِدَمِ عَسَائِيلَ.

What Does This Mean?

In this verse, Joab takes Abner aside in the gate of Hebron and kills him by striking him under the fifth rib. This act is a revenge for the death of Joab's brother, Asahel.

Explained for Children

Imagine if your friend was upset because someone accidentally hurt your brother. Your friend went to talk to that person and then did something very mean to get back at them. That's what happened here, but it's not a good thing to do.

Historical Background

This verse is part of the historical narratives in the Book of 2 Samuel, written around the 6th century BC. The author is unknown, but tradition attributes it to Jeremiah. The audience is the Israelites, and the cultural setting is the period of the monarchy in Israel.

Living It Out Today

This verse teaches us about the dangers of revenge. Today, if someone wrongs you, choosing to forgive and seek peace is a much better way to handle the situation than seeking vengeance.

Topics

• revenge
• forgiveness
• conflict resolution
• justice
• family loyalty
• leadership

Related Verses

• 1 Samuel 25:33
• 1 Kings 2:5
• Proverbs 24:29
• Romans 12:19
• Matthew 5:39

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did Joab kill Abner quietly?

Joab wanted to take revenge for his brother's death, and doing it quietly meant avoiding immediate retaliation from Abner's supporters.

What does the fifth rib signify in this verse?

The fifth rib was a specific target to ensure a lethal blow, showing the intent to kill rather than injure.

How does this verse relate to the broader story of David?

Joab's actions were part of the internal conflicts that occurred during David's reign, highlighting the struggles for power and loyalty.

What can we learn about revenge from this story?

This story illustrates the destructive nature of revenge, teaching that forgiveness and peace are more beneficial than seeking personal vengeance.