2 Samuel 2:19

KJV

And Asahel pursued after Abner; and in going he turned not to the right hand nor to the left from following Abner.

KJV (with Strong's)

And Asahel {H6214} pursued {H7291} after {H310} Abner {H74}; and in going {H3212} he turned {H5186} not to the right hand {H3225} nor to the left {H8040} from following {H310} Abner {H74}.

Complete Jewish Bible

'Asah'el chased Avner, going straight for him, veering neither right nor left.

Berean Standard Bible

and he chased Abner, not turning to the right or to the left in his pursuit.

American Standard Version

And Asahel pursued after Abner; and in going he turned not to the right hand nor to the left from following Abner.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Second Samuel 2:19 vividly portrays Asahel's relentless and single-minded pursuit of Abner, the commander of Saul's army, during the civil war between the house of David and the house of Saul. The verse emphasizes Asahel's unwavering focus, indicating that he disregarded all other potential targets or distractions, setting the stage for a tragic personal confrontation that would have far-reaching consequences for the ongoing conflict.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated immediately after a brutal and escalating confrontation at the pool of Gibeon, described in [2 Samuel 2:12-17](/2_samuel/2-12 "2 Samuel 2:12-17 - The Battle at Gibeon"). What began as a challenge between twelve men from each side quickly devolved into a full-scale rout of Abner's forces by David's men. Asahel, renowned for his exceptional speed (explicitly stated in [2 Samuel 2:18](/2_samuel/2-18 "2 Samuel 2:18 - Asahel's Swiftness")), is depicted as singularly focused on capturing or killing Abner, the most prominent military leader of the opposing side. His unwavering pursuit, highlighted in this verse, directly precedes Abner's repeated warnings to Asahel to turn away ([2 Samuel 2:20-22](/2_samuel/2-20 "2 Samuel 2:20-22 - Abner's Warning to Asahel")), which Asahel tragically ignores, leading to his death at Abner's hand in [2 Samuel 2:23](/2_samuel/2-23 "2 Samuel 2:23 - Asahel's Death"). This personal tragedy then fuels Joab's vengeful pursuit of Abner, escalating the conflict further.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The events of 2 Samuel 2 unfold during a tumultuous period in Israel's history, immediately following the death of King Saul and his sons at Mount Gilboa ([1 Samuel 31](/1_samuel/31 "1 Samuel 31 - The Death of Saul")). David has been anointed king over Judah in Hebron ([2 Samuel 2:4](/2_samuel/2-4 "2 Samuel 2:4 - David Anointed King in Hebron")), while Abner, Saul's cousin and army commander, has made Saul's son Ish-bosheth king over the rest of Israel ([2 Samuel 2:8-10](/2_samuel/2-8 "2 Samuel 2:8-10 - Ish-bosheth Becomes King")). This sets the stage for a protracted civil war. In ancient warfare, personal valor and the capture or killing of enemy commanders were highly prized, bringing great honor to the warrior. Asahel's pursuit of Abner reflects this cultural emphasis on individual glory and the desire to decisively end the conflict by eliminating a key opposing figure. The narrative also subtly highlights the deep-seated loyalties and fierce rivalries that characterized tribal and family structures in ancient Israel, which would continue to shape the unfolding drama.
* **Key Themes:** This verse, and the broader narrative it belongs to, contributes to several significant themes. It powerfully illustrates the **personal cost of civil conflict**, showing how larger political struggles translate into individual tragedies and vendettas. Asahel's single-minded pursuit underscores the theme of **unchecked ambition or zeal**, which, when untempered by wisdom or discernment, can lead to catastrophic outcomes. His refusal to "turn to the right hand nor to the left" can be seen as a negative manifestation of **unwavering determination**, contrasting with its positive biblical usage (e.g., in adherence to God's law, as seen in [Deuteronomy 5:32](/deuteronomy/5-32 "Deuteronomy 5:32 - Do Not Turn Aside from God's Commands")). Furthermore, the narrative subtly explores the tension between human agency and divine providence, as David's eventual kingship over all Israel is God's will, yet human choices, like Asahel's, play out within that larger plan, often with tragic consequences.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Pursued (Hebrew, רָדַף, _radaph_):** This verb signifies an active, often aggressive, chase or pursuit, frequently with the intent to overtake, capture, or harm. In military contexts, it denotes a relentless pursuit of a fleeing enemy. Here, it emphasizes Asahel's initiative and determination in pressing after Abner, not merely following at a distance but actively closing in.
* **Turned not to the right hand nor to the left (Hebrew, לֹא־נָטָה יָמִין וּשְׂמָאול, _lo-natah yamin u-smol_):** This is a common biblical idiom expressing unwavering focus, single-mindedness, or strict adherence to a path or command. While often used positively (e.g., in following God's commandments without deviation, as in [Deuteronomy 5:32](/deuteronomy/5-32 "Deuteronomy 5:32 - Do Not Turn Aside")), here it describes Asahel's unyielding, almost reckless, concentration on Abner, to the exclusion of all other potential targets or considerations, including self-preservation. It highlights his tunnel vision and determination to achieve his singular objective.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And Asahel pursued after Abner;":** This initial clause identifies the two main characters in this immediate, dramatic chase. Asahel, known for his extraordinary speed ([2 Samuel 2:18](/2_samuel/2-18 "2 Samuel 2:18 - Asahel's Speed")), is the aggressor, actively chasing Abner, the seasoned and powerful commander of the opposing army. This sets up a high-stakes encounter between a swift, ambitious youth and an experienced, formidable warrior.
* **"and in going he turned not to the right hand nor to the left":** This phrase is the heart of the verse, emphasizing Asahel's absolute and unyielding focus. It means he did not deviate from his direct line of pursuit; he ignored other fleeing soldiers, potential tactical advantages, or even warnings. His entire being was fixed on Abner, demonstrating an intense, almost obsessive, single-mindedness. This unwavering determination, while often a virtue, is here presented in a context that foreshadows its tragic outcome.
* **"from following Abner.":** This final clause reiterates and clarifies the sole object of Asahel's relentless pursuit. It underscores that Abner, and Abner alone, was his target, reinforcing the idea of his singular focus and the personal nature of this chase within the larger battle.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several significant literary devices. The most prominent is **Idiom**, specifically the phrase "turned not to the right hand nor to the left." This well-known biblical expression conveys unwavering determination and single-mindedness, here applied to Asahel's relentless pursuit. The use of this idiom effectively characterizes Asahel as a man of intense focus, almost to the point of recklessness. Furthermore, the verse utilizes **Foreshadowing** by highlighting Asahel's unyielding pursuit. This intense focus, described in such absolute terms, subtly hints at the inevitable collision and tragic outcome that will follow, as Abner's warnings go unheeded. Finally, there is a strong element of **Characterization** through action. Asahel's determination and singular focus are not merely stated but demonstrated through his persistent refusal to deviate, painting a vivid picture of his personality and martial zeal.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The unwavering pursuit of Asahel, while demonstrating admirable determination, serves as a cautionary tale within the broader biblical narrative, highlighting the dangers of zeal untempered by wisdom and discernment. His single-mindedness, driven by ambition for glory, ultimately leads to his demise, illustrating that even commendable traits can become destructive when not guided by prudence or a willingness to heed counsel. This narrative subtly challenges the notion that all forms of relentless pursuit are inherently virtuous, prompting reflection on the motives and potential consequences of our own unwavering objectives. It underscores the biblical principle that pride often precedes a fall, and that true wisdom involves knowing when to press on and when to turn aside.

* [Proverbs 16:18](/proverbs/16-18 "Proverbs 16:18 - Pride Goes Before Destruction")
* [Proverbs 1:19](/proverbs/1-19 "Proverbs 1:19 - The End of Those Who Are Greedy for Gain")
* [Deuteronomy 5:32](/deuteronomy/5-32 "Deuteronomy 5:32 - Do Not Turn Aside from God's Commands")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Asahel's story in 2 Samuel 2:19 offers a profound opportunity for self-reflection on the nature of our own pursuits. His unwavering focus, while seemingly a virtue, becomes a fatal flaw because it lacks discernment and humility. We are often encouraged to be single-minded in our goals, to "not turn to the right hand or to the left" from our path. However, this verse prompts us to ask: What is the object of our relentless pursuit? Is it personal glory, ambition, or something truly aligned with divine wisdom? Are we so fixed on our objectives that we fail to see warnings, ignore wise counsel, or disregard the potential harm to ourselves or others? True wisdom often lies not in rigid adherence to a chosen path, but in the flexibility to discern when to pivot, when to retreat, and when to prioritize life and peace over personal triumph. This narrative challenges us to temper our zeal with humility, to seek counsel, and to evaluate our motivations, ensuring that our determination serves a higher, life-giving purpose rather than leading to unnecessary conflict or destruction.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What are the "Abners" in my life that I am pursuing with such single-mindedness that I ignore all else?**
* **When has my own "not turning to the right hand nor to the left" led to negative consequences or missed opportunities?**
* **How can I cultivate a spirit of discernment and humility to temper my ambition and zeal?**
* **Am I open to receiving warnings and counsel, even when they challenge my chosen path or desired outcome?**

### FAQ
**Why was Asahel so singularly focused on pursuing Abner?**

Answer: Asahel's intense focus on Abner was likely driven by a combination of factors common in ancient warfare and personal ambition. As a swift and skilled warrior, he would have sought personal glory and honor by defeating a prominent enemy commander. Killing Abner, the leader of Saul's forces, would have been a significant blow to the opposing side and a major achievement for Asahel and David's army. It was a high-stakes pursuit aimed at a decisive victory and personal renown.

**What does the idiom "turned not to the right hand nor to the left" imply in this context?**

Answer: This idiom signifies unwavering determination, single-mindedness, and a refusal to deviate from a chosen path. While often used positively in the Bible to describe faithfulness to God's commands (e.g., [Deuteronomy 5:32](/deuteronomy/5-32 "Deuteronomy 5:32 - Do Not Turn Aside")), here it carries a negative connotation. It highlights Asahel's tunnel vision, indicating that he ignored all other fleeing soldiers, potential tactical shifts, and crucially, Abner's subsequent warnings ([2 Samuel 2:20-22](/2_samuel/2-20 "2 Samuel 2:20-22 - Abner's Warning to Asahel")), leading directly to his tragic end.

**What was the ultimate outcome of Asahel's pursuit of Abner?**

Answer: Despite Abner's repeated warnings to turn aside and pursue someone else, Asahel stubbornly refused to relent. Ultimately, Abner, in self-defense, thrust the butt end of his spear through Asahel's belly, killing him instantly ([2 Samuel 2:23](/2_samuel/2-23 "2 Samuel 2:23 - Asahel's Death")). This act, though an act of self-preservation for Abner, became the catalyst for a deep personal vendetta by Asahel's brother, Joab, which would later lead to Abner's assassination ([2 Samuel 3:27](/2_samuel/3-27 "2 Samuel 3:27 - Joab Kills Abner")) and further complicate the civil war.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Asahel's relentless pursuit, driven by human ambition and culminating in death, stands in stark contrast to the divine, unwavering pursuit of God in Christ. While Asahel "turned not to the right hand nor to the left" in his chase for personal glory, Jesus Christ demonstrated an ultimate, single-minded focus on fulfilling the Father's will, even unto death. His journey to Jerusalem, where he would face crucifixion, is described as setting "his face steadfastly to go to Jerusalem" ([Luke 9:51](/luke/9-51 "Luke 9:51 - Jesus Sets His Face Toward Jerusalem")), an unwavering resolve not for earthly triumph but for redemptive sacrifice. Unlike Asahel's pursuit which led to a personal tragedy and further conflict, Christ's determined path to the cross was for the salvation of humanity, demonstrating a perfect obedience that did not deviate for personal gain or fear of suffering. His "not turning aside" was a divine commitment to love and reconciliation, culminating in victory over sin and death, offering eternal life instead of temporal glory ([Philippians 2:8-9](/philippians/2-8 "Philippians 2:8-9 - Christ's Humility and Exaltation")). Thus, Asahel's story serves as a shadow, highlighting the destructive nature of human ambition, while Christ's life reveals the life-giving power of divine purpose and self-sacrificial love ([John 10:10](/john/10-10 "John 10:10 - Jesus Gives Life Abundantly")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Proverbs 4:27

Turn not to the right hand nor to the left: remove thy foot from evil.

2 Kings 22:2

And he did [that which was] right in the sight of the LORD, and walked in all the way of David his father, and turned not aside to the right hand or to the left.

Joshua 1:7

Only be thou strong and very courageous, that thou mayest observe to do according to all the law, which Moses my servant commanded thee: turn not from it [to] the right hand or [to] the left, that thou mayest prosper whithersoever thou goest.

2 Samuel 2:21

And Abner said to him, Turn thee aside to thy right hand or to thy left, and lay thee hold on one of the young men, and take thee his armour. But Asahel would not turn aside from following of him.

Joshua 23:6

Be ye therefore very courageous to keep and to do all that is written in the book of the law of Moses, that ye turn not aside therefrom [to] the right hand or [to] the left;