2 Samuel 2:23

Translation
King James Version
Howbeit he refused to turn aside: wherefore Abner with the hinder end of the spear smote him under the fifth rib, that the spear came out behind him; and he fell down there, and died in the same place: and it came to pass, that as many as came to the place where Asahel fell down and died stood still.
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KJV (with Strong's)
Howbeit he refused H3985 to turn aside H5493: wherefore Abner H74 with the hinder end H310 of the spear H2595 smote H5221 him under H413 the fifth H2570 rib, that the spear H2595 came out H3318 behind H310 him; and he fell down H5307 there, and died H4191 in the same place H8478: and it came to pass, that as many as came H935 to the place H4725 where Asahel H6214 fell down H5307 and died H4191 stood still H5975.
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Complete Jewish Bible
But he still refused to turn aside; so Avner stabbed him in the groin with the back end of the spear, so that the shaft protruded behind him. He fell down and died on the spot. Everyone who came to the place where 'Asah'el lay dead stopped there.
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Berean Standard Bible
But Asahel refused to turn away; so Abner thrust the butt of his spear into his stomach, and it came out his back, and he fell dead on the spot. And every man paused when he came to the place where Asahel had fallen and died.
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American Standard Version
Howbeit he refused to turn aside: wherefore Abner with the hinder end of the spear smote him in the body, so that the spear came out behind him; and he fell down there, and died in the same place: and it came to pass, that as many as came to the place where Asahel fell down and died stood still.
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World English Bible Messianic
However he refused to turn aside. Therefore Abner with the back end of the spear struck him in the body, so that the spear came out behind him; and he fell down there, and died in the same place. As many as came to the place where Asahel fell down and died stood still.
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Geneva Bible (1599)
And when he woulde not depart, Abner with the hinder ende of the speare smote him vnder the fift ryb, that the speare came out behind him: and he fell downe there, and dyed in his place. And as many as came to the place where Asahel fell downe and dyed, stoode still.
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Young's Literal Translation
And he refuseth to turn aside, and Abner smiteth him with the hinder part of the spear unto the fifth rib , and the spear cometh out from behind him, and he falleth there, and dieth under it; and it cometh to pass, every one who hath come unto the place where Asahel hath fallen and dieth--they stand still.
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See also
2 Samuel 3:272 Samuel 4:62 Samuel 20:102 Samuel 5:62 Samuel 20:122 Samuel 20:13
See on the biblical-era map
City Plan: Jerusalem in the Time of David
City Plan: Jerusalem in the Time of David View full PDF
David Assumes the Throne of Judah
David Assumes the Throne of Judah View full PDF
Wars Between the Houses of David and Saul
Wars Between the Houses of David and Saul View full PDF

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In the KJVVerse 8,073 of 31,102

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SUMMARY

2 Samuel 2:23 chronicles the tragic and pivotal death of Asahel, the swift-footed brother of Joab, at the hand of Abner, commander of Saul's army. This event, occurring during the early stages of the civil war between the house of Saul and the burgeoning kingdom of David, was a desperate act of self-preservation by Abner after Asahel's relentless pursuit. Asahel's demise would profoundly escalate the personal animosity between the two factions, particularly between Joab and Abner, setting the stage for future acts of vengeance and prolonging the conflict that plagued Israel.

CONTEXT

  • Literary Context: This verse is situated within the broader narrative of the civil war that erupted following the death of King Saul and his sons at Gilboa, and David's anointing as king over Judah. The immediate preceding verses detail a tense encounter at the Pool of Gibeon, where a challenge between twelve men from each side escalated into a fierce and bloody battle, described vividly in 2 Samuel 2:12-17. Asahel, renowned for his exceptional speed, a detail highlighted in 2 Samuel 2:18, fixated on pursuing Abner, the most prominent leader of Saul's house. Abner, recognizing Asahel and understanding the severe implications of killing him—namely, incurring a blood feud with Joab, David's commander and Asahel's brother—repeatedly warned Asahel to turn aside and pursue someone else, as recorded in 2 Samuel 2:20-22. Asahel's stubborn refusal to heed these warnings forced Abner into a defensive act that resulted in the fatal blow, a moment that would directly lead to Joab's later treacherous assassination of Abner, as detailed in 2 Samuel 3:27.
  • Historical & Cultural Context: The period described is one of deep political fragmentation and civil strife in ancient Israel, immediately after the unified monarchy under Saul. David had been anointed king in Hebron over Judah, while Saul's son Ish-bosheth was made king over the northern tribes by Abner in Mahanaim, a situation outlined in 2 Samuel 2:8-10. This created a volatile atmosphere where loyalty was divided and conflict was inevitable. Crucially, the concept of "blood vengeance" (Hebrew: go'el haddam) was a deeply ingrained social and legal custom. If a person was murdered, a designated "avenger of blood," usually a close male relative, was obligated to kill the murderer. Abner's repeated attempts to deter Asahel stemmed from his desire to avoid this blood feud, which would inevitably escalate the conflict beyond a conventional battle. The use of spears was common in ancient warfare, and the description of the blow highlights the brutal realities of close-quarters combat, where such a precise and powerful thrust would be instantly lethal.
  • Key Themes: This verse powerfully illustrates several key themes prevalent in the book of 2 Samuel. First, it underscores the destructive nature of civil war, where kinsmen fight against kinsmen, leading to tragic and often avoidable deaths like Asahel's. The conflict is not just political but deeply personal, fueling cycles of vengeance that prolong suffering, as seen in the long war between the house of Saul and the house of David. Second, Asahel's relentless and perhaps reckless pursuit highlights the dangers of uncontrolled zeal or ambition, even in a seemingly righteous cause. His refusal to "turn aside" despite clear warnings sealed his fate, demonstrating a lack of wisdom or discernment that proved fatal. Third, the incident brings to the forefront the weight of bloodguilt and the cycle of vengeance, a persistent problem in Israelite society that often undermined peace and justice, leading to further bloodshed. Finally, the detail that soldiers "stood still" at the sight of Asahel's death emphasizes the solemnity and shock of mortality, particularly when a prominent figure falls, momentarily halting the chaos of battle and forcing a pause for reflection.

EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

Key Word Analysis

  • Refused (Hebrew, mâʼên, H3985): This primitive root signifies an absolute unwillingness to comply or turn away. In Asahel's case, it highlights his stubborn and unyielding determination to pursue Abner, despite repeated warnings. This refusal is central to understanding the tragic inevitability of the outcome, as it indicates a deliberate choice to disregard Abner's plea.
  • Hinder end (Hebrew, ʼachar, H310): From a root meaning "behind" or "after," this term describes the rear or back part of something. In the context of "hinder end of the spear," it implies a blow delivered with the butt end of the weapon, or perhaps a backhand thrust with the sharp end. Regardless of the precise method, the phrase emphasizes a powerful, desperate, and ultimately lethal defensive maneuver by Abner, resulting in the spear's complete penetration.
  • Died (Hebrew, mûwth, H4191): This primitive root means "to die" (literally or figuratively) or, causatively, "to kill." Its use here confirms the immediate and undeniable fatality of the wound Asahel sustained. The directness of the verb underscores the finality of Asahel's life, emphasizing that the blow was not merely incapacitating but definitively life-ending.

Verse Breakdown

  • "Howbeit he refused to turn aside": This opening clause immediately establishes Asahel's unwavering resolve, or perhaps his fatal stubbornness. Despite Abner's clear warnings and attempts to avoid a personal confrontation that would escalate the conflict, Asahel remained fixed on his target, demonstrating a lack of prudence that ultimately sealed his fate.
  • "wherefore Abner with the hinder end of the spear smote him under the fifth [rib]": This describes the fatal action. The King James Version's "fifth [rib]" is an interpretation of the Hebrew word chômesh, which more broadly refers to the abdomen or lower torso—a vital and vulnerable area. The phrase "hinder end of the spear" suggests a powerful, perhaps unconventional, thrust. This detail highlights Abner's skill and the desperate necessity of his act of self-defense, delivering a precise and lethal blow.
  • "that the spear came out behind him": This graphic and explicit detail emphasizes the immense force and penetrative power of Abner's thrust. It leaves no doubt about the lethality of the wound, indicating a complete perforation of Asahel's body, ensuring his immediate demise.
  • "and he fell down there, and died in the same place": This confirms the immediate and undeniable consequence of the blow. Asahel's death was instantaneous and occurred precisely where he fell, a stark and unceremonious end to a swift and promising warrior, underscoring the brutal finality of combat.
  • "and it came to pass, [that] as many as came to the place where Asahel fell down and died stood still": This final clause captures the profound impact of Asahel's death on the battlefield. It signifies a moment of collective shock, perhaps even reverence or fear, as the fighting men paused in the face of such a prominent and sudden casualty. It highlights the solemnity of death and its power to momentarily halt even the most intense conflict.

Literary Devices

The narrative of Asahel's death employs several powerful Literary Devices. There is a tragic Irony in Asahel's exceptional speed, which was his greatest asset, ultimately leading him directly into the path of his death. His swiftness, rather than enabling escape or victory, propelled him towards his demise. The entire scene serves as potent Foreshadowing, as Asahel's death at Abner's hand directly precipitates Joab's later act of vengeance against Abner, thus escalating the cycle of violence and prolonging the civil war. The vivid, almost clinical description of the fatal blow ("smote him under the fifth [rib]... that the spear came out behind him") employs Pathos, evoking a sense of pity and sorrow for the young warrior's unnecessary end and the grim realities of civil war. The detail that the soldiers "stood still" functions as Symbolism, representing not only the immediate shock and awe but also the profound, unsettling impact that death, particularly a sudden and significant one, has on the living, momentarily freezing the chaos of battle and forcing a moment of solemn reflection.

THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS

The death of Asahel stands as a stark biblical testament to the devastating consequences of human sin, particularly as it manifests in civil strife, personal ambition, and the relentless pursuit of vengeance. It illustrates how unbridled zeal, when untempered by wisdom or a willingness to yield, can lead to tragic ends, even when the initial cause might seem righteous. The narrative also highlights the pervasive nature of bloodguilt in ancient society and the destructive cycle of retribution that it often perpetuated, demonstrating how one act of violence can ripple through generations. The solemn pause of the soldiers at Asahel's death site underscores the sanctity of human life and the profound, universal human response to mortality, even in the brutal context of war. Theologically, it reminds us that while God's sovereign plan unfolds, human choices, particularly those driven by pride, anger, or vengeance, carry real and often devastating consequences that disrupt peace and sow discord.

REFLECTION AND APPLICATION

Asahel's tragic end serves as a profound cautionary tale for all believers. His relentless pursuit, admirable in its zeal but fatal in its execution, challenges us to consider the nature of our own ambitions and pursuits. Are we willing to "turn aside" when wisdom, peace, or the well-being of others demands it, even if it means relinquishing a perceived advantage or victory? Do we recognize when our zeal, however well-intentioned, might be leading us down a path of destruction or perpetuating cycles of conflict and animosity? This narrative compels us to reflect on the immense cost of unresolved conflict and the seductive nature of vengeance, which, as seen in Joab's subsequent actions, only deepens wounds and prolongs suffering, preventing true reconciliation. It calls us to actively seek reconciliation, practice forgiveness, and pursue peace, rather than allowing personal grievances to escalate into destructive feuds that harm ourselves and others. Furthermore, the scene of soldiers "standing still" at the sight of death invites us to pause in our own lives, to acknowledge the fragility of life, the solemnity of mortality, and the profound impact that loss has on us and those around us, fostering a deeper appreciation for life and a greater urgency for peace and compassion.

Questions for Reflection

  • In what areas of my life might I be pursuing a goal with such relentless zeal that I am unwilling to "turn aside" from potential harm or conflict, even when warned?
  • How does Asahel's death, and the subsequent cycle of vengeance, challenge my own tendencies towards unforgiveness or retribution, and what steps can I take towards reconciliation?
  • What does the "standing still" of the soldiers at Asahel's death reveal about the universal human response to tragedy and mortality, and how can I apply this solemnity to my own life and interactions?

FAQ

Why did Abner kill Asahel if he didn't want to?

Answer: Abner killed Asahel out of desperate self-defense. The narrative clearly states that Abner repeatedly warned Asahel to stop pursuing him, even offering him the chance to fight a lesser opponent and take his armor (2 Samuel 2:20-22). Abner knew that killing Asahel, Joab's brother, would inevitably lead to a blood feud and escalate the civil war between the houses of Saul and David. However, Asahel's relentless and unyielding pursuit left Abner with no choice but to defend himself, as his own life was in immediate danger.

What is the significance of "hinder end of the spear" and "fifth rib"?

Answer: The King James Version's "hinder end of the spear" (Hebrew: 'achar haḥanit') likely refers to the butt end of the spear, used as a blunt but incredibly forceful weapon, or possibly a backhand thrust with the sharp end, indicating a swift and unexpected maneuver. Given the outcome, it signifies a powerful and lethal blow. The phrase "under the fifth [rib]" is a KJV interpretation of the Hebrew word chômesh, which more generally refers to the abdomen or lower chest area, a vital region. It emphasizes that the blow was precise and fatal, ensuring the spear passed through Asahel's body.

How did Asahel's death impact the civil war between the house of Saul and the house of David?

Answer: Asahel's death had a profoundly negative impact, escalating the conflict from a general civil war into a deeply personal blood feud between the two leading commanders: Abner and Joab. Abner's killing of Asahel, though in self-defense, made him the target of Joab's blood vengeance. This personal vendetta ultimately led to Joab's treacherous assassination of Abner later on (2 Samuel 3:27), which, while removing a strong leader from Saul's side, also complicated David's efforts to unify Israel and demonstrated the destructive cycle of violence that plagued the nation, prolonging suffering and instability.

CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT

The tragic death of Asahel, a consequence of human stubbornness, the brutal realities of war, and the pervasive cycle of vengeance, finds its ultimate and redemptive fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Asahel's demise highlights the futility and destructive power of human conflict and the endless cycle of retribution that often follows. In stark contrast, Christ's death was not a result of human folly or self-defense in a civil war, but a deliberate, substitutionary sacrifice to break the power of sin and reconcile humanity to God. Where Asahel's blood led to further bloodshed and vengeance, the blood of Christ cleanses from all sin and establishes a new covenant of peace. He is the ultimate Peacemaker, who, unlike Asahel's relentless pursuit leading to death, pursued us in love, laying down His life so that we might have life and have it abundantly (John 10:10). His teaching to turn the other cheek and love one's enemies directly confronts the spirit of vengeance seen in this narrative, offering a radical alternative. The "standing still" of the soldiers at Asahel's death, a moment of shock, foreshadows the profound awe and repentance that should grip humanity when confronted with the reality of Christ's cross, where the Lamb of God willingly offered Himself, bringing an end to the need for blood vengeance and ushering in an era of grace and reconciliation, demonstrating God's immense love for us even while we were sinners (Romans 5:8-10).

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Commentary on 2 Samuel 2 verses 18–24

We have here the contest between Abner and Asahel. Asahel, the brother of Joab and cousin-german to David, was one of the principal commanders of David's forces, and was famous for swiftness in running: he was as light of foot as a wild roe (Sa2 2:18); this he got the name of by swift pursuing, not swift flying. Yet, we may suppose, he was not comparable to Abner as a skilful experienced soldier; we must therefore observe,

I. How rash he was in aiming to make Abner his prisoner. He pursued after him, and no other, Sa2 2:19. Proud of his relation to David and Joab, his own swiftness, and the success of his party, no less a trophy of victory would now serve the young warrior than Abner himself, either slain or bound, which he thought would put an end to the war and effectually open David's way to the throne. This made him very eager in the pursuit, and careless of the opportunities he had of seizing others in his way, on his right hand and on his left; his eye was on Abner only. The design was brave, had he been par negotio - equal to its accomplishment: but let not the swift man glory in his swiftness, any more than the strong man in his strength; magnis excidit ausis - he perished in an attempt too vast for him.

II. How generous Abner was in giving him notice of the danger he exposed himself to, and advising him not to meddle to his own hurt, Ch2 25:19. 1. He bade him content himself with a less prey (Sa2 2:21): "Lay hold of one of the young men, plunder him and make him thy prisoner, meddle with thy match, but pretend not to one who is so much superior to thee." It is wisdom in all contests to compare our own strength with that of our adversaries, and to take heed of being partial to ourselves in making the comparison, lest we prove in the issue enemies to ourselves, Luk 14:31. 2. He begged of him not to put him upon the necessity of slaying him in his own defence, which he was very loth to do, but must do rather than be slain by him, Sa2 2:22. Abner, it seems, either loved Joab or feared him; for he was very loth to incur his displeasure, which he would certainly do if he slew Asahel. It is commendable for enemies to be thus respectful one to another. Abner's care how he should lift up his face to Joab gives cause to suspect that he really believed David would have the kingdom at last, according to the divine designation, and then, in opposing him, he acted against his conscience.

III. How fatal Asahel's rashness was to him. He refused to turn aside, thinking that Abner spoke so courteously because he feared him; but what came of it? Abner, as soon as he came up to him, gave him his death's wound with a back stroke (Sa2 2:23): He smote him with the hinder end of his spear, from which he feared no danger. This was a pass which Asahel was not acquainted with, nor had learned to stand upon his guard against; but Abner, perhaps, had formerly used it, and done execution with it; and here it did effectual execution. Asahel died immediately of the wound. See here, 1. How death often comes upon us by ways that we least suspect. Who would fear the hand of a flying enemy or the butt-end of a spear? yet from these Asahel receives his death's wound. 2. How we are often betrayed by the accomplishments we are proud of. Asahel's swiftness, which he presumed so much upon, did him no kindness, but forwarded his fate, and with it he ran upon his death, instead of running from it. Asahel's fall was not only Abner's security from him, but put a full stop to the conqueror's pursuit and gave Abner time to rally again; for all that came to the place stood still, only Joab and Abishai, instead of being disheartened, were exasperated by it, pursued Abner with so much the more fury (Sa2 2:24), and overtook him at last about sunset, when the approaching night would oblige them to retire.

Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers verses 18–24. Public domain.
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Gregory the DialogistAD 604
PASTORAL CARE 3.16
But when the easily angered so attack others that it is impossible to shun them, they should not be smitten with open rebuke but sparingly with a certain respectful forbearance. We shall prove this better by citing the example of Abner. Scripture has it that when Asahel attacked him with vehement and inconsiderate haste, Abner said to Asahel, “Go off and do not follow me, lest I be obliged to strike you to the ground.… But he refused to listen to him, and would not turn aside. Therefore, Abner struck him with his spear, with a back stroke in the groin, and thrust him through, and he died.” Of whom, then, did Asahel serve as a type, but of those who are driven headlong in a violent access of frenzy? Such people, when under the impulse of a like frenzy, are the more cautiously to be shunned, the more carried away they are in their madness. Therefore, too, Abner, who in our language is termed “lamp of the father,” fled: that is to say, if the teacher, whose tongue symbolizes the heavenly light of God, perceives the mind of a person to be carried away along the rugged path of frenzy and refrains from bandying words with such an angered one, he is like one unwilling to strike a pursuer. But when easily angered people will not restrain themselves under any consideration, and, as it were, like Asahel, do not refrain from their mad pursuit, then it is necessary for those who try to check them in their frenzy, not on any account to allow their anger to be aroused but to show all possible calmness; and let them suggest discreetly that which will, as it were, by a side stroke pierce their frenzied mind.Thus, when Abner made a stand against his pursuer, he pierced him, not with a direct thrust but with the reverse end of his spear. Of course, to strike with the sharp point is to oppose another with an attack of open rebuke, but to strike a pursuer with the reverse end of the spear is to touch the frenzied quietly and partially, and to overcome him, as it were, by sparing him. But Asahel falls down dead on the spot: that is, turbulent minds, on perceiving that they are shown consideration and, on the other hand, because they are touched in their hearts in consequence of being reasoned with calmly, fall down at once from the lofty place to which they had raised themselves. Those, therefore, who withdraw from their frenzied impulse under the stroke of gentleness, die, as it were, without being struck by the head of a spear.
Source: Quotations drawn from early Church Fathers and historical Christian theologians (AD 100–1500). Some quotes address the surrounding passage context rather than this verse alone.
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