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Commentary on 2 Samuel 3 verses 7–21
Here, I. Abner breaks with Ish-bosheth, and deserts his interest, upon a little provocation which Ish-bosheth unadvisedly gave him. God can serve his own purposes by the sins and follies of men. 1. Ish-bosheth accused Abner of no less a crime than debauching one of his father's concubines, Sa2 3:7. Whether it was so or no does not appear, nor what ground he had for the suspicion: but, however it was, it would have been Ish-bosheth's prudence to be silent, considering how much it was his interest not to disoblige Abner. If the thing was false, and his jealousy groundless, it was very disingenuous and ungrateful to entertain unjust surmises of one who had ventured his all for him, and was certainly the best friend he had in the world. 2. Abner resented the charge very strongly. Whether he was guilty of the fault concerning this woman or no he does not say (Sa2 3:8), but we suspect he was guilty, for he does not expressly deny it; and, though he was, he lets Ish-bosheth know, (1.) That he scorned to be reproached with it by him, and would not take reproof at his hands. "What!" says Abner, "Am I a dog's head, a vile and contemptible animal, that thou exposest me thus? Sa2 3:8. Is this my recompence for the kindness I have shown to thee and thy father's house, and the good services I have done you?" He magnifies the service with this, that it was against Judah, the tribe on which the crown was settled, and which would certainly have it at last, so that, in supporting the house of Saul, he acted both against his conscience and against his interest, for which he deserved a better requital than this: and yet, perhaps, he would not have been so zealous for the house of Saul if he had not thereby gratified his own ambition and hoped to find his own account in it. Note, Proud men will not bear to be reproved, especially by those whom they think they have obliged. (2.) That he would certainly be revenged on him, Sa2 3:9, Sa2 3:10. With the utmost degree of arrogance and insolence he lets him know that, as he had raised him up, so he could pull him down again and would do it. He knew that God had sworn to David to give him the kingdom, and yet opposed it with all his might from a principle of ambition; but now he complies with it from a principle of revenge, under colour of some regard to the will of God, which was but a pretence. Those that are slaves to their lusts have many masters, which drive, some one way and some another, and, according as they make head, men are violently hurried into self-contradictions. Abner's ambition made him zealous for Ish-bosheth, and now his revenge made him as zealous for David. If he had sincerely regarded God's promise to David, and acted with an eye to that, he would have been steady and uniform in his counsels, and acted in consistency with himself. But, while Abner serves his own lusts, God by him serves his own purposes, makes even his wrath and revenge to praise him, and ordains strength to David by it. Lastly, See how Ish-bosheth was thunder-struck by Abner's insolence: He could not answer him again, Sa2 3:11. If Ish-bosheth had had the spirit of a man, especially of a prince, he might have answered him that his merits were the aggravation of his crimes, that he would not be served by so base a man, and doubted not but to do well enough without him. But he was conscious to himself of his own weakness, and therefore said not a word, lest he should make bad worse. His heart failed him, and he now became, as David had foretold concerning his enemies, like a bowing wall and a tottering fence, Psa 62:3.
II. Abner treats with David. We must suppose that he began to grow weary of Ish-bosheth's cause, and sought an opportunity to desert it, or else, however he might threaten Ish-bosheth with it, for the quashing of the charge against himself, he would not have made good his angry words so soon as he did, Sa2 3:12. He sent messengers to David, to tell him that he was at his service. "Whose is the land? Is it not thine? For thou hast the best title to the government and the best interest in the people's affections." Note, God can find out ways to make those serviceable to the kingdom of Christ who yet have no sincere affection for it and who have vigorously set themselves against it. Enemies are sometimes made a footstool, not only to be trodden upon, but to ascend by. The earth helped the woman.
III. David enters into a treaty with Abner, but upon condition that he shall procure him the restitution of Michal his wife, Sa2 3:13. Hereby, 1. David showed the sincerity of his conjugal affection to his first and most rightful wife; neither her marrying another, nor his, had alienated him from her. Many waters could not quench that love. 2. He testified his respect to the house of Saul. So far was he from trampling upon it, now that it was fallen, that even in his elevation he valued himself not a little on his relation to it. He cannot be pleased with the honours of the throne unless he have Michal, Saul's daughter, to share with him in them, so far is he from bearing any malice to the family of his enemy. Abner sent him word that he must apply to Ish-bosheth, which he did (Sa2 3:14), pleading that he had purchased her at a dear rate, and she was wrongfully taken from him. Ish-bosheth durst not deny his demand, now that he had not Abner to stand by him, but took her from Phaltiel, to whom Saul had married her (Sa2 3:15), and Abner conducted her to David, not doubting but that then he should be doubly welcome when he brought him a wife in one hand and a crown in the other. Her latter husband was loth to part with her, and followed her weeping (Sa2 3:16), but there was no remedy: he must thank himself; for when he took her he knew that another had a right to her. Usurpers must expect to resign. Let no man therefore set his heart on that to which he is not entitled. If any disagreement has separated husband and wife, as they expect the blessing of God let them be reconciled, and come together again; let all former quarrels be forgotten, and let them live together in love, according to God's holy ordinance.
IV. Abner uses his interest with the elders of Israel to bring them over to David, knowing that whichever way they went the common people would follow of course. Now that it serves his own turn he can plead in David's behalf that he was, 1. Israel's choice (Sa2 3:17): "You sought for him in times past to be king over you, when he had signalized himself in so many engagements with the Philistines and done you so much good service; no man can pretend to greater personal merit than David nor to less than Ish-bosheth. You have tried them both, Detur digniori - Give the crown to him that best deserves it. Let David be your king." 2. God's choice (Sa2 3:18): "The Lord hath spoken of David. Compare Sa2 3:9. When God appointed Samuel to anoint him he did, in effect, promise that by his hand he would save Israel; for for that end he was made king. God having promised, by David's hand, to save Israel, it is both your duty, in compliance with God's will, and your interest, in order to your victories over your enemies, to submit to him; and it is the greatest folly in the world to oppose him." Who would have expected such reasonings as these out of Abner's mouth? But thus God will make the enemies of his people to know and own that he has loved them, Rev 3:9. He particularly applied to the men of Benjamin, those of his own tribe, on whom he had the greatest influence, and whom he had drawn in to appear for the house of Saul. He was the man that had deceived them, and therefore he was concerned to undeceive them. Thus the multitude are as they are managed.
V. David concludes the treaty with Abner; and he did wisely and well therein; for, whatever induced Abner to it, it was a good work to put an end to the war, and to settle the Lord's anointed on the throne; and it was as lawful for David to make use of his agency as it is for a poor man to receive alms from a Pharisee, who gives it in pride and hypocrisy. Abner reported to David the sense of the people and the success of his communications with them, Sa2 3:19. He came now, not as at first privately, but with a retinue of twenty men, and David entertained them with a feast (Sa2 3:20) in token of reconciliation and joy and as a pledge of the agreement between them: it was a feast upon a covenant, like that, Gen 26:30. If thy enemy hunger, feed him; but, if he submit, feast him. Abner, pleased with his entertainment, the prevention of his fall with Saul's house (which would have been inevitable if he had not taken this course), and much more with the prospect he had of preferment under David, undertakes in a little time to perfect the revolution, and to bring all Israel into obedience to David, Sa2 3:21. He tells David he shall reign over all that his heart desired. He knew David's elevation took rise from God's appointment, yet he insinuates that it sprang from his own ambition and desire of rule; thus (as bad men often do) he measured that good man by himself. However, David and he parted very good friends, and the affair between them was well settled. Thus it behoves all who fear God and keep his commandments to avoid strife, even with the wicked, to live at peace with all men, and to show the world that they are children of the light.
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SUMMARY
2 Samuel 3:21 marks a pivotal moment in the complex narrative of Israel's unification, as Abner, the formidable commander of Saul's army and the key supporter of Ish-bosheth, pledges his full allegiance and strategic support to David. This verse captures Abner's solemn promise to gather all the northern tribes of Israel under David's kingship, thereby consolidating the divided nation and fulfilling David's divinely ordained destiny. David's peaceful dismissal of Abner underscores the perceived success of this crucial diplomatic encounter, setting the stage for the eventual full establishment of David's reign over all Israel, though the immediate peace proves tragically short-lived.
CONTEXT
EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Key Word Analysis
Verse Breakdown
Literary Devices
The passage employs several significant literary devices that enrich its meaning and foreshadow future events. There is a powerful sense of Irony present; Abner, who initially installed and vigorously upheld Ish-bosheth's rival kingship, now pledges to actively dismantle it and unify the nation under David. This dramatic reversal of allegiance highlights the shifting political landscape and the ultimate futility of resisting God's chosen king. The phrase "he went in peace" serves as a poignant example of Foreshadowing, though in a tragic, inverse sense. While it conveys a momentary sense of resolution and safety, the reader, especially in hindsight of the subsequent narrative, understands that this peace is illusory and short-lived, immediately preceding Abner's brutal murder by Joab (2 Samuel 3:27), which shatters the hope for a smooth and peaceful transition. Abner's declaration itself functions as a Pledge or Oath, a solemn promise to gather the tribes and formalize their allegiance to David, emphasizing the gravity of the political negotiations and the immense weight of his commitment in an ancient Near Eastern context.
THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
2 Samuel 3:21 is a profound testament to God's sovereign hand in human affairs, even amidst political intrigue, personal ambition, and deep-seated rivalries. Abner's decision, though partly motivated by a personal slight and a pragmatic assessment of power, ultimately aligns with and advances God's long-declared purpose for David to rule over all Israel. This verse illustrates that God uses various agents and circumstances, sometimes seemingly contradictory or flawed, to bring about His divine will. It underscores the theme of divine election and the unstoppable nature of God's promises, showing how the fragmented kingdom is being inexorably drawn towards the divinely chosen king. The aspiration for a "league" and unification also speaks to God's desire for unity among His people, a theme that resonates throughout biblical history, culminating in the unified body of believers in Christ.
REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
This passage offers powerful insights into the unfolding of God's purposes in a world often marked by human complexity, ambition, and conflict. It reminds us that even when circumstances seem chaotic or driven by human agendas, God remains sovereign, orchestrating events to fulfill His ultimate plan. Abner's eventual recognition of David's divine appointment, despite his initial opposition, calls us to discern and align ourselves with God's clear will, even when it requires a significant change of heart, allegiance, or a letting go of personal pride. David's willingness to receive Abner, despite their history of conflict and Abner's past role in prolonging the civil war, speaks to the profound importance of pursuing reconciliation and unity, especially when it serves a greater, God-ordained purpose. While the immediate peace promised in this verse was tragically short-lived, the verse still points to the divine desire for unity and the eventual establishment of a righteous kingdom. We are encouraged to trust in God's overarching plan, even when the path is winding and fraught with human failings, and to actively seek reconciliation and unity within our communities and the broader body of Christ, working towards the peace that God desires.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Why was Abner so influential that his pledge was crucial for David to become king over all Israel?
Answer: Abner was not merely a military commander; he was a highly respected and powerful figure, a cousin of King Saul, and the strategic architect of Ish-bosheth's reign over the northern tribes. He possessed immense personal authority, strategic military prowess, and the loyalty of the Israelite elders and army. His decision to switch allegiance was not merely a personal one but represented the defection of the most significant power broker in the house of Saul. Without Abner's active support in "gathering all Israel," David would have faced a prolonged and bloody struggle to subdue the northern tribes. Abner's pledge to "make a league" with David effectively promised the peaceful transfer of power and the unification of the kingdom, a task no one else could accomplish as efficiently or with such widespread acceptance. His influence was so profound that even after his death, David publicly mourned him, recognizing the immense loss to the cause of unity, as seen in 2 Samuel 3:38.
CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
2 Samuel 3:21, with its focus on the unification of a divided kingdom under a divinely appointed king, powerfully foreshadows the ultimate reign of Jesus Christ. Just as Abner pledged to gather all Israel under David, Jesus, the true Son of David, comes to gather not just Israel but all humanity into His eternal kingdom. The "league" or covenant Abner promised to establish between David and the tribes finds its ultimate fulfillment in the New Covenant established by Christ's blood, which unites believers from every tribe and nation into one body, the Church (Ephesians 2:13-16). The promise that David would "reign over all that thine heart desireth" points to Christ's universal and undisputed sovereignty, for He has been given "all authority in heaven and on earth" (Matthew 28:18). While Abner's peace was tragically short-lived, shattered by human sin and vengeance, the peace that Christ offers is eternal and unbreakable, reconciling humanity to God and to one another, a peace that surpasses all understanding (Colossians 1:20 and Philippians 4:7). The fragmented kingdom of Israel, yearning for unity, finds its perfect and lasting unity in Christ, the King of kings, who is the head of His unified body, the Church, bringing together all things in Himself (Ephesians 1:22-23 and Colossians 1:18).