2 Samuel 4:5

KJV

And the sons of Rimmon the Beerothite, Rechab and Baanah, went, and came about the heat of the day to the house of Ishbosheth, who lay on a bed at noon.

KJV (with Strong's)

And the sons {H1121} of Rimmon {H7417} the Beerothite {H886}, Rechab {H7394} and Baanah {H1196}, went {H3212}, and came {H935} about the heat {H2527} of the day {H3117} to the house {H1004} of Ishbosheth {H378}, who lay {H7901} on a bed {H4904} at noon {H6672}.

Complete Jewish Bible

The sons of Rimmon the Be'eroti, Rekhav and Ba'anah went and arrived during the heat of the day at the home of Ish-Boshet as he was taking his afternoon rest.

Berean Standard Bible

Now Rechab and Baanah, the sons of Rimmon the Beerothite, set out and arrived at the house of Ish-bosheth in the heat of the day, while the king was taking his midday nap.

American Standard Version

And the sons of Rimmon the Beerothite, Rechab and Baanah, went, and came about the heat of the day to the house of Ish-bosheth, as he took his rest at noon.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
This verse initiates the climactic events leading to the undisputed establishment of David's kingdom over all Israel. It introduces Rechab and Baanah, two brothers and military captains, who exploit the most vulnerable moment of Ishbosheth, Saul's surviving son and rival king. Their stealthy approach to Ishbosheth's house during the intense midday heat, when he was resting, sets the stage for his treacherous assassination, a pivotal act in the ongoing power struggle for the throne.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** 2 Samuel 4:5 is strategically placed within the narrative of the consolidation of David's kingdom. The preceding chapters detail the death of King Saul and his sons at Gilboa, David's lament, and his subsequent anointing as king over Judah in Hebron. Ishbosheth, Saul's son, was then made king over the rest of Israel by Abner, Saul's army commander, leading to a protracted civil war between the house of Saul and the house of David. The narrative has already seen the death of Asahel, Joab's brother, and, crucially, the assassination of Abner by Joab in [2 Samuel 3:27](/2_samuel/3-27 "2 Samuel 3:27 - Joab Kills Abner"). Abner's death is a major turning point, as he was the primary pillar supporting Ishbosheth's fragile reign. This verse, therefore, immediately follows the weakening of Ishbosheth's position, setting the stage for his own demise and the final removal of any significant obstacle to David's unified kingship, which is fully realized in [2 Samuel 5](/2_samuel/5 "2 Samuel 5 - David Anointed King Over All Israel").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The period described is one of political instability and civil strife in ancient Israel, following the collapse of Saul's monarchy. Ishbosheth's rule was nominal, largely confined to Mahanaim east of the Jordan and dependent on Abner's military strength. The "Beerothite" designation for Rechab and Baanah is significant: Beeroth was one of the Gibeonite cities that had made a covenant with Joshua ([Joshua 9:17](/joshua/9-17 "Joshua 9:17 - Gibeonites Deceive Joshua")). Later, Saul had attempted to annihilate the Gibeonites ([2 Samuel 21:1-2](/2_samuel/21-1 "2 Samuel 21:1-2 - Saul's Persecution of the Gibeonites")), potentially making Beerothites like Rimmon's sons feel a tenuous loyalty to Saul's house. The practice of a midday "siesta" or rest during "the heat of the day" was a common and necessary custom in the ancient Near East due to the intense heat, making this time a period of vulnerability for those resting indoors. This cultural detail underscores the opportunistic nature of the assassins.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes in 2 Samuel. Firstly, it highlights the **Vulnerability of Power** and the pervasive **Betrayal** within Saul's declining kingdom, where even those ostensibly serving the king would turn against him for personal gain or perceived advantage. Secondly, it marks a crucial step in the **Decline and Fall of Saul's House**, demonstrating the irreversible unraveling of his dynasty, paving the way for God's chosen king, David. The assassination of Ishbosheth, the last significant heir, effectively ends the civil war and clears the path for a unified monarchy under David, as described in [2 Samuel 5:1-5](/2_samuel/5-1 "2 Samuel 5:1-5 - David Becomes King Over All Israel"). Thirdly, while a heinous act of human treachery, the event also subtly points to **Divine Providence**, wherein God's sovereign plan for David's kingship unfolds even through the sinful actions of individuals, without David's complicity or approval. David's strong condemnation of the assassins in [2 Samuel 4:9-12](/2_samuel/4-9 "2 Samuel 4:9-12 - David's Response to Ishbosheth's Murderers") underscores that this was not God's method, but God used the outcome to further His purpose.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Beerothite (Hebrew, _bĕʾērōtî_):** This term identifies the origin of Rechab and Baanah as Beeroth, one of the Gibeonite cities. The Gibeonites had a long and complex history with Israel, having deceived Joshua into a covenant ([Joshua 9:3-27](/joshua/9-3 "Joshua 9:3-27 - The Gibeonites' Deception")). Later, Saul had broken this covenant by attempting to exterminate them ([2 Samuel 21:1-2](/2_samuel/21-1 "2 Samuel 21:1-2 - Saul's Persecution of the Gibeonites")). The fact that these "Beerothites" were serving Ishbosheth, Saul's son, suggests a precarious loyalty, perhaps born out of necessity or opportunism, which ultimately proved fatal for Ishbosheth. Their actions may reflect a deeper resentment or a desire to align with the rising power of David.
* **Heat of the day (Hebrew, כְּחֹם הַיּוֹם, _kĕḥōm hayyōm_):** This idiomatic phrase refers to the hottest part of the day, typically midday or early afternoon, when the sun is at its zenith and temperatures are highest. In the ancient Near East, this was a common time for people to retreat indoors, cease outdoor labor, and rest or take a siesta. The detail is crucial as it highlights Ishbosheth's vulnerability, being caught off guard and defenseless during a period of expected tranquility. It emphasizes the assassins' calculated timing and opportunistic nature.
* **Lay on a bed at noon (Hebrew, שֹׁכֵב אֶת־מִשְׁכָּבוֹ בַּצָּהֳרָיִם, _shōkhēv ʾet-mishkāvō batstsohŏrāyim_):** This phrase vividly portrays Ishbosheth's state of utter defenselessness. He was not merely resting, but "lying on his bed," implying a deep state of sleep or relaxation, typical of a midday nap. The specific mention of "noon" (_tsohŏrāyim_) reinforces the "heat of the day" context, underscoring that he was in a private, vulnerable setting, completely unaware of the impending danger. This detail heightens the sense of betrayal and the ease with which the assassination was carried out.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And the sons of Rimmon the Beerothite, Rechab and Baanah, went":** This introduces the two primary actors in the assassination plot. They are identified by their father, Rimmon, and their hometown, Beeroth, emphasizing their specific identity and background. Their "going" signifies their deliberate movement towards their target, indicating premeditation.
* **"and came about the heat of the day":** This specifies the precise timing of their arrival. As discussed, "the heat of the day" refers to midday, a period of rest and reduced activity, which the assassins strategically chose to maximize their element of surprise and minimize resistance.
* **"to the house of Ishbosheth":** This identifies the target's location, his private residence, which should have been a place of security. The fact that they gained access to his house indicates either their familiarity with the premises, a breach of security, or their trusted position within Ishbosheth's inner circle.
* **"who lay on a bed at noon":** This describes Ishbosheth's vulnerable state at the moment of their arrival. He was not prepared for an attack, but rather in a state of rest, highlighting the treachery and lack of resistance he could offer. This detail underscores the cowardly nature of the assassination.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several potent literary devices. **Foreshadowing** is evident as the meticulous detail of the assassins' approach and Ishbosheth's vulnerable state during the "heat of the day" strongly hints at the violent act that is about to unfold in the subsequent verses. The reader is prepared for a swift and decisive strike. There is also a strong element of **Irony** in Ishbosheth's situation; as a king, he should be secure, yet he is utterly defenseless in his own home, betrayed by those who should have been his loyal subjects. His rest, meant for rejuvenation, becomes the very moment of his demise. Furthermore, the "heat of the day" and Ishbosheth "lying on a bed at noon" can be seen as **Symbolism** for the languishing state of Saul's house. Just as the land is parched and still under the midday sun, so too is Ishbosheth's reign stagnant and vulnerable, awaiting its inevitable end. The stillness of the midday nap symbolizes the political calm before the storm of his assassination, which will ultimately clear the way for David's ascendancy.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse, while depicting a heinous act of human treachery, serves as a stark reminder of the pervasive nature of sin and ambition in a fallen world. It underscores the fragility of human power and the dangers of a kingdom built on shifting loyalties rather than divine appointment. The assassination of Ishbosheth, though a wicked deed, fits within the larger biblical narrative of God's sovereign plan unfolding, even through the sinful choices of humanity. It demonstrates that God can orchestrate events, even dark ones, to bring about His righteous purposes, without condoning the sin itself. This event clears the final human obstacle to David's unified kingship, highlighting God's faithfulness to His covenant promises to David.

* [Psalm 76:10](/psalm/76-10 "Psalm 76:10 - God's Sovereignty Over Human Wrath")
* [Proverbs 21:1](/proverbs/21-1 "Proverbs 21:1 - The King's Heart in the Hand of the Lord")
* [Romans 8:28](/romans/8-28 "Romans 8:28 - God Works All Things for Good")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The chilling account of 2 Samuel 4:5 invites us to reflect on the nature of trust, betrayal, and the often-unseen hand of divine providence. It reminds us that even in positions of power, vulnerability is inherent, and that true security is not found in human strength or political alliances, but in reliance on God. The story serves as a cautionary tale about unchecked ambition and the moral decay that can permeate a society or an individual when righteousness is abandoned. For believers, it offers a profound spiritual insight: even when surrounded by darkness, treachery, and seemingly chaotic events, God remains sovereign. He is able to work His purposes through the complexities of human sin, bringing about His ultimate good, though He never condones the sin itself. This should foster both a sober awareness of human depravity and a deep trust in God's ultimate control over all circumstances.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Ishbosheth's vulnerability during "the heat of the day" speak to areas of our own lives where we might be spiritually vulnerable or complacent?**
* **What does this account teach us about the consequences of betrayal, both for the betrayer and the betrayed, and how might we guard against such tendencies in our own hearts?**
* **In what ways does this narrative, despite its dark events, affirm God's overarching sovereignty and His ability to work His purposes through human actions, even sinful ones?**
* **How should a believer respond to difficult or unjust circumstances, knowing that God is ultimately in control, even when human evil is at play?**

### FAQ
**Who were Rechab and Baanah, and what was their motive for assassinating Ishbosheth?**

Answer: Rechab and Baanah were brothers, sons of Rimmon the Beerothite, and military captains serving under Ishbosheth. Their exact rank is not specified, but they were significant enough to have access to the king's house. Their motive was almost certainly opportunistic ambition and a desire for personal gain, likely believing they would be rewarded by David for removing his rival. They saw the weakening of Ishbosheth's position after Abner's death as an opportunity to curry favor with the rising power of David, hoping to secure a prominent place in his new kingdom. However, their actions were condemned by David, who saw them as murderers, not loyal servants, as detailed in [2 Samuel 4:9-12](/2_samuel/4-9 "2 Samuel 4:9-12 - David's Condemnation of the Murderers").

**Why was Ishbosheth so vulnerable, "lying on a bed at noon"?**

Answer: Ishbosheth's vulnerability stemmed from a combination of factors. Firstly, the "heat of the day" (midday) was a customary time for rest or a siesta in the ancient Near East, making it a period when people were typically off guard and less alert. Secondly, he was "lying on a bed," indicating he was in a deep state of relaxation or sleep, further reducing his ability to defend himself. Thirdly, his kingdom was already in a state of disarray and weakness, especially after the death of his primary supporter, Abner, as mentioned in [2 Samuel 4:1](/2_samuel/4-1 "2 Samuel 4:1 - Ishbosheth's Reaction to Abner's Death"). This political instability likely contributed to a lax security environment, allowing Rechab and Baanah, who were presumably trusted members of his own forces, to gain easy access to his private quarters.

**How does David respond to this assassination, and what does it reveal about his character?**

Answer: David's response to the assassination of Ishbosheth is one of swift and severe condemnation. Far from rewarding Rechab and Baanah, he executes them for their treacherous act. He recounts how he dealt with the Amalekite who claimed to have killed Saul ([2 Samuel 1:1-16](/2_samuel/1-1 "2 Samuel 1:1-16 - David Kills the Amalekite Messenger")), emphasizing that even the death of an enemy king, when carried out by an unauthorized hand, is an abomination. David declares that Ishbosheth was a righteous man, albeit a rival, and that his blood would be avenged. This reveals David's strong moral compass, his respect for the sanctity of life, and his commitment to establishing his kingdom through God's timing and means, not through human treachery or violence. His actions demonstrate that he would not tolerate murder, even if it seemingly benefited his cause, thereby distinguishing his character from the ruthless political maneuvering common in the ancient world.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The narrative of 2 Samuel 4:5, with its themes of a vulnerable king, betrayal, and the violent end of a dynasty, serves as a poignant backdrop against which the kingship of Jesus Christ shines with unparalleled glory and security. Ishbosheth, a king propped up by human strength and ultimately undone by human treachery, stands in stark contrast to Christ, whose kingdom is eternal and whose throne is established by divine decree, not human machinations. While Ishbosheth was vulnerable in his midday rest, Jesus, though seemingly vulnerable in His incarnation and crucifixion, was always in perfect control, willingly laying down His life only to take it up again ([John 10:17-18](/john/10-17 "John 10:17-18 - Jesus Lays Down His Life Willingly")). The betrayal of Ishbosheth by His own men foreshadows the ultimate betrayal of Christ by Judas Iscariot ([Matthew 26:14-16](/matthew/26-14 "Matthew 26:14-16 - Judas Betrays Jesus")), yet Christ's betrayal was part of God's redemptive plan, leading to salvation, not merely the end of a human reign. The death of Ishbosheth cleared the way for David's earthly kingdom, but the death and resurrection of Christ established a spiritual kingdom that will never end ([Daniel 7:13-14](/daniel/7-13 "Daniel 7:13-14 - The Son of Man's Eternal Dominion")). Ultimately, 2 Samuel 4:5 highlights the futility of human ambition and the fragility of earthly power, pointing us to the one true King, Jesus, whose reign is secure, righteous, and eternal, bringing true peace and salvation to all who trust in Him ([Hebrews 1:8](/hebrews/1-8 "Hebrews 1:8 - God's Son, Whose Throne is Forever")).

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 24:33

[Yet] a little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to sleep:

Proverbs 24:34

So shall thy poverty come [as] one that travelleth; and thy want as an armed man.

2 Samuel 11:2

And it came to pass in an eveningtide, that David arose from off his bed, and walked upon the roof of the king's house: and from the roof he saw a woman washing herself; and the woman [was] very beautiful to look upon.

1 Kings 16:9

And his servant Zimri, captain of half [his] chariots, conspired against him, as he was in Tirzah, drinking himself drunk in the house of Arza steward of [his] house in Tirzah.

2 Samuel 2:8

¶ But Abner the son of Ner, captain of Saul's host, took Ishbosheth the son of Saul, and brought him over to Mahanaim;

2 Chronicles 25:27

Now after the time that Amaziah did turn away from following the LORD they made a conspiracy against him in Jerusalem; and he fled to Lachish: but they sent to Lachish after him, and slew him there.

1 Thessalonians 5:3

For when they shall say, Peace and safety; then sudden destruction cometh upon them, as travail upon a woman with child; and they shall not escape.