2 Samuel 10:14

And when the children of Ammon saw that the Syrians were fled, then fled they also before Abishai, and entered into the city. So Joab returned from the children of Ammon, and came to Jerusalem.

And when the children {H1121} of Ammon {H5983} saw {H7200} that the Syrians {H758} were fled {H5127}, then fled {H5127} they also before {H6440} Abishai {H52}, and entered {H935} into the city {H5892}. So Joab {H3097} returned {H7725} from the children {H1121} of Ammon {H5983}, and came {H935} to Jerusalem {H3389}.

When the people of 'Amon saw that Aram had fled, they likewise fled before Avishai and retreated into the city. Yo'av returned from the people of 'Amon and went to Yerushalayim.

When the Ammonites saw that the Arameans had fled, they too fled before Abishai, and they entered the city. So Joab returned from fighting against the Ammonites and came to Jerusalem.

And when the children of Ammon saw that the Syrians were fled, they likewise fled before Abishai, and entered into the city. Then Joab returned from the children of Ammon, and came to Jerusalem.

Commentary

2 Samuel 10:14 describes the decisive moment in the initial battle between Israel and the combined forces of the Ammonites and Syrians (Arameans), marking a significant victory for King David's army.

Context

This verse is the culmination of the first major engagement in the war between Israel and Ammon, sparked by the Ammonites' severe insult to King David's ambassadors (2 Samuel 10:4-5). The Ammonites, fearing David's wrath, hired a vast army of Syrians from various kingdoms to reinforce them. David sent his seasoned commander, Joab, and the entire Israelite army to confront them. In a brilliant strategic move, Joab divided his forces, leading one division against the Syrians while his brother Abishai led the other against the Ammonites (2 Samuel 10:9-12). This verse details the immediate aftermath of that initial confrontation: seeing the Syrians flee, the Ammonites also abandoned the field of battle and retreated into their capital city, Rabbah.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Decisive Victory: The verse highlights the overwhelming success of Israel's army under Joab and Abishai. The enemy forces, both Syrian and Ammonite, were routed.
  • Consequences of Aggression: The Ammonites' initial disrespect and subsequent military build-up led directly to their defeat and the invasion of their territory.
  • Effective Leadership: Joab's strategic prowess and the disciplined execution by Israel's commanders like Abishai are evident in the swift and decisive outcome.
  • Return to Base: Joab's return to Jerusalem signifies the completion of this phase of the military campaign, though the war itself was not yet fully concluded, as the Ammonites remained fortified in their city, leading to the subsequent siege of Rabbah.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "fled" (Χ Χ•ΦΌΧ‘ - nus) simply denotes a hasty retreat or escape, emphasizing the swift and panicked departure of the enemy forces. There are no complex linguistic nuances in this verse beyond its clear narrative of military defeat.

Practical Application

While a historical account of warfare, this verse can offer insights into the consequences of pride and aggression, as seen in the Ammonites' actions. It also speaks to the importance of strategic planning and effective leadership in overcoming challenges. For believers, it can be a reminder that even in the face of daunting opposition, God's people, when acting with wisdom and courage, can experience victory and see their adversaries dispersed. It underscores the idea that arrogance often leads to downfall, and humility, even in strength, is a better path.

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Cross-References

No cross-references found.