2 Samuel 4:2

And Saul's son had two men [that were] captains of bands: the name of the one [was] Baanah, and the name of the other Rechab, the sons of Rimmon a Beerothite, of the children of Benjamin: (for Beeroth also was reckoned to Benjamin:

And Saul's {H7586} son {H1121} had {H1961} two {H8147} men {H582} that were captains {H8269} of bands {H1416}: the name {H8034} of the one {H259} was Baanah {H1196}, and the name {H8034} of the other {H8145} Rechab {H7394}, the sons {H1121} of Rimmon {H7417} a Beerothite {H886}, of the children {H1121} of Benjamin {H1144}:(for Beeroth {H881} also was reckoned {H2803} to Benjamin {H1144}:

Sha'ul's son had two men who were captains of raiding parties, one called Ba'anah and the other Rekhav, sons of Rimmon the Be'eroti, of the people of Binyamin (for Be'erot is counted as part of Binyamin,

Saul’s son had two men who were leaders of raiding parties. One was named Baanah and the other Rechab; they were sons of Rimmon the Beerothite of the tribe of Benjamin—Beeroth is considered part of Benjamin,

And Ish-bosheth, Saul’s son, had two men that were captains of bands: the name of the one was Baanah, and the name of the other Rechab, the sons of Rimmon the Beerothite, of the children of Benjamin (for Beeroth also is reckoned to Benjamin:

Commentary

2 Samuel 4:2 introduces two key figures, Baanah and Rechab, who will play a crucial role in the unfolding narrative of King Ish-bosheth's demise. This verse serves as a genealogical and geographical identifier, laying the groundwork for the tragic events that follow.

Context

At this point in Israel's history, the nation is divided. Saul's son, Ish-bosheth (also known as Ishbaal), has been established as king over Israel in Mahanaim by Abner, Saul's former commander, while David reigns in Hebron over the tribe of Judah. This verse identifies Baanah and Rechab as "captains of bands," implying they were leaders of military detachments or raiding parties, perhaps operating with some autonomy. Their identification as "sons of Rimmon a Beerothite, of the children of Benjamin" is significant. Beeroth was one of the Gibeonite cities, originally independent but later absorbed into Israelite territory and specifically reckoned to the tribe of Benjamin. This tribal connection to Benjamin, Saul's own tribe, might suggest a presumed loyalty to Ish-bosheth's cause, or perhaps highlights the deep tribal divisions that characterized this period of civil war between the house of Saul and the house of David.

Key Themes

  • Setting the Stage for Conflict: The verse meticulously identifies the individuals involved in the next major turning point in the struggle for the throne, highlighting their background and perceived allegiances.
  • Tribal Identity and Loyalty: The emphasis on Baanah and Rechab being "of the children of Benjamin" underscores the importance of tribal affiliation in ancient Israel, especially during times of political instability. It connects them directly to Saul's lineage and, by extension, to Ish-bosheth.
  • Human Agency in Divine Plan: While God's plan for David to be king over all Israel is clear, this verse shows human actors, with their own motivations and actions, playing a role in the unfolding of that divine purpose.

Linguistic Insights

The term "captains of bands" (Hebrew: רָאשֵׁי גְדוּדִים, rashei gedudim) literally means "heads of raiding parties" or "chiefs of troops." This suggests they were not necessarily commanders of large, organized armies but rather leaders of smaller, mobile units, possibly involved in skirmishes, raids, or maintaining order in specific regions. The detailed genealogical and geographical information (Baanah, Rechab, Rimmon, Beerothite, Benjamin) is typical of Old Testament historical narratives, emphasizing accuracy and providing context for the reader.

Related Scriptures

To understand the full impact of Baanah and Rechab's actions, it's essential to read their subsequent involvement in the assassination of Ish-bosheth in 2 Samuel 4:5-7. David's strong reaction to this act, as seen in 2 Samuel 4:9-12, further illuminates his character and commitment to divine justice, even against his rivals.

Practical Application

While this verse is primarily historical, it subtly reminds us that even seemingly minor characters or details in a narrative can hold significant importance for what is to come. It highlights how individual choices, even those driven by perceived loyalty or personal gain, can have profound consequences within a larger historical or spiritual context. For believers, it's a reminder to consider the long-term impact of our allegiances and actions, understanding that all things ultimately serve God's greater purpose, even through human folly or ambition.

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Cross-References

  • Joshua 18:25 (5 votes)

    Gibeon, and Ramah, and Beeroth,

  • Joshua 9:17 (4 votes)

    And the children of Israel journeyed, and came unto their cities on the third day. Now their cities [were] Gibeon, and Chephirah, and Beeroth, and Kirjathjearim.

  • 2 Kings 6:23 (2 votes)

    And he prepared great provision for them: and when they had eaten and drunk, he sent them away, and they went to their master. So the bands of Syria came no more into the land of Israel.

  • 2 Samuel 3:22 (2 votes)

    ¶ And, behold, the servants of David and Joab came from [pursuing] a troop, and brought in a great spoil with them: but Abner [was] not with David in Hebron; for he had sent him away, and he was gone in peace.

  • 2 Kings 5:2 (2 votes)

    And the Syrians had gone out by companies, and had brought away captive out of the land of Israel a little maid; and she waited on Naaman's wife.