2 Samuel 3:23
New International Version
When Joab and all the soldiers with him arrived, he was told that Abner son of Ner had come to the king and that the king had sent him away and that he had gone in peace.

New Living Translation
When Joab arrived, he was told that Abner had just been there visiting the king and had been sent away in safety.

English Standard Version
When Joab and all the army that was with him came, it was told Joab, “Abner the son of Ner came to the king, and he has let him go, and he has gone in peace.”

Berean Standard Bible
When Joab and all his troops arrived, he was informed, “Abner son of Ner came to see the king, who sent him on his way in peace.”

King James Bible
When Joab and all the host that was with him were come, they told Joab, saying, Abner the son of Ner came to the king, and he hath sent him away, and he is gone in peace.

New King James Version
When Joab and all the troops that were with him had come, they told Joab, saying, “Abner the son of Ner came to the king, and he sent him away, and he has gone in peace.”

New American Standard Bible
When Joab and all the army that was with him arrived, they informed Joab, saying, “Abner the son of Ner came to the king, and he has let him go on his way, and he has gone in peace.”

NASB 1995
When Joab and all the army that was with him arrived, they told Joab, saying, “Abner the son of Ner came to the king, and he has sent him away, and he has gone in peace.”

NASB 1977
When Joab and all the army that was with him arrived, they told Joab, saying, “Abner the son of Ner came to the king, and he has sent him away, and he has gone in peace.”

Legacy Standard Bible
Now Joab and all the army that was with him arrived, and they told Joab, saying, “Abner the son of Ner came to the king, and he has sent him away, and he has gone in peace.”

Amplified Bible
When Joab and all the army that was with him arrived, they told Joab, “Abner the son of Ner came to the king, and he has sent him away, and he has gone in peace.”

Christian Standard Bible
When Joab and his whole army arrived, Joab was informed, “Abner son of Ner came to see the king, the king dismissed him, and he went in peace.”

Holman Christian Standard Bible
When Joab and all his army arrived, Joab was informed, “Abner son of Ner came to see the king, the king dismissed him, and he went in peace.”

American Standard Version
When Joab and all the host that was with him were come, they told Joab, saying, Abner the son of Ner came to the king, and he hath sent him away, and he is gone in peace.

Contemporary English Version
Right after they arrived, someone told Joab, "Abner visited the king, and the king let him go. Abner even left without causing any trouble."

English Revised Version
When Joab and all the host that was with him were come, they told Joab, saying, Abner the son of Ner came to the king, and he hath sent him away, and he is gone in peace.

GOD'S WORD® Translation
When Joab came back with the whole army, he was told, "Ner's son Abner came to the king, but David dismissed him, and Abner left peacefully."

Good News Translation
When Joab and his men arrived, he was told that Abner had come to King David and had been sent away with a guarantee of safety.

International Standard Version
When Joab returned with his entire army, Joab was informed, "Ner's son Abner visited the king, and he has dismissed him. He has left in peace."

Majority Standard Bible
When Joab and all his troops arrived, he was informed, ?Abner son of Ner came to see the king, who sent him on his way in peace.?

NET Bible
When Joab and all the army that was with him arrived, Joab was told: "Abner the son of Ner came to the king; he sent him away, and he left in peace!"

New Heart English Bible
When Joab and all the army who was with him had come, they told Joab, saying, "Abner the son of Ner came to David, and he has sent him away, and he left in peace."

Webster's Bible Translation
When Joab and all the host that was with him had come, they told Joab, saying, Abner the son of Ner came to the king, and he hath sent him away, and he hath gone in peace.

World English Bible
When Joab and all the army who was with him had come, they told Joab, “Abner the son of Ner came to the king, and he has sent him away, and he has gone in peace.”
Literal Translations
Literal Standard Version
and Joab and all the host that [were] with him have come, and they declare to Joab, saying, “Abner son of Ner has come to the king, and he sends him away, and he goes in peace.”

Young's Literal Translation
and Joab and all the host that is with him have come, and they declare to Joab, saying, 'Abner son of Ner hath come unto the king, and he sendeth him away, and he goeth in peace.'

Smith's Literal Translation
And Joab and all the army which was with him came, and they will announce to Joab, saying, Abner the son of Ner came to the king, and he will send him away, and he will go in peace.
Catholic Translations
Douay-Rheims Bible
And Joab and all the army that was with him, came afterwards: and it was told Joab, that Abner the son of Ner came to the king, and he hath sent him away, and he is gone in peace.

Catholic Public Domain Version
And Joab, and the entire army that was with him, had arrived afterward. And so, it was reported to Joab, explaining that Abner, the son of Ner, went to the king, and he dismissed him, and he went away in peace.

New American Bible
When Joab and the whole force he had with him arrived, he was informed, “Abner, son of Ner, came to David, and he let him go on his way in peace.”

New Revised Standard Version
When Joab and all the army that was with him came, it was told Joab, “Abner son of Ner came to the king, and he has dismissed him, and he has gone away in peace.”
Translations from Aramaic
Lamsa Bible
When Joab and all the people who were with him were come, they told Joab, saying, Abner the son of Ner came to King David, and he has sent him away and he has gone in peace.

Peshitta Holy Bible Translated
And Yuab came and all the people who were with him, and they told Yuab that Abnir, son of Nir, had come to King David, and that he had sent him and he went on in peace
OT Translations
JPS Tanakh 1917
When Joab and all the host that was with him were come, they told Joab, saying: 'Abner the son of Ner came to the king, and he hath sent him away, and he is gone in peace.'

Brenton Septuagint Translation
And Joab and all his army came, and it was reported to Joab, saying, Abenner the son of Ner is come to David, and David has let him go, and he has departed in peace.

Additional Translations ...
Audio Bible



Context
Joab Murders Abner
22Just then David’s soldiers and Joab returned from a raid, bringing with them a great plunder. But Abner was not with David in Hebron because David had sent him on his way in peace. 23When Joab and all his troops arrived, he was informed, “Abner son of Ner came to see the king, who sent him on his way in peace.” 24So Joab went to the king and said, “What have you done? Look, Abner came to you. Why did you dismiss him? Now he is getting away!…

Cross References
2 Samuel 2:8-9
Meanwhile, Abner son of Ner, the commander of Saul’s army, took Saul’s son Ish-bosheth, moved him to Mahanaim, / and made him king over Gilead, Asher, Jezreel, Ephraim, and Benjamin—over all Israel.

2 Samuel 5:1-3
Then all the tribes of Israel came to David at Hebron and said, “Here we are, your own flesh and blood. / Even in times past, while Saul was king over us, you were the one who led Israel out and brought them back. And to you the LORD said, ‘You will shepherd My people Israel, and you will be ruler over them.’” / So all the elders of Israel came to the king at Hebron, where King David made with them a covenant before the LORD. And they anointed him king over Israel.

1 Kings 2:5-6
Moreover, you know what Joab son of Zeruiah did to me—what he did to Abner son of Ner and Amasa son of Jether, the two commanders of the armies of Israel. He killed them in peacetime to avenge the blood of war. He stained with the blood of war the belt around his waist and the sandals on his feet. / So act according to your wisdom, and do not let his gray head go down to Sheol in peace.

1 Chronicles 11:1-3
Then all Israel came together to David at Hebron and said, “Here we are, your own flesh and blood. / Even in times past, while Saul was king, you were the one who led Israel out and brought them back. And the LORD your God said, ‘You will shepherd My people Israel, and you will be ruler over them.’” / So all the elders of Israel came to the king at Hebron, where David made a covenant with them before the LORD. And they anointed him king over Israel, according to the word of the LORD through Samuel.

1 Chronicles 12:23-40
Now these are the numbers of men armed for battle who came to David at Hebron to turn Saul’s kingdom over to him, in accordance with the word of the LORD: / From Judah: 6,800 armed troops bearing shields and spears. / From Simeon: 7,100 mighty men of valor, ready for battle. ...

1 Kings 2:32
The LORD will bring his bloodshed back upon his own head, for without the knowledge of my father David he struck down two men more righteous and better than he when he put to the sword Abner son of Ner, commander of Israel’s army, and Amasa son of Jether, commander of Judah’s army.

1 Kings 2:28-34
When the news reached Joab, who had conspired with Adonijah but not with Absalom, he fled to the tent of the LORD and took hold of the horns of the altar. / It was reported to King Solomon: “Joab has fled to the tent of the LORD and is now beside the altar.” So Solomon sent Benaiah son of Jehoiada, saying, “Go, strike him down!” / And Benaiah entered the tent of the LORD and said to Joab, “The king says, ‘Come out!’” But Joab replied, “No, I will die here.” So Benaiah relayed the message to the king, saying, “This is how Joab answered me.” ...

1 Chronicles 3:1-4
These were the sons of David who were born to him in Hebron: The firstborn was Amnon by Ahinoam of Jezreel; the second was Daniel by Abigail of Carmel; / the third was Absalom the son of Maacah daughter of King Talmai of Geshur; the fourth was Adonijah the son of Haggith; / the fifth was Shephatiah by Abital; and the sixth was Ithream by his wife Eglah. ...

1 Samuel 18:5-9
So David marched out and prospered in everything Saul sent him to do, and Saul set him over the men of war. And this was pleasing in the sight of all the people, and of Saul’s officers as well. / As the troops were returning home after David had killed the Philistine, the women came out of all the cities of Israel to meet King Saul with singing and dancing, with joyful songs, and with tambourines and other instruments. / And as the women danced, they sang out: “Saul has slain his thousands, and David his tens of thousands.” ...

1 Samuel 19:1-7
Then Saul ordered his son Jonathan and all his servants to kill David. But Jonathan delighted greatly in David, / so he warned David, saying, “My father Saul intends to kill you. Be on your guard in the morning; find a secret place and hide there. / I will go out and stand beside my father in the field where you are, so I can ask about you. And if I find out anything, I will tell you.” ...

1 Samuel 20:1-42
Then David fled from Naioth in Ramah. He came to Jonathan and asked, “What have I done? What is my iniquity? How have I sinned against your father, that he wants to take my life?” / “Far from it!” Jonathan replied. “You will not die. Indeed, my father does nothing, great or small, without telling me. So why would he hide this matter from me? This cannot be true!” / But David again vowed, “Your father knows very well that I have found favor in your eyes, and he has said, ‘Jonathan must not know of this, or he will be grieved.’ As surely as the LORD lives and as you yourself live, there is but a step between me and death.” ...

1 Samuel 26:21-25
Then Saul replied, “I have sinned. Come back, David my son. I will never harm you again, because today you considered my life precious. I have played the fool and have committed a grave error!” / “Here is the king’s spear,” David answered. “Let one of the young men come over and get it. / May the LORD repay every man for his righteousness and faithfulness. For the LORD delivered you into my hand today, but I would not extend my hand against the LORD’s anointed. ...

1 Samuel 29:1-11
Now the Philistines brought all their forces together at Aphek, while Israel camped by the spring in Jezreel. / As the Philistine leaders marched out with their units of hundreds and thousands, David and his men marched behind them with Achish. / Then the commanders of the Philistines asked, “What about these Hebrews?” Achish replied, “Is this not David, the servant of King Saul of Israel? He has been with me all these days, even years, and from the day he defected until today I have found no fault in him.” ...

1 Samuel 30:1-31
On the third day David and his men arrived in Ziklag, and the Amalekites had raided the Negev, attacked Ziklag, and burned it down. / They had taken captive the women and all who were there, both young and old. They had not killed anyone, but had carried them off as they went on their way. / When David and his men came to the city, they found it burned down and their wives and sons and daughters taken captive. ...

1 Samuel 31:1-13
Now the Philistines fought against Israel, and the men of Israel fled before them, and many fell slain on Mount Gilboa. / The Philistines hotly pursued Saul and his sons, and they killed Saul’s sons Jonathan, Abinadab, and Malchishua. / When the battle intensified against Saul, the archers overtook him and wounded him critically. ...


Treasury of Scripture

When Joab and all the host that was with him were come, they told Joab, saying, Abner the son of Ner came to the king, and he has sent him away, and he is gone in peace.

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Abner Army Arrived Declare Host Joab Jo'ab Ner News Peace Soldiers
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Abner Army Arrived Declare Host Joab Jo'ab Ner News Peace Soldiers
2 Samuel 3
1. During the war David becomes stronger
2. Six sons are born to him in Hebron
6. Abner, displeased with Ishbosheth
7. revolts to David
13. David requires as a condition to bring him his wife Michal
17. Abner confers with the Israelites, feasted by David, and dismissed
22. Joab returning from battle, is displeased with the king, and kills Abner
28. David curses Joab
31. and mourns for Abner














When Joab and all his troops arrived
Joab, the commander of David's army, returns from a military campaign. Joab is a key figure in David's reign, known for his military prowess and sometimes ruthless actions. The arrival of Joab and his troops signifies a moment of transition and potential conflict, as Joab's loyalty to David is strong, but his personal vendettas often complicate political matters.

he was informed
This phrase indicates that Joab receives news upon his return, setting the stage for his reaction. The communication of information in ancient times was crucial, as it often determined the actions of leaders and commanders. Joab's response to this information will be pivotal in the unfolding narrative.

“Abner son of Ner came to see the king
Abner, the son of Ner, is a significant military leader, previously serving as the commander of Saul's army. His visit to King David marks a critical political move, as Abner seeks to transfer the allegiance of the northern tribes of Israel to David. This meeting is a turning point in the unification of Israel under David's rule.

who sent him on his way in peace.”
David's decision to send Abner away in peace reflects his desire for reconciliation and unity within the kingdom. This action demonstrates David's political acumen and his commitment to establishing a peaceful and united Israel. The peaceful dismissal of Abner contrasts with Joab's later actions, highlighting the tension between personal vendettas and political strategy.

Persons / Places / Events
1. Joab
The commander of King David's army, known for his military prowess and loyalty to David, but also for his personal vendettas and acts of violence.

2. Abner
The son of Ner, commander of Saul's army, who had recently defected to David's side, seeking to unite Israel under David's kingship.

3. King David
The anointed king of Israel, known for his heart after God, who was in the process of consolidating his rule over all Israel.

4. Troops
The soldiers under Joab's command, representing the military strength and loyalty to David.

5. Peace
The state of reconciliation and absence of conflict, which David sought to establish with Abner, indicating a political and strategic move towards unifying the kingdom.
Teaching Points
The Importance of Reconciliation
David's willingness to send Abner away in peace demonstrates the value of reconciliation over revenge. As Christians, we are called to seek peace and reconciliation in our relationships.

Wisdom in Leadership
David's decision to make peace with Abner shows strategic wisdom. Leaders today can learn from David's example to prioritize unity and peace over personal vendettas.

The Role of Trust
Trust is a crucial element in reconciliation. David's trust in Abner's intentions, despite past hostilities, challenges us to extend trust to others, even when it is difficult.

The Consequences of Unchecked Anger
Joab's later actions against Abner (not detailed in this verse but in the surrounding context) serve as a warning against allowing anger and revenge to dictate our actions.

God's Sovereignty in Political Affairs
The unfolding events remind us that God is sovereign over political and personal affairs, working through them to accomplish His purposes.

Parallel Commentaries ...


Hebrew
When Joab
וְיוֹאָ֛ב (wə·yō·w·’āḇ)
Conjunctive waw | Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 3097: Joab -- 'the LORD is father', three Israelites

and all
וְכָל־ (wə·ḵāl)
Conjunctive waw | Noun - masculine singular construct
Strong's 3605: The whole, all, any, every

his troops
הַצָּבָ֥א (haṣ·ṣā·ḇā)
Article | Noun - common singular
Strong's 6635: A mass of persons, reg, organized for, war, a campaign

arrived,
בָּ֑אוּ (bā·’ū)
Verb - Qal - Perfect - third person common plural
Strong's 935: To come in, come, go in, go

[he]
לְיוֹאָב֙ (lə·yō·w·’āḇ)
Preposition-l | Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 3097: Joab -- 'the LORD is father', three Israelites

was informed,
וַיַּגִּ֤דוּ (way·yag·gi·ḏū)
Conjunctive waw | Verb - Hifil - Consecutive imperfect - third person masculine plural
Strong's 5046: To be conspicuous

“Abner
אַבְנֵ֤ר (’aḇ·nêr)
Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 74: Abner -- 'my father is a lamp', an Israelite name

son
בֶּן־ (ben-)
Noun - masculine singular construct
Strong's 1121: A son

of Ner
נֵר֙ (nêr)
Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 5369: Ner -- father of Abner, also the father of Kish

came
בָּֽא־ (bā-)
Verb - Qal - Perfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 935: To come in, come, go in, go

to
אֶל־ (’el-)
Preposition
Strong's 413: Near, with, among, to

see the king,
הַמֶּ֔לֶךְ (ham·me·leḵ)
Article | Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 4428: A king

who sent him
וַֽיְשַׁלְּחֵ֖הוּ (way·šal·lə·ḥê·hū)
Conjunctive waw | Verb - Piel - Consecutive imperfect - third person masculine singular | third person masculine singular
Strong's 7971: To send away, for, out

on his way
וַיֵּ֥לֶךְ (way·yê·leḵ)
Conjunctive waw | Verb - Qal - Consecutive imperfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 1980: To go, come, walk

in peace.”
בְּשָׁלֽוֹם׃ (bə·šā·lō·wm)
Preposition-b | Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 7965: Safe, well, happy, friendly, welfare, health, prosperity, peace


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OT History: 2 Samuel 3:23 When Joab and all the army who (2Sa iiSam 2 Sam ii sam)
2 Samuel 3:22
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