2 Samuel 3:27

When Abner returned to Hebron, Joab pulled him aside into the gateway, as if to speak to him privately, and there Joab stabbed him in the stomach. So Abner died on account of the blood of Joab's brother Asahel.

Study Bible

When Abner returned to Hebron
The name "Abner" means "father of light" in Hebrew, and he was a significant military leader, serving as the commander of Saul's army. His return to Hebron, a city of refuge, is crucial. Hebron was a significant city in Judah, known for its historical and spiritual importance, being associated with the patriarchs Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Abner's return signifies a moment of potential reconciliation and peace, as he had just pledged allegiance to David, the anointed king. This setting underscores the gravity of the events that follow, as Hebron was meant to be a place of safety and sanctuary.

Joab took him aside into the gateway
Joab, David's nephew and commander of his army, is a complex character known for his military prowess and fierce loyalty to David, albeit with a ruthless streak. The "gateway" of a city in ancient times was not just an entrance but a place of legal transactions and public discourse. By taking Abner aside into the gateway, Joab creates a facade of a private, yet seemingly legitimate, conversation. This act of deception highlights Joab's cunning nature and sets the stage for the treachery that follows.

to speak with him privately
The notion of privacy here is ironic, as Joab's intentions are far from genuine. In the cultural and historical context, a private conversation would imply a level of trust and confidentiality. However, Joab exploits this expectation to carry out his vendetta. This phrase underscores the theme of betrayal, as Abner is lured into a false sense of security, believing he is engaging in a sincere dialogue.

and there Joab stabbed him in the stomach
The act of stabbing in the stomach is particularly brutal and personal. In Hebrew culture, the stomach or belly was often seen as the seat of emotions and inner life. Joab's violent act is not just a physical attack but a symbolic one, aimed at the very core of Abner's being. This action reflects the deep-seated animosity and desire for revenge that Joab harbors, transcending mere political rivalry.

and killed him
The finality of this phrase marks the tragic end of Abner's life. Despite his recent efforts to broker peace between the house of Saul and David, his life is cut short by Joab's vengeance. This act of murder disrupts the potential for unity in Israel and highlights the destructive power of personal vendettas. It serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of unchecked anger and the importance of justice and forgiveness.

to avenge the blood of his brother Asahel
Asahel, Joab's brother, was killed by Abner in a previous battle, as recorded in 2 Samuel 2:23. The concept of avenging blood is deeply rooted in the ancient Near Eastern culture, where family honor and retribution were paramount. However, Joab's act of vengeance is not sanctioned by God or David, illustrating the tension between human justice and divine justice. This phrase invites reflection on the biblical principle that vengeance belongs to the Lord (Romans 12:19), and the need for individuals to trust in God's righteous judgment rather than taking matters into their own hands.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Abner
The commander of Saul's army, who had initially opposed David but later sought to make peace and support David's kingship over all Israel.

2. Joab
The commander of David's army and a nephew of David. He was a fierce warrior and a strategic leader but often acted out of personal vendetta.

3. Hebron
A significant city in Judah, serving as David's capital during his early reign. It was also a city of refuge, where individuals could seek asylum.

4. Asahel
Joab's brother, who was killed by Abner during a battle. His death was the catalyst for Joab's act of revenge.

5. The Gateway
The location where Joab deceitfully lured Abner under the pretense of a private conversation, ultimately leading to Abner's murder.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Revenge
Joab's murder of Abner was driven by personal vengeance, which led to further bloodshed and turmoil. Christians are called to leave vengeance to God and pursue peace.

The Importance of Integrity
Joab's deceitful actions contrast with the biblical call to honesty and integrity. Believers should strive to be truthful and transparent in their dealings with others.

The Role of Forgiveness
The account highlights the destructive nature of holding onto grudges. Forgiveness is a central tenet of Christian faith, promoting healing and reconciliation.

Respect for God's Anointed
Abner's shift to support David as God's chosen king was significant. Joab's actions disregarded God's plan and timing, reminding us to respect God's authority and anointed leaders.

The Dangers of Unchecked Power
Joab's position and influence led him to act independently of David's wishes. This serves as a warning against the misuse of power and the need for accountability.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Joab's act of revenge against Abner reflect the broader biblical teaching on vengeance and justice?

2. In what ways does the setting of Hebron as a city of refuge add depth to the account of Abner's murder?

3. How can we apply the principle of forgiveness in our own lives, especially when wronged by others?

4. What lessons can we learn from Joab's lack of integrity and how can we ensure our actions align with biblical values?

5. How does this passage challenge us to respect and support God's anointed leaders in our communities and churches?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 9:6
This verse underscores the sanctity of life and the divine mandate against murder, highlighting the gravity of Joab's actions.

Numbers 35:9-34
Discusses cities of refuge and the laws concerning revenge and murder, providing context for Hebron's significance and Joab's violation of these laws.

Matthew 5:21-22
Jesus' teaching on anger and murder, emphasizing the heart's condition and the seriousness of harboring hatred or seeking revenge.