2 Samuel 4:6

They entered the interior of the house as if to get some wheat, and they stabbed him in the stomach. Then Rechab and his brother Baanah slipped away.

Study Bible

They entered the house
This phrase sets the scene for a clandestine and treacherous act. The Hebrew root for "entered" is "בּוֹא" (bo), which often implies coming or going with intent. In the context of ancient Israel, homes were considered sanctuaries of safety and hospitality. The act of entering with malicious intent was a grave violation of trust and social norms, highlighting the deceitful nature of Rechab and Baanah's actions.

under the pretense of getting wheat
The phrase "under the pretense" indicates deception. The Hebrew word for "pretense" is "תַּחַת" (tachat), meaning "under" or "instead of," suggesting a cover or disguise for their true intentions. Wheat was a staple in the ancient Near Eastern diet, symbolizing sustenance and life. By using the guise of acquiring wheat, Rechab and Baanah exploited a common, everyday activity to mask their sinister plot, reflecting the depths of their betrayal.

and they stabbed him in the stomach
The act of stabbing, particularly in the stomach, was a brutal and personal form of murder. The Hebrew verb "נָקַע" (naqah) means to pierce or strike, emphasizing the violence of the act. In biblical times, the stomach was often seen as the seat of emotions and life, making this act not only physically destructive but symbolically an attack on the very essence of the individual. This highlights the ruthlessness of Rechab and Baanah.

Then Rechab and his brother Baanah
The mention of both brothers by name underscores their joint culpability in the crime. In Hebrew culture, names often carried significant meaning and identity. "Rechab" means "rider" or "chariot," and "Baanah" means "in affliction" or "in response." Their names, coupled with their actions, suggest a narrative of individuals who perhaps saw themselves as agents of change or deliverance, albeit through misguided and violent means.

slipped away
The phrase "slipped away" conveys stealth and cowardice. The Hebrew root "מָלַט" (malat) means to escape or deliver oneself, often used in contexts of fleeing from danger or responsibility. This action reflects their awareness of guilt and fear of retribution. In the broader biblical narrative, such actions are often met with divine justice, reminding readers of the moral order upheld by God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Rechab and Baanah
These two brothers were captains of raiding bands under Ish-bosheth, the son of Saul. They are central figures in this passage as they commit the murder of Ish-bosheth.

2. Ish-bosheth
The son of Saul and the king of Israel at the time, Ish-bosheth was ruling over the northern tribes of Israel. His murder is the focal event of this passage.

3. House of Ish-bosheth
The location where the murder takes place. It is significant as it represents the last stronghold of Saul's lineage in the struggle for the throne of Israel.

4. Hebron
Although not mentioned directly in this verse, Hebron is where David was reigning as king over Judah. The events in this passage have implications for David's eventual rule over all Israel.

5. Pretense of Getting Wheat
This detail highlights the deceitful nature of Rechab and Baanah's actions, as they used a guise to gain access to Ish-bosheth.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Deceit
Rechab and Baanah's deceitful actions led to their downfall. Believers are called to live truthfully and avoid deceitful practices.

Respect for God's Anointed
David's consistent respect for Saul's family, despite their enmity, teaches us to honor those whom God has placed in authority, even when they oppose us.

God's Sovereignty in Leadership
The transition of power from Saul's house to David's was part of God's divine plan. Trusting in God's timing and sovereignty is crucial in our lives.

The Dangers of Ambition
Rechab and Baanah's ambition led them to commit murder. Ambition must be tempered with righteousness and submission to God's will.

Justice and Retribution
The eventual fate of Rechab and Baanah serves as a reminder that God is just and will bring about justice in His time.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the deceit of Rechab and Baanah reflect the broader theme of betrayal found throughout the Bible, and what can we learn from it?

2. In what ways does David's response to the murder of Ish-bosheth demonstrate his character and respect for God's anointed, and how can we apply this to our interactions with authority figures?

3. How does the transition of power from Saul's house to David's illustrate God's sovereignty, and how can we trust in God's plan during uncertain times in our own lives?

4. What are the dangers of unchecked ambition as seen in the actions of Rechab and Baanah, and how can we ensure our ambitions align with God's will?

5. How does the eventual justice served to Rechab and Baanah encourage us to trust in God's justice, even when it seems delayed?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 4:8
The murder of Ish-bosheth by Rechab and Baanah can be compared to Cain's murder of Abel, as both involve deceit and betrayal.

2 Samuel 1:14-16
David's response to the Amalekite who claimed to have killed Saul shows his respect for God's anointed, contrasting with Rechab and Baanah's treachery.

Proverbs 6:16-19
This passage lists things the Lord hates, including a heart that devises wicked schemes and hands that shed innocent blood, which can be related to the actions of Rechab and Baanah.