Bible Chapter Summary
2 Samuel 3 Summary
Abner Betrays Ish-bosheth and Is Slain
A long war continues between the house of Saul and the house of David, with David's kingdom growing stronger while Saul's weakens. David fathers six sons in Hebron through his wives. When Ish-bosheth accuses Abner of lying with Saul's concubine Rizpah, Abner wrathfully swears to transfer the kingdom to David, as the LORD had sworn. Abner negotiates with David on behalf of all Israel and Benjamin, and David receives him in Hebron with a feast. However, Joab, learning of Abner's visit, secretly calls him back and murders him at the gate to avenge his brother Asahel's death. David mourns Abner publicly and declares that Joab's hand lies upon him for this wickedness.
Key themes
Key verses
2 Samuel 3:1
“Now there was long war between the house of Saul and the house of David: but David waxed stronger and stronger, and the house of Saul waxed weaker and weaker.”
2 Samuel 3:9-10
“So do God to Abner, and more also, except, as the LORD hath sworn to David, even so I do to him;”
2 Samuel 3:27
“And when Abner was returned to Hebron, Joab took him aside in the gate to speak with him quietly, and smote him there under the fifth rib, that he died, for the blood of Asahel his brother.”
2 Samuel 3:33-34
“And the king lamented over Abner, and said, Died Abner as a fool dieth?”
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