King James Version
What Does 2 Samuel 10:14 Mean?
“And when the children of Ammon saw that the Syrians were fled, then fled they also before Abishai, and entered into the city. So Joab returned from the children of Ammon, and came to Jerusalem.”
Context
12
Be of good courage, and let us play the men for our people, and for the cities of our God: and the LORD do that which seemeth him good.
13
And Joab drew nigh, and the people that were with him, unto the battle against the Syrians: and they fled before him.
14
And when the children of Ammon saw that the Syrians were fled, then fled they also before Abishai, and entered into the city. So Joab returned from the children of Ammon, and came to Jerusalem.
15
And when the Syrians saw that they were smitten before Israel, they gathered themselves together.
16
And Hadarezer sent, and brought out the Syrians that were beyond the river: and they came to Helam; and Shobach the captain of the host of Hadarezer went before them. the river: that is, Euphrates Shobach: or, Shophach
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(14) **Came to Jerusalem.**—Why the victory was not at once followed up it is not said. Perhaps the army of Israel was too much exhausted by their victory; perhaps they were unprovided with the necessaries for a siege; and perhaps the season was already too far advanced. Whatever may have been the cause, the delay gave the allies opportunity to rally.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of 2 Samuel. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
2 Samuel 10:14 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.