King James Version
What Does 2 Samuel 11:16 Mean?
“And it came to pass, when Joab observed the city, that he assigned Uriah unto a place where he knew that valiant men were.”
Context
14
And it came to pass in the morning, that David wrote a letter to Joab, and sent it by the hand of Uriah.
15
And he wrote in the letter, saying, Set ye Uriah in the forefront of the hottest battle, and retire ye from him, that he may be smitten, and die. hottest: Heb. strong from him: Heb. from after him
16
And it came to pass, when Joab observed the city, that he assigned Uriah unto a place where he knew that valiant men were.
17
And the men of the city went out, and fought with Joab: and there fell some of the people of the servants of David; and Uriah the Hittite died also.
18
Then Joab sent and told David all the things concerning the war;
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(16) **Observed the city.**—The word means *watched, or blockaded. *In the operations of the siege Joab so arranged some of his forces as to invite a sally from the city under circumstances in which it would be successful. It appears from 2Samuel 11:24 that Uriah’s party had been sent so near as to come within reach of the archers on the wall.
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 11:16 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to 2 Samuel 11:16
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge