King James Version
What Does 2 Samuel 14:21 Mean?
“And the king said unto Joab, Behold now, I have done this thing: go therefore, bring the young man Absalom again.”
Context
19
And the king said, Is not the hand of Joab with thee in all this? And the woman answered and said, As thy soul liveth, my lord the king, none can turn to the right hand or to the left from ought that my lord the king hath spoken: for thy servant Joab, he bade me, and he put all these words in the mouth of thine handmaid:
20
To fetch about this form of speech hath thy servant Joab done this thing: and my lord is wise, according to the wisdom of an angel of God, to know all things that are in the earth.
21
And the king said unto Joab, Behold now, I have done this thing: go therefore, bring the young man Absalom again.
22
And Joab fell to the ground on his face, and bowed himself, and thanked the king: and Joab said, To day thy servant knoweth that I have found grace in thy sight, my lord, O king, in that the king hath fulfilled the request of his servant. thanked: Heb. blessed his servant: or, thy servant
23
So Joab arose and went to Geshur, and brought Absalom to Jerusalem.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(21) **I have done.**—This is the Hebrew text; the margin has *thou hast done. *The former is simply a form of granting Joab’s request; the latter would convey an implied censure on Joab’s stratagem, although in the next clause there is a compliance with his wish.
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 14:21 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 14:21
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge