King James Version
What Does 2 Samuel 3:14 Mean?
“And David sent messengers to Ishbosheth Saul's son, saying, Deliver me my wife Michal, which I espoused to me for an hundred foreskins of the Philistines.”
Context
12
And Abner sent messengers to David on his behalf, saying, Whose is the land? saying also, Make thy league with me, and, behold, my hand shall be with thee, to bring about all Israel unto thee.
13
And he said, Well; I will make a league with thee: but one thing I require of thee, that is, Thou shalt not see my face, except thou first bring Michal Saul's daughter, when thou comest to see my face. that is: Heb. saying
14
And David sent messengers to Ishbosheth Saul's son, saying, Deliver me my wife Michal, which I espoused to me for an hundred foreskins of the Philistines.
15
And Ishbosheth sent, and took her from her husband, even from Phaltiel the son of Laish .
16
And her husband went with her along weeping behind her to Bahurim. Then said Abner unto him, Go, return. And he returned. along: Heb. going and weeping
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(14) **To Ish-bosheth.**—The demand is made upon the *de facto *king that all may be done legally, and David may not appear to be reclaiming his wife by force. At the same time, Ish-bosheth is thus compelled to acknowledge the wrong done to David and his inability to refuse his demand. It appears from 2Samuel 3:16 that Abner was employed to execute the command, and, in fact, the whole matter was really determined by him, the king being merely the official and legal instrument.
**An hundred foreskins.**—David had actually delivered to Saul as her dowry *two *hundred, but only one hundred had been required (1Samuel 18:25; 1Samuel 18:27), and therefore only that number is mentioned.
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 3:14 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to 2 Samuel 3:14
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge