King James Version
What Does 2 Samuel 3:26 Mean?
“And when Joab was come out from David, he sent messengers after Abner, which brought him again from the well of Sirah: but David knew it not.”
Context
24
Then Joab came to the king, and said, What hast thou done? behold, Abner came unto thee; why is it that thou hast sent him away, and he is quite gone?
25
Thou knowest Abner the son of Ner, that he came to deceive thee, and to know thy going out and thy coming in , and to know all that thou doest.
26
And when Joab was come out from David, he sent messengers after Abner, which brought him again from the well of Sirah: but David knew it not.
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. quietly: or, peaceably
28
And afterward when David heard it, he said, I and my kingdom are guiltless before the LORD for ever from the blood of Abner the son of Ner: blood: Heb. bloods
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(26) **Sent messengers after Abner.**—Whether this was done in his own or in David’s name (though without his knowledge) does not appear, but in either case Abner would readily suppose that the coming of Joab had made further conference desirable. His entire confidence in David is shown by his unsuspecting return.
**The well of Sirah.**—The only knowledge of this locality is from the testimony of Josephus (*Antt. vii.* 1, 5), that it was twenty stadia (two and a half miles) from Hebron; and there is still a spring and reservoir called *Ain Sareh, *rather more than a mile north of the town. If this is correct, Abner must have just left David when Joab arrived.
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 3:26 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 3:26
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge