King James Version

What Does 2 Samuel 3:4 Mean?

2 Samuel 3:4 in the King James Version says “And the fourth, Adonijah the son of Haggith; and the fifth, Shephatiah the son of Abital;” — study this verse from 2 Samuel chapter 3 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“And the fourth, Adonijah the son of Haggith; and the fifth, Shephatiah the son of Abital;”

2 Samuel 3:4 · KJV

Context

2

And unto David were sons born in Hebron: and his firstborn was Amnon, of Ahinoam the Jezreelitess;

3

And his second, Chileab, of Abigail the wife of Nabal the Carmelite; and the third, Absalom the son of Maacah the daughter of Talmai king of Geshur; Chileab: or, Daniel

4

And the fourth, Adonijah the son of Haggith; and the fifth, Shephatiah the son of Abital;

5

And the sixth, Ithream, by Eglah David's wife. These were born to David in Hebron.

6

And it came to pass, while there was war between the house of Saul and the house of David, that Abner made himself strong for the house of Saul.

Read 2 Samuel 3 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
And the fourth, Adonijah the son of Haggith; and the fifth, Shephatiah the son of Abital;

This verse contributes to the narrative of Abner Defects and Dies, emphasizing political maneuvering, revenge consequences. This chapter illustrates the complexity of political transition and personal revenge. Abner's defection using covenant language (brit, בְּרִית) contrasts with Joab's treacherous murder, demonstrating how personal vengeance undermines national purposes. The text develops themes of legitimate vs illegitimate authority, the corrupting power of revenge, and maintaining integrity when others act unethically.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

The historical setting of 2 Samuel 3 occurs during David's reign (circa 1010-970 BCE) over Israel's united monarchy. Archaeological discoveries, including the Tel Dan inscription mentioning the 'House of David,' corroborate biblical historicity. Ancient Near Eastern customs regarding political maneuvering, revenge consequences provide crucial background. The geopolitical situation involved regional powers—Philistines, Ammonites, Arameans, Moabites, Edomites—as David consolidated and expanded Israel's territory. Cultural practices concerning kingship, warfare, covenant relationships, family dynamics, and religious observance differed significantly from modern Western contexts, requiring careful attention to avoid anachronistic interpretation while extracting timeless theological principles applicable across cultures and eras.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does this passage deepen your understanding of political maneuvering, revenge consequences?
  2. What does this verse reveal about God's character, and how should that shape your worship and obedience?
  3. In what specific ways can you apply this truth to your current circumstances and relationships this week?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 8 words
וְהָֽרְבִיעִ֖י1 of 8

“And the fourth”

H7243

fourth; also (fractionally) a fourth

אֲדֹֽנִיָּ֣ה2 of 8

“Adonijah”

H138

adonijah, the name of three israelites

בֶן3 of 8

“the son”

H1121

a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or

חַגִּ֑ית4 of 8

“of Haggith”

H2294

chaggith, a wife of david

וְהַֽחֲמִישִׁ֖י5 of 8

“and the fifth”

H2549

fifth; also a fifth

שְׁפַטְיָ֥ה6 of 8

“Shephatiah”

H8203

shephatjah, the name of ten israelites

בֶן7 of 8

“the son”

H1121

a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or

אֲבִיטָֽל׃8 of 8

“of Abital”

H37

abital, a wife of king david

Study Guide

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 3:4 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 3:4 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

1 Kings 1:5-181 Kings 2:13-25

Test Your Knowledge

2 Samuel 3 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapter2 Samuel Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

Continue Your Study

Read 2 Samuel 3 with CommentaryAll 2 Samuel ChaptersComplete 2 Samuel QuizBible CharactersNave's Topical BibleAll Bible Quizzes