CINXE.COM

<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "//www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="//www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><head><meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8" /><meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1" /><title>2 Samuel 3:11 And for fear of Abner, Ish-bosheth did not dare to say another word to him.</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/2_samuel/3-11.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/12/10_2Sa_03_11.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="2 Samuel 3:11 - Abner Joins David" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="And for fear of Abner, Ish-bosheth did not dare to say another word to him." /><script type="application/javascript" src="https://scripts.webcontentassessor.com/scripts/8a2459b64f9cac8122fc7f2eac4409c8555fac9383016db59c4c26e3d5b8b157"></script><script src='https://qd.admetricspro.com/js/biblehub/biblehub-layout-loader-revcatch.js'></script><script id='HyDgbd_1s' src='https://prebidads.revcatch.com/ads.js' type='text/javascript' async></script><script>(function(w,d,b,s,i){var cts=d.createElement(s);cts.async=true;cts.id='catchscript'; cts.dataset.appid=i;cts.src='https://app.protectsubrev.com/catch_rp.js?cb='+Math.random(); document.head.appendChild(cts); }) (window,document,'head','script','rc-anksrH');</script></head><body><div id="fx"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx2"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="30" scrolling="no" src="/vmenus/2_samuel/3-11.htm" align="left" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div><div id="blnk"></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable"><tr><td><div id="fx5"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx6"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="245" scrolling="no" src="/bmc/2_samuel/3-11.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable3"><tr><td><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center" id="announce"><tr><td><div id="l1"><div id="breadcrumbs"><a href="/">Bible</a> > <a href="/2_samuel/">2 Samuel</a> > <a href="/2_samuel/3.htm">Chapter 3</a> > Verse 11</div><div id="anc"><iframe src="/anc.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></div><div id="anc2"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/anc2.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></div><div id="ad1"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/ad11.htm" width="100%" height="48" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table><div id="movebox2"><table border="0" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tr><td><div id="topheading"><a href="/2_samuel/3-10.htm" title="2 Samuel 3:10">◄</a> 2 Samuel 3:11 <a href="/2_samuel/3-12.htm" title="2 Samuel 3:12">►</a></div></tr></table></div><div align="center" class="maintable2"><table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><div id="topverse"> <a href="#audio" class="clickchap2" title="Context and Audio Bible"> Audio </a> <a href="#crossref" class="clickchap2" title="Cross References"> Cross </a> <a href="#study" class="clickchap2" title="Study Bible"> Study </a> <a href="#commentary" class="clickchap2" title="Commentary"> Comm </a> <a href="#lexicon" class="clickchap2" title="Lexicon"> Heb </a> </div><div id="leftbox"><div class="padleft"><div class="vheadingv"><b>Verse</b><a href="/bsb/2_samuel/3.htm" class="clickchap" style="color:#001320" title="Click any translation name for full chapter">  (Click for Chapter)</a></div><div id="par"><span class="versiontext"><a href="/niv/2_samuel/3.htm">New International Version</a></span><br />Ish-Bosheth did not dare to say another word to Abner, because he was afraid of him.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nlt/2_samuel/3.htm">New Living Translation</a></span><br />Ishbosheth didn’t dare say another word because he was afraid of what Abner might do.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/esv/2_samuel/3.htm">English Standard Version</a></span><br />And Ish-bosheth could not answer Abner another word, because he feared him.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/bsb/2_samuel/3.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a></span><br />And for fear of Abner, Ish-bosheth did not dare to say another word to him.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/kjv/2_samuel/3.htm">King James Bible</a></span><br />And he could not answer Abner a word again, because he feared him.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nkjv/2_samuel/3.htm">New King James Version</a></span><br />And he could not answer Abner another word, because he feared him.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb_/2_samuel/3.htm">New American Standard Bible</a></span><br />And <i>Ish-bosheth</i> could no longer say a word in response to Abner, because he was afraid of him.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb/2_samuel/3.htm">NASB 1995</a></span><br />And he could no longer answer Abner a word, because he was afraid of him.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb77/2_samuel/3.htm">NASB 1977 </a></span><br />And he could no longer answer Abner a word, because he was afraid of him.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsb/2_samuel/3.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a></span><br />And he could no longer respond a word to Abner, because he was afraid of him.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/amp/2_samuel/3.htm">Amplified Bible</a></span><br />And Ish-bosheth could not say another word to Abner, because he was afraid of him.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/csb/2_samuel/3.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />Ish-bosheth did not dare respond to Abner because he was afraid of him.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/hcsb/2_samuel/3.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />Ish-bosheth could not answer Abner because he was afraid of him. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/asv/2_samuel/3.htm">American Standard Version</a></span><br />And he could not answer Abner another word, because he feared him.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/cev/2_samuel/3.htm">Contemporary English Version</a></span><br />Ishbosheth was so afraid of Abner that he could not even answer. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/erv/2_samuel/3.htm">English Revised Version</a></span><br />And he could not answer Abner another word, because he feared him.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gwt/2_samuel/3.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a></span><br />Ishbosheth couldn't respond to a single word, because he was afraid of Abner.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gnt/2_samuel/3.htm">Good News Translation</a></span><br />Ishbosheth was so afraid of Abner that he could not say a word. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/isv/2_samuel/3.htm">International Standard Version</a></span><br />Ish-bosheth couldn't say another word in response to Abner, because he was terrified of him. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/msb/2_samuel/3.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a></span><br />And for fear of Abner, Ish-bosheth did not dare to say another word to him.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/net/2_samuel/3.htm">NET Bible</a></span><br />Ish-bosheth was unable to answer Abner with even a single word because he was afraid of him. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nheb/2_samuel/3.htm">New Heart English Bible</a></span><br />And Ishbaal could not answer Abner another word, because he feared him.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/wbt/2_samuel/3.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a></span><br />And he could not answer Abner a word again, because he feared him.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/web/2_samuel/3.htm">World English Bible</a></span><br />He could not answer Abner another word, because he was afraid of him. <div class="vheading2"><b>Literal Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsv/2_samuel/3.htm">Literal Standard Version</a></span><br />And he is not able to return a word [to] Abner anymore, because of his fearing him.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/ylt/2_samuel/3.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a></span><br /> And he is not able any more to turn back Abner a word, because of his fearing him.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/slt/2_samuel/3.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a></span><br />And he was not able to turn back Abner a word from his fearing him.<div class="vheading2"><b>Catholic Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/drb/2_samuel/3.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a></span><br />And he could not answer him a word, because he feared him. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/cpdv/2_samuel/3.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a></span><br />And he was not able to respond anything to him, because he was in fear of him.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nabre/2_samuel/3.htm">New American Bible</a></span><br />Ishbaal was no longer able to say a word to Abner, he feared him so. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nrsvce/2_samuel/3.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a></span><br />And Ishbaal could not answer Abner another word, because he feared him.<div class="vheading2"><b>Translations from Aramaic</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lamsa/2_samuel/3.htm">Lamsa Bible</a></span><br />And Ashbashul could not reply to Abner, because he feared him.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/hpbt/2_samuel/3.htm">Peshitta Holy Bible Translated</a></span><br />And Ashbashul could not return an answer again to Abnir, from his fear<div class="vheading2"><b>OT Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/jps/2_samuel/3.htm">JPS Tanakh 1917</a></span><br />And he could not answer Abner another word, because he feared him.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/sep/2_samuel/3.htm">Brenton Septuagint Translation</a></span><br />And Jebosthe could not any longer answer Abenner a word, because he feared him.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/parallel/2_samuel/3-11.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></span></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv"><b>Audio Bible</b></div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/_0ajZHUzMKw?start=697" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe><span class="p"><br /><br /><br /></span><div class="vheadingv"><b>Context</b></div><span class="hdg"><a href="/bsb/2_samuel/3.htm">Abner Joins David</a></span><br>…<span class="reftext">10</span>to transfer the kingdom from the house of Saul and to establish the throne of David over Israel and Judah, from Dan to Beersheba.” <span class="reftext">11</span><span class="highl"><a href="/hebrew/3372.htm" title="3372: mî·yir·’ā·ṯōw (Prep-m:: V-Qal-Inf:: 3ms) -- To fear, to revere, caus, to frighten. A primitive root; to fear; morally, to revere; caus. To frighten.">And for fear</a> <a href="/hebrew/853.htm" title="853: ’ō·ṯōw (DirObjM:: 3ms) -- Apparent contracted from 'owth in the demonstrative sense of entity; properly, self.">of Abner,</a> <a href="/hebrew/3201.htm" title="3201: yā·ḵōl (V-Qal-Perf-3ms) -- To be able, have power. Or yakowl; a primitive root; to be able, literally or morally.">Ish-bosheth did not dare</a> <a href="/hebrew/5750.htm" title="5750: ‘ō·wḏ (Adv) -- Or rod; from uwd; properly, iteration or continuance; used only adverbially, again, repeatedly, still, more."></a> <a href="/hebrew/3808.htm" title="3808: wə·lō- (Conj-w:: Adv-NegPrt) -- Not. Or lowi; or loh; a primitive particle; not; by implication, no; often used with other particles."></a> <a href="/hebrew/7725.htm" title="7725: lə·hā·šîḇ (Prep-l:: V-Hifil-Inf) -- A primitive root; to turn back transitively or intransitively, literally or figuratively; generally to retreat; often adverbial, again.">to say</a> <a href="/hebrew/853.htm" title="853: ’eṯ- (DirObjM) -- Apparent contracted from 'owth in the demonstrative sense of entity; properly, self."></a> <a href="/hebrew/1697.htm" title="1697: dā·ḇār (N-ms) -- Speech, word. From dabar; a word; by implication, a matter or thing; adverbially, a cause.">another word</a> <a href="/hebrew/74.htm" title="74: ’aḇ·nêr (N-proper-ms) -- My father is a lamp, an Isr. name. Or nabiyner; from 'ab and niyr; father of light; Abner, an Israelite.">to him.</a> </span><span class="reftext">12</span>Then Abner sent messengers in his place to say to David, “To whom does the land belong? Make your covenant with me, and surely my hand will be with you to bring all Israel over to you.”…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_samuel/10-27.htm">1 Samuel 10:27</a></span><br />But some worthless men said, “How can this man save us?” So they despised him and brought him no gifts; but Saul remained silent about it.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_samuel/16-2.htm">1 Samuel 16:2</a></span><br />“How can I go?” Samuel asked. “Saul will hear of it and kill me!” The LORD answered, “Take a heifer with you and say, ‘I have come to sacrifice to the LORD.’<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_samuel/17-28.htm">1 Samuel 17:28-30</a></span><br />Now when David’s oldest brother Eliab heard him speaking to the men, his anger burned against David. “Why have you come down here?” he asked. “And with whom did you leave those few sheep in the wilderness? I know your pride and wickedness of heart—you have come down to see the battle!” / “What have I done now?” said David. “Was it not just a question?” / Then he turned from him toward another and asked about the offer, and those people answered him just as the first ones had answered.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_samuel/24-7.htm">1 Samuel 24:7</a></span><br />With these words David restrained his men, and he did not let them rise up against Saul. Then Saul left the cave and went on his way.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_samuel/26-9.htm">1 Samuel 26:9</a></span><br />But David said to Abishai, “Do not destroy him, for who can extend a hand against the LORD’s anointed and be guiltless?”<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_kings/2-5.htm">1 Kings 2:5-6</a></span><br />Moreover, you know what Joab son of Zeruiah did to me—what he did to Abner son of Ner and Amasa son of Jether, the two commanders of the armies of Israel. He killed them in peacetime to avenge the blood of war. He stained with the blood of war the belt around his waist and the sandals on his feet. / So act according to your wisdom, and do not let his gray head go down to Sheol in peace.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_kings/2-32.htm">1 Kings 2:32-33</a></span><br />The LORD will bring his bloodshed back upon his own head, for without the knowledge of my father David he struck down two men more righteous and better than he when he put to the sword Abner son of Ner, commander of Israel’s army, and Amasa son of Jether, commander of Judah’s army. / Their blood will come back upon the heads of Joab and his descendants forever; but for David, his descendants, his house, and his throne, there shall be peace from the LORD forever.”<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_kings/2-44.htm">1 Kings 2:44</a></span><br />The king also said, “You know in your heart all the evil that you did to my father David. Therefore the LORD will bring your evil back upon your head.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/2_samuel/19-22.htm">2 Samuel 19:22</a></span><br />And David replied, “Sons of Zeruiah, what have I to do with you, that you should be my adversaries today? Should any man be put to death in Israel today? Am I not indeed aware that today I am king over Israel?”<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/2_samuel/16-10.htm">2 Samuel 16:10</a></span><br />But the king replied, “What have I to do with you, O sons of Zeruiah? If he curses me because the LORD told him, ‘Curse David,’ who can ask, ‘Why did you do this?’”<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/2_samuel/19-21.htm">2 Samuel 19:21</a></span><br />But Abishai son of Zeruiah said, “Shouldn’t Shimei be put to death for this, because he cursed the LORD’s anointed?”<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/matthew/27-12.htm">Matthew 27:12-14</a></span><br />And when He was accused by the chief priests and elders, He gave no answer. / Then Pilate asked Him, “Do You not hear how many charges they are bringing against You?” / But Jesus gave no answer, not even to a single charge, much to the governor’s amazement.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/mark/15-3.htm">Mark 15:3-5</a></span><br />And the chief priests began to accuse Him of many things. / Then Pilate questioned Him again, “Have You no answer? Look how many charges they are bringing against You!” / But to Pilate’s amazement, Jesus made no further reply.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/luke/23-9.htm">Luke 23:9</a></span><br />Herod questioned Jesus at great length, but He gave no answer.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/john/19-9.htm">John 19:9-11</a></span><br />and he went back into the Praetorium. “Where are You from?” he asked. But Jesus gave no answer. / So Pilate said to Him, “Do You refuse to speak to me? Do You not know that I have authority to release You and authority to crucify You?” / Jesus answered, “You would have no authority over Me if it were not given to you from above. Therefore the one who handed Me over to you is guilty of greater sin.”</div><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div><p class="tsk2">And he could not answer Abner a word again, because he feared him.</p><p class="hdg">because</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/2_samuel/3-39.htm">2 Samuel 3:39</a></b></br> And I <i>am</i> this day weak, though anointed king; and these men the sons of Zeruiah <i>be</i> too hard for me: the LORD shall reward the doer of evil according to his wickedness.</p><div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/1_samuel/30-10.htm">Able</a> <a href="/2_samuel/3-9.htm">Abner</a> <a href="/2_samuel/1-14.htm">Afraid</a> <a href="/jude/1-9.htm">Dare</a> <a href="/2_samuel/2-7.htm">Fear</a> <a href="/1_samuel/21-12.htm">Feared</a> <a href="/1_samuel/21-12.htm">Fearing</a> <a href="/2_samuel/1-27.htm">Great</a> <a href="/2_samuel/3-8.htm">Ish-Bosheth</a> <a href="/2_samuel/3-7.htm">Ish-Bo'sheth</a> <a href="/2_samuel/2-28.htm">Longer</a> <a href="/2_samuel/2-26.htm">Turn</a> <a href="/2_samuel/2-27.htm">Word</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/2_samuel/12-22.htm">Able</a> <a href="/2_samuel/3-12.htm">Abner</a> <a href="/2_samuel/6-9.htm">Afraid</a> <a href="/job/10-15.htm">Dare</a> <a href="/2_samuel/6-9.htm">Fear</a> <a href="/2_samuel/10-19.htm">Feared</a> <a href="/1_kings/18-3.htm">Fearing</a> <a href="/2_samuel/3-22.htm">Great</a> <a href="/2_samuel/3-14.htm">Ish-Bosheth</a> <a href="/2_samuel/3-14.htm">Ish-Bo'sheth</a> <a href="/2_samuel/3-22.htm">Longer</a> <a href="/2_samuel/3-12.htm">Turn</a> <a href="/2_samuel/3-17.htm">Word</a><div class="vheading2">2 Samuel 3</div><span class="reftext">1. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/2_samuel/3-1.htm">During the war David becomes stronger</a></span><br><span class="reftext">2. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/2_samuel/3-2.htm">Six sons are born to him in Hebron</a></span><br><span class="reftext">6. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/2_samuel/3-6.htm">Abner, displeased with Ishbosheth</a></span><br><span class="reftext">7. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/2_samuel/3-7.htm">revolts to David</a></span><br><span class="reftext">13. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/2_samuel/3-13.htm">David requires as a condition to bring him his wife Michal</a></span><br><span class="reftext">17. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/2_samuel/3-17.htm">Abner confers with the Israelites, feasted by David, and dismissed</a></span><br><span class="reftext">22. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/2_samuel/3-22.htm">Joab returning from battle, is displeased with the king, and kills Abner</a></span><br><span class="reftext">28. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/2_samuel/3-28.htm">David curses Joab</a></span><br><span class="reftext">31. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/2_samuel/3-31.htm">and mourns for Abner</a></span><br></div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div><br /><br />  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div><br /><br /> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:inline-block;width:200px;height:200px" data-ad-client="ca-pub-3753401421161123" data-ad-slot="3592799687"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> <br /><br /> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheading"><table width="100%"><tr><td width="99%" valign="top"><a href="/study/2_samuel/3.htm">Study Bible</a></td><td width="1%" valign="top"><a href="/study/2_samuel/" title="Book Summary and Study">Book ◦</a> <a href="/study/chapters/2_samuel/3.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div><b>And for fear of Abner</b><br>Abner was the commander of Saul's army and a powerful figure in Israel. His influence was significant, and he held considerable sway over the northern tribes. The fear Ish-bosheth had for Abner highlights the political instability and the power dynamics at play during this period. Abner's role as a kingmaker is evident, as he was instrumental in establishing Ish-bosheth as king over Israel after Saul's death. This fear also underscores the lack of true authority Ish-bosheth had, as he was reliant on Abner's support to maintain his rule.<p><b>Ish-bosheth did not dare</b><br>Ish-bosheth, Saul's son, was a weak and indecisive leader, contrasting sharply with David's strong and charismatic leadership. His inability to confront Abner shows his lack of confidence and authority. This phrase reflects the internal conflict within the house of Saul and the challenges Ish-bosheth faced in asserting his kingship. The political tension between Ish-bosheth and Abner foreshadows the eventual decline of Saul's dynasty and the rise of David as the undisputed king of Israel.<p><b>to say another word to him</b><br>This indicates a complete submission to Abner's authority, highlighting the imbalance of power between the two. Ish-bosheth's silence can be seen as a strategic move to avoid conflict, but it also reveals his dependency on Abner. This dynamic is crucial in understanding the eventual shift of power to David, as Abner later defects to David's side, further weakening Ish-bosheth's position. The inability to speak against Abner also reflects the broader theme of God's providence in establishing David's kingdom, as the internal strife within Saul's house paves the way for David's ascension.<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <b><a href="/topical/i/ish-bosheth.htm">Ish-bosheth</a></b><br>The son of King Saul, who was made king over Israel by Abner after Saul's death. His reign was marked by weakness and reliance on Abner's military strength.<br><br>2. <b><a href="/topical/a/abner.htm">Abner</a></b><br>The commander of Saul's army and a powerful figure in Israel. He played a crucial role in establishing Ish-bosheth as king but later shifted his allegiance to David.<br><br>3. <b><a href="/topical/f/fear.htm">Fear</a></b><br>The emotion that Ish-bosheth felt towards Abner, highlighting the power dynamics and lack of true authority in Ish-bosheth's reign.<br><br>4. <b><a href="/topical/i/israel.htm">Israel</a></b><br>The northern kingdom over which Ish-bosheth reigned, in contrast to Judah, where David was king.<br><br>5. <b><a href="/topical/d/david.htm">David</a></b><br>The anointed king of Judah, who was gaining strength and support, eventually leading to the unification of Israel under his rule.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><b><a href="/topical/t/the_danger_of_fear-based_leadership.htm">The Danger of Fear-Based Leadership</a></b><br>Ish-bosheth's inability to confront Abner reveals the pitfalls of leadership driven by fear rather than faith and conviction. Leaders should seek strength in God rather than relying on human alliances.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/t/the_importance_of_godly_counsel.htm">The Importance of Godly Counsel</a></b><br>Abner's influence over Ish-bosheth shows the impact of counsel. Believers should seek guidance from those who are aligned with God's will, rather than those who may lead them astray.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/g/god's_sovereignty_in_leadership_transitions.htm">God's Sovereignty in Leadership Transitions</a></b><br>The shifting power dynamics between Ish-bosheth and David illustrate God's hand in leadership changes. Trust in God's timing and plan is crucial, even when circumstances seem uncertain.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/t/the_role_of_courage_in_faith.htm">The Role of Courage in Faith</a></b><br>Ish-bosheth's fear contrasts with the courage seen in David's life. Believers are called to act with courage, trusting in God's promises and presence.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_2_samuel_3.htm">Top 10 Lessons from 2 Samuel 3</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/why_does_david_lament_abner's_death.htm">2 Samuel 3:33-34: Why does David publicly lament Abner's death as though he were innocent when Abner led opposing forces?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/why_doesn't_david_punish_joab.htm">2 Samuel 3:27-30: Why doesn't David punish Joab immediately for murdering Abner if he truly opposes the act?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/does_abner's_support_for_david_fit_history.htm">2 Samuel 3:12-13: Does Abner's sudden support for David align with known tribal loyalties and historical realities of that era?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/who_was_rizpah_in_the_bible.htm">Who was Rizpah in the Bible?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/2_samuel/3.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div><span class="cmt_sub_title">Verse 11.</span> - <span class="cmt_word">He could not answer Abner.</span> Though the reply was one of open treason, and was spoken with violence, yet Ishbosheth did not venture to bring the matter to an issue. Perhaps he looked round upon his officers to see if any would take his side, and, when all were silent, he was too feeble to dare to order the arrest and trial of his too powerful captain. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/commentaries/2_samuel/3-11.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a></span><span class="p"><br /><br /><br /></span><a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Hebrew</div><span class="word">And for fear</span><br /><span class="heb">מִיִּרְאָת֖וֹ</span> <span class="translit">(mî·yir·’ā·ṯōw)</span><br /><span class="parse">Preposition-m | Verb - Qal - Infinitive construct | third person masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_3372.htm">Strong's 3372: </a> </span><span class="str2">To fear, to revere, caus, to frighten</span><br /><br /><span class="word">[of Abner],</span><br /><span class="heb">אֹתֽוֹ׃</span> <span class="translit">(’ō·ṯōw)</span><br /><span class="parse">Direct object marker | third person masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_853.htm">Strong's 853: </a> </span><span class="str2">Untranslatable mark of the accusative case</span><br /><br /><span class="word">Ish-bosheth did not dare</span><br /><span class="heb">יָכֹ֣ל</span> <span class="translit">(yā·ḵōl)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Qal - Perfect - third person masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_3201.htm">Strong's 3201: </a> </span><span class="str2">To be able, have power</span><br /><br /><span class="word">to say</span><br /><span class="heb">לְהָשִׁ֥יב</span> <span class="translit">(lə·hā·šîḇ)</span><br /><span class="parse">Preposition-l | Verb - Hifil - Infinitive construct<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_7725.htm">Strong's 7725: </a> </span><span class="str2">To turn back, in, to retreat, again</span><br /><br /><span class="word">another word</span><br /><span class="heb">דָּבָ֑ר</span> <span class="translit">(dā·ḇār)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_1697.htm">Strong's 1697: </a> </span><span class="str2">A word, a matter, thing, a cause</span><br /><br /><span class="word">to [him].</span><br /><span class="heb">אַבְנֵ֖ר</span> <span class="translit">(’aḇ·nêr)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - proper - masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_74.htm">Strong's 74: </a> </span><span class="str2">Abner -- 'my father is a lamp', an Israelite name</span><br /><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/2_samuel/3-11.htm">2 Samuel 3:11 NIV</a><br /><a href="/nlt/2_samuel/3-11.htm">2 Samuel 3:11 NLT</a><br /><a href="/esv/2_samuel/3-11.htm">2 Samuel 3:11 ESV</a><br /><a href="/nasb/2_samuel/3-11.htm">2 Samuel 3:11 NASB</a><br /><a href="/kjv/2_samuel/3-11.htm">2 Samuel 3:11 KJV</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="//bibleapps.com/2_samuel/3-11.htm">2 Samuel 3:11 BibleApps.com</a><br /><a href="//bibliaparalela.com/2_samuel/3-11.htm">2 Samuel 3:11 Biblia Paralela</a><br /><a href="//holybible.com.cn/2_samuel/3-11.htm">2 Samuel 3:11 Chinese Bible</a><br /><a href="//saintebible.com/2_samuel/3-11.htm">2 Samuel 3:11 French Bible</a><br /><a href="/catholic/2_samuel/3-11.htm">2 Samuel 3:11 Catholic Bible</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/2_samuel/3-11.htm">OT History: 2 Samuel 3:11 He could not answer Abner another word (2Sa iiSam 2 Sam ii sam) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/2_samuel/3-10.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="2 Samuel 3:10"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="2 Samuel 3:10" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/2_samuel/3-12.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="2 Samuel 3:12"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="2 Samuel 3:12" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>