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2 Samuel 2:22 Once again, Abner warned Asahel, "Stop chasing me. Why should I strike you to the ground? How could I show my face to your brother Joab?"

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Why should I strike you down? How could I look your brother Joab in the face?&#8221<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nlt/2_samuel/2.htm">New Living Translation</a></span><br />Again Abner shouted to him, &#8220;Get away from here! I don&#8217;t want to kill you. How could I ever face your brother Joab again?&#8221;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/esv/2_samuel/2.htm">English Standard Version</a></span><br />And Abner said again to Asahel, &#8220;Turn aside from following me. Why should I strike you to the ground? How then could I lift up my face to your brother Joab?&#8221;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/bsb/2_samuel/2.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a></span><br />Once again, Abner warned Asahel, &#8220;Stop chasing me. Why should I strike you to the ground? How could I show my face to your brother Joab?&#8221;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/kjv/2_samuel/2.htm">King James Bible</a></span><br />And Abner said again to Asahel, Turn thee aside from following me: wherefore should I smite thee to the ground? how then should I hold up my face to Joab thy brother?<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nkjv/2_samuel/2.htm">New King James Version</a></span><br />So Abner said again to Asahel, &#8220;Turn aside from following me. Why should I strike you to the ground? How then could I face your brother Joab?&#8221;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb_/2_samuel/2.htm">New American Standard Bible</a></span><br />Then Abner repeated again to Asahel, &#8220;Turn aside for your <i>own good</i> from following me. Why should I strike you to the ground? How then could I show my face to your brother Joab?&#8221;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb/2_samuel/2.htm">NASB 1995</a></span><br />Abner repeated again to Asahel, &#8220Turn aside from following me. Why should I strike you to the ground? How then could I lift up my face to your brother Joab?&#8221<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb77/2_samuel/2.htm">NASB 1977 </a></span><br />And Abner repeated again to Asahel, &#8220;Turn aside from following me. Why should I strike you to the ground? How then could I lift up my face to your brother Joab?&#8221;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsb/2_samuel/2.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a></span><br />And Abner repeated again to Asahel, &#8220;Turn aside from following me. Why should I strike you to the ground? How then could I lift up my face to your brother Joab?&#8221;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/amp/2_samuel/2.htm">Amplified Bible</a></span><br />Abner repeated again, &#8220;Turn away from following me. Why should I have to strike you to the ground? How would I be able to face Joab your brother [and look him in the eye]?&#8221;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/csb/2_samuel/2.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />Once again, Abner warned Asahel, &#8220;Stop chasing me. Why should I strike you to the ground? How could I ever look your brother Joab in the face? &#8221;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/hcsb/2_samuel/2.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />Once again, Abner warned Asahel, &#8220Stop chasing me. Why should I strike you to the ground? How could I ever look your brother Joab in the face?&#8221 <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/asv/2_samuel/2.htm">American Standard Version</a></span><br />And Abner said again to Asahel, Turn thee aside from following me: wherefore should I smite thee to the ground? how then should I hold up my face to Joab thy brother?<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/cev/2_samuel/2.htm">Contemporary English Version</a></span><br />Abner said, "If you don't turn back, I'll have to kill you! Then I could never face your brother Joab again." <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/erv/2_samuel/2.htm">English Revised Version</a></span><br />And Abner said again to Asahel, Turn thee aside from following me: wherefore should I smite thee to the ground? how then should I hold up my face to Joab thy brother?<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gwt/2_samuel/2.htm">GOD'S WORD&reg; Translation</a></span><br />So Abner spoke again to Asahel. "Stop following me," he said. "Why should I kill you? How could I look your brother Joab in the face again?"<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gnt/2_samuel/2.htm">Good News Translation</a></span><br />Once more Abner said to him, "Stop chasing me! Why force me to kill you? How could I face your brother Joab?" <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/isv/2_samuel/2.htm">International Standard Version</a></span><br />so Abner told Asahel again, "Stop following me. Why should I strike you down? How could I show my face to your brother Joab?"<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/msb/2_samuel/2.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a></span><br />Once again, Abner warned Asahel, ?Stop chasing me. Why should I strike you to the ground? How could I show my face to your brother Joab??<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/net/2_samuel/2.htm">NET Bible</a></span><br />So Abner spoke again to Asahel, "Turn aside from following me! I do not want to strike you to the ground. How then could I show my face in the presence of Joab your brother?"<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nheb/2_samuel/2.htm">New Heart English Bible</a></span><br />Abner said again to Asahel, "Turn aside from following me. Why should I strike you to the ground? How then should I hold up my face to Joab your brother?"<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/wbt/2_samuel/2.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a></span><br />And Abner said again to Asahel, Turn thee aside from following me: Why should I smite thee to the ground? how then should I hold up my face to Joab thy brother?<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/web/2_samuel/2.htm">World English Bible</a></span><br />Abner said again to Asahel, &#8220;Turn away from following me. Why should I strike you to the ground? How then could I look Joab your brother in the face?&#8221; <div class="vheading2"><b>Literal Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsv/2_samuel/2.htm">Literal Standard Version</a></span><br />And Abner adds again, saying to Asahel, &#8220;Turn aside from after me, why do I strike you to the earth? And how do I lift up my face to your brother Joab?&#8221;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/ylt/2_samuel/2.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a></span><br /> And Abner addeth again, saying unto Asahel, 'Turn thee aside from after me, why do I smite thee to the earth? and how do I lift up my face unto Joab thy brother?'<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/slt/2_samuel/2.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a></span><br />And Abner will add yet to say to Asahel, Turn aside for thyself from after me: wherefore shall I strike thee to the earth? and how shall I lift up my face to Joab thy brother?<div class="vheading2"><b>Catholic Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/drb/2_samuel/2.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a></span><br />And again Abner said to Asael: Go off, and do not follow me, lest I be obliged to stab thee to the ground, and I shall not be able to hold up my face to Joab thy brother. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/cpdv/2_samuel/2.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a></span><br />And again, Abner said to Asahel: &#8220;Withdraw, and do not choose to follow me. Otherwise, I will be compelled to stab you to the ground, and I will not be able to lift up my face before your brother, Joab.&#8221;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nabre/2_samuel/2.htm">New American Bible</a></span><br />Once more Abner said to Asahel: &#8220;Stop pursuing me! Why must I strike you to the ground? How could I show my face to your brother Joab?&#8221;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nrsvce/2_samuel/2.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a></span><br />Abner said again to Asahel, &#8220;Turn away from following me; why should I strike you to the ground? How then could I show my face to your brother Joab?&#8221;<div class="vheading2"><b>Translations from Aramaic</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lamsa/2_samuel/2.htm">Lamsa Bible</a></span><br />And Abner spoke again to Ashael, to turn from following him, saying, Turn from following me, lest I smite you and throw you on the ground; how then could I lift up my face and look at Joab your brother.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/hpbt/2_samuel/2.htm">Peshitta Holy Bible Translated</a></span><br />And Abnir continued again telling Shayel to turn from after him and said: &#8220;Turn yourself from after me lest I strike you and I throw you on the ground, and how will I lift my face and gaze at Yuab your brother?&#8221;<div class="vheading2"><b>OT Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/jps/2_samuel/2.htm">JPS Tanakh 1917</a></span><br />And Abner said again to Asahel: 'Turn thee aside from following me; wherefore should I smite thee to the ground? how then should I hold up my face to Joab thy brother?'<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/sep/2_samuel/2.htm">Brenton Septuagint Translation</a></span><br />And Abenner said yet again to Asael, Stand aloof from me, lest I smite thee to the ground? and how should I lift up my face to Joab?<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/parallel/2_samuel/2-22.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=468" 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/2.htm">War Between the Houses of David and Saul</a></span><br>&#8230;<span class="reftext">21</span>So Abner told him, &#8220;Turn to your right or to your left, seize one of the young men, and take his equipment for yourself.&#8221; But Asahel would not stop chasing him. <span class="reftext">22</span><span class="highl"><a href="/hebrew/3254.htm" title="3254: way&#183;y&#333;&#183;sep&#772; (Conj-w:: V-Hifil-ConsecImperf-3ms) -- To add. A primitive root; to add or augment.">Once again,</a> <a href="/hebrew/5750.htm" title="5750: &#8216;&#333;&#183;w&#7695; (Adv) -- Or rod; from uwd; properly, iteration or continuance; used only adverbially, again, repeatedly, still, more."></a> <a href="/hebrew/74.htm" title="74: &#8217;a&#7687;&#183;n&#234;r (N-proper-ms) -- My father is a lamp, an Isr. name. Or nabiyner; from 'ab and niyr; father of light; Abner, an Israelite.">Abner</a> <a href="/hebrew/559.htm" title="559: l&#234;&#183;m&#333;r (Prep-l:: V-Qal-Inf) -- To utter, say. A primitive root; to say.">warned</a> <a href="/hebrew/413.htm" title="413: &#8217;el- (Prep) -- To, into, towards. "></a> <a href="/hebrew/6214.htm" title="6214: &#8216;a&#774;&#183;&#347;&#257;&#183;h&#183;&#8217;&#234;l (N-proper-ms) -- God has made, four Isr. From asah and 'el; God has made; Asahel, the name of four Israelites.">Asahel,</a> <a href="/hebrew/5493.htm" title="5493: s&#363;r (V-Qal-Imp-ms) -- To turn aside. Or suwr; a primitive root; to turn off.">&#8220;Stop</a> <a href="/hebrew/l&#601;&#183;&#7733;&#257; (Prep:: 2ms) -- "></a> <a href="/hebrew/310.htm" title="310: m&#234;&#183;&#8217;a&#183;&#7717;a&#774;&#183;r&#257;y (Prep-m:: 1cs) -- The hind or following part. From 'achar; properly, the hind part; generally used as an adverb or conjunction, after.">chasing me.</a> <a href="/hebrew/4100.htm" title="4100: l&#257;m&#183;m&#257;h (Interrog) -- What? how? anything. ">Why</a> <a href="/hebrew/5221.htm" title="5221: &#8217;ak&#183;kek&#183;k&#257;h (V-Hifil-Imperf-1cs:: 2mse) -- To smite. A primitive root; to strike.">should I strike</a> <a href="/hebrew/776.htm" title="776: &#8217;ar&#183;&#7779;&#257;h (N-fs:: 3fs) -- Earth, land. From an unused root probably meaning to be firm; the earth.">you to the ground?</a> <a href="/hebrew/349.htm" title="349: w&#601;&#183;&#8217;&#234;&#7733; (Conj-w:: Interjection) -- How?. Also eykah; and teykakah; prolonged from 'ay; how? Or how!; also where.">How</a> <a href="/hebrew/5375.htm" title="5375: &#8217;e&#347;&#183;&#347;&#257; (V-Qal-Imperf-1cs) -- Or nacah ('abad); a primitive root; to lift, in a great variety of applications, literal and figurative, absol. And rel.">could I show</a> <a href="/hebrew/6440.htm" title="6440: p&#772;&#257;&#183;nay (N-mpc:: 1cs) -- Face, faces. Plural of an unused noun; the face; used in a great variety of applications; also as a preposition.">my face</a> <a href="/hebrew/413.htm" title="413: &#8217;el- (Prep) -- To, into, towards. ">to</a> <a href="/hebrew/251.htm" title="251: &#8217;&#257;&#183;&#7717;&#238;&#183;&#7733;&#257; (N-msc:: 2ms) -- A brother. A primitive word; a brother (like 'ab).">your brother</a> <a href="/hebrew/3097.htm" title="3097: y&#333;&#183;w&#183;&#8217;&#257;&#7687; (N-proper-ms) -- The LORD is father, three Isr. From Yhovah and 'ab; Jehovah-fathered; Joab, the name of three Israelites.">Joab?&#8221;</a> </span><span class="reftext">23</span>But Asahel refused to turn away; so Abner thrust the butt of his spear into his stomach, and it came out his back, and he fell dead on the spot. And every man paused when he came to the place where Asahel had fallen and died.&#8230;<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> &middot; <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/26-9.htm">1 Samuel 26:9-11</a></span><br />But David said to Abishai, &#8220;Do not destroy him, for who can extend a hand against the LORD&#8217;s anointed and be guiltless?&#8221; / David added, &#8220;As surely as the LORD lives, the LORD Himself will strike him down; either his day will come and he will die, or he will go into battle and perish. / But the LORD forbid that I should extend my hand against the LORD&#8217;s anointed. Instead, take the spear and water jug by his head, and let us go.&#8221;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_samuel/24-6.htm">1 Samuel 24:6-7</a></span><br />So he said to his men, &#8220;The LORD forbid that I should do such a thing to my master, the LORD&#8217;s anointed. May I never lift my hand against him, since he is the LORD&#8217;s anointed.&#8221; / 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_kings/2-5.htm">1 Kings 2:5-6</a></span><br />Moreover, you know what Joab son of Zeruiah did to me&#8212;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&#8217;s army, and Amasa son of Jether, commander of Judah&#8217;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.&#8221;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_chronicles/11-18.htm">1 Chronicles 11:18-19</a></span><br />So the Three broke through the Philistine camp, drew water from the well at the gate of Bethlehem, and brought it back to David. But he refused to drink it; instead, he poured it out to the LORD, / saying, &#8220;Far be it from me, my God, to do this! How can I drink the blood of these men who risked their lives?&#8221; Because they had brought it at the risk of their lives, David refused to drink it. Such were the exploits of the three mighty men.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/genesis/9-6.htm">Genesis 9:6</a></span><br />Whoever sheds the blood of man, by man his blood will be shed; for in His own image God has made mankind.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/exodus/20-13.htm">Exodus 20:13</a></span><br />You shall not murder.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/deuteronomy/19-10.htm">Deuteronomy 19:10</a></span><br />Thus innocent blood will not be shed in the land that the LORD your God is giving you as an inheritance, so that you will not be guilty of bloodshed.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/numbers/35-33.htm">Numbers 35:33-34</a></span><br />Do not pollute the land where you live, for bloodshed pollutes the land, and no atonement can be made for the land on which the blood is shed, except by the blood of the one who shed it. / Do not defile the land where you live and where I dwell. For I, the LORD, dwell among the Israelites.&#8221;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/proverbs/1-16.htm">Proverbs 1:16</a></span><br />For their feet run to evil, and they are swift to shed blood.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/proverbs/6-17.htm">Proverbs 6:17</a></span><br />haughty eyes, a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/matthew/5-21.htm">Matthew 5:21-22</a></span><br />You have heard that it was said to the ancients, &#8216;Do not murder&#8217; and &#8216;Anyone who murders will be subject to judgment.&#8217; / But I tell you that anyone who is angry with his brother will be subject to judgment. Again, anyone who says to his brother, &#8216;Raca,&#8217; will be subject to the Sanhedrin. But anyone who says, &#8216;You fool!&#8217; will be subject to the fire of hell.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/matthew/26-52.htm">Matthew 26:52</a></span><br />&#8220;Put your sword back in its place,&#8221; Jesus said to him. &#8220;For all who draw the sword will die by the sword.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/romans/12-19.htm">Romans 12:19</a></span><br />Do not avenge yourselves, beloved, but leave room for God&#8217;s wrath. For it is written: &#8220;Vengeance is Mine; I will repay, says the Lord.&#8221;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/romans/13-4.htm">Romans 13:4</a></span><br />For he is God&#8217;s servant for your good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for he does not carry the sword in vain. He is God&#8217;s servant, an agent of retribution to the wrongdoer.</div><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div><p class="tsk2">And Abner said again to Asahel, Turn you aside from following me: why should I smite you to the ground? how then should I hold up my face to Joab your brother?</p><p class="hdg">wherefore</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/2_kings/14-10.htm">2 Kings 14:10-12</a></b></br> Thou hast indeed smitten Edom, and thine heart hath lifted thee up: glory <i>of this</i>, and tarry at home: for why shouldest thou meddle to <i>thy</i> hurt, that thou shouldest fall, <i>even</i> thou, and Judah with thee? &#8230; </p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/proverbs/29-1.htm">Proverbs 29:1</a></b></br> He, that being often reproved hardeneth <i>his</i> neck, shall suddenly be destroyed, and that without remedy.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/ecclesiastes/6-10.htm">Ecclesiastes 6:10</a></b></br> That which hath been is named already, and it is known that it <i>is</i> man: neither may he contend with him that is mightier than he.</p><p class="hdg">how then</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/2_samuel/3-27.htm">2 Samuel 3:27</a></b></br> 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 <i>rib</i>, that he died, for the blood of Asahel his brother.</p><div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/2_samuel/2-21.htm">Abner</a> <a href="/1_samuel/23-4.htm">Addeth</a> <a href="/2_samuel/2-21.htm">Asahel</a> <a href="/2_samuel/2-21.htm">As'ahel</a> <a href="/2_samuel/2-21.htm">Chasing</a> <a href="/2_samuel/1-15.htm">End</a> <a href="/2_samuel/2-13.htm">Face</a> <a href="/2_samuel/2-21.htm">Following</a> <a href="/2_samuel/1-2.htm">Ground</a> <a href="/2_samuel/2-21.htm">Hold</a> <a href="/2_samuel/2-18.htm">Joab</a> <a href="/2_samuel/2-18.htm">Jo'ab</a> <a href="/deuteronomy/32-40.htm">Lift</a> <a href="/1_samuel/18-23.htm">Repeated</a> <a href="/judges/3-25.htm">Shamed</a> <a href="/2_samuel/2-16.htm">Side</a> <a href="/1_samuel/31-2.htm">Smite</a> <a href="/2_samuel/2-21.htm">Stop</a> <a href="/2_samuel/1-15.htm">Strike</a> <a href="/2_samuel/2-21.htm">Turn</a> <a href="/judges/2-15.htm">Warned</a> <a href="/2_samuel/2-16.htm">Wherefore</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/2_samuel/2-23.htm">Abner</a> <a href="/2_samuel/24-1.htm">Addeth</a> <a href="/2_samuel/2-23.htm">Asahel</a> <a href="/2_samuel/2-30.htm">As'ahel</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/1-14.htm">Chasing</a> <a href="/2_samuel/2-23.htm">End</a> <a href="/2_samuel/3-13.htm">Face</a> <a href="/2_samuel/2-26.htm">Following</a> <a href="/2_samuel/8-2.htm">Ground</a> <a href="/2_samuel/3-29.htm">Hold</a> <a href="/2_samuel/2-24.htm">Joab</a> <a href="/2_samuel/2-24.htm">Jo'ab</a> <a href="/2_samuel/5-21.htm">Lift</a> <a href="/2_kings/4-43.htm">Repeated</a> <a href="/2_samuel/10-5.htm">Shamed</a> <a href="/2_samuel/3-1.htm">Side</a> <a href="/2_samuel/5-24.htm">Smite</a> <a href="/2_samuel/2-28.htm">Stop</a> <a href="/2_samuel/5-8.htm">Strike</a> <a href="/2_samuel/2-23.htm">Turn</a> <a href="/2_kings/6-10.htm">Warned</a> <a href="/2_samuel/2-23.htm">Wherefore</a><div class="vheading2">2 Samuel 2</div><span class="reftext">1. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/2_samuel/2-1.htm">David, by God's direction, with his company goes up to Hebron </a></span><br><span class="reftext">4. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/2_samuel/2-4.htm">where he is made king of Judah</a></span><br><span class="reftext">5. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/2_samuel/2-5.htm">He commends them of Jabesh Gilead for their king of Israel</a></span><br><span class="reftext">8. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/2_samuel/2-8.htm">Abner makes Ishbosheth king of Israel</a></span><br><span class="reftext">12. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/2_samuel/2-12.htm">A mortal skirmish between twelve of Abner's and twelve of Joab's men.</a></span><br><span class="reftext">18. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/2_samuel/2-18.htm">Asahel is slain</a></span><br><span class="reftext">25. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/2_samuel/2-25.htm">At Abner's motion, Joab sounds a retreat</a></span><br><span class="reftext">32. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/2_samuel/2-32.htm">Asahel's burial</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'; 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Asahel, known for his swiftness, is pursuing him. This pursuit occurs during the civil conflict between the house of Saul and the house of David. Abner's warning indicates a desire to avoid unnecessary bloodshed, especially against a fellow Israelite. The repetition of the warning suggests Abner's reluctance to harm Asahel, highlighting the tension between personal relationships and political allegiances.<p><b>Stop chasing me.</b><br>Abner's plea for Asahel to cease his pursuit reflects the gravity of the situation. In ancient warfare, personal combat was often a matter of honor and skill. Abner's request underscores his awareness of the potential consequences of their encounter. This moment illustrates the tragic nature of civil strife, where kinship and loyalty are at odds.<p><b>Why should I strike you to the ground?</b><br>Abner's rhetorical question reveals his internal conflict. Striking Asahel, a valiant warrior and brother to Joab, would escalate the conflict and deepen the rift between the factions. This phrase highlights the moral and ethical considerations in warfare, where the value of life and the implications of one's actions are weighed.<p><b>How could I show my face to your brother Joab?</b><br>Joab, a formidable military leader and Asahel's brother, would seek retribution for Asahel's death. Abner's concern about facing Joab indicates the personal vendettas that can arise from such conflicts. This phrase foreshadows the cycle of vengeance that characterizes much of the narrative in 2 Samuel. It also reflects the broader biblical theme of the consequences of sin and the need for reconciliation.<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <b><a href="/topical/a/abner.htm">Abner</a></b><br>The commander of Saul's army, a key military leader in Israel, and a central figure in the power struggle following Saul's death.<br><br>2. <b><a href="/topical/a/asahel.htm">Asahel</a></b><br>The brother of Joab, known for his swiftness and determination. He was one of David's mighty men.<br><br>3. <b><a href="/topical/j/joab.htm">Joab</a></b><br>The brother of Asahel and a prominent military leader under King David. He plays a significant role in the political and military events of David's reign.<br><br>4. <b><a href="/topical/t/the_pursuit.htm">The Pursuit</a></b><br>This event occurs during a battle between the forces of David and those loyal to Saul's house, highlighting the internal conflict within Israel.<br><br>5. <b><a href="/topical/g/gibeon.htm">Gibeon</a></b><br>The location near which this pursuit and confrontation occur, a significant site in Israel's history.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><b><a href="/topical/t/the_value_of_life_and_restraint.htm">The Value of Life and Restraint</a></b><br>Abner's plea to Asahel underscores the importance of valuing life and exercising restraint, even in the heat of conflict. As Christians, we are called to be peacemakers and to avoid unnecessary harm to others.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/t/the_consequences_of_stubbornness.htm">The Consequences of Stubbornness</a></b><br>Asahel's refusal to heed Abner's warning serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of stubbornness and pride. We must be willing to listen to wise counsel and avoid reckless pursuits that can lead to destruction.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/r/respect_for_relationships.htm">Respect for Relationships</a></b><br>Abner's concern about facing Joab after potentially killing Asahel highlights the importance of maintaining respect and consideration in our relationships. We should strive to preserve peace and harmony, especially among fellow believers.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/t/the_role_of_leadership_in_conflict.htm">The Role of Leadership in Conflict</a></b><br>As a leader, Abner demonstrates a level of responsibility and foresight in trying to prevent unnecessary bloodshed. Christian leaders are called to guide others with wisdom and to seek peaceful resolutions to conflicts.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_2_samuel_2.htm">Top 10 Lessons from 2 Samuel 2</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/why_did_joab_kill_abner.htm">Why did Joab kill Abner in the Bible story?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/is_it_credible_abner_kills_asahel_swiftly.htm">In 2 Samuel 2:18&#8211;23, how credible is it that Abner kills Asahel with the blunt end of his spear in a swift chase? </a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/literal_vs._metaphorical_in_2_samuel_22.htm">(2 Samuel 22) How can we tell which elements of this praise song are meant literally versus those intended as metaphorical or hyperbolic language?</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><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/commentaries/2_samuel/2-22.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">Once again,</span><br /><span class="heb">&#1493;&#1463;&#1497;&#1468;&#1465;&#1447;&#1505;&#1462;&#1507;</span> <span class="translit">(way&#183;y&#333;&#183;sep&#772;)</span><br /><span class="parse">Conjunctive waw &#124; Verb - Hifil - Consecutive imperfect - third person masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_3254.htm">Strong's 3254: </a> </span><span class="str2">To add, augment</span><br /><br /><span class="word">Abner</span><br /><span class="heb">&#1488;&#1463;&#1489;&#1456;&#1504;&#1461;&#1431;&#1512;</span> <span class="translit">(&#8217;a&#7687;&#183;n&#234;r)</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 /><br /><span class="word">warned</span><br /><span class="heb">&#1500;&#1461;&#1488;&#1502;&#1465;&#1512;&#1433;</span> <span class="translit">(l&#234;&#183;m&#333;r)</span><br /><span class="parse">Preposition-l &#124; Verb - Qal - Infinitive construct<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_559.htm">Strong's 559: </a> </span><span class="str2">To utter, say</span><br /><br /><span class="word">Asahel,</span><br /><span class="heb">&#1506;&#1458;&#1513;&#1474;&#1464;&#1492;&#1488;&#1461;&#1428;&#1500;</span> <span class="translit">(&#8216;a&#774;&#183;&#347;&#257;&#183;h&#183;&#8217;&#234;l)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - proper - masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_6214.htm">Strong's 6214: </a> </span><span class="str2">Asahel -- 'God has made', four Israelites</span><br /><br /><span class="word">&#8220;Stop</span><br /><span class="heb">&#1505;&#1445;&#1493;&#1468;&#1512;</span> <span class="translit">(s&#363;r)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Qal - Imperative - masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_5493.htm">Strong's 5493: </a> </span><span class="str2">To turn aside</span><br /><br /><span class="word">chasing me.</span><br /><span class="heb">&#1502;&#1461;&#1488;&#1463;&#1469;&#1495;&#1458;&#1512;&#1464;&#1425;&#1497;</span> <span class="translit">(m&#234;&#183;&#8217;a&#183;&#7717;a&#774;&#183;r&#257;y)</span><br /><span class="parse">Preposition-m &#124; first person common singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_310.htm">Strong's 310: </a> </span><span class="str2">The hind or following part</span><br /><br /><span class="word">Why</span><br /><span class="heb">&#1500;&#1464;&#1444;&#1502;&#1468;&#1464;&#1492;</span> <span class="translit">(l&#257;m&#183;m&#257;h)</span><br /><span class="parse">Interrogative<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_4100.htm">Strong's 4100: </a> </span><span class="str2">What?, what!, indefinitely what</span><br /><br /><span class="word">should I strike</span><br /><span class="heb">&#1488;&#1463;&#1499;&#1468;&#1462;&#1433;&#1499;&#1468;&#1464;&#1492;&#1433;</span> <span class="translit">(&#8217;ak&#183;kek&#183;k&#257;h)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Hifil - Imperfect - first person common singular &#124; second person masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_5221.htm">Strong's 5221: </a> </span><span class="str2">To strike</span><br /><br /><span class="word">you to the ground?</span><br /><span class="heb">&#1488;&#1463;&#1428;&#1512;&#1456;&#1510;&#1464;&#1492;</span> <span class="translit">(&#8217;ar&#183;&#7779;&#257;h)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - feminine singular &#124; third person feminine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_776.htm">Strong's 776: </a> </span><span class="str2">Earth, land</span><br /><br /><span class="word">How</span><br /><span class="heb">&#1493;&#1456;&#1488;&#1461;&#1497;&#1498;&#1456;&#1433;</span> <span class="translit">(w&#601;&#183;&#8217;&#234;&#7733;)</span><br /><span class="parse">Conjunctive waw &#124; Interjection<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_349.htm">Strong's 349: </a> </span><span class="str2">How?, how!, where</span><br /><br /><span class="word">could I show</span><br /><span class="heb">&#1488;&#1462;&#1513;&#1474;&#1468;&#1464;&#1443;&#1488;</span> <span class="translit">(&#8217;e&#347;&#183;&#347;&#257;)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Qal - Imperfect - first person common singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_5375.htm">Strong's 5375: </a> </span><span class="str2">To lift, carry, take</span><br /><br /><span class="word">my face</span><br /><span class="heb">&#1508;&#1464;&#1504;&#1463;&#1428;&#1497;</span> <span class="translit">(p&#772;&#257;&#183;nay)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - masculine plural construct &#124; first person common singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_6440.htm">Strong's 6440: </a> </span><span class="str2">The face</span><br /><br /><span class="word">to</span><br /><span class="heb">&#1488;&#1462;&#1500;&#1470;</span> <span class="translit">(&#8217;el-)</span><br /><span class="parse">Preposition<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_413.htm">Strong's 413: </a> </span><span class="str2">Near, with, among, to</span><br /><br /><span class="word">your brother</span><br /><span class="heb">&#1488;&#1464;&#1495;&#1460;&#1469;&#1497;&#1498;&#1464;&#1475;</span> <span class="translit">(&#8217;&#257;&#183;&#7717;&#238;&#183;&#7733;&#257;)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - masculine singular construct &#124; second person masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_251.htm">Strong's 251: </a> </span><span class="str2">A brother, )</span><br /><br /><span class="word">Joab?&#8221;</span><br /><span class="heb">&#1497;&#1493;&#1465;&#1488;&#1464;&#1430;&#1489;</span> <span class="translit">(y&#333;&#183;w&#183;&#8217;&#257;&#7687;)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - proper - masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_3097.htm">Strong's 3097: </a> </span><span class="str2">Joab -- 'the LORD is father', three Israelites</span><br /><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/2_samuel/2-22.htm">2 Samuel 2:22 NIV</a><br /><a href="/nlt/2_samuel/2-22.htm">2 Samuel 2:22 NLT</a><br /><a href="/esv/2_samuel/2-22.htm">2 Samuel 2:22 ESV</a><br /><a href="/nasb/2_samuel/2-22.htm">2 Samuel 2:22 NASB</a><br /><a href="/kjv/2_samuel/2-22.htm">2 Samuel 2:22 KJV</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="//bibleapps.com/2_samuel/2-22.htm">2 Samuel 2:22 BibleApps.com</a><br /><a href="//bibliaparalela.com/2_samuel/2-22.htm">2 Samuel 2:22 Biblia Paralela</a><br /><a href="//holybible.com.cn/2_samuel/2-22.htm">2 Samuel 2:22 Chinese Bible</a><br /><a href="//saintebible.com/2_samuel/2-22.htm">2 Samuel 2:22 French Bible</a><br /><a href="/catholic/2_samuel/2-22.htm">2 Samuel 2:22 Catholic Bible</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/2_samuel/2-22.htm">OT History: 2 Samuel 2:22 Abner said again to Asahel Turn you (2Sa iiSam 2 Sam ii sam) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/2_samuel/2-21.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="2 Samuel 2:21"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="2 Samuel 2:21" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/2_samuel/2-23.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="2 Samuel 2:23"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="2 Samuel 2:23" /></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>

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