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Don&#8217t you realize that this will end in bitterness? How long before you order your men to stop pursuing their fellow Israelites?&#8221 <a href="/nlt/2_samuel/2.htm">New Living Translation</a> Abner shouted down to Joab, “Must we always be killing each other? Don’t you realize that bitterness is the only result? When will you call off your men from chasing their Israelite brothers?” <a href="/esv/2_samuel/2.htm">English Standard Version</a> Then Abner called to Joab, “Shall the sword devour forever? Do you not know that the end will be bitter? How long will it be before you tell your people to turn from the pursuit of their brothers?” <a href="/bsb/2_samuel/2.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a> Then Abner called out to Joab: “Must the sword devour forever? Do you not realize that this will only end in bitterness? How long before you tell the troops to stop pursuing their brothers?” <a href="/kjv/2_samuel/2.htm">King James Bible</a> Then Abner called to Joab, and said, Shall the sword devour for ever? knowest thou not that it will be bitterness in the latter end? how long shall it be then, ere thou bid the people return from following their brethren? <a href="/nkjv/2_samuel/2.htm">New King James Version</a> Then Abner called to Joab and said, “Shall the sword devour forever? Do you not know that it will be bitter in the latter end? How long will it be then until you tell the people to return from pursuing their brethren?” <a href="/nasb_/2_samuel/2.htm">New American Standard Bible</a> Then Abner called to Joab and said, “Should the sword devour forever? Do you not realize that it will be bitter in the end? So how long will you refrain from telling the people to turn back from pursuing their kinsmen?” <a href="/nasb/2_samuel/2.htm">NASB 1995</a> Then Abner called to Joab and said, &#8220Shall the sword devour forever? Do you not know that it will be bitter in the end? How long will you refrain from telling the people to turn back from following their brothers?&#8221 <a href="/nasb77/2_samuel/2.htm">NASB 1977 </a> Then Abner called to Joab and said, “Shall the sword devour forever? Do you not know that it will be bitter in the end? How long will you refrain from telling the people to turn back from following their brothers?” <a href="/lsb/2_samuel/2.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a> Then Abner called to Joab and said, “Shall the sword devour forever? Do you not know that it will be bitter in the end? How long will you refrain from telling the people to turn back from following their brothers?” <a href="/amp/2_samuel/2.htm">Amplified Bible</a> Then Abner called to Joab, “Must the sword devour forever? Do you not know that it will be bitter in the end? How long [will it be] before you tell the people to stop pursuing their brothers?” <a href="/csb/2_samuel/2.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a> Then Abner called out to Joab, “Must the sword devour forever? Don’t you realize this will only end in bitterness? How long before you tell the troops to stop pursuing their brothers? ” <a href="/hcsb/2_samuel/2.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a> Then Abner called out to Joab: &#8220Must the sword devour forever? Don&#8217t you realize this will only end in bitterness? How long before you tell the troops to stop pursuing their brothers?"&#8221 <a href="/asv/2_samuel/2.htm">American Standard Version</a> Then Abner called to Joab, and said, Shall the sword devour for ever? knowest thou not that it will be bitterness in the latter end? how long shall it be then, ere thou bid the people return from following their brethren? <a href="/cev/2_samuel/2.htm">Contemporary English Version</a> Abner shouted to Joab, "Aren't we ever going to stop killing each other? Don't you know that the longer we keep on doing this, the worse it's going to be when it's all over? When are you going to order your men to stop chasing their own relatives?" <a href="/erv/2_samuel/2.htm">English Revised Version</a> Then Abner called to Joab, and said, Shall the sword devour for ever? knowest thou not that it will be bitterness in the latter end? how long shall it be then, ere thou bid the people return from following their brethren? <a href="/gwt/2_samuel/2.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a> Then Abner called to Joab, "Should this slaughter go on forever? Don't you know this will end in bitterness? How long will it be before you will call off your troops from chasing their relatives?" <a href="/gnt/2_samuel/2.htm">Good News Translation</a> Abner called out to Joab, "Do we have to go on fighting forever? Can't you see that in the end there will be nothing but bitterness? We are your relatives. How long will it be before you order your men to stop chasing us?" <a href="/isv/2_samuel/2.htm">International Standard Version</a> Then Abner called out to Joab, "Must the battle sword keep on devouring forever? Don't you realize that the end result is bitterness? How long will it take for you to order your army to stop pursuing their own relatives?" <a href="/msb/2_samuel/2.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a> Then Abner called out to Joab: ?Must the sword devour forever? Do you not realize that this will only end in bitterness? How long before you tell the troops to stop pursuing their brothers?? <a href="/net/2_samuel/2.htm">NET Bible</a> Then Abner called out to Joab, "Must the sword devour forever? Don't you realize that this will turn bitter in the end? When will you tell the people to turn aside from pursuing their brothers?" <a href="/nheb/2_samuel/2.htm">New Heart English Bible</a> Then Abner called to Joab, and said, "Shall the sword devour forever? Do you not know that it will be bitterness in the latter end? How long shall it be then, before you ask the people to stop pursuing their brothers?" <a href="/wbt/2_samuel/2.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a> Then Abner called to Joab, and said, Shall the sword devour for ever? knowest thou not that it will be bitterness in the latter end? how long shall it be then, ere thou wilt bid the people return from following their brethren? <a href="/web/2_samuel/2.htm">World English Bible</a> Then Abner called to Joab, and said, “Shall the sword devour forever? Don’t you know that it will be bitterness in the latter end? How long will it be then, before you ask the people to return from following their brothers?” <div class="vheading2">Literal Translations</div><a href="/lsv/2_samuel/2.htm">Literal Standard Version</a> and Abner calls to Joab and says, “Does the sword consume forever? Have you not known that it is bitterness in the latter end? And until when do you not say to the people to turn back from after their brothers?” <a href="/ylt/2_samuel/2.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a> and Abner calleth unto Joab, and saith, 'For ever doth the sword consume? hast thou not known that it is bitterness in the latter end? and till when dost thou not say to the people to turn back from after their brethren?' <a href="/slt/2_samuel/2.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a> And Abner will call to Joab and say, Shall the sword consume forever? knewest thou not that it will be bitter at the last? and how long wilt thou not say to the people to turn back from after their brethren?<div class="vheading2">Catholic Translations</div><a href="/drb/2_samuel/2.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a> And Abner cried out to Joab, and said: Shall thy sword rage unto utter destruction? knowest thou not that it is dangerous to drive people to despair? how long dost thou defer to bid the people cease from pursuing after their brethren? <a href="/cpdv/2_samuel/2.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a> And Abner cried out to Joab, and he said: “Will your sword rage unto utter destruction? Are you ignorant that it is perilous to act in desperation? How long will you not tell the people to cease from the pursuit of their brothers?” <a href="/nabre/2_samuel/2.htm">New American Bible</a> Then Abner called to Joab and said: “Must the sword devour forever? Do you not know that afterward there will be bitterness? How long before you tell the people to stop pursuing their brothers?” <a href="/nrsvce/2_samuel/2.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a> Then Abner called to Joab, “Is the sword to keep devouring forever? Do you not know that the end will be bitter? How long will it be before you order your people to turn from the pursuit of their kinsmen?”<div class="vheading2">Translations from Aramaic</div><a href="/lamsa/2_samuel/2.htm">Lamsa Bible</a> Then Abner called to Joab and said, Shall the sword devour forever? Do you not know that there will be bitterness in the end? How long will it be then before you bid the people return from following their brethren? <a href="/hpbt/2_samuel/2.htm">Peshitta Holy Bible Translated</a> And Abnir shouted to Yuab and said: “Will the sword kill forever? Do you not know what you will bitterly be in the end? How long will you not tell the people to turn back from going after their brothers?”<div class="vheading2">OT Translations</div><a href="/jps/2_samuel/2.htm">JPS Tanakh 1917</a> Then Abner called to Joab, and said: 'Shall the sword devour for ever? knowest thou not that it will be bitterness in the end? how long shall it be then, ere thou bid the people return from following their brethren?' <a href="/sep/2_samuel/2.htm">Brenton Septuagint Translation</a> And Abenner called Joab, and said, Shall the sword devour perpetually? knowest thou not that it will be bitter at last? How long then wilt thou refuse to tell the people to turn from following our brethren? <a href="/parallel/2_samuel/2-26.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv">Audio Bible</div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/_0ajZHUzMKw?start=515" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe> <div class="vheadingv">Context</div><a href="/bsb/2_samuel/2.htm">War Between the Houses of David and Saul</a> …25The Benjamites rallied to Abner, formed a single unit, and took their stand atop a hill. 26<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.">Then Abner</a> <a href="/hebrew/7121.htm" title="7121: way·yiq·rā (Conj-w:: V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms) -- To call, proclaim, read. A primitive root; to call out to.">called out</a> <a href="/hebrew/413.htm" title="413: ’el- (Prep) -- To, into, towards. ">to</a> <a href="/hebrew/3097.htm" title="3097: yō·w·’āḇ (N-proper-ms) -- The LORD is father, three Isr. From Yhovah and 'ab; Jehovah-fathered; Joab, the name of three Israelites.">Joab:</a> <a href="/hebrew/559.htm" title="559: way·yō·mer (Conj-w:: V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms) -- To utter, say. A primitive root; to say."></a> <a href="/hebrew/2719.htm" title="2719: ḥe·reḇ (N-fs) -- A sword. From charab; drought; also a cutting instrument, as a knife, sword, or other sharp implement.">“Must the sword</a> <a href="/hebrew/398.htm" title="398: tō·ḵal (V-Qal-Imperf-3fs) -- To eat. A primitive root; to eat.">devour forever?</a> <a href="/hebrew/5331.htm" title="5331: hă·lā·ne·ṣaḥ (Art, Prep-l:: N-ms) -- Eminence, enduring, everlastingness, perpetuity. "></a> <a href="/hebrew/3808.htm" title="3808: hă·lō·w (Adv-NegPrt) -- Not. Or lowi; or loh; a primitive particle; not; by implication, no; often used with other particles.">Do you not</a> <a href="/hebrew/3045.htm" title="3045: yā·ḏa‘·tāh (V-Qal-Perf-2ms) -- A primitive root; to know; used in a great variety of senses, figuratively, literally, euphemistically and inferentially.">realize</a> <a href="/hebrew/3588.htm" title="3588: kî- (Conj) -- That, for, when. ">that</a> <a href="/hebrew/314.htm" title="314: bā·’a·ḥă·rō·w·nāh (Prep-b, Art:: Adj-fs) -- Coming after or behind. Or;acharon; from 'achar; hinder; generally, late or last; specifically western.">this will only end</a> <a href="/hebrew/4751.htm" title="4751: mā·rāh (Adj-fs) -- Bitter, bitterness. Or marah; from marar; bitter; also bitterness, or bitterly.">in bitterness?</a> <a href="/hebrew/1961.htm" title="1961: ṯih·yeh (V-Qal-Imperf-3fs) -- To fall out, come to pass, become, be. A primitive root; to exist, i.e. Be or become, come to pass."></a> <a href="/hebrew/5704.htm" title="5704: wə·‘aḏ- (Conj-w:: Prep) -- As far as, even to, up to, until, while. Properly, the same as ad; as far as, whether of space or time or degree.">How long</a> <a href="/hebrew/4970.htm" title="4970: mā·ṯay (Interrog) -- When?. From an unused root meaning to extend; properly, extent; but used only adverbially, when."></a> <a href="/hebrew/3808.htm" title="3808: lō- (Adv-NegPrt) -- Not. Or lowi; or loh; a primitive particle; not; by implication, no; often used with other particles."></a> <a href="/hebrew/559.htm" title="559: ṯō·mar (V-Qal-Imperf-2ms) -- To utter, say. A primitive root; to say.">before you tell</a> <a href="/hebrew/5971.htm" title="5971: lā·‘ām (Prep-l, Art:: N-ms) -- From amam; a people; specifically, a tribe; hence troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock.">the troops</a> <a href="/hebrew/7725.htm" title="7725: lā·šūḇ (Prep-l:: V-Qal-Inf) -- A primitive root; to turn back transitively or intransitively, literally or figuratively; generally to retreat; often adverbial, again.">to stop</a> <a href="/hebrew/310.htm" title="310: mê·’a·ḥă·rê (Prep-m) -- The hind or following part. From 'achar; properly, the hind part; generally used as an adverb or conjunction, after.">pursuing</a> <a href="/hebrew/251.htm" title="251: ’ă·ḥê·hem (N-mpc:: 3mp) -- A brother. A primitive word; a brother (like 'ab).">their brothers?”</a> 27“As surely as God lives,” Joab replied, “if you had not spoken up, the troops would have continued pursuing their brothers until morning.”…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div> <a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><a href="/matthew/5-9.htm">Matthew 5:9</a> Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God. <a href="/romans/12-18.htm">Romans 12:18</a> If it is possible on your part, live at peace with everyone. <a href="/james/3-18.htm">James 3:18</a> Peacemakers who sow in peace reap the fruit of righteousness. <a href="/proverbs/15-1.htm">Proverbs 15:1</a> A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger. <a href="/hebrews/12-14.htm">Hebrews 12:14</a> Pursue peace with everyone, as well as holiness, without which no one will see the Lord. <a href="/isaiah/2-4.htm">Isaiah 2:4</a> Then He will judge between the nations and arbitrate for many peoples. They will beat their swords into plowshares and their spears into pruning hooks. Nation will no longer take up the sword against nation, nor train anymore for war. <a href="/1_peter/3-11.htm">1 Peter 3:11</a> He must turn from evil and do good; he must seek peace and pursue it. <a href="/ephesians/4-31.htm">Ephesians 4:31-32</a> Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, outcry and slander, along with every form of malice. / Be kind and tenderhearted to one another, forgiving each other just as in Christ God forgave you. <a href="/matthew/26-52.htm">Matthew 26:52</a> “Put your sword back in its place,” Jesus said to him. “For all who draw the sword will die by the sword. <a href="/luke/6-27.htm">Luke 6:27-28</a> But to those of you who will listen, I say: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, / bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you. <a href="/romans/14-19.htm">Romans 14:19</a> So then, let us pursue what leads to peace and to mutual edification. <a href="/1_corinthians/7-15.htm">1 Corinthians 7:15</a> But if the unbeliever leaves, let him go. The believing brother or sister is not bound in such cases. God has called you to live in peace. <a href="/colossians/3-13.htm">Colossians 3:13</a> Bear with one another and forgive any complaint you may have against someone else. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. <a href="/galatians/5-15.htm">Galatians 5:15</a> But if you keep on biting and devouring one another, watch out, or you will be consumed by one another. <a href="/1_thessalonians/5-15.htm">1 Thessalonians 5:15</a> Make sure that no one repays evil for evil. Always pursue what is good for one another and for all people.</div> <a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div>Then Abner called to Joab, and said, Shall the sword devour for ever? know you not that it will be bitterness in the latter end? how long shall it be then, ere you bid the people return from following their brothers?Shall<a href="/2_samuel/2-14.htm">2 Samuel 2:14</a> And Abner said to Joab, Let the young men now arise, and play before us. And Joab said, Let them arise.<a href="/acts/7-26.htm">Acts 7:26</a> And the next day he shewed himself unto them as they strove, and would have set them at one again, saying, Sirs, ye are brethren; why do ye wrong one to another?sword<a href="/2_samuel/11-25.htm">2 Samuel 11:25</a> Then David said unto the messenger, Thus shalt thou say unto Joab, Let not this thing displease thee, for the sword devoureth one as well as another: make thy battle more strong against the city, and overthrow it: and encourage thou him.<a href="/isaiah/1-20.htm">Isaiah 1:20</a> But if ye refuse and rebel, ye shall be devoured with the sword: for the mouth of the LORD hath spoken it.<a href="/jeremiah/2-30.htm">Jeremiah 2:30</a> In vain have I smitten your children; they received no correction: your own sword hath devoured your prophets, like a destroying lion.it will be<a href="/2_samuel/2-16.htm">2 Samuel 2:16</a> And they caught every one his fellow by the head, and thrust his sword in his fellow's side; so they fell down together: wherefore that place was called Helkathhazzurim, which is in Gibeon.<a href="/proverbs/17-14.htm">Proverbs 17:14</a> The beginning of strife is as when one letteth out water: therefore leave off contention, before it be meddled with.how long<a href="/job/18-2.htm">Job 18:2</a> How long will it be ere ye make an end of words? mark, and afterwards we will speak.<a href="/job/19-2.htm">Job 19:2</a> How long will ye vex my soul, and break me in pieces with words?<a href="/psalms/4-2.htm">Psalm 4:2</a> O ye sons of men, how long will ye turn my glory into shame? how long will ye love vanity, and seek after leasing? Selah.<div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/2_samuel/2-25.htm">Abner</a> <a href="/1_samuel/14-22.htm">Attacking</a> <a href="/1_samuel/9-27.htm">Bid</a> <a href="/2_samuel/1-11.htm">Bitter</a> <a href="/1_samuel/15-32.htm">Bitterness</a> <a href="/judges/14-17.htm">Countrymen</a> <a href="/1_samuel/26-14.htm">Crying</a> <a href="/2_samuel/1-1.htm">Destruction</a> <a href="/judges/9-20.htm">Devour</a> <a href="/2_samuel/2-23.htm">End</a> <a href="/1_samuel/3-3.htm">Ere</a> <a href="/2_samuel/2-17.htm">Fighting</a> <a href="/2_samuel/2-22.htm">Following</a> <a href="/1_samuel/27-12.htm">Forever</a> <a href="/2_samuel/2-24.htm">Joab</a> <a href="/ruth/3-10.htm">Latter</a> <a href="/2_samuel/1-2.htm">Order</a> <a href="/1_samuel/12-17.htm">Realize</a> <a href="/1_samuel/18-8.htm">Refrain</a> <a href="/2_samuel/2-16.htm">Sword</a> <a href="/judges/7-15.htm">Telling</a> <a href="/2_samuel/2-23.htm">Turn</a> <a href="/1_samuel/30-15.htm">Wilt</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/2_samuel/2-29.htm">Abner</a> <a href="/2_samuel/2-27.htm">Attacking</a> <a href="/2_kings/4-24.htm">Bid</a> <a href="/2_samuel/17-8.htm">Bitter</a> <a href="/job/7-11.htm">Bitterness</a> <a href="/2_samuel/2-27.htm">Countrymen</a> <a href="/2_samuel/13-19.htm">Crying</a> <a href="/2_samuel/6-7.htm">Destruction</a> <a href="/2_samuel/18-8.htm">Devour</a> <a href="/2_samuel/3-38.htm">End</a> <a href="/job/18-2.htm">Ere</a> <a href="/2_samuel/2-28.htm">Fighting</a> <a href="/2_samuel/2-27.htm">Following</a> <a href="/2_samuel/3-28.htm">Forever</a> <a href="/2_samuel/2-27.htm">Joab</a> <a href="/job/8-7.htm">Latter</a> <a href="/2_samuel/9-11.htm">Order</a> <a href="/2_samuel/3-38.htm">Realize</a> <a href="/1_kings/22-6.htm">Refrain</a> <a href="/2_samuel/3-29.htm">Sword</a> <a href="/2_samuel/11-19.htm">Telling</a> <a href="/2_samuel/3-11.htm">Turn</a> <a href="/2_samuel/5-19.htm">Wilt</a><div class="vheading2">2 Samuel 2</div>1. <a href="/2_samuel/2-1.htm">David, by God's direction, with his company goes up to Hebron </a> 4. <a href="/2_samuel/2-4.htm">where he is made king of Judah</a> 5. <a href="/2_samuel/2-5.htm">He commends them of Jabesh Gilead for their king of Israel</a> 8. <a href="/2_samuel/2-8.htm">Abner makes Ishbosheth king of Israel</a> 12. <a href="/2_samuel/2-12.htm">A mortal skirmish between twelve of Abner's and twelve of Joab's men.</a> 18. <a href="/2_samuel/2-18.htm">Asahel is slain</a> 25. <a href="/2_samuel/2-25.htm">At Abner's motion, Joab sounds a retreat</a> 32. <a href="/2_samuel/2-32.htm">Asahel's burial</a> </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>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div> <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> </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/2.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/2.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div>Then Abner called out to Joab: Abner, the commander of Saul's army, addresses Joab, the commander of David's forces. This encounter occurs during a civil conflict between the house of Saul and the house of David. The setting is significant as it highlights the division within Israel after Saul's death. Abner's call to Joab is a plea for peace, reflecting the tension and the desire to avoid unnecessary bloodshed among fellow Israelites.Must the sword devour forever?: This phrase uses metaphorical language to describe the ongoing violence and destruction caused by the conflict. The "sword" symbolizes war and its consuming nature. The question implies a recognition of the futility and endless cycle of violence, echoing sentiments found in other scriptures that lament the destructive nature of war (e.g., <a href="/isaiah/2-4.htm">Isaiah 2:4</a>).Do you not realize that this will only end in bitterness?: Abner warns of the inevitable outcome of continued conflict—bitterness and sorrow. This reflects a common biblical theme where prolonged strife leads to deep-seated resentment and division. The historical context of Israel's tribal tensions underscores the potential for long-lasting enmity if reconciliation is not pursued.How long before you tell the troops to stop pursuing their brothers?: Abner appeals to Joab's sense of kinship and shared identity among the Israelites. The term "brothers" emphasizes the familial bonds that should unite rather than divide them. This plea for cessation of hostilities is a call to recognize their common heritage and to seek peace. It resonates with the biblical principle of unity among God's people, as seen in passages like <a href="/psalms/133.htm">Psalm 133:1</a>, which speaks of the goodness of dwelling together in unity.<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <a href="/topical/a/abner.htm">Abner</a> The commander of Saul's army, a key figure in the power struggle following Saul's death. He is a cousin to Saul and initially supports Ish-bosheth, Saul's son, as king over Israel. 2. <a href="/topical/j/joab.htm">Joab</a> The commander of David's army and a nephew of David. He is known for his military prowess and loyalty to David, though his methods are often ruthless. 3. <a href="/topical/t/the_battle_at_gibeon.htm">The Battle at Gibeon</a> A conflict between the forces of David and those loyal to Saul's house, led by Abner. This battle is part of the larger civil war between the house of Saul and the house of David. 4. <a href="/topical/t/the_sword.htm">The Sword</a> Symbolic of ongoing conflict and violence. Abner's plea highlights the destructive nature of prolonged warfare. 5. <a href="/topical/b/brothers.htm">Brothers</a> Refers to the Israelites fighting against each other, emphasizing the tragedy of civil war among God's chosen people.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><a href="/topical/t/the_futility_of_conflict.htm">The Futility of Conflict</a> Abner's question, "Must the sword devour forever?" serves as a reminder of the destructive and endless nature of unresolved conflict. As Christians, we are called to seek peace and reconciliation. <a href="/topical/t/the_cost_of_bitterness.htm">The Cost of Bitterness</a> Abner warns that continued fighting will "end in bitterness." Bitterness can take root in our hearts if conflicts are not resolved, leading to spiritual and relational damage. <a href="/topical/t/the_call_for_leadership_in_peace.htm">The Call for Leadership in Peace</a> Joab, as a leader, is challenged to take initiative in stopping the pursuit. Leaders in the church and community should be proactive in promoting peace and resolving disputes. <a href="/topical/b/brotherhood_and_unity.htm">Brotherhood and Unity</a> The reference to "brothers" highlights the importance of unity among believers. We are called to love and support one another, avoiding divisions that can weaken the body of Christ.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_2_samuel_2.htm">Top 10 Lessons from 2 Samuel 2</a> <a href="/q/why_did_joab_kill_abner.htm">Why did Joab kill Abner in the Bible story?</a> <a href="/q/how_to_reconcile_1_chr_10_4_and_2_sam_1_10.htm">How can 1 Chronicles 10's account that Saul died by falling on his own sword (1 Chronicles 10:4) be reconciled with 2 Samuel 1:10, where an Amalekite claims to have killed him?</a> <a href="/q/how_is_saul's_death_explained_differently.htm">2 Samuel 1:1-10: How can Saul's death be attributed to both his own sword (1 Samuel 31) and an Amalekite's actions without contradiction?</a> <a href="/q/who_was_high_priest_when_david_ate_bread.htm">Who was high priest when David went into the House of GOD and ate the consecrated bread? Abiathar (Mark 2:26) Ahimelech, the father of Abiathar (I Samuel 1:1; 22:20)</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/2_samuel/2.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(26) Abner called to Joab.--It may be that Abner was already considering the expediency of transferring his allegiance to the house of David, or, at least, had had enough experience of Ish-bosheth to see that it would be impossible to unite the tribes under his sway. At all events, his sense of the disastrous effects of civil war was doubtless quickened by his own defeat and present danger.<div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/2_samuel/2.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div>Verse 26. - Knowest thou not that it will be bitterness in the latter end! The Vulgate renders this, "Art thou not aware that desperation is dangerous?" This is a very obvious truth, but probably Abner had in his mind something more statesmanlike. The struggle was for the empire over all Israel, and whoever won would be king over both sides. But every man slain meant a blood feud, which would continue even after the kingdom was united; and Abner probably felt that his own slaughter of Asahel that day would render his position in David's realm difficult and dangerous. Among the Arab tribes quarrels are very common, but bloodshed rare, because of the blood feud which follows. Moderation was thus necessary on both sides, while cruelty and the immoderate use of victory would sow the seeds of future trouble. <a href="/commentaries/2_samuel/2-26.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a> <a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Hebrew</div>Then Abner אַבְנֵ֜ר (’aḇ·nêr) Noun - proper - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_74.htm">Strong's 74: </a> Abner -- 'my father is a lamp', an Israelite name called out וַיִּקְרָ֨א (way·yiq·rā) Conjunctive waw | Verb - Qal - Consecutive imperfect - third person masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_7121.htm">Strong's 7121: </a> To call, proclaim, read to אֶל־ (’el-) Preposition <a href="/hebrew/strongs_413.htm">Strong's 413: </a> Near, with, among, to Joab: יוֹאָ֗ב (yō·w·’āḇ) Noun - proper - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_3097.htm">Strong's 3097: </a> Joab -- 'the LORD is father', three Israelites “Must the sword חֶ֔רֶב (ḥe·reḇ) Noun - feminine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_2719.htm">Strong's 2719: </a> Drought, a cutting instrument, as a, knife, sword devour forever? תֹּ֣אכַל (tō·ḵal) Verb - Qal - Imperfect - third person feminine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_398.htm">Strong's 398: </a> To eat Do you not הֲל֣וֹא (hă·lō·w) Adverb - Negative particle <a href="/hebrew/strongs_3808.htm">Strong's 3808: </a> Not, no realize יָדַ֔עְתָּה (yā·ḏa‘·tāh) Verb - Qal - Perfect - second person masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_3045.htm">Strong's 3045: </a> To know that כִּֽי־ (kî-) Conjunction <a href="/hebrew/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> A relative conjunction this will only end בָּאַחֲרוֹנָ֑ה (bā·’a·ḥă·rō·w·nāh) Preposition-b, Article | Adjective - feminine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_314.htm">Strong's 314: </a> Hinder, late, last, western in bitterness? מָרָ֥ה (mā·rāh) Adjective - feminine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_4751.htm">Strong's 4751: </a> Bitter, bitterness, bitterly How long וְעַד־ (wə·‘aḏ-) Conjunctive waw | Preposition <a href="/hebrew/strongs_5704.htm">Strong's 5704: </a> As far as, even to, up to, until, while before you tell וַיֹּ֙אמֶר֙ (way·yō·mer) Conjunctive waw | Verb - Qal - Consecutive imperfect - third person masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_559.htm">Strong's 559: </a> To utter, say the troops לָעָ֔ם (lā·‘ām) Preposition-l, Article | Noun - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_5971.htm">Strong's 5971: </a> A people, a tribe, troops, attendants, a flock to stop לָשׁ֖וּב (lā·šūḇ) Preposition-l | Verb - Qal - Infinitive construct <a href="/hebrew/strongs_7725.htm">Strong's 7725: </a> To turn back, in, to retreat, again pursuing מֵאַחֲרֵ֥י (mê·’a·ḥă·rê) Preposition-m <a href="/hebrew/strongs_310.htm">Strong's 310: </a> The hind or following part their brothers?” אֲחֵיהֶֽם׃ (’ă·ḥê·hem) Noun - masculine plural construct | third person masculine plural <a href="/hebrew/strongs_251.htm">Strong's 251: </a> A brother, ) <div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/2_samuel/2-26.htm">2 Samuel 2:26 NIV</a> <a href="/nlt/2_samuel/2-26.htm">2 Samuel 2:26 NLT</a> <a href="/esv/2_samuel/2-26.htm">2 Samuel 2:26 ESV</a> <a href="/nasb/2_samuel/2-26.htm">2 Samuel 2:26 NASB</a> <a href="/kjv/2_samuel/2-26.htm">2 Samuel 2:26 KJV</a> <a href="//bibleapps.com/2_samuel/2-26.htm">2 Samuel 2:26 BibleApps.com</a> <a href="//bibliaparalela.com/2_samuel/2-26.htm">2 Samuel 2:26 Biblia Paralela</a> <a href="//holybible.com.cn/2_samuel/2-26.htm">2 Samuel 2:26 Chinese Bible</a> <a href="//saintebible.com/2_samuel/2-26.htm">2 Samuel 2:26 French Bible</a> <a href="/catholic/2_samuel/2-26.htm">2 Samuel 2:26 Catholic Bible</a> <a href="/2_samuel/2-26.htm">OT History: 2 Samuel 2:26 Then Abner called to Joab and said (2Sa iiSam 2 Sam ii sam) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/2_samuel/2-25.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="2 Samuel 2:25"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="2 Samuel 2:25" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/2_samuel/2-27.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="2 Samuel 2:27"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="2 Samuel 2:27" /></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>