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But Asahel would not stop chasing him.</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/2_samuel/2-21.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/8/10_2Sa_02_21.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="2 Samuel 2:21 - War Between the Houses of David and Saul" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="So Abner told him, Turn to your right or to your left, seize one of the young men, and take his equipment for yourself. But Asahel would not stop chasing 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/2-21.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/2-21.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/2.htm">Chapter 2</a> > Verse 21</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="/ad1.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/2-20.htm" title="2 Samuel 2:20">◄</a> 2 Samuel 2:21 <a href="/2_samuel/2-22.htm" title="2 Samuel 2:22">►</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">Verse<a href="/bsb/2_samuel/2.htm" class="clickchap" style="color:#001320" title="Click any translation name for full chapter">  (Click for Chapter)</a></div><div id="par"><a href="/niv/2_samuel/2.htm">New International Version</a> Then Abner said to him, &#8220Turn aside to the right or to the left; take on one of the young men and strip him of his weapons.&#8221 But Asahel would not stop chasing him. <a href="/nlt/2_samuel/2.htm">New Living Translation</a> “Go fight someone else!” Abner warned. “Take on one of the younger men, and strip him of his weapons.” But Asahel kept right on chasing Abner. <a href="/esv/2_samuel/2.htm">English Standard Version</a> Abner said to him, “Turn aside to your right hand or to your left, and seize one of the young men and take his spoil.” But Asahel would not turn aside from following him. <a href="/bsb/2_samuel/2.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a> So Abner told him, “Turn to your right or to your left, seize one of the young men, and take his equipment for yourself.” But Asahel would not stop chasing him. <a href="/kjv/2_samuel/2.htm">King James Bible</a> And Abner said to him, Turn thee aside to thy right hand or to thy left, and lay thee hold on one of the young men, and take thee his armour. But Asahel would not turn aside from following of him. <a href="/nkjv/2_samuel/2.htm">New King James Version</a> And Abner said to him, “Turn aside to your right hand or to your left, and lay hold on one of the young men and take his armor for yourself.” But Asahel would not turn aside from following him. <a href="/nasb_/2_samuel/2.htm">New American Standard Bible</a> So Abner said to him, “Turn aside for your own good to your right or to your left, and take hold of one of the young men for yourself, and take for yourself his equipment.” But Asahel was unwilling to turn aside from following him. <a href="/nasb/2_samuel/2.htm">NASB 1995</a> So Abner said to him, &#8220Turn to your right or to your left, and take hold of one of the young men for yourself, and take for yourself his spoil.&#8221 But Asahel was not willing to turn aside from following him. <a href="/nasb77/2_samuel/2.htm">NASB 1977 </a> So Abner said to him, “Turn to your right or to your left, and take hold of one of the young men for yourself, and take for yourself his spoil.” But Asahel was not willing to turn aside from following him. <a href="/lsb/2_samuel/2.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a> So Abner said to him, “Turn to your right or to your left, and seize one of the young men for yourself, and take for yourself his spoil.” But Asahel was not willing to turn aside from following him. <a href="/amp/2_samuel/2.htm">Amplified Bible</a> So Abner said to him, “Turn to your right or to your left, and grab one of the young men and take his armor for yourself.” But Asahel was not willing to turn away from pursuing Abner. <a href="/csb/2_samuel/2.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a> Abner said to him, “Turn to your right or left, seize one of the young soldiers, and take whatever you can get from him.” But Asahel would not stop chasing him. <a href="/hcsb/2_samuel/2.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a> Abner said to him, &#8220Turn to your right or left, seize one of the young soldiers, and take whatever you can get from him.&#8221 But Asahel would not stop chasing him. <a href="/asv/2_samuel/2.htm">American Standard Version</a> And Abner said to him, Turn thee aside to thy right hand or to thy left, and lay thee hold on one of the young men, and take thee his armor. But Asahel would not turn aside from following him. <a href="/cev/2_samuel/2.htm">Contemporary English Version</a> Abner said, "There are soldiers all around. Stop chasing me and fight one of them! Kill him and take his clothes and weapons for yourself." But Asahel refused to stop. <a href="/erv/2_samuel/2.htm">English Revised Version</a> And Abner said to him, Turn thee aside to thy right hand or to thy left, and lay thee hold on one of the young men, and take thee his armour. But Asahel would not turn aside from following of him. <a href="/gwt/2_samuel/2.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a> Abner told him, "Leave me alone! Catch one of the young men, and take his weapon." But Asahel refused to turn away from him. <a href="/gnt/2_samuel/2.htm">Good News Translation</a> "Stop chasing me!" Abner said. "Run after one of the soldiers and take what he has." But Asahel kept on chasing him. <a href="/isv/2_samuel/2.htm">International Standard Version</a> Abner told him, "Go off to your right or left after one of the young men and grab some war spoils." But Asahel would not stop following him, <a href="/net/2_samuel/2.htm">NET Bible</a> Abner said to him, "Turn aside to your right or to your left. Capture one of the soldiers and take his equipment for yourself!" But Asahel was not willing to turn aside from following him. <a href="/nheb/2_samuel/2.htm">New Heart English Bible</a> Abner said to him, "Turn aside to your right hand or to your left, and grab one of the young men, and take his armor." But Asahel would not turn aside from following him. <a href="/wbt/2_samuel/2.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a> And Abner said to him, Turn thee aside to thy right hand or to thy left, and lay hold on one of the young men, and take to thee his armor. But Asahel would not turn aside from following him.<div class="vheading2">Majority Text Translations</div><a href="/msb/2_samuel/2.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a> So Abner told him, “Turn to your right or to your left, seize one of the young men, and take his equipment for yourself.” But Asahel would not stop chasing him. <a href="/web/2_samuel/2.htm">World English Bible</a> Abner said to him, “Turn away to your right hand or to your left, and grab one of the young men, and take his armor.” But Asahel would not turn away from following him. <div class="vheading2">Literal Translations</div><a href="/lsv/2_samuel/2.htm">Literal Standard Version</a> And Abner says to him, “Turn aside to your right hand or to your left, and seize one of the youths for yourself, and take his armor for yourself”; and Asahel has not been willing to turn aside from after him. <a href="/ylt/2_samuel/2.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a> And Abner saith to him, 'Turn thee aside to thy right hand or to thy left, and seize for thee one of the youths, and take to thee his armour;' and Asahel hath not been willing to turn aside from after him. <a href="/slt/2_samuel/2.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a> And Abner will say to him. Turn to thyself to the right or to the left, and take hold for thyself from the boys and take to thee his spoils. And Asahel would not turn aside from after him.<div class="vheading2">Catholic Translations</div><a href="/drb/2_samuel/2.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a> And Abner said to him: Go to the right hand or to the left, and lay hold on one of the young men and take thee his spoils. But Asael would not leave off following him close. <a href="/cpdv/2_samuel/2.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a> And Abner said to him, “Go to the right, or to the left, and apprehend one of the youths, and take his spoils for yourself.” But Asahel was not willing to cease from pursuing him closely. <a href="/nabre/2_samuel/2.htm">New American Bible</a> Abner said to him, “Turn right or left; seize one of the young men and take what you can strip from him.” But Asahel would not stop pursuing him. <a href="/nrsvce/2_samuel/2.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a> Abner said to him, “Turn to your right or to your left, and seize one of the young men, and take his spoil.” But Asahel would not turn away from following him.<div class="vheading2">Translations from Aramaic</div><a href="/lamsa/2_samuel/2.htm">Lamsa Bible</a> And Abner said to him, Turn aside to your right hand or to your left, and seize one of the young men and take for yourself his armor. But Ashael would not turn aside from following him. <a href="/hpbt/2_samuel/2.htm">Peshitta Holy Bible Translated</a> And Abnir said to him: “Turn yourself either to your right or to your left and seize for yourself one of the young men and take for yourself his armor!” And Shayel would not turn from following after him<div class="vheading2">OT Translations</div><a href="/jps/2_samuel/2.htm">JPS Tanakh 1917</a> And Abner said to him: 'Turn thee aside to thy right hand or to thy left, and lay thee hold on one of the young men, and take thee his armour.' But Asahel would not turn aside from following him. <a href="/sep/2_samuel/2.htm">Brenton Septuagint Translation</a> And Abenner said to him, Turn thou to the right hand or to the left, and lay hold for thyself on one of the young men, and take to thyself his armour: but Asel would not turn back from following him. <a href="/parallel/2_samuel/2-21.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=456" 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> …20And Abner glanced back and said, “Is that you, Asahel?” “It is,” Asahel replied. 21<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.">So Abner</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.">told</a> <a href="/hebrew/lōw (Prep:: 3ms) -- ">him,</a> <a href="/hebrew/5186.htm" title="5186: nə·ṭêh (V-Qal-Imp-ms) -- A primitive root; to stretch or spread out; by implication, to bend away; used in a great variety of application.">“Turn</a> <a href="/hebrew/lə·ḵā (Prep:: 2ms) -- ">to</a> <a href="/hebrew/5921.htm" title="5921: ‘al- (Prep) -- Properly, the same as al used as a preposition; above, over, upon, or against in a great variety of applications.">your</a> <a href="/hebrew/3225.htm" title="3225: yə·mî·nə·ḵā (N-fsc:: 2ms) -- Right hand. From yaman; the right hand or side of a person or other object; locally, the south.">right</a> <a href="/hebrew/176.htm" title="176: ’ōw (Conj) -- Or. Presumed to be the constructive or genitival form of -av; short for 'avvah; desire; hence or, also if.">or</a> <a href="/hebrew/5921.htm" title="5921: ‘al- (Prep) -- Properly, the same as al used as a preposition; above, over, upon, or against in a great variety of applications.">to</a> <a href="/hebrew/8040.htm" title="8040: śə·mō·le·ḵā (N-msc:: 2ms) -- The left. ">your left,</a> <a href="/hebrew/270.htm" title="270: we·’ĕ·ḥōz (Conj-w:: V-Qal-Imp-ms) -- To grasp, take hold, take possession. A primitive root; to seize.">seize</a> <a href="/hebrew/lə·ḵā (Prep:: 2ms) -- "></a> <a href="/hebrew/259.htm" title="259: ’e·ḥāḏ (Number-ms) -- One. A numeral from 'achad; properly, united, i.e. One; or first.">one</a> <a href="/hebrew/5288.htm" title="5288: mê·han·nə·‘ā·rîm (Prep-m, Art:: N-mp) -- A boy, lad, youth, retainer. From na'ar; a boy, from the age of infancy to adolescence; by implication, a servant; also, a girl.">of the young men,</a> <a href="/hebrew/3947.htm" title="3947: wə·qaḥ- (Conj-w:: V-Qal-Imp-ms) -- To take. A primitive root; to take.">and take</a> <a href="/hebrew/2488.htm" title="2488: ḥă·li·ṣā·ṯōw (N-fsc:: 3ms) -- What is stripped off (a person). From Chelets; spoil.">his equipment</a> <a href="/hebrew/lə·ḵā (Prep:: 2ms) -- ">for yourself.”</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/6214.htm" title="6214: ‘ă·śā·h·’êl (N-proper-ms) -- God has made, four Isr. From asah and 'el; God has made; Asahel, the name of four Israelites.">But Asahel</a> <a href="/hebrew/14.htm" title="14: ’ā·ḇāh (V-Qal-Perf-3ms) -- To be willing, to consent. A primitive root; to breathe after, i.e. to be acquiescent.">would</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.">not</a> <a href="/hebrew/5493.htm" title="5493: lā·sūr (Prep-l:: V-Qal-Inf) -- To turn aside. Or suwr; a primitive root; to turn off.">stop</a> <a href="/hebrew/310.htm" title="310: mê·’a·ḥă·rāw (Prep-m:: 3ms) -- The hind or following part. From 'achar; properly, the hind part; generally used as an adverb or conjunction, after.">chasing him.</a> 22Once 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?”…<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="/1_samuel/26-8.htm">1 Samuel 26:8-9</a> Abishai said to David, “Today God has delivered your enemy into your hand. Now, therefore, please let me thrust the spear through him into the ground with one stroke. I will not need to strike him twice!” / But David said to Abishai, “Do not destroy him, for who can extend a hand against the LORD’s anointed and be guiltless?” <a href="/1_samuel/17-49.htm">1 Samuel 17:49-51</a> Then David reached into his bag, took out a stone, and slung it, striking the Philistine on the forehead. The stone sank into his forehead, and he fell facedown on the ground. / Thus David prevailed over the Philistine with a sling and a stone; without a sword in his hand he struck down the Philistine and killed him. / David ran and stood over him. He grabbed the Philistine’s sword and pulled it from its sheath and killed him, and he cut off his head with the sword. When the Philistines saw that their hero was dead, they turned and ran. <a href="/2_samuel/3-30.htm">2 Samuel 3:30</a> (Joab and his brother Abishai murdered Abner because he had killed their brother Asahel in the battle at Gibeon.) <a href="/2_samuel/20-10.htm">2 Samuel 20:10</a> Amasa was not on guard against the dagger in Joab’s hand, and Joab stabbed him in the stomach and spilled out his intestines on the ground. And Joab did not need to strike him again, for Amasa was dead. Then Joab and his brother Abishai pursued Sheba son of Bichri. <a href="/1_kings/2-5.htm">1 Kings 2:5-6</a> 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. <a href="/1_chronicles/11-20.htm">1 Chronicles 11:20-21</a> Now Abishai, the brother of Joab, was chief of the Three, and he wielded his spear against three hundred men, killed them, and won a name along with the Three. / He was doubly honored above the Three, and he became their commander, even though he was not included among the Three. <a href="/1_chronicles/12-2.htm">1 Chronicles 12:2</a> they were archers using both the right and left hands to sling stones and shoot arrows; and they were Saul’s kinsmen from Benjamin): <a href="/1_chronicles/27-4.htm">1 Chronicles 27:4</a> Dodai the Ahohite was in charge of the division for the second month, and Mikloth was the leader. There were 24,000 men in his division. <a href="/psalms/18-34.htm">Psalm 18:34</a> He trains my hands for battle; my arms can bend a bow of bronze. <a href="/psalms/144-1.htm">Psalm 144:1</a> Of David. Blessed be the LORD, my Rock, who trains my hands for war, my fingers for battle. <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/22-49.htm">Luke 22:49-51</a> Those around Jesus saw what was about to happen and said, “Lord, should we strike with our swords?” / And one of them struck the servant of the high priest, cutting off his right ear. / But Jesus answered, “No more of this!” And He touched the man’s ear and healed him. <a href="/john/18-10.htm">John 18:10-11</a> Then Simon Peter drew his sword and struck the servant of the high priest, cutting off his right ear. The servant’s name was Malchus. / “Put your sword back in its sheath!” Jesus said to Peter. “Shall I not drink the cup the Father has given Me?” <a href="/acts/7-24.htm">Acts 7:24</a> And when he saw one of them being mistreated, Moses went to his defense and avenged him by striking down the Egyptian who was oppressing him. <a href="/romans/12-19.htm">Romans 12:19</a> Do not avenge yourselves, beloved, but leave room for God’s wrath. For it is written: “Vengeance is Mine; I will repay, says the Lord.”</div> <a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div>And Abner said to him, Turn you aside to your right hand or to your left, and lay you hold on one of the young men, and take you his armor. But Asahel would not turn aside from following of him.armour.<a href="/judges/14-19.htm">Judges 14:19</a> And the Spirit of the LORD came upon him, and he went down to Ashkelon, and slew thirty men of them, and took their spoil, and gave change of garments unto them which expounded the riddle. And his anger was kindled, and he went up to his father's house.<div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/2_samuel/2-20.htm">Abner</a> <a href="/1_samuel/31-10.htm">Armor</a> <a href="/1_samuel/31-10.htm">Armour</a> <a href="/2_samuel/1-27.htm">Arms</a> <a href="/2_samuel/2-20.htm">Asahel</a> <a href="/2_samuel/2-20.htm">As'ahel</a> <a href="/1_samuel/17-53.htm">Chasing</a> <a href="/judges/21-10.htm">Fighting-Men</a> <a href="/2_samuel/2-19.htm">Following</a> <a href="/2_samuel/2-19.htm">Hand</a> <a href="/2_samuel/2-7.htm">Hands</a> <a href="/2_samuel/2-14.htm">Hold</a> <a href="/1_samuel/28-9.htm">Lay</a> <a href="/2_samuel/2-19.htm">Right</a> <a href="/1_samuel/23-26.htm">Seize</a> <a href="/1_samuel/30-26.htm">Spoil</a> <a href="/1_samuel/20-38.htm">Stop</a> <a href="/1_samuel/31-9.htm">Strip</a> <a href="/1_samuel/25-26.htm">Thyself</a> <a href="/2_samuel/2-19.htm">Turn</a> <a href="/2_samuel/2-19.htm">Turned</a> <a href="/2_samuel/1-27.htm">Weapons</a> <a href="/1_samuel/22-17.htm">Willing</a> <a href="/2_samuel/2-14.htm">Young</a> <a href="/2_samuel/2-14.htm">Youths</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/2_samuel/2-22.htm">Abner</a> <a href="/2_samuel/18-15.htm">Armor</a> <a href="/2_samuel/18-15.htm">Armour</a> <a href="/2_samuel/12-8.htm">Arms</a> <a href="/2_samuel/2-22.htm">Asahel</a> <a href="/2_samuel/2-22.htm">As'ahel</a> <a href="/2_samuel/2-22.htm">Chasing</a> <a href="/2_samuel/6-1.htm">Fighting-Men</a> <a href="/2_samuel/2-22.htm">Following</a> <a href="/2_samuel/3-8.htm">Hand</a> <a href="/2_samuel/3-34.htm">Hands</a> <a href="/2_samuel/2-22.htm">Hold</a> <a href="/2_samuel/4-5.htm">Lay</a> <a href="/2_samuel/8-15.htm">Right</a> <a href="/1_kings/18-40.htm">Seize</a> <a href="/2_samuel/3-22.htm">Spoil</a> <a href="/2_samuel/2-22.htm">Stop</a> <a href="/1_chronicles/10-8.htm">Strip</a> <a href="/2_samuel/5-24.htm">Thyself</a> <a href="/2_samuel/2-22.htm">Turn</a> <a href="/2_samuel/2-30.htm">Turned</a> <a href="/2_samuel/18-15.htm">Weapons</a> <a href="/2_samuel/6-10.htm">Willing</a> <a href="/2_samuel/4-12.htm">Young</a> <a href="/2_samuel/18-15.htm">Youths</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>So Abner told him Abner, the son of Ner, was the commander of Saul's army and a significant military leader in Israel. His role in the narrative of 2 Samuel is pivotal as he navigates the transition of power from the house of Saul to David. This phrase indicates Abner's attempt to communicate and possibly negotiate with Asahel, reflecting his strategic mindset and desire to avoid unnecessary bloodshed among fellow Israelites.“Turn to your right or to your left This phrase suggests a tactical maneuver, urging Asahel to abandon his pursuit. In ancient warfare, such advice would be a way to avoid direct confrontation, especially when the pursuer is at a disadvantage. It reflects Abner's awareness of the potential consequences of a direct conflict with Asahel, who was known for his speed and determination.seize one of the young men Abner suggests that Asahel redirect his efforts towards a less formidable opponent. This reflects the common practice in ancient battles where warriors would seek to gain honor and spoils by defeating enemy soldiers. The mention of "young men" indicates the presence of less experienced or lower-ranking soldiers, highlighting the hierarchical nature of ancient military structures.and take his equipment for yourself.” In the context of ancient warfare, taking an opponent's equipment was both a practical and symbolic act. It provided the victor with valuable resources and served as a trophy of victory. This practice is seen throughout the Old Testament, where spoils of war were often collected and redistributed. Abner's suggestion implies a way for Asahel to gain honor without risking his life against a superior opponent.But Asahel would not stop chasing him. Asahel's relentless pursuit of Abner demonstrates his determination and bravery, traits highly valued in the warrior culture of ancient Israel. However, it also foreshadows the tragic outcome of his persistence. Asahel's refusal to heed Abner's advice highlights the tension between personal ambition and the broader implications of inter-tribal conflict. This moment is a turning point that leads to further strife between the house of Saul and the house of David, illustrating the complexities of loyalty and power during this transitional period in Israel's history.<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <a href="/topical/a/abner.htm">Abner</a> The commander of Saul's army, a key military leader in Israel, and a central figure in the power struggle following Saul's death. 2. <a href="/topical/a/asahel.htm">Asahel</a> The brother of Joab and a swift runner, known for his speed and determination. He is one of David's nephews and a member of David's military forces. 3. <a href="/topical/t/the_battle.htm">The Battle</a> This event takes place during a conflict between the forces of David and the forces of Ish-bosheth, Saul's son, as they vie for control over Israel.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><a href="/topical/t/the_dangers_of_relentless_pursuit.htm">The Dangers of Relentless Pursuit</a> Asahel's determination to pursue Abner, despite warnings, highlights the potential dangers of relentless pursuit without wisdom. In our lives, we must discern when to persist and when to heed warnings. <a href="/topical/r/respect_for_authority_and_wisdom.htm">Respect for Authority and Wisdom</a> Abner's advice to Asahel to turn aside reflects a moment of wisdom and authority. We should recognize and respect the counsel of those with experience and authority in our lives. <a href="/topical/t/the_consequences_of_choices.htm">The Consequences of Choices</a> Asahel's decision not to turn aside ultimately leads to his demise. Our choices have consequences, and we must consider the potential outcomes of our actions. <a href="/topical/t/the_complexity_of_conflict.htm">The Complexity of Conflict</a> This passage illustrates the complexity of human conflict, especially when it involves family and national loyalties. As Christians, we are called to seek peace and reconciliation.<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/is_it_credible_abner_kills_asahel_swiftly.htm">In 2 Samuel 2:18-23, how credible is it that Abner kills Asahel with the blunt end of his spear in a swift chase?</a> <a href="/q/why_delay_burial_in_2_sam_21_9.htm">In 2 Samuel 21:9, how is the extended exposure of the corpses justified when Deuteronomy 21:22-23 calls for prompt burial?</a> <a href="/q/how_to_reconcile_goliath's_death_accounts.htm">How do we reconcile 2 Samuel 21:19 (attributing Goliath's death to Elhanan) with David's victory in 1 Samuel 17?</a> <a href="/q/why_does_elhanan_kill_goliath's_brother.htm">1 Chronicles 20:5: Why does this text say Elhanan killed Goliath's brother, whereas 2 Samuel 21:19 seems to conflict about who killed Goliath?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a> <a href="/commentaries/2_samuel/2-21.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a> <a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Hebrew</div>So Abner אַבְנֵ֗ר (’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 told him, וַיֹּ֧אמֶר (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 “Turn נְטֵ֤ה (nə·ṭêh) Verb - Qal - Imperative - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_5186.htm">Strong's 5186: </a> To stretch out, spread out, extend, incline, bend to עַל־ (‘al-) Preposition <a href="/hebrew/strongs_5921.htm">Strong's 5921: </a> Above, over, upon, against your right יְמִֽינְךָ֙ (yə·mî·nə·ḵā) Noun - feminine singular construct | second person masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_3225.htm">Strong's 3225: </a> The right hand, side, the south or א֣וֹ (’ōw) Conjunction <a href="/hebrew/strongs_176.htm">Strong's 176: </a> Desire, if to עַל־ (‘al-) Preposition <a href="/hebrew/strongs_5921.htm">Strong's 5921: </a> Above, over, upon, against your left, שְׂמֹאלֶ֔ךָ (śə·mō·le·ḵā) Noun - masculine singular construct | second person masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_8040.htm">Strong's 8040: </a> Dark, the north, the left hand seize וֶאֱחֹ֣ז (we·’ĕ·ḥōz) Conjunctive waw | Verb - Qal - Imperative - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_270.htm">Strong's 270: </a> To grasp, take hold, take possession one אֶחָד֙ (’e·ḥāḏ) Number - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_259.htm">Strong's 259: </a> United, one, first of the young men, מֵֽהַנְּעָרִ֔ים (mê·han·nə·‘ā·rîm) Preposition-m, Article | Noun - masculine plural <a href="/hebrew/strongs_5288.htm">Strong's 5288: </a> A boy, lad, youth, retainer and take וְקַח־ (wə·qaḥ-) Conjunctive waw | Verb - Qal - Imperative - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_3947.htm">Strong's 3947: </a> To take his equipment חֲלִצָת֑וֹ (ḥă·li·ṣā·ṯōw) Noun - feminine singular construct | third person masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_2488.htm">Strong's 2488: </a> What is stripped off (a person) for yourself.” לְךָ֖ (lə·ḵā) Preposition | second person masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/.htm">Strong's Hebrew</a> But Asahel עֲשָׂהאֵ֔ל (‘ă·śā·h·’êl) Noun - proper - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_6214.htm">Strong's 6214: </a> Asahel -- 'God has made', four Israelites would אָבָ֣ה (’ā·ḇāh) Verb - Qal - Perfect - third person masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_14.htm">Strong's 14: </a> To breathe after, to be acquiescent not וְלֹֽא־ (wə·lō-) Conjunctive waw | Adverb - Negative particle <a href="/hebrew/strongs_3808.htm">Strong's 3808: </a> Not, no stop לָס֖וּר (lā·sūr) Preposition-l | Verb - Qal - Infinitive construct <a href="/hebrew/strongs_5493.htm">Strong's 5493: </a> To turn aside chasing him. מֵאַחֲרָֽיו׃ (mê·’a·ḥă·rāw) Preposition-m | third person masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_310.htm">Strong's 310: </a> The hind or following part <div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/2_samuel/2-21.htm">2 Samuel 2:21 NIV</a> <a href="/nlt/2_samuel/2-21.htm">2 Samuel 2:21 NLT</a> <a href="/esv/2_samuel/2-21.htm">2 Samuel 2:21 ESV</a> <a href="/nasb/2_samuel/2-21.htm">2 Samuel 2:21 NASB</a> <a href="/kjv/2_samuel/2-21.htm">2 Samuel 2:21 KJV</a> <a href="//bibleapps.com/2_samuel/2-21.htm">2 Samuel 2:21 BibleApps.com</a> <a href="//bibliaparalela.com/2_samuel/2-21.htm">2 Samuel 2:21 Biblia Paralela</a> <a href="//holybible.com.cn/2_samuel/2-21.htm">2 Samuel 2:21 Chinese Bible</a> <a href="//saintebible.com/2_samuel/2-21.htm">2 Samuel 2:21 French Bible</a> <a href="/catholic/2_samuel/2-21.htm">2 Samuel 2:21 Catholic Bible</a> <a href="/2_samuel/2-21.htm">OT History: 2 Samuel 2:21 Abner said to him Turn you aside (2Sa iiSam 2 Sam ii sam) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/2_samuel/2-20.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="2 Samuel 2:20"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="2 Samuel 2:20" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/2_samuel/2-22.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="2 Samuel 2:22"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="2 Samuel 2:22" /></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>