2 samuel 18:22 - Then Ahimaaz the son of Zadok said yet again to Joab, “But come what may, please let me also run after the Cushite.” Joab said, “Why do you want to run, my son, since that you will have no reward for the news?”

Generated Verse: 2 samuel 18:22

What does "2 samuel 18:22" mean?


This verse is part of the story of Absalom's rebellion against his father, King David. Absalom has just been killed in battle, and Joab, David's general, is sending news of the victory to the king.

Let's break down the verse:

"Then Ahimaaz the son of Zadok said yet again to Joab, 'But come what may, please let me also run after the Cushite.'" Ahimaaz, the son of a priest loyal to David, had already asked Joab to let him run and deliver the news. Joab had refused. Here, he persists, using the phrase "come what may" to emphasize his eagerness and determination. He wants to be second messenger to the king, following after an unnamed Cushite messenger that Joab had sent earlier.

"Joab said, 'Why do you want to run, my son, since that you will have no reward for the news?'" Joab is questioning Ahimaaz's motivation. He likely suspects that Ahimaaz's desire to run isn't just about delivering news but perhaps about currying favor with David or out of loyalty. The key phrase here is "you will have no reward for the news." Joab knows the news of Absalom's death will be devastating for David, and he believes Ahimaaz won't be rewarded for bringing such painful tidings. The Cushite was already carrying the news, so Joab didn't think there was any point.

In essence, the verse highlights a conflict of interest:

Ahimaaz's motivation: He likely wants to be the one to bring the news to David, possibly out of loyalty or a desire to be seen as important.
Joab's motivation: He understands that the news is bad and knows David will be heartbroken. He is also concerned with who delivers the news because knowing the Cushite's background, it would be easier for them to deliver the message than Ahimaaz who has close ties to David. It's also a commentary on the messenger's role and the impact of the message they carry. Sometimes, the messenger isn't rewarded, especially when the message is unwelcome.

The following verses continue to reveal Joab's reluctance and Ahimaaz's persistence, hinting at deeper political and personal dynamics at play in the aftermath of Absalom's rebellion.

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