2 samuel 20:18 - Then she spoke, saying, “They used to say in old times, ‘They shall surely ask counsel at Abel;’ and so they settled a matter.
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What does "2 samuel 20:18" mean?
This verse from 2 Samuel 20:18 is part of a longer speech by a wise woman from the city of Abel-beth-maacah. She is speaking to Joab, the commander of David's army, who is laying siege to her city because a rebel named Sheba son of Bichri has taken refuge there.
Let's break down the verse and its meaning:
"Then she spoke, saying, “They used to say in old times, ‘They shall surely ask counsel at Abel;’ and so they settled a matter."
"They used to say in old times...": This introduces a well-known proverb or saying that was common knowledge in the area. It suggests Abel-beth-maacah had a long-standing reputation.
"'They shall surely ask counsel at Abel;'": This is the core of the proverb. It means that people recognized Abel-beth-maacah as a place known for wisdom, good advice, and conflict resolution. Before resorting to violence or war, people would go to Abel to seek counsel and find peaceful solutions.
"and so they settled a matter.": This completes the proverb, illustrating the positive outcome of seeking counsel at Abel. By going to Abel, people were able to resolve their disputes and settle their issues peacefully.
In essence, the wise woman is reminding Joab that her city, Abel-beth-maacah, has historically been a place of wisdom and peaceful resolution. She is appealing to his sense of reason and suggesting that instead of destroying the city, he should consult with them and try to resolve the situation peacefully.
The significance of this verse:
Emphasis on wisdom and diplomacy: It highlights the importance of seeking wise counsel before resorting to violence.
Reputation of Abel-beth-maacah: It establishes the city's reputation as a center for wisdom and conflict resolution. This reputation gives weight to the woman's words and makes her plea more persuasive.
Subtle rebuke to Joab: It's a subtle criticism of Joab's approach. By reminding him of Abel's reputation, she is implying that he should have tried to negotiate or seek counsel before resorting to a siege.
Sets the stage for negotiation: The woman's speech effectively sets the stage for a peaceful resolution. Joab recognizes the wisdom in her words and is willing to listen to her plan. Ultimately, she convinces the people of Abel to kill Sheba and throw his head over the wall to Joab, thus saving their city.
In conclusion, this verse is a powerful reminder of the value of wisdom, diplomacy, and peaceful conflict resolution. It also provides insight into the reputation of Abel-beth-maacah as a place known for wise counsel and its role as a mediator in settling disputes.
2 samuel 20:18 - Then she spoke, saying, “They used to say in old times, ‘They shall surely ask counsel at Abel;’ and so they settled a matter.
What does "2 samuel 20:18" mean?
This verse from 2 Samuel 20:18 is part of a longer speech by a wise woman from the city of Abel-beth-maacah. She is speaking to Joab, the commander of David's army, who is laying siege to her city because a rebel named Sheba son of Bichri has taken refuge there.
Let's break down the verse and its meaning:
"Then she spoke, saying, “They used to say in old times, ‘They shall surely ask counsel at Abel;’ and so they settled a matter."
"They used to say in old times...": This introduces a well-known proverb or saying that was common knowledge in the area. It suggests Abel-beth-maacah had a long-standing reputation.
"'They shall surely ask counsel at Abel;'": This is the core of the proverb. It means that people recognized Abel-beth-maacah as a place known for wisdom, good advice, and conflict resolution. Before resorting to violence or war, people would go to Abel to seek counsel and find peaceful solutions.
"and so they settled a matter.": This completes the proverb, illustrating the positive outcome of seeking counsel at Abel. By going to Abel, people were able to resolve their disputes and settle their issues peacefully.
In essence, the wise woman is reminding Joab that her city, Abel-beth-maacah, has historically been a place of wisdom and peaceful resolution. She is appealing to his sense of reason and suggesting that instead of destroying the city, he should consult with them and try to resolve the situation peacefully.
The significance of this verse:
Emphasis on wisdom and diplomacy: It highlights the importance of seeking wise counsel before resorting to violence.
Reputation of Abel-beth-maacah: It establishes the city's reputation as a center for wisdom and conflict resolution. This reputation gives weight to the woman's words and makes her plea more persuasive.
Subtle rebuke to Joab: It's a subtle criticism of Joab's approach. By reminding him of Abel's reputation, she is implying that he should have tried to negotiate or seek counsel before resorting to a siege.
Sets the stage for negotiation: The woman's speech effectively sets the stage for a peaceful resolution. Joab recognizes the wisdom in her words and is willing to listen to her plan. Ultimately, she convinces the people of Abel to kill Sheba and throw his head over the wall to Joab, thus saving their city.
In conclusion, this verse is a powerful reminder of the value of wisdom, diplomacy, and peaceful conflict resolution. It also provides insight into the reputation of Abel-beth-maacah as a place known for wise counsel and its role as a mediator in settling disputes.