2 samuel 3:19 - Abner also spoke in the ears of Benjamin: and Abner went also to speak in the ears of David in Hebron all that seemed good to Israel, and to the whole house of Benjamin.

Generated Verse: 2 samuel 3:19

What does "2 samuel 3:19" mean?


This verse (2 Samuel 3:19) is part of the larger narrative describing Abner's efforts to unite the kingdom of Israel under David after the death of Ishbosheth. Let's break it down:

"Abner also spoke in the ears of Benjamin:" Abner, who had been the commander of Ishbosheth's army and the power behind his throne, is now actively trying to win over the tribe of Benjamin to David's cause. Benjamin was a key tribe because it was Saul's own tribe, and they had remained loyal to Saul's line. "Speaking in the ears" means he was communicating privately and persuasively with influential Benjamites.

"and Abner went also to speak in the ears of David in Hebron all that seemed good to Israel, and to the whole house of Benjamin." Here, Abner travels to Hebron (where David was ruling over Judah) to negotiate with David. He is bringing a proposal that represents the interests and desires of both Israel (the northern tribes) and the house of Benjamin. "All that seemed good" implies that Abner is presenting conditions and arguments that would make the union of the kingdoms beneficial and acceptable to both groups.

In essence, the verse describes Abner acting as an intermediary. He is:

Gaining Support: Building consensus among the northern tribes, especially Benjamin, for accepting David as king.
Negotiating Terms: Representing the interests of those northern tribes to David, ensuring their concerns are addressed in the potential union.

Abner's efforts were crucial because they paved the way for David to become king over all of Israel, ending the civil war and uniting the nation. However, it is important to remember that Abner's motives are not entirely pure. He is also acting in his own self-interest, trying to secure a prominent position in David's kingdom after betraying Ishbosheth.

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