2 Samuel 11:21
2 Samuel 11:21 in Multiple Translations
Who was the one to strike Abimelech son of Jerubbesheth ? Was it not a woman who dropped an upper millstone on him from the wall, so that he died in Thebez? Why did you get so close to the wall?’ If so, then you are to say, ‘Your servant Uriah the Hittite is dead as well.’”
Who smote Abimelech the son of Jerubbesheth? did not a woman cast a piece of a millstone upon him from the wall, that he died in Thebez? why went ye nigh the wall? then say thou, Thy servant Uriah the Hittite is dead also.
who smote Abimelech the son of Jerubbesheth? did not a woman cast an upper millstone upon him from the wall, so that he died at Thebez? why went ye so nigh the wall? then shalt thou say, Thy servant Uriah the Hittite is dead also.
Who put Abimelech, the son of Jerubbaal, to death? did not a woman send a great stone down on him from the wall, putting him to death at Thebez? why did you go so near the wall? Then say to him, Your servant Uriah the Hittite is among the dead.
Who killed Abimelech, son of Jerub-Besheth? Wasn't it a woman who dropped a millstone on him from the wall, killing him there in Thebez? Why on earth did you get so close to the wall?’ Just tell him, ‘In addition, your officer Uriah the Hittite was killed.’”
Who smote Abimelech sonne of Ierubesheth? did not a woman cast a piece of a milstone vpon him from the wall, and he died in Thebez? why went you nie the wall? Then say thou, Thy seruant Vriah the Hittite is also dead.
Who smote Abimelech son of Jerubbesheth? did not a woman cast on him a piece of a rider from the wall, and he dieth in Thebez? why drew ye nigh unto the wall? that thou hast said, Also thy servant Uriah the Hittite is dead.'
Who struck Abimelech the son of Jerubbesheth? Didn’t a woman cast an upper millstone on him from the wall, so that he died at Thebez? Why did you go so near the wall?’ then you shall say, ‘Your servant Uriah the Hittite is also dead.’”
Who smote Abimelech the son of Jerubbesheth? did not a woman cast a piece of a millstone upon him from the wall, that he died in Thebez? why went ye nigh the wall? then say thou, Thy servant Uriah the Hittite is dead also.
Who killed Abimelech the son of Jerobaal? did not a woman cast a piece of a millstone upon him from the wall, and slew him in Thebes? Why did you go near the wall? Thou shalt say: Thy servant Urias the Hethite is also slain.
Do you not remember how Abimelech, the son of Gideon, was killed? A woman who lived in Thebez threw a huge ◄millstone/stone for grinding grain► on him from the top of a tower, and he died. So why did your troops go near to the city wall?’ If the king asks this, then tell him, ‘Your officer Uriah also was killed.’ ”
Maybe you forgot that story about Abimelek, Gideon’s son. One time, he fought against the people of the town called Thebez. A woman threw a big stone from the top of the wall, and it hit him, and he died. So why did you mob get so close to that wall?’ If the big boss asks you that, you can tell him this, ‘Uriah died too.’”
Berean Amplified Bible — 2 Samuel 11:21
BAB
Word Study
Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.
Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.
2 Samuel 11:21 Interlinear (Deep Study)
BIB
HEB
מִֽי
הִכָּ֞ה
אֶת
אֲבִימֶ֣לֶךְ
בֶּן
יְרֻבֶּ֗שֶׁת
הֲ/לֽוֹא
אִשָּׁ֡ה
הִשְׁלִ֣יכָה
עָלָי/ו֩
פֶּ֨לַח
רֶ֜כֶב
מֵ/עַ֤ל
הַֽ/חוֹמָה֙
וַ/יָּ֣מָת
בְּ/תֵבֵ֔ץ
לָ֥/מָּה
נִגַּשְׁתֶּ֖ם
אֶל
הַֽ/חוֹמָ֑ה
וְ/אָ֣מַרְתָּ֔
גַּ֗ם
עַבְדְּ/ךָ֛
אוּרִיָּ֥ה
הַ/חִתִּ֖י
מֵֽת
מִֽי
mîy
H4310
who?
Part
הִכָּ֞ה
nâkâh
H5221
to smite
V-Hiphil-Perf-3ms
אֶת
ʼêth
H853
Obj.
DirObjM
אֲבִימֶ֣לֶךְ
ʼĂbîymelek
H40
Ahimelech
N-proper
בֶּן
bên
H1121
son
N-ms
יְרֻבֶּ֗שֶׁת
Yᵉrubbesheth
H3380
Jerubbesheth
N-proper
הֲ/לֽוֹא
lôʼ
H3808
not
Part | Part
אִשָּׁ֡ה
ʼishshâh
H802
woman
N-fs
הִשְׁלִ֣יכָה
shâlak
H7993
to throw
V-Hiphil-Perf-3fs
עָלָי/ו֩
ʻal
H5921
upon
Prep | Suff
פֶּ֨לַח
pelach
H6400
millstone
N-fs
רֶ֜כֶב
rekeb
H7393
chariot
N-ms
מֵ/עַ֤ל
ʻal
H5921
upon
Prep | Prep
הַֽ/חוֹמָה֙
chôwmâh
H2346
wall
Art | N-fs
וַ/יָּ֣מָת
mûwth
H4191
to die
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms
בְּ/תֵבֵ֔ץ
Têbêts
H8405
Thebez
Prep | N-proper
לָ֥/מָּה
mâh
H4100
what?
Prep | Part
נִגַּשְׁתֶּ֖ם
nâgash
H5066
to approach
V-Niphal-Perf-2mp
אֶל
ʼêl
H413
to(wards)
Prep
הַֽ/חוֹמָ֑ה
chôwmâh
H2346
wall
Art | N-fs
וְ/אָ֣מַרְתָּ֔
ʼâmar
H559
to say
Conj | V-Qal-2ms
גַּ֗ם
gam
H1571
also
DirObjM
עַבְדְּ/ךָ֛
ʻebed
H5650
servant/slave
N-ms | Suff
אוּרִיָּ֥ה
ʼÛwrîyâh
H223
Uriah
N-proper
הַ/חִתִּ֖י
Chittîy
H2850
Hittite
Art | Ngmsa
מֵֽת
mûwth
H4191
to die
V-Qal-Perf-3ms
Hebrew Word Study
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Hebrew Word Reference — 2 Samuel 11:21
מִֽי
mîy
H4310
"who?"
Part
This word is used to ask questions like who, whose, or whom. It can also be used to express a wish, like would that or whoever. It appears in many forms throughout the Bible, often in phrases like O that or what.
Definition: who?, whose?, whom?, would that, whoever, whosoever
Usage: Occurs in 342 OT verses. KJV: any (man), [idiom] he, [idiom] him, [phrase] O that! what, which, who(-m, -se, -soever), [phrase] would to God. See also: Genesis 3:11; 2 Samuel 15:4; Psalms 4:7.
הִכָּ֞ה
nâkâh
H5221
"to smite"
V-Hiphil-Perf-3ms
In the Bible, this Hebrew word means to strike or hit something, and it's used in many different ways, like in Exodus when God strikes down the Egyptians. It can also mean to punish or destroy, as seen in Isaiah. The word is used to describe God's judgment.
Definition: 1) to strike, smite, hit, beat, slay, kill 1a)(Niphal) to be stricken or smitten 1b) (Pual) to be stricken or smitten 1c) (Hiphil) 1c1) to smite, strike, beat, scourge, clap, applaud, give a thrust 1c2) to smite, kill, slay (man or beast) 1c3) to smite, attack, attack and destroy, conquer, subjugate, ravage 1c4) to smite, chastise, send judgment upon, punish, destroy 1d) (Hophal) to be smitten 1d1) to receive a blow 1d2) to be wounded 1d3) to be beaten 1d4) to be (fatally) smitten, be killed, be slain 1d5) to be attacked and captured 1d6) to be smitten (with disease) 1d7) to be blighted (of plants)
Usage: Occurs in 461 OT verses. KJV: beat, cast forth, clap, give (wounds), [idiom] go forward, [idiom] indeed, kill, make (slaughter), murderer, punish, slaughter, slay(-er, -ing), smite(-r, -ing), strike, be stricken, (give) stripes, [idiom] surely, wound. See also: Genesis 4:15; Joshua 10:20; 1 Samuel 29:5.
אֶת
ʼêth
H853
"Obj."
DirObjM
In the original Hebrew, this word points out the object of a verb or preposition, like 'namely' or 'even'. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus. It's not directly translated in English, but helps clarify the meaning of sentences.
Definition: sign of the definite direct object, not translated in English but generally preceding and indicating the accusative Aramaic equivalent: yat (יָת "whom" H3487)
Usage: Occurs in 6782 OT verses. KJV: (as such unrepresented in English). See also: Genesis 1:1; Genesis 10:8; Genesis 19:21.
אֲבִימֶ֣לֶךְ
ʼĂbîymelek
H40
"Ahimelech"
N-proper
Abimelech was the name of two Philistine kings and two Israelites in the Bible, including a king who met Abraham and a priest who helped David. The name means 'my father is king'.
Definition: A man living at the time of United Monarchy, first mentioned at 2Sa.8.17; son of: Abiathar (H0054); brother of: Jonathan (H3083I) Another spelling of a.chi.me.lekh (אֲחִימֶ֫לֶךְ "Ahimelech" H0288I) § Abimelech = "Melek is father" or "my father is king" 1) king of Gerar in Abraham's time 2) king of Gath in David's time; maybe title of Philistine kings 3) son of Gideon by a concubine 4) priest, son of Abiathar
Usage: Occurs in 62 OT verses. KJV: Abimelech. See also: Genesis 20:2; Judges 9:20; Psalms 34:1.
בֶּן
bên
H1121
"son"
N-ms
In the Bible, this word means a son or descendant, and can also refer to a grandson, nation, or quality. It appears in 1 Chronicles 24, describing a Levite named Beno. The word is used to show family relationships and inheritance.
Definition: : child/son
Usage: Occurs in 3653 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] afflicted, age, (Ahoh-) (Ammon-) (Hachmon-) (Lev-) ite, (anoint-) ed one, appointed to, ([phrase]) arrow, (Assyr-) (Babylon-) (Egypt-) (Grec-) ian, one born, bough, branch, breed, [phrase] (young) bullock, [phrase] (young) calf, [idiom] came up in, child, colt, [idiom] common, [idiom] corn, daughter, [idiom] of first, [phrase] firstborn, foal, [phrase] very fruitful, [phrase] postage, [idiom] in, [phrase] kid, [phrase] lamb, ([phrase]) man, meet, [phrase] mighty, [phrase] nephew, old, ([phrase]) people, [phrase] rebel, [phrase] robber, [idiom] servant born, [idiom] soldier, son, [phrase] spark, [phrase] steward, [phrase] stranger, [idiom] surely, them of, [phrase] tumultuous one, [phrase] valiant(-est), whelp, worthy, young (one), youth. See also: Genesis 3:16; Genesis 23:3; Genesis 34:18.
יְרֻבֶּ֗שֶׁת
Yᵉrubbesheth
H3380
"Jerubbesheth"
N-proper
Jerubbesheth means shame will contend, another name for Gideon. It appears in 2 Samuel 11:21, and is a variant of Jerubbaal, which was given to Gideon by his father.
Definition: A man living before Israel's Monarchy, first mentioned at Jdg.6.11; son of: Joash (H3101); father of: Jether (H3500), Abimelech (H0040H) and Jotham (H3147); also called Jerubbaal at Jdg.6.32; 7.1; 8.29,35; 9.1,2,5,16,19,24,28,57; 1xJerubbesheth at 2Sa.11.21; Another name of gid.on (גִּדְעוֹן "Gideon" H1439) § Jerubbesheth = "shame will contend" a variant name of Jerubbaal (the other name of Gideon [ ye.rub.ba.al (יְרֻבַּ֫עַל "Jerubbaal" H3378)]) substituting the word 'shame' for the name of the pagan god 'Baal'
Usage: Occurs in 1 OT verses. KJV: Jerubbesheth. See also: 2 Samuel 11:21.
הֲ/לֽוֹא
lôʼ
H3808
"not"
Part | Part
The Hebrew word for not or no is used to indicate absence or negation, as when God says no to the Israelites' requests, or when they disobey His commands.
Definition: 1) not, no 1a) not (with verb-absolute prohibition) 1b) not (with modifier-negation) 1c) nothing (subst) 1d) without (with particle) 1e) before (of time) Aramaic equivalent: la (לָא "not" H3809)
Usage: Occurs in 3967 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] before, [phrase] or else, ere, [phrase] except, ig(-norant), much, less, nay, neither, never, no((-ne), -r, (-thing)), ([idiom] as though...,(can-), for) not (out of), of nought, otherwise, out of, [phrase] surely, [phrase] as truly as, [phrase] of a truth, [phrase] verily, for want, [phrase] whether, without. See also: Genesis 2:5; Genesis 31:15; Exodus 4:9.
אִשָּׁ֡ה
ʼishshâh
H802
"woman"
N-fs
The Hebrew word for woman, used to describe a female person, wife, or animal, appears in many biblical passages, including Genesis and Exodus, and is often translated as woman, wife, or female.
Definition: : woman 1) woman, wife, female 1a) woman (opposite of man) 1b) wife (woman married to a man) 1c) female (of animals) 1d) each, every (pronoun)
Usage: Occurs in 686 OT verses. KJV: (adulter) ess, each, every, female, [idiom] many, [phrase] none, one, [phrase] together, wife, woman. Often unexpressed in English. See also: Genesis 2:22; Genesis 34:4; Numbers 5:12.
הִשְׁלִ֣יכָה
shâlak
H7993
"to throw"
V-Hiphil-Perf-3fs
To throw or cast away is the meaning of this Hebrew verb. It is used in various contexts, including throwing lots or casting out something unwanted. The word appears in stories like Jonah being thrown into the sea.
Definition: 1) to throw, cast, hurl, fling 1a) (Hiphil) 1a1) to throw, cast, throw away, cast off, shed, cast down 1a2) to cast (lots) (fig) 1b) (Hophal) 1b1) to be thrown, be cast 1b2) to be cast forth or out 1b3) to be cast down 1b4) to be cast (metaph)
Usage: Occurs in 121 OT verses. KJV: adventure, cast (away, down, forth, off, out), hurl, pluck, throw. See also: Genesis 21:15; Nehemiah 9:11; Psalms 2:3.
עָלָי/ו֩
ʻal
H5921
"upon"
Prep | Suff
This Hebrew word means on or above something, like a physical object or a situation. It can also imply a sense of responsibility or accountability, as in being on behalf of someone.
Definition: prep 1) upon, on the ground of, according to, on account of, on behalf of, concerning, beside, in addition to, together with, beyond, above, over, by, on to, towards, to, against 1a) upon, on the ground of, on the basis of, on account of, because of, therefore, on behalf of, for the sake of, for, with, in spite of, notwithstanding, concerning, in the matter of, as regards 1b) above, beyond, over (of excess) 1c) above, over (of elevation or pre-eminence) 1d) upon, to, over to, unto, in addition to, together with, with (of addition) 1e) over (of suspension or extension) 1f) by, adjoining, next, at, over, around (of contiguity or proximity) 1g) down upon, upon, on, from, up upon, up to, towards, over towards, to, against (with verbs of motion) 1h) to (as a dative)
Usage: Occurs in 4493 OT verses. KJV: above, according to(-ly), after, (as) against, among, and, [idiom] as, at, because of, beside (the rest of), between, beyond the time, [idiom] both and, by (reason of), [idiom] had the charge of, concerning for, in (that), (forth, out) of, (from) (off), (up-) on, over, than, through(-out), to, touching, [idiom] with. See also: Genesis 1:2; Genesis 24:13; Genesis 41:33.
פֶּ֨לַח
pelach
H6400
"millstone"
N-fs
A millstone is a heavy stone used to grind grain, like the ones Jesus talked about in Matthew 24:41. The word refers to a slice or a cut, often used to describe a piece of something. It appears in the Bible as a common household item.
Definition: 1) cleavage, mill-stone, cut, slice, part cut off 1a) mill-stone 1b) cleavage, slice
Usage: Occurs in 6 OT verses. KJV: piece. See also: Judges 9:53; Job 41:16; Song of Solomon 6:7.
רֶ֜כֶב
rekeb
H7393
"chariot"
N-ms
The Hebrew word for chariot refers to a vehicle, team of horses, or cavalry. It is also used to describe the upper millstone in a grinding mill. Chariots were important in biblical times for transportation and war.
Definition: : chariot 1) a team, chariot, chariotry, mill-stone, riders 1a) chariotry, chariots 1b) chariot (single) 1c) upper millstone (as riding on lower millstone) 1d) riders, troop (of riders), horsemen, pair of horsemen, men riding, ass-riders, camel-riders Also means: re.khev (רֶ֫כֶב ": millstone" H7393H)
Usage: Occurs in 104 OT verses. KJV: chariot, (upper) millstone, multitude (from the margin), wagon. See also: Genesis 50:9; 2 Kings 8:21; Psalms 20:8.
מֵ/עַ֤ל
ʻal
H5921
"upon"
Prep | Prep
This Hebrew word means on or above something, like a physical object or a situation. It can also imply a sense of responsibility or accountability, as in being on behalf of someone.
Definition: prep 1) upon, on the ground of, according to, on account of, on behalf of, concerning, beside, in addition to, together with, beyond, above, over, by, on to, towards, to, against 1a) upon, on the ground of, on the basis of, on account of, because of, therefore, on behalf of, for the sake of, for, with, in spite of, notwithstanding, concerning, in the matter of, as regards 1b) above, beyond, over (of excess) 1c) above, over (of elevation or pre-eminence) 1d) upon, to, over to, unto, in addition to, together with, with (of addition) 1e) over (of suspension or extension) 1f) by, adjoining, next, at, over, around (of contiguity or proximity) 1g) down upon, upon, on, from, up upon, up to, towards, over towards, to, against (with verbs of motion) 1h) to (as a dative)
Usage: Occurs in 4493 OT verses. KJV: above, according to(-ly), after, (as) against, among, and, [idiom] as, at, because of, beside (the rest of), between, beyond the time, [idiom] both and, by (reason of), [idiom] had the charge of, concerning for, in (that), (forth, out) of, (from) (off), (up-) on, over, than, through(-out), to, touching, [idiom] with. See also: Genesis 1:2; Genesis 24:13; Genesis 41:33.
הַֽ/חוֹמָה֙
chôwmâh
H2346
"wall"
Art | N-fs
A wall of protection, like the walls of Jerusalem, provided safety and security for the people. It appears in the Bible as a physical barrier. The Israelites built walls around their cities for defense.
Definition: wall
Usage: Occurs in 123 OT verses. KJV: wall, walled. See also: Exodus 14:22; Nehemiah 6:15; Psalms 51:20.
וַ/יָּ֣מָת
mûwth
H4191
"to die"
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms
In the Bible, this Hebrew word means to die, either literally or as a punishment, and is used in books like Genesis and Exodus. It can also mean to perish or be killed. This concept is seen in the story of Adam and Eve, where death enters the world as a result of sin.
Definition: 1) to die, kill, have one executed 1a)(Qal) 1a1) to die 1a2) to die (as penalty), be put to death 1a3) to die, perish (of a nation) 1a4) to die prematurely (by neglect of wise moral conduct) 1b) (Polel) to kill, put to death, dispatch 1c) (Hiphil) to kill, put to death 1d) (Hophal) 1d1) to be killed, be put to death 1d1a) to die prematurely
Usage: Occurs in 695 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] at all, [idiom] crying, (be) dead (body, man, one), (put to, worthy of) death, destroy(-er), (cause to, be like to, must) die, kill, necro(-mancer), [idiom] must needs, slay, [idiom] surely, [idiom] very suddenly, [idiom] in (no) wise. See also: Genesis 2:17; Exodus 21:18; Numbers 35:21.
בְּ/תֵבֵ֔ץ
Têbêts
H8405
"Thebez"
Prep | N-proper
Thebez was a town near Shechem, mentioned in Judges 9:50, where a woman dropped a millstone on Abimelech's head. The name means conspicuous or prominent, possibly due to its location.
Definition: § Thebez = "conspicuous" a town near Shechem
Usage: Occurs in 2 OT verses. KJV: Thebez. See also: Judges 9:50; 2 Samuel 11:21.
לָ֥/מָּה
mâh
H4100
"what?"
Prep | Part
This Hebrew word means what or how, often used to ask questions or express surprise, like in Genesis when God asks Adam what he has done. It can also mean why or when, and is used in various ways throughout the Old Testament. It appears in many KJV translations, including how or what.
Definition: interr pron 1) what, how, of what kind 1a) (interrogative) 1a1) what? 1a2) of what kind 1a3) what? (rhetorical) 1a4) whatsoever, whatever, what 1b) (adverb) 1b1) how, how now 1b2) why 1b3) how! (exclamation) 1c) (with prep) 1c1) wherein?, whereby?, wherewith?, by what means? 1c2) because of what? 1c3) the like of what? 1c3a) how much?, how many?, how often? 1c3b) for how long? 1c4) for what reason?, why?, to what purpose? 1c5) until when?, how long?, upon what?, wherefore? indef pron 2) anything, aught, what may
Usage: Occurs in 655 OT verses. KJV: how (long, oft, (-soever)), (no-) thing, what (end, good, purpose, thing), whereby(-fore, -in, -to, -with), (for) why. See also: Genesis 2:19; Numbers 21:5; 1 Samuel 19:5.
נִגַּשְׁתֶּ֖ם
nâgash
H5066
"to approach"
V-Niphal-Perf-2mp
To approach or draw near, like Moses to the burning bush, and can also mean to worship or present an argument, as in Genesis 18:23.
Definition: : approach 1) to draw near, approach 1a) (Qal) to draw or come near 1a1) of humans 1a1a) of sexual intercourse 1a2) of inanimate subject 1a2a) to approach one another 1b) (Niphal) to draw near 1c) (Hiphil) to cause to approach, bring near, bring 1d) (Hophal) to be brought near 1e) (Hithpael) to draw near Also means: na.gash (נָגַשׁ ": bring" H5066H)
Usage: Occurs in 112 OT verses. KJV: (make to) approach (nigh), bring (forth, hither, near), (cause to) come (hither, near, nigh), give place, go hard (up), (be, draw, go) near (nigh), offer, overtake, present, put, stand. See also: Genesis 18:23; 1 Samuel 28:25; Psalms 91:7.
אֶל
ʼêl
H413
"to(wards)"
Prep
This Hebrew word means 'to' or 'toward', showing direction or movement. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus, to indicate where someone is going. The KJV translates it in various ways, like 'about', 'according to', or 'against'.
Definition: 1) to, toward, unto (of motion) 2) into (limit is actually entered) 2a) in among 3) toward (of direction, not necessarily physical motion) 4) against (motion or direction of a hostile character) 5) in addition to, to 6) concerning, in regard to, in reference to, on account of 7) according to (rule or standard) 8) at, by, against (of one's presence) 9) in between, in within, to within, unto (idea of motion to)
Usage: Occurs in 4205 OT verses. KJV: about, according to, after, against, among, as for, at, because(-fore, -side), both...and, by, concerning, for, from, [idiom] hath, in(-to), near, (out) of, over, through, to(-ward), under, unto, upon, whether, with(-in). See also: Genesis 1:9; Genesis 21:14; Genesis 31:13.
הַֽ/חוֹמָ֑ה
chôwmâh
H2346
"wall"
Art | N-fs
A wall of protection, like the walls of Jerusalem, provided safety and security for the people. It appears in the Bible as a physical barrier. The Israelites built walls around their cities for defense.
Definition: wall
Usage: Occurs in 123 OT verses. KJV: wall, walled. See also: Exodus 14:22; Nehemiah 6:15; Psalms 51:20.
וְ/אָ֣מַרְתָּ֔
ʼâmar
H559
"to say"
Conj | V-Qal-2ms
This Hebrew word means to say or speak, and it's used in many different ways in the Bible. It can mean to command, promise, or think, and it's translated in the KJV as 'answer', 'appoint', or 'command'.
Definition: 1) to say, speak, utter 1a) (Qal) to say, to answer, to say in one's heart, to think, to command, to promise, to intend 1b) (Niphal) to be told, to be said, to be called 1c) (Hithpael) to boast, to act proudly 1d) (Hiphil) to avow, to avouch Aramaic equivalent: a.mar (אֲמַר "to say" H0560)
Usage: Occurs in 4337 OT verses. KJV: answer, appoint, avouch, bid, boast self, call, certify, challenge, charge, [phrase] (at the, give) command(-ment), commune, consider, declare, demand, [idiom] desire, determine, [idiom] expressly, [idiom] indeed, [idiom] intend, name, [idiom] plainly, promise, publish, report, require, say, speak (against, of), [idiom] still, [idiom] suppose, talk, tell, term, [idiom] that is, [idiom] think, use (speech), utter, [idiom] verily, [idiom] yet. See also: Genesis 1:3; Genesis 18:23; Genesis 25:32.
גַּ֗ם
gam
H1571
"also"
DirObjM
Also means 'even' or 'too', used for emphasis or to connect ideas, like 'both...and' or 'neither...nor'. It can introduce a climax or show contrast.
Definition: 1) also, even, indeed, moreover, yea 1a) also, moreover (giving emphasis) 1b) neither, neither...nor (with negative) 1c) even (for stress) 1d) indeed, yea (introducing climax) 1e) also (of correspondence or retribution) 1f) but, yet, though (adversative) 1g) even, yea, yea though (with 'when' in hypothetical case) 2) (TWOT) again, alike
Usage: Occurs in 661 OT verses. KJV: again, alike, also, (so much) as (soon), both (so)...and, but, either...or, even, for all, (in) likewise (manner), moreover, nay...neither, one, then(-refore), though, what, with, yea. See also: Genesis 3:6; Exodus 19:9; 1 Samuel 14:21.
עַבְדְּ/ךָ֛
ʻebed
H5650
"servant/slave"
N-ms | Suff
This word refers to a servant or slave, often in the context of serving God or a human master. It can also describe a prophet or Levite. The KJV translates it as bondage, bondman, or servant.
Definition: 1) slave, servant 1a) slave, servant, man-servant 1b) subjects 1c) servants, worshippers (of God) 1d) servant (in special sense as prophets, Levites etc) 1e) servant (of Israel) 1f) servant (as form of address between equals) Aramaic equivalent: a.vad (עֲבַד "servant/slave" H5649)
Usage: Occurs in 714 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] bondage, bondman, (bond-) servant, (man-) servant. See also: Genesis 9:25; Exodus 11:3; 1 Samuel 8:16.
אוּרִיָּ֥ה
ʼÛwrîyâh
H223
"Uriah"
N-proper
Uriah was a prophet who lived during the time of King Jehoiakim, as mentioned in Jeremiah 26:20-23. His name means 'God is my light' and he was slain for speaking God's word. Several other Israelites shared this name, including a Hittite warrior in David's army.
Definition: A man living at the time of Exile and Return, only mentioned at Neh.8.4 § Uriah or Urijah = "Jehovah (Yahweh) is my light (flame)" a prophet slain by Jehoiakim
Usage: Occurs in 33 OT verses. KJV: Uriah, Urijah. See also: 2 Samuel 11:3; 2 Samuel 12:10; Isaiah 8:2.
הַ/חִתִּ֖י
Chittîy
H2850
"Hittite"
Art | Ngmsa
A Hittite is a descendant of Heth, a man who lived during the time of the Patriarchs, first mentioned in Genesis 10:15. The Hittites were a group of people related to the Canaanites and other nearby tribes. They are often mentioned in the Bible, including in the book of Joshua.
Definition: Someone descended from Heth who was a man living at the time of the Patriarchs, first mentioned at Gen.10.15; son of: Canaan (H3667); brother of: Sidon (H6721), Jebusite (H2983), Amorite (H0567), Girgashite (H1622), Hivite (H2340), Arkite (H6208), Sinite (H5513), Arvadite (H0721), Zemarite (H6786) and Hamathite (H2577); also called Hittite (KJV: "of Heth") frequently Group of chet (חֵת "Heth" H2845) § Hittite = "descendant of Heth" the nation descended from Heth, the 2nd son of Canaan; once inhabitants of central Anatolia (modern Turkey), later in north Lebanon
Usage: Occurs in 47 OT verses. KJV: Hittite, Hittities. See also: Genesis 15:20; Joshua 24:11; Ezekiel 16:45.
מֵֽת
mûwth
H4191
"to die"
V-Qal-Perf-3ms
In the Bible, this Hebrew word means to die, either literally or as a punishment, and is used in books like Genesis and Exodus. It can also mean to perish or be killed. This concept is seen in the story of Adam and Eve, where death enters the world as a result of sin.
Definition: 1) to die, kill, have one executed 1a)(Qal) 1a1) to die 1a2) to die (as penalty), be put to death 1a3) to die, perish (of a nation) 1a4) to die prematurely (by neglect of wise moral conduct) 1b) (Polel) to kill, put to death, dispatch 1c) (Hiphil) to kill, put to death 1d) (Hophal) 1d1) to be killed, be put to death 1d1a) to die prematurely
Usage: Occurs in 695 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] at all, [idiom] crying, (be) dead (body, man, one), (put to, worthy of) death, destroy(-er), (cause to, be like to, must) die, kill, necro(-mancer), [idiom] must needs, slay, [idiom] surely, [idiom] very suddenly, [idiom] in (no) wise. See also: Genesis 2:17; Exodus 21:18; Numbers 35:21.
Study Notes — 2 Samuel 11:21
Show Verse Quote Highlights
- Context
- Cross References
- 2 Samuel 11:21 Summary
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Reflection Questions
- Gill's Exposition on 2 Samuel 11:21
- Matthew Poole's Commentary on 2 Samuel 11:21
- Trapp's Commentary on 2 Samuel 11:21
- Ellicott's Commentary on 2 Samuel 11:21
- Cambridge Bible on 2 Samuel 11:21
- Barnes' Notes on 2 Samuel 11:21
- Whedon's Commentary on 2 Samuel 11:21
- Sermons on 2 Samuel 11:21
Context — David Arranges Uriah’s Death
19and instructed the messenger, “When you have finished giving the king a full account of the battle,
20if the king’s anger flares, he may ask you, ‘Why did you get so close to the city to fight? Did you not realize they would shoot from atop the wall?
21Who struck Abimelech son of Jerubbesheth ? Was it not a woman who dropped an upper millstone on him from the wall, so that he died in Thebez? Why did you get so close to the wall?’ If he asks you this, then you are to say, ‘Your servant Uriah the Hittite is dead as well.’”
22So the messenger set out and reported to David all that Joab had sent him to say. 23The messenger said to David, “The men overpowered us and came out against us in the field, but we drove them back to the entrance of the gate.Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Judges 7:1 | Early in the morning Jerubbaal (that is, Gideon) and all the men with him camped beside the spring of Harod. And the camp of Midian was north of them in the valley near the hill of Moreh. |
| 2 | Judges 9:50–54 | Then Abimelech went to Thebez, encamped against it, and captured it. But there was a strong tower inside the city, and all the men, women, and leaders of the city fled there. They locked themselves in and went up to the roof of the tower. When Abimelech came to attack the tower, he approached its entrance to set it on fire. But a woman dropped an upper millstone on Abimelech’s head, crushing his skull. He quickly called his armor-bearer, saying, “Draw your sword and kill me, lest they say of me, ‘A woman killed him.’” So Abimelech’s armor-bearer ran his sword through him, and he died. |
| 3 | 2 Samuel 3:27 | When Abner returned to Hebron, Joab pulled him aside into the gateway, as if to speak to him privately, and there Joab stabbed him in the stomach. So Abner died on account of the blood of Joab’s brother Asahel. |
| 4 | 2 Samuel 3:34 | Your hands were not bound, your feet were not fettered. As a man falls before the wicked, so also you fell.” And all the people wept over him even more. |
| 5 | Judges 6:32 | So on that day Gideon was called Jerubbaal, that is to say, “Let Baal contend with him,” because he had torn down Baal’s altar. |
| 6 | Ezekiel 16:51–52 | Furthermore, Samaria did not commit half the sins you did. You have multiplied your abominations beyond theirs, and all the abominations you have committed have made your sisters appear righteous. So now you must bear your disgrace, since you have brought justification for your sisters. For they appear more righteous than you, because your sins were more vile than theirs. So you too must bear your shame and disgrace, since you have made your sisters appear righteous. |
| 7 | Isaiah 14:10 | They will all respond to you, saying, “You too have become weak, as we are; you have become like us!” |
| 8 | Psalms 39:8 | Deliver me from all my transgressions; do not make me the reproach of fools. |
2 Samuel 11:21 Summary
[This verse is part of a conversation between Joab and a messenger, where Joab is trying to break the news to King David that one of his soldiers, Uriah, has been killed in battle. Joab uses the story of Abimelech's death to remind David that war is unpredictable and that sometimes people get hurt, as seen in Judges 9:50-54. He's trying to prepare David for the news and make it seem like an accident, rather than a deliberate act. This story is a reminder that our actions have consequences, and that we must be mindful of the impact our choices have on others, as warned in Galatians 6:7-8.]
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the background of Abimelech son of Jerubbesheth mentioned in this verse?
Abimelech son of Jerubbesheth is likely a reference to a story in Judges 9:50-54, where Abimelech, a son of Gideon, is killed by a woman who drops a millstone on him from a tower in Thebez.
Why does Joab instruct the messenger to mention Uriah the Hittite's death in this specific context?
Joab wants to inform David about Uriah's death in a way that makes it seem like an unfortunate accident of war, rather than a deliberate act, as seen in 2 Samuel 11:21, to avoid raising David's suspicions about the true circumstances of Uriah's death.
What is the significance of the wall in this verse?
The wall serves as a reminder of the dangers of warfare and the importance of caution, as seen in the story of Abimelech's death, and is used by Joab to downplay the significance of Uriah's death, as if it was just a result of being too close to the wall during the battle, similar to the warnings in Deuteronomy 22:8 and Proverbs 22:3
How does this verse relate to the broader story of David and Uriah?
This verse is part of the larger narrative of David's sin with Bathsheba and his subsequent attempts to cover it up, including the death of Uriah, as seen in 2 Samuel 11:1-27, which ultimately leads to Nathan's rebuke in 2 Samuel 12:1-14
Reflection Questions
- What are some ways that I try to downplay or cover up my own mistakes, and how can I learn to be more honest and transparent like David eventually is in 2 Samuel 12:13?
- How do I respond when I am confronted with the consequences of my actions, and what can I learn from David's example in this story?
- In what ways can I be more mindful of the potential consequences of my actions, and how can I seek to avoid harm to myself and others, as warned in Proverbs 22:3?
- What role does pride and self-protection play in my own life, and how can I work to cultivate a greater sense of humility and trust in God's sovereignty, as seen in Psalm 37:3-7?
Gill's Exposition on 2 Samuel 11:21
Who smote Abimelech the son of Jerubbesheth?.... The same with Jerubbaal, who was Gideon, Jude 6:32; Baal, one part of his name, was the name of an idol, and sometimes called Bosheth or Besheth,
Matthew Poole's Commentary on 2 Samuel 11:21
Jerubbesheth, called also Jerubbaal, . See Poole "". Thy servant Uriah the Hittite is dead also; which he knew would be acceptable news to the king, and therefore allay his wrath. This indeed might make the messenger suspect that David had a hand in Uriah’ s death; and possibly Joab might say so for that very reason, that these matters by degrees being known, David might be hardened in sin, and so Joab might have the greater interest in him.
Trapp's Commentary on 2 Samuel 11:21
2 Samuel 11:21 Who smote Abimelech the son of Jerubbesheth? did not a woman cast a piece of a millstone upon him from the wall, that he died in Thebez? why went ye nigh the wall? then say thou, Thy servant Uriah the Hittite is dead also.Ver. 21. Who smote Abimelech.] See Judges 9:53. A commander-in-chief had need be a good historian, ne fiat historia. Tamerlane read much at spare times, in a certain book, wherein was contained the lives of his ancestors and other valiant worthies; not therewith vainly to deceive the time, but to make use thereof by the imitation of that which was by them worthily done, and declining of such dangers, as they, by their rashness or oversight, fell into. Turk. Hist, 218.
Ellicott's Commentary on 2 Samuel 11:21
(21) Who smote Abimelech?—See Judges 9:53. Joab anticipated David’s anger at his apparent rashness, and charged the messenger, when he should observe it, to mention’s Uriah’s death. This was not likely to awaken any suspicion in the messenger, as it would appear to him rather as an effort on Joab’s part to throw the blame from himself upon Uriah as the leader of the assaulting party. The messenger appears to have told all in one breath, so that there was no opportunity for David to express displeasure. The reference to the case of Abimelech shows how familiar the Israelites were with the past history of their people.
Cambridge Bible on 2 Samuel 11:21
21. Who smote Abimelech] See Judges 9:50-54. This reference is interesting, as shewing a familiarity with the history of the time of the Judges; but whether it was preserved by written annals or by oral tradition, is uncertain. It is not likely that our Book of Judges was in existence in its present form. Jerubbesheth] Jerubbaal or Gideon (Judges 6:32). The form Jerubbesheth occurs here only. The Sept. reads Jerubbaal, and this was perhaps the original reading, altered for the reasons stated in the note to ch. 2 Samuel 2:8. in Thebez] Only mentioned here and in Judges, but its site and name are both preserved by the village of Tubâs, about ten miles N. E. of Shechem.
Barnes' Notes on 2 Samuel 11:21
Who smote Abimelech ... - This reference indicates the existence in David’s time of the national annals of that period in an accessible form, and the king’s habit of reading, or having read to him, the history of his country.
Whedon's Commentary on 2 Samuel 11:21
21. Son of Jerubbesheth — Rather, of Jerubbaal. See Judges 9.
Sermons on 2 Samuel 11:21
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
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Gideon #2: The Preeminence of the Lord Jesus Christ by Ed Miller | In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the story of Gideon from the book of Judges in the Bible. The main theme is the preeminence of Christ and the invitation for believers to co |
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Gideon's Defeat Over the Midianites by Chuck Smith | In this sermon, Pastor Chuck Smith of Calvary Chapel, Costa Mesa, California, leads a verse-by-verse study through the Bible. He focuses on Gideon's defeat over the Midianites as d |
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(Gaining God's Approval) 1. Called, Chosen and Faithful by Zac Poonen | Zac Poonen preaches on the distinction between being accepted by God and being approved by God, emphasizing the importance of being faithful over just being called or chosen. He hi |
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The Faithful Remnant by Zac Poonen | Zac Poonen preaches on the importance of being called, chosen, and faithful disciples of Jesus, highlighting the overcomers mentioned in the book of Revelation who have been tested |
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The Sword of the Word, and Prayer by T. Austin-Sparks | T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the critical role of prayer and the Word of God as the primary weapons against the enemy's strategies, drawing from the biblical accounts of Saul and Jo |
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Morale by T. Austin-Sparks | T. Austin-Sparks preaches on the story of Gideon, emphasizing the importance of morale in spiritual warfare. The reduction of Gideon's army by the Lord was to ensure a certain qual |
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The Defeated Father by Emanuel Esh | In this sermon, the speaker addresses the issue of defeat in our homes and provides guidance on how to overcome it. He shares his own experience of raising four daughters and how t |