2 Samuel 16:11

2 Samuel 16:11 in Multiple Translations

Berean Standard Bible BSB

Then David said to Abishai and to all his servants, “Behold, my own son, my own flesh and blood, seeks my life. How much more, then, this Benjamite! Leave him alone and let him curse me, for the LORD has told him so.

King James Version KJV

And David said to Abishai, and to all his servants, Behold, my son, which came forth of my bowels, seeketh my life: how much more now may this Benjamite do it? let him alone, and let him curse; for the LORD hath bidden him.

American Standard Version ASV

And David said to Abishai, and to all his servants, Behold, my son, who came forth from my bowels, seeketh my life: how much more may this Benjamite now do it? let him alone, and let him curse; for Jehovah hath bidden him.

Bible in Basic English BBE

And David said to Abishai and to all his servants, You see how my son, the offspring of my body, has made designs against my life: how much more then may this Benjamite do so? Let him be, and let him go on cursing; for the Lord has given him orders.

Free Bible Version FBV

David said to Abishai and to all his officers, “Look, if my very own son is trying to kill me, why shouldn't this Benjamite want to even more! Leave him alone; let him curse me, for the Lord told him to.

Geneva Bible 1599 GNV

And Dauid sayd to Abishai, and to all his seruants, Beholde, my sonne which came out of mine owne bowels, seeketh my life: then howe much more now may this sonne of Iemini? Suffer him to curse: for the Lord hath bidden him.

Young's Literal Translation YLT

And David saith unto Abishai, and unto all his servants, 'Lo, my son who came out of my bowels is seeking my life, and also surely now the Benjamite; leave him alone, and let him revile, for Jehovah hath said [so] to him;

World English Bible WEB

David said to Abishai and to all his servants, “Behold, my son, who came out of my bowels, seeks my life. How much more this Benjamite, now? Leave him alone, and let him curse; for the LORD has invited him.

Noah Webster Bible WBS

And David said to Abishai, and to all his servants, Behold, my son, who came forth from my bowels, seeketh my life: how much more now may this Benjaminite do it ? let him alone, and let him curse; for the LORD hath bidden him.

Douay-Rheims 1899 DRV

And the king said to Abisai, and to all his servants: Behold my son, who came forth from my bowels, seeketh my life: how much more now a son of Jemini? let him alone that he may curse as the Lord hath bidden him.

Translation for Translators T4T

Then David said to Abishai and to all his officials, “You know that my own son is trying to kill me. So it is not surprising that this man from the tribe of Benjamin is also trying to kill me. So ignore him, and allow him to curse me, because perhaps he thinks that Yahweh told him to do that.

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Berean Amplified Bible — 2 Samuel 16:11

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 16:11 Interlinear (Deep Study)

BIB

HEB וַ/יֹּ֨אמֶר דָּוִ֤ד אֶל אֲבִישַׁי֙ וְ/אֶל כָּל עֲבָדָ֔י/ו הִנֵּ֥ה בְנִ֛/י אֲשֶׁר יָצָ֥א מִ/מֵּעַ֖/י מְבַקֵּ֣שׁ אֶת נַפְשִׁ֑/י וְ/אַ֨ף כִּֽי עַתָּ֜ה בֶּן הַ/יְמִינִ֗י הַנִּ֤חוּ ל/וֹ֙ וִֽ/יקַלֵּ֔ל כִּ֥י אָֽמַר ל֖/וֹ יְהוָֽה

וַ/יֹּ֨אמֶר ʼâmar H559 to say Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms

דָּוִ֤ד Dâvid H1732 David N-proper

אֶל ʼêl H413 to(wards) Prep

אֲבִישַׁי֙ ʼĂbîyshay H52 Abishai N-proper

וְ/אֶל ʼêl H413 to(wards) Conj | Prep

כָּל kôl H3605 all N-ms

עֲבָדָ֔י/ו ʻebed H5650 servant/slave N-mp | Suff

הִנֵּ֥ה hinnêh H2009 behold Part

בְנִ֛/י bên H1121 son N-ms | Suff

אֲשֶׁר ʼăsher H834 which Rel

יָצָ֥א yâtsâʼ H3318 to come out V-Qal-Perf-3ms

מִ/מֵּעַ֖/י mêʻeh H4578 belly Prep | N-mp | Suff

מְבַקֵּ֣שׁ bâqash H1245 to seek V-Piel

אֶת ʼêth H853 Obj. DirObjM

נַפְשִׁ֑/י nephesh H5315 soul N-cs | Suff

וְ/אַ֨ף ʼaph H637 also Conj | Adv

כִּֽי kîy H3588 for Conj

עַתָּ֜ה ʻattâh H6258 now Adv

בֶּן Ben-yᵉmîynîy H1145 Benjaminite Ngmsc

הַ/יְמִינִ֗י Ben-yᵉmîynîy H1145 Benjaminite Art | Ngmsa

הַנִּ֤חוּ yânach H3240 to rest V-Hiphil-Impv-2mp

ל/וֹ֙ Prep | Suff

וִֽ/יקַלֵּ֔ל qâlal H7043 to lighten Conj | V-Piel-Imperf-3ms

כִּ֥י kîy H3588 for Conj

אָֽמַר ʼâmar H559 to say V-Qal-Perf-3ms

ל֖/וֹ Prep | Suff

יְהוָֽה Yᵉhôvâh H3068 The Lord N-proper

Hebrew Word Study

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Hebrew Word Reference — 2 Samuel 16:11

וַ/יֹּ֨אמֶר ʼâmar H559 "to say" Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms

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.

דָּוִ֤ד Dâvid H1732 "David" N-proper

David was the youngest son of Jesse and a king of Judah, first mentioned in Ruth 4:17, and an ancestor of Jesus.

Definition: A king of the tribe of Judah living at the time of United Monarchy, first mentioned at Rut.4.17; son of: Jesse (H3448) and Nahash (H5176I); brother of: Eliab (H0446I), Abinadab (H0041I), Shimeah (H8093), Zeruiah (H6870), Abigail (H0026H)(?), Nethanel (H5417H), Raddai (H7288), Ozem (H0684) and Elihu (H0453J); married to Michal (H4324), Abigail (H0026), Ahinoam (H0293H), Maacah (H4601I), Haggith (H2294), Abital (H0037), Eglah (H5698) and Bathsheba (H1339); father of: Amnon (H0550), Chileab (H3609), Absalom (H0053), Adonijah (H0138), Shephatiah (H8203), Ithream (H3507), Shammua (H8051H), Shobab (H7727), Nathan (H5416), Solomon (H8010), Ibhar (H2984), Elishua (H0474), Nepheg (H5298H), Japhia (H3309I), Elishama (H0476H), Eliada (H0450), Eliphelet (H0467), Tamar (H8559H), Elpelet (H0467I), Nogah (H5052) and Jerimoth (H3406N) Also named: Daueid, Dauid, Dabid (Δαυείδ, Δαυίδ, Δαβίδ "David" G1138) § David = "beloved" youngest son of Jesse and second king of Israel

Usage: Occurs in 912 OT verses. KJV: David. See also: Ruth 4:17; 1 Samuel 20:41; 1 Samuel 27:9.

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.

אֲבִישַׁי֙ ʼĂbîyshay H52 "Abishai" N-proper

Abishai was an Israelite and nephew of King David, first mentioned in 1 Samuel 26:6, his name means my father is Jesse or my father is a gift. He was the brother of Joab and Asahel. Abishai played a significant role in the United Monarchy.

Definition: A man living at the time of United Monarchy, first mentioned at 1Sa.26.6 and Zeruiah (H6870); brother of: Joab (H3097) and Asahel (H6214) § Abishai = "my father is Jesse" or "my father is a gift" grandson of Jesse, nephew of David via his sister Zeruiah, brother of Joab

Usage: Occurs in 24 OT verses. KJV: Abishai. See also: 1 Samuel 26:6; 2 Samuel 18:5; 1 Chronicles 19:15.

וְ/אֶל ʼêl H413 "to(wards)" Conj | Prep

כָּל kôl H3605 "all" N-ms

The Hebrew word for 'all' or 'everything' is used throughout the Bible, like in Genesis 1:31, where God sees all He has made as very good. It encompasses the entirety of something, whether people, things, or situations.

Definition: 1) all, the whole 1a) all, the whole of 1b) any, each, every, anything 1c) totality, everything Aramaic equivalent: kol (כֹּל "all" H3606)

Usage: Occurs in 4242 OT verses. KJV: (in) all (manner, (ye)), altogether, any (manner), enough, every (one, place, thing), howsoever, as many as, (no-) thing, ought, whatsoever, (the) whole, whoso(-ever). See also: Genesis 1:21; Genesis 17:10; Genesis 41:40.

עֲבָדָ֔י/ו ʻebed H5650 "servant/slave" N-mp | 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.

הִנֵּ֥ה hinnêh H2009 "behold" Part

This Hebrew word is an expression that means 'behold' or 'look', often used to draw attention to something. It appears in Genesis and Isaiah, and is translated as 'behold' or 'lo' in the KJV.

Definition: behold, lo, see, if

Usage: Occurs in 799 OT verses. KJV: behold, lo, see. See also: Genesis 1:29; Genesis 42:35; Deuteronomy 19:18.

בְנִ֛/י bên H1121 "son" N-ms | Suff

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.

אֲשֶׁר ʼăsher H834 "which" Rel

This Hebrew word is a conjunction that connects ideas and events in the Bible, like in the book of Genesis, where it's used to describe the relationship between God and His creation.

Definition: A: 1) (relative part.) 1a) which, who 1b) that which 2) (conj) 2a) that (in obj clause) 2b) when 2c) since 2d) as 2e) conditional if B: Beth+ 1) in (that) which 2) (adv) 2a) where 3) (conj) 3a) in that, inasmuch as 3b) on account of C: Mem+ 1) from (or than) that which 2) from (the place) where 3) from (the fact) that, since D: Kaph+ 1) (conj.), according as, as, when 1a) according to that which, according as, as 1b) with a causal force: in so far as, since 1c) with a temporal force: when

Usage: Occurs in 4440 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] after, [idiom] alike, as (soon as), because, [idiom] every, for, [phrase] forasmuch, [phrase] from whence, [phrase] how(-soever), [idiom] if, (so) that ((thing) which, wherein), [idiom] though, [phrase] until, [phrase] whatsoever, when, where ([phrase] -as, -in, -of, -on, -soever, -with), which, whilst, [phrase] whither(-soever), who(-m, -soever, -se). As it is indeclinable, it is often accompanied by the personal pronoun expletively, used to show the connection. See also: Genesis 1:7; Genesis 20:9; Genesis 31:16.

יָצָ֥א yâtsâʼ H3318 "to come out" V-Qal-Perf-3ms

In the Bible, this Hebrew word means to go out or come out, and it's used in many different ways, like leaving a place or starting a new journey, as seen in Genesis and Exodus.

Definition: : come/go_out/escape 1) to go out, come out, exit, go forth 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to go or come out or forth, depart 1a2) to go forth (to a place) 1a3) to go forward, proceed to (to or toward something) 1a4) to come or go forth (with purpose or for result) 1a5) to come out of 1b) (Hiphil) 1b1) to cause to go or come out, bring out, lead out 1b2) to bring out of 1b3) to lead out 1b4) to deliver 1c) (Hophal) to be brought out or forth

Usage: Occurs in 991 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] after, appear, [idiom] assuredly, bear out, [idiom] begotten, break out, bring forth (out, up), carry out, come (abroad, out, thereat, without), [phrase] be condemned, depart(-ing, -ure), draw forth, in the end, escape, exact, fail, fall (out), fetch forth (out), get away (forth, hence, out), (able to, cause to, let) go abroad (forth, on, out), going out, grow, have forth (out), issue out, lay (lie) out, lead out, pluck out, proceed, pull out, put away, be risen, [idiom] scarce, send with commandment, shoot forth, spread, spring out, stand out, [idiom] still, [idiom] surely, take forth (out), at any time, [idiom] to (and fro), utter. See also: Genesis 1:12; Exodus 9:33; Leviticus 26:45.

מִ/מֵּעַ֖/י mêʻeh H4578 "belly" Prep | N-mp | Suff

This word refers to the internal organs, like the intestines or stomach, and can also mean sympathy or emotions. The KJV translates it as belly, bowels, or womb, depending on the context.

Definition: 1) internal organs, inward parts, bowels, intestines, belly 1a) inward parts 1b) digestive organs 1c) organs of procreation, womb 1d) place of emotions or distress or love (fig.) 1e) external belly Aramaic equivalent: me.ah (מְעָא "belly" H4577)

Usage: Occurs in 30 OT verses. KJV: belly, bowels, [idiom] heart, womb. See also: Genesis 15:4; Psalms 71:6; Psalms 22:15.

מְבַקֵּ֣שׁ bâqash H1245 "to seek" V-Piel

This Hebrew verb means to seek or search for something. In Psalm 105:4, it's used to encourage seeking God's face. It's also used in 1 Samuel 28:8 where Saul seeks a medium.

Definition: 1) to seek, require, desire, exact, request 1a) (Piel) 1a1) to seek to find 1a2) to seek to secure 1a3) to seek the face 1a4) to desire, demand 1a5) to require, exact 1a6) to ask, request 1b) (Pual) to be sought

Usage: Occurs in 215 OT verses. KJV: ask, beg, beseech, desire, enquire, get, make inquisition, procure, (make) request, require, seek (for). See also: Genesis 31:39; Esther 7:7; Psalms 4:3.

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.

נַפְשִׁ֑/י nephesh H5315 "soul" N-cs | Suff

The Hebrew word for soul or living being, used in the Bible to describe the essence of a person or animal. It encompasses the ideas of life, breath, and vitality, and is translated as 'soul' or 'creature' in the KJV. This word is central to biblical concepts of humanity and existence.

Definition: 1) soul, self, life, creature, person, appetite, mind, living being, desire, emotion, passion 1a) that which breathes, the breathing substance or being, soul, the inner being of man 1b) living being 1c) living being (with life in the blood) 1d) the man himself, self, person or individual 1e) seat of the appetites 1f) seat of emotions and passions 1g) activity of mind 1g1) uncertain 1h) activity of the will 1h1) uncertain 1i) activity of the character 1i1) uncertain

Usage: Occurs in 683 OT verses. KJV: any, appetite, beast, body, breath, creature, [idiom] dead(-ly), desire, [idiom] (dis-) contented, [idiom] fish, ghost, [phrase] greedy, he, heart(-y), (hath, [idiom] jeopardy of) life ([idiom] in jeopardy), lust, man, me, mind, mortally, one, own, person, pleasure, (her-, him-, my-, thy-) self, them (your) -selves, [phrase] slay, soul, [phrase] tablet, they, thing, ([idiom] she) will, [idiom] would have it. See also: Genesis 1:20; Leviticus 26:43; Judges 18:25.

וְ/אַ֨ף ʼaph H637 "also" Conj | Adv

The Hebrew word for 'also' or 'addition', used to connect ideas or show a relationship between them, as seen in Genesis and Exodus. It can also mean 'though' or 'yet', indicating a contrast. This word is often used to add emphasis or provide more information.

Definition: conj (denoting addition, esp of something greater) 1) also, yea, though, so much the more adv 2) furthermore, indeed Aramaic equivalent: aph (אַף "also" H0638)

Usage: Occurs in 123 OT verses. KJV: also, [phrase] although, and (furthermore, yet), but, even, [phrase] how much less (more, rather than), moreover, with, yea. See also: Genesis 3:1; Psalms 16:6; Psalms 16:7.

כִּֽי kîy H3588 "for" Conj

A conjunction used to show cause or connection, as in Genesis 2:23 where Adam says the woman is bone of his bone because she was taken out of him. It is often translated as 'for', 'because', or 'since'.

Definition: 1) that, for, because, when, as though, as, because that, but, then, certainly, except, surely, since 1a) that 1a1) yea, indeed 1b) when (of time) 1b1) when, if, though (with a concessive force) 1c) because, since (causal connection) 1d) but (after negative) 1e) that if, for if, indeed if, for though, but if 1f) but rather, but 1g) except that 1h) only, nevertheless 1i) surely 1j) that is 1k) but if 1l) for though 1m) forasmuch as, for therefore

Usage: Occurs in 3910 OT verses. KJV: and, + (forasmuch, inasmuch, where-) as, assured(-ly), + but, certainly, doubtless, + else, even, + except, for, how, (because, in, so, than) that, + nevertheless, now, rightly, seeing, since, surely, then, therefore, + (al-) though, + till, truly, + until, when, whether, while, whom, yea, yet. See also: Genesis 1:4; Genesis 26:16; Genesis 42:15.

עַתָּ֜ה ʻattâh H6258 "now" Adv

This word means now or at this time, like in Exodus when God says now is the time to act. It can also be used to connect ideas or show a change in time, as seen in the book of Isaiah.

Definition: 1) now 1a) now 1b) in phrases

Usage: Occurs in 422 OT verses. KJV: henceforth, now, straightway, this time, whereas. See also: Genesis 3:22; Joshua 24:23; 2 Samuel 24:13.

בֶּן Ben-yᵉmîynîy H1145 "Benjaminite" Ngmsc

A Benjaminite is a descendant of Benjamin, the youngest son of Jacob. This term refers to someone from the tribe of Benjamin, such as Bela and Becher, who were sons of Benjamin.

Definition: Someone from the tribe of Benjamin living at the time of the Patriarchs, first mentioned at Gen.35.18; son of: Israel (H3478) and Rachel (H7354); brother of: Joseph (H3130); half-brother of: Reuben (H7205), Simeon (H8095), Levi (H3878), Judah (H3063), Dan (H1835H), Naphtali (H5321), Gad (H1410), Asher (H0836), Issachar (H3485), Zebulun (H2074) and Dinah (H1783); father of: Bela (H1106A), Becher (H1071), Ashbel (H0788), Gera (H1617), Naaman (H5283), Ehi (H0278), Rosh (H7220), Muppim (H4649), Huppim (H2650H), Ard (H0714), Ahiram (H0297) and Jediael (H3043); also called Jamin at 1Sa.9.1,4; 22.7; 1x Group of bin.ya.min (בִּנְיָמִין "Benjamin" H1144) § Benjamite = "a son of the right hand" one of the tribe of Benjamin

Usage: Occurs in 9 OT verses. KJV: Benjamite, of Benjamin. See also: Judges 3:15; 2 Samuel 19:17; Psalms 7:1.

הַ/יְמִינִ֗י Ben-yᵉmîynîy H1145 "Benjaminite" Art | Ngmsa

A Benjaminite is a descendant of Benjamin, the youngest son of Jacob. This term refers to someone from the tribe of Benjamin, such as Bela and Becher, who were sons of Benjamin.

Usage: Occurs in 9 OT verses. KJV: Benjamite, of Benjamin. See also: Judges 3:15; 2 Samuel 19:17; Psalms 7:1.

הַנִּ֤חוּ yânach H3240 "to rest" V-Hiphil-Impv-2mp

To rest or settle down, implying a sense of calmness or stillness, as described in the Bible.

Definition: 1) to rest 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to rest, settle down and remain 1a2) to repose, have rest, be quiet 1b) (Hiphil) 1b1) to cause to rest, give rest to, make quiet 1b2) to cause to rest, cause to alight, set down 1b3) to lay or set down, deposit, let lie, place 1b4) to let remain, leave 1b5) to leave, depart from 1b6) to abandon 1b7) to permit 1c) (Hophal) 1c1) to obtain rest, be granted rest 1c2) to be left, be placed 1c3) open space (subst)

Usage: Occurs in 73 OT verses. KJV: bestow, cast down, lay (down, up), leave (off), let alone (remain), pacify, place, put, set (down), suffer, withdraw, withhold. (The Hiphil forms with the dagesh are here referred to, in accordance with the older grammarians; but if any distinction of the kind is to be made, these should rather be referred to H5117 (נוּחַ), and the others here.) See also: Genesis 2:15; 1 Kings 13:30; Psalms 17:14.

ל/וֹ֙ "" Prep | Suff

וִֽ/יקַלֵּ֔ל qâlal H7043 "to lighten" Conj | V-Piel-Imperf-3ms

The Hebrew word qalal means to make something light or easy, but it can also mean to curse or bring into contempt. It appears in various forms throughout the Old Testament, including in the books of Exodus and Psalms.

Definition: 1) to be slight, be swift, be trifling, be of little account, be light 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to be slight, be abated (of water) 1a2) to be swift 1a3) to be trifling, be of little account 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be swift, show oneself swift 1b2) to appear trifling, be too trifling, be insignificant 1b3) to be lightly esteemed 1c) (Piel) 1c1) to make despicable 1c2) to curse 1d) (Pual) to be cursed 1e) (Hiphil) 1e1) to make light, lighten 1e2) to treat with contempt, bring contempt or dishonour 1f) (Pilpel) 1f1) to shake 1f2) to whet 1g) (Hithpalpel) to shake oneself, be moved to and fro

Usage: Occurs in 79 OT verses. KJV: abate, make bright, bring into contempt, (ac-) curse, despise, (be) ease(-y, -ier), (be a, make, make somewhat, move, seem a, set) light(-en, -er, -ly, -ly afflict, -ly esteem, thing), [idiom] slight(-ly), be swift(-er), (be, be more, make, re-) vile, whet. See also: Genesis 8:8; 2 Kings 3:18; Psalms 37:22.

כִּ֥י kîy H3588 "for" Conj

אָֽמַר ʼâmar H559 "to say" V-Qal-Perf-3ms

ל֖/וֹ "" Prep | Suff

יְהוָֽה Yᵉhôvâh H3068 "The Lord" N-proper

Yehovah is another name for God, often translated as 'the Lord'. It is a national name for God in the Jewish faith. This name is used throughout the Old Testament.

Definition: Another name of ye.ru.sha.laim (יְרוּשָׁלִַ֫ם, יְרוּשְׁלֵם "Jerusalem" H3389)

Usage: Occurs in 5522 OT verses. KJV: Jehovah, the Lord. Compare H3050 (יָהּ), H3069 (יְהֹוִה). See also: Genesis 2:4; Genesis 24:42; Exodus 8:8.

Study Notes — 2 Samuel 16:11

Show Verse Quote Highlights

Context
Cross References
2 Samuel 16:11 Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Reflection Questions
Gill's Exposition on 2 Samuel 16:11
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on 2 Samuel 16:11
Trapp's Commentary on 2 Samuel 16:11
Ellicott's Commentary on 2 Samuel 16:11
Adam Clarke's Commentary on 2 Samuel 16:11
Cambridge Bible on 2 Samuel 16:11
Sermons on 2 Samuel 16:11

Context — Shimei Curses David

9Then Abishai son of Zeruiah said to the king, “Why should this dead dog curse my lord the king? Let me go over and cut off his head!” 10But the king replied, “What have I to do with you, O sons of Zeruiah? If he curses me because the LORD told him, ‘Curse David,’ who can ask, ‘Why did you do this?’”

11Then David said to Abishai and to all his servants, “Behold, my own son, my own flesh and blood, seeks my life. How much more, then, this Benjamite! Leave him alone and let him curse me, for the LORD has told him so.

12Perhaps the LORD will see my affliction and repay me with good for the cursing I receive today.” 13So David and his men proceeded along the road as Shimei went along the ridge of the hill opposite him. As Shimei went, he yelled curses, threw stones, and flung dust at David.

Cross References

	Reference	Text (BSB)
1	2 Samuel 17:1–4	Furthermore, Ahithophel said to Absalom, “Let me choose twelve thousand men and set out tonight in pursuit of David. I will attack him while he is weak and weary; I will throw him into a panic, and all the people with him will flee; I will strike down only the king and bring all the people back to you as a bride returning to her husband. You seek the life of only one man; then all the people will be at peace.” This proposal seemed good to Absalom and all the elders of Israel.
2	Genesis 45:5	And now, do not be distressed or angry with yourselves that you sold me into this place, because it was to save lives that God sent me before you.
3	2 Samuel 12:11–12	This is what the LORD says: ‘I will raise up adversity against you from your own house. Before your very eyes I will take your wives and give them to another, and he will lie with them in broad daylight. You have acted in secret, but I will do this thing in broad daylight before all Israel.’”
4	2 Chronicles 32:21	and the LORD sent an angel who annihilated every mighty man of valor and every leader and commander in the camp of the king of Assyria. So he withdrew to his own land in disgrace. And when he entered the temple of his god, some of his own sons struck him down with the sword.
5	2 Kings 19:37	One day, while he was worshiping in the temple of his god Nisroch, his sons Adrammelech and Sharezer put him to the sword and escaped to the land of Ararat. And his son Esar-haddon reigned in his place.
6	Matthew 10:21	Brother will betray brother to death, and a father his child; children will rise against their parents and have them put to death.
7	Genesis 15:4	Then the word of the LORD came to Abram, saying, “This one will not be your heir, but one who comes from your own body will be your heir.”
8	Isaiah 10:5–7	Woe to Assyria, the rod of My anger; the staff in their hands is My wrath. I will send him against a godless nation; I will dispatch him against a people destined for My rage, to take spoils and seize plunder, and to trample them down like clay in the streets. But this is not his intention; this is not his plan. For it is in his heart to destroy and cut off many nations.
9	2 Samuel 7:2	he said to Nathan the prophet, “Here I am, living in a house of cedar, while the ark of God remains in a tent.”
10	Ezekiel 14:9	But if the prophet is enticed to speak a message, then it was I the LORD who enticed him, and I will stretch out My hand against him and destroy him from among My people Israel.

2 Samuel 16:11 Summary

[This verse shows us that David trusted in God's plan, even when people were being mean to him. He believed that God was in control, and that gave him peace. As it says in Psalm 56:3, 'When I am afraid, I put my trust in you.' David's example teaches us to trust in God's sovereignty and to respond to opposition with humility and faith, just like it says in 1 Peter 2:20-23. By trusting in God, we can have peace, even in difficult circumstances.]

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did David tell Abishai to leave Shimei alone?

David told Abishai to leave Shimei alone because he believed the LORD had told Shimei to curse him, as seen in 2 Samuel 16:10, and he trusted in God's sovereignty over his life, similar to what is written in Psalm 138:8.

How could David be so calm in the face of cursing and opposition?

David's calmness in the face of opposition can be attributed to his trust in the LORD, as seen in Psalm 23:4, and his understanding that God was in control, even in difficult circumstances, as written in Romans 8:28.

What does it mean for the LORD to 'tell' someone to curse David?

When the Bible says the LORD told Shimei to curse David, it doesn't mean God approved of the cursing, but rather that He allowed it to happen as part of His larger plan, similar to what is seen in 2 Samuel 16:10 and Acts 4:27-28.

How does this verse relate to our lives today?

This verse reminds us to trust in God's sovereignty, even in difficult circumstances, and to respond to opposition with humility and faith, as encouraged in 1 Peter 2:20-23 and Matthew 5:44.

Reflection Questions

What are some ways I can trust in God's sovereignty when faced with opposition or difficult circumstances?
How can I respond to criticism or cursing in a way that honors God, as seen in this verse and in 1 Peter 2:20-23?
What does it mean for me to 'leave alone' someone who is opposing me, and how can I do that in a way that is pleasing to God?
In what ways can I demonstrate trust in God's plan, even when things don't make sense, as David did in this verse?

Gill's Exposition on 2 Samuel 16:11

And David said to Abishai, and all his servants,.... In order to make them easy, and reconcile them to this usage of him: behold, my son, which came forth of my bowels, seeketh my life; meaning

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on 2 Samuel 16:11

Trapp's Commentary on 2 Samuel 16:11

2 Samuel 16:11 And David said to Abishai, and to all his servants, Behold, my son, which came forth of my bowels, seeketh my life: how much more now [may this] Benjamite [do it]? let him alone, and let him curse; for the LORD hath bidden him.Ver. 11. Behold, my son, which came forth of my bowels.] If we can therefore suffer because we have suffered, as David did from Shimei, but first from Absalom, then we have profited by our afflictions: then "patience hath her perfect work." A weak heart faints with every addition of succeeding sorrow: the strong re-collecteth itself, and, like an old beaten porter to the cross, tolerare mavult guam deplorare, rather carrieth it, than crieth out of it. See Job 23:2. Seeketh my life.] Not only is he sick of my long life - as Adolphus Egmondanus lately was of his father Arnold’ s, duke of Geldria, whom he kept prisoner six years for living so long - but seeketh to destroy it: as did Tullia, Nero, Solymus, Amidas, &c. For the Lord hath bidden him.] It is he who hath turned this dead dog loose upon me. This seeing of God in crosses as the chief agent, whatever the instrument be, is an excellent help to true patience. If a man meet a prince, and know him not, he will not give him due reverence: so if we see not God in our sufferings we shall not so well submit to him; David, for instance, when he went against Nabal. Cominaeus.

Ellicott's Commentary on 2 Samuel 16:11

(11) How much more now may this Benjamite.—The “Benjamite” is in contrast to his own son, because he represents the adherent of another and rival dynasty. It is noticeable that David accuses Absalom not only of seeking his throne, but his life.

Adam Clarke's Commentary on 2 Samuel 16:11

Verse 11. Let him curse; for the Lord hath bidden him.] No soul of man can suppose that ever God bade one man to curse another, much less that he commanded such a wretch as Shimei to curse such a man as David; but this is a peculiarity of the Hebrew language, which does not always distinguish between permission and commandment. Often the Scripture attributes to God what he only permits to be done; or what in the course of his providence he does not hinder. David, however, considers all this as being permitted of God for his chastisement and humiliation. I cannot withhold from my readers a very elegant poetic paraphrase of this passage, from the pen of the Rev. Charles Wesley, one of the first of Christian poets: - "Pure from the blood of Saul in vain, He dares not to the charge reply: Uriah's doth the charge maintain, Uriah's doth against him cry! Let Shimei curse: the rod he bears For sins which mercy had forgiven: And in the wrongs of man reveres The awful righteousness of heaven. Lord, I adore thy righteous will, Through every instrument of ill My Father's goodness see; Accept the complicated wrong Of Shimei's hand and Shimei's tongue As kind rebukes from THEE."

Cambridge Bible on 2 Samuel 16:11

11. this Benjamite] Who has some plausible ground for spite against a king who has succeeded to the honours once held by his family. the Lord hath bidden him] David recognises Shimei as the divinely appointed instrument for his chastisement, and therefore he can say, “the Lord hath bidden him.” But Shimei’s cursing was on his part sinful, and God commands no man to sin. God makes use of the evil passions of men to work out His purposes, but those evil passions are not thereby excused or justified. See for example, Genesis 45:5; Acts 2:23. Since He is the Author and Cause of all things, and in a certain sense nothing can be done without His Will, He is sometimes said to do what He permits to be done, to command what He does not forbid. See note on 1 Samuel 26:19 : and 2 Samuel 24:1.

Sermons on 2 Samuel 16:11

	Sermon	Description
	No Distinction Between What God Appointed and What God Permitted. by F.B. Meyer	F.B. Meyer emphasizes that both God's appointments and permissions are part of His divine will, using examples from Job, Joseph, David, and Jesus to illustrate that even when faced
	He Opened Not His Mouth by A.B. Simpson	A.B. Simpson emphasizes the grace required to endure misunderstandings and unkind judgments with a spirit of sweetness, highlighting that true Christian character is tested in such
	Power of True Religion: Power Through Us by J. Glyn Owen	In this sermon, the preacher reflects on a story he heard about a little girl in the hospital who was given a glass of cold milk and told it would do her good. He then delves into
	God's School of Faith by Jim Cymbala	In this sermon, the speaker focuses on a sentence from the book of Joshua that states, "His thoughts are not our thoughts." The speaker suggests that this sentence holds the key to
	Attitudes on Bitterness by Jim Logan	In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the story of Joseph from the book of Genesis. Joseph experienced many disappointments and heartaches, including being sold into slavery by hi
	(Genesis) 66 - Joseph's Last Words by S. Lewis Johnson	In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the last chapter of Genesis, specifically the events following Jacob's death. Joseph, Jacob's son, weeps over his father's body and commands
	(Genesis) Genesis 39:11-40:23 by Joe Focht	In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the sorrows and challenges of life, particularly for boys who bring sorrow to their mothers. However, the speaker believes that there is ano