2 Samuel 17:25
2 Samuel 17:25 in Multiple Translations
Absalom had appointed Amasa over the army in place of Joab. Amasa was the son of a man named Ithra, the Ishmaelite who had married Abigail, the daughter of Nahash and sister of Zeruiah the mother of Joab.
¶ And Absalom made Amasa captain of the host instead of Joab: which Amasa was a man’s son, whose name was Ithra an Israelite, that went in to Abigail the daughter of Nahash, sister to Zeruiah Joab’s mother.
And Absalom set Amasa over the host instead of Joab. Now Amasa was the son of a man, whose name was Ithra the Israelite, that went in to Abigal the daughter of Nahash, sister to Zeruiah, Joab’s mother.
And Absalom put Amasa at the head of the army in place of Joab. Now Amasa was the son of a man named Ithra the Ishmaelite, who had been the lover of Abigail, the daughter of Jesse, sister of Zeruiah, Joab's mother.
Absalom had put Amasa in charge of the army to replace Joab. Amasa was the son of a man named Ithra, the Ishmaelite who lived with Abigail, the daughter of Nahash and sister of Zeruiah, Joab's mother.
And Absalom made Amasa captaine of the hoste in the stead of Ioab: which Amasa was a mans sonne named Ithra an Israelite, that went in to Abigail the daughter of Nahash, sister to Zeruiah Ioabs mother.
and Amasa hath Absalom set instead of Joab over the host, and Amasa [is] a man's son whose name is Ithra the Israelite who hath gone in unto Abigail, daughter of Nahash, sister of Zeruiah, mother of Joab;
Absalom set Amasa over the army instead of Joab. Now Amasa was the son of a man whose name was Ithra the Israelite, who went in to Abigail the daughter of Nahash, sister to Zeruiah, Joab’s mother.
And Absalom made Amasa captain of the host instead of Joab: which Amasa was a man's son, whose name was Ithra, an Israelite, that went in to Abigail the daughter of Nahash, sister to Zeruiah, Joab's mother.
Now Absalom appointed Amasa in Joab’s stead over the army: and Amasa was the son of a man who was called Jethra of Jezrael, who went in to Abigail the daughter of Naas, the sister of Sarvia who was the mother of Joab.
Absalom had appointed his cousin Amasa to be the commander of his army, instead of Joab. Amasa was the son of a man named Jether, a descendant of Ishmael. Amasa’s mother was Abigail, the daughter of Nahash and the sister of Joab’s mother Zeruiah.
Berean Amplified Bible — 2 Samuel 17:25
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 17:25 Interlinear (Deep Study)
BIB
HEB
וְ/אֶת
עֲמָשָׂ֗א
שָׂ֧ם
אַבְשָׁלֹ֛ם
תַּ֥חַת
יוֹאָ֖ב
עַל
הַ/צָּבָ֑א
וַ/עֲמָשָׂ֣א
בֶן
אִ֗ישׁ
וּ/שְׁמ/וֹ֙
יִתְרָ֣א
הַ/יִּשְׂרְאֵלִ֔י
אֲשֶׁר
בָּא֙
אֶל
אֲבִיגַ֣ל
בַּת
נָחָ֔שׁ
אֲח֥וֹת
צְרוּיָ֖ה
אֵ֥ם
יוֹאָֽב
וְ/אֶת
ʼêth
H853
Obj.
Conj | DirObjM
עֲמָשָׂ֗א
ʻĂmâsâʼ
H6021
Amasa
N-proper
שָׂ֧ם
sûwm
H7760
to set
V-Qal-Perf-3ms
אַבְשָׁלֹ֛ם
ʼĂbîyshâlôwm
H53
Absalom
N-proper
תַּ֥חַת
tachath
H8478
underneath
Prep
יוֹאָ֖ב
Yôwʼâb
H3097
Joab
N-proper
עַל
ʻal
H5921
upon
Prep
הַ/צָּבָ֑א
tsâbâʼ
H6635
army
Art | N-cs
וַ/עֲמָשָׂ֣א
ʻĂmâsâʼ
H6021
Amasa
Conj | N-proper
בֶן
bên
H1121
son
N-ms
אִ֗ישׁ
ʼîysh
H376
man
N-ms
וּ/שְׁמ/וֹ֙
shêm
H8034
name
Conj | N-ms | Suff
יִתְרָ֣א
Yithrâʼ
H3501
Ithra
N-proper
הַ/יִּשְׂרְאֵלִ֔י
Yisrᵉʼêlîy
H3481
Israelite
Art | Ngmsa
אֲשֶׁר
ʼăsher
H834
which
Rel
בָּא֙
bôwʼ
H935
Lebo
V-Qal-Perf-3ms
אֶל
ʼêl
H413
to(wards)
Prep
אֲבִיגַ֣ל
ʼĂbîygayil
H26
Abigail
N-proper
בַּת
bath
H1323
Bath (Shua)
N-fs
נָחָ֔שׁ
Nâchâsh
H5176
Nahash
N-proper
אֲח֥וֹת
ʼâchôwth
H269
sister
N-fs
צְרוּיָ֖ה
Tsᵉrûwyâh
H6870
Zeruiah
N-proper
אֵ֥ם
ʼêm
H517
mother
N-fs
יוֹאָֽב
Yôwʼâb
H3097
Joab
N-proper
Hebrew Word Study
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Hebrew Word Reference — 2 Samuel 17:25
וְ/אֶת
ʼêth
H853
"Obj."
Conj | 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.
עֲמָשָׂ֗א
ʻĂmâsâʼ
H6021
"Amasa"
N-proper
Amasa was a general in the army of Absalom and the son of Ithra or Jether by Abigail, David's sister. His name means burden and he is mentioned in 2 Chronicles 28:12.
Definition: A man living at the time of Divided Monarchy, only mentioned at 2Ch.28.12; son of: Hadlai (H2311) § Amasa = "burden" 1) son of Ithra or Jether by Abigail the sister of David and general of the army of Absalom 2) son of Hadlai and a prince of Ephraim in the reign of king Ahaz
Usage: Occurs in 12 OT verses. KJV: Amasa. See also: 2 Samuel 17:25; 2 Samuel 20:10; 2 Chronicles 28:12.
שָׂ֧ם
sûwm
H7760
"to set"
V-Qal-Perf-3ms
This Hebrew word means to put or place something, and is used in many different ways in the Bible, such as to appoint or determine something. It is first used in Genesis to describe God's creation. In the KJV, it is translated as 'appoint' or 'set' in various contexts.
Definition: : make/establish 1) to put, place, set, appoint, make 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to put, set, lay, put or lay upon, lay (violent) hands on 1a2) to set, direct, direct toward 1a2a) to extend (compassion) (fig) 1a3) to set, ordain, establish, found, appoint, constitute, make, determine, fix 1a4) to set, station, put, set in place, plant, fix 1a5) to make, make for, transform into, constitute, fashion, work, bring to pass, appoint, give 1b) (Hiphil) to set or make for a sign 1c) (Hophal) to be set
Usage: Occurs in 550 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] any wise, appoint, bring, call (a name), care, cast in, change, charge, commit, consider, convey, determine, [phrase] disguise, dispose, do, get, give, heap up, hold, impute, lay (down, up), leave, look, make (out), mark, [phrase] name, [idiom] on, ordain, order, [phrase] paint, place, preserve, purpose, put (on), [phrase] regard, rehearse, reward, (cause to) set (on, up), shew, [phrase] stedfastly, take, [idiom] tell, [phrase] tread down, (over-)turn, [idiom] wholly, work. See also: Genesis 2:8; Leviticus 20:5; 1 Samuel 21:13.
אַבְשָׁלֹ֛ם
ʼĂbîyshâlôwm
H53
"Absalom"
N-proper
Absalom was a son of King David, mentioned in 2 Samuel 3:3, and had several half-brothers. He is also referred to as Abishalom in some translations. Absalom played a significant role in the United Monarchy period.
Definition: A man of the tribe of Judah living at the time of United Monarchy, first mentioned at 2Sa.3.3; son of: David (H1732) and Maacah (H4601I); half-brother of: Amnon (H0550), Chileab (H3609), 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); father of: Tamar (H8559I); also called Abishalom at 1Ki.15.2,10; § Absalom or Abishalom = "my father is peace" 1) father-in-law of Rehoboam 2) third son of David, killer of first-born son Amnon, also leader of revolt against his father-David
Usage: Occurs in 92 OT verses. KJV: Abishalom, Absalom. See also: 2 Samuel 3:3; 2 Samuel 16:16; Psalms 3:1.
תַּ֥חַת
tachath
H8478
"underneath"
Prep
This Hebrew word means underneath or below, often used to describe physical locations or positions. It appears in various books, including Genesis, Exodus, and Psalms, to indicate something is under or beneath something else. The word has several related meanings.
Definition: : under/below 1) the under part, beneath, instead of, as, for, for the sake of, flat, unto, where, whereas n m 1a) the under part adv accus 1b) beneath prep 1c) under, beneath 1c1) at the foot of (idiom) 1c2) sweetness, subjection, woman, being burdened or oppressed (fig) 1c3) of subjection or conquest 1d) what is under one, the place in which one stands 1d1) in one's place, the place in which one stands (idiom with reflexive pronoun) 1d2) in place of, instead of (in transferred sense) 1d3) in place of, in exchange or return for (of things mutually interchanged) conj 1e) instead of, instead of that 1f) in return for that, because that in compounds 1g) in, under, into the place of (after verbs of motion) 1h) from under, from beneath, from under the hand of, from his place, under, beneath
Usage: Occurs in 450 OT verses. KJV: as, beneath, [idiom] flat, in(-stead), (same) place (where...is), room, for...sake, stead of, under, [idiom] unto, [idiom] when...was mine, whereas, (where-) fore, with. See also: Genesis 1:7; Deuteronomy 7:24; 1 Kings 20:42.
יוֹאָ֖ב
Yôwʼâb
H3097
"Joab"
N-proper
Joab was a prominent Israelite, his name means Jehovah is father. He was King David's nephew and army general, playing a key role in the Bible, including in the books of Samuel and Kings.
Definition: A man living at the time of Exile and Return, only mentioned at Ezr.8.9 § Joab = "Jehovah is father" 1) son of David's sister Zeruiah and general of David's army 2) a Judaite descendant of Kenaz 3) a post exilic family
Usage: Occurs in 124 OT verses. KJV: Joab. See also: 1 Samuel 26:6; 2 Samuel 19:2; Psalms 60:2.
עַל
ʻal
H5921
"upon"
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.
הַ/צָּבָ֑א
tsâbâʼ
H6635
"army"
Art | N-cs
This Hebrew word means a large group of people or things, often referring to an army or a campaign, and is also used to describe the Lord's hosts. It appears in the Bible as a name for God, emphasizing His power and authority. In the KJV, it's translated as 'host' or 'army'.
Definition: : army 1) that which goes forth, army, war, warfare, host 1a) army, host 1a1) host (of organised army) 1a2) host (of angels) 1a3) of sun, moon, and stars 1a4) of whole creation 1b) war, warfare, service, go out to war 1c) service
Usage: Occurs in 463 OT verses. KJV: appointed time, ([phrase]) army, ([phrase]) battle, company, host, service, soldiers, waiting upon, war(-fare). See also: Genesis 2:1; 1 Samuel 17:55; Psalms 24:10.
וַ/עֲמָשָׂ֣א
ʻĂmâsâʼ
H6021
"Amasa"
Conj | N-proper
Amasa was a general in the army of Absalom and the son of Ithra or Jether by Abigail, David's sister. His name means burden and he is mentioned in 2 Chronicles 28:12.
Definition: A man living at the time of Divided Monarchy, only mentioned at 2Ch.28.12; son of: Hadlai (H2311) § Amasa = "burden" 1) son of Ithra or Jether by Abigail the sister of David and general of the army of Absalom 2) son of Hadlai and a prince of Ephraim in the reign of king Ahaz
Usage: Occurs in 12 OT verses. KJV: Amasa. See also: 2 Samuel 17:25; 2 Samuel 20:10; 2 Chronicles 28:12.
בֶן
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.
אִ֗ישׁ
ʼîysh
H376
"man"
N-ms
The Hebrew word for man, referring to a male person or individual, is used in the Bible to describe humans in contrast to God or animals, as seen in Genesis and Psalms. It can also mean husband or servant. In the KJV, it is translated as man or male.
Definition: : man 1) man 1a) man, male (in contrast to woman, female) 1b) husband 1c) human being, person (in contrast to God) 1d) servant 1e) mankind 1f) champion 1g) great man 2) whosoever 3) each (adjective)
Usage: Occurs in 1851 OT verses. KJV: also, another, any (man), a certain, [phrase] champion, consent, each, every (one), fellow, (foot-, husband-) man, (good-, great, mighty) man, he, high (degree), him (that is), husband, man(-kind), [phrase] none, one, people, person, [phrase] steward, what (man) soever, whoso(-ever), worthy. Compare H802 (אִשָּׁה). See also: Genesis 2:23; Genesis 42:25; Exodus 32:23.
וּ/שְׁמ/וֹ֙
shêm
H8034
"name"
Conj | N-ms | Suff
In the Bible, a name represents a person's identity, honor, and character, like God's name symbolizing His power and authority. It appears in Genesis and other books, often referring to God's name or a person's reputation. This concept is central to understanding biblical identity.
Definition: 1) name 1a) name 1b) reputation, fame, glory 1c) the Name (as designation of God) 1d) memorial, monument Aramaic equivalent: shum (שֻׁם "name" H8036)
Usage: Occurs in 771 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] base, (in-) fame(-ous), named(-d), renown, report. See also: Genesis 2:11; Exodus 3:15; Deuteronomy 16:6.
יִתְרָ֣א
Yithrâʼ
H3501
"Ithra"
N-proper
Ithra, also meaning abundance, was the father of Amasa, a commander in Absalom's army, mentioned in 2 Samuel 17.
Definition: A man living at the time of United Monarchy, first mentioned at 2Sa.17.25; married to Abigail (H0026H); father of: Amasa (H6021); also called Ithra at 2Sa.17.25; Another name of ye.ter (יֶ֫תֶר "Jether" H3500H) § Ithra = "abundance" father of Amasa, the commander of Absalom's army; also 'Jether'
Usage: Occurs in 1 OT verses. KJV: Ithra. See also: 2 Samuel 17:25.
הַ/יִּשְׂרְאֵלִ֔י
Yisrᵉʼêlîy
H3481
"Israelite"
Art | Ngmsa
An Israelite is a descendant of Israel, who was the son of Isaac and Rebekah, and had 12 sons who became the tribes of Israel.
Definition: Someone descended from Israel who was a man living at the time of the Patriarchs, first mentioned at Gen.25.26; son of: Isaac (H3327) and Rebekah (H7259); brother of: Esau (H6215); married to Rachel (H7354), Leah (H3812), Zilpah (H2153) and Bilhah (H1090A); father of: Reuben (H7205), Simeon (H8095), Levi (H3878), Judah (H3063), Dan (H1835H), Naphtali (H5321), Gad (H1410), Asher (H0836), Issachar (H3485), Zebulun (H2074), Dinah (H1783), Joseph (H3130) and Benjamin (H1144); also called Jacob frequently Group of yis.ra.el (יִשְׂרָאֵל "Israel" H3478) § Israelite , of Israel "God prevails" a descendant or inhabitant of the nation of Israel
Usage: Occurs in 2 OT verses. KJV: of Israel, Israelite. See also: Leviticus 24:10; 2 Samuel 17:25.
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.
בָּא֙
bôwʼ
H935
"Lebo"
V-Qal-Perf-3ms
This verb means to go or come, and is used in many contexts, such as entering a place or approaching someone, as seen in the book of Genesis. It can also mean to abide or apply, and is translated in various ways in the KJV Bible. This term is related to the name Lebo Hamath.
Definition: A shortened name of Lebo Hamath complined withcha.mat (חֲמָת "Hamath" H2574) This name means to go in, enter
Usage: Occurs in 2307 OT verses. KJV: abide, apply, attain, [idiom] be, befall, [phrase] besiege, bring (forth, in, into, to pass), call, carry, [idiom] certainly, (cause, let, thing for) to come (against, in, out, upon, to pass), depart, [idiom] doubtless again, [phrase] eat, [phrase] employ, (cause to) enter (in, into, -tering, -trance, -try), be fallen, fetch, [phrase] follow, get, give, go (down, in, to war), grant, [phrase] have, [idiom] indeed, (in-) vade, lead, lift (up), mention, pull in, put, resort, run (down), send, set, [idiom] (well) stricken (in age), [idiom] surely, take (in), way. See also: Genesis 2:19; Genesis 32:7; Exodus 1:19.
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.
אֲבִיגַ֣ל
ʼĂbîygayil
H26
"Abigail"
N-proper
Abigail was an Israelite woman, first mentioned in 2 Samuel 17:25, known for her wisdom and kindness. She was the daughter of Nahash and married to Jether, and later to King David. Abigail is also the name of another Israelite woman.
Definition: A woman living at the time of United Monarchy, first mentioned at 2Sa.17.25; daughter of: Nahash (H5176I) and Nahash (H5176I)(?); sister of: David (H1732)(?), Eliab (H0446I)(?), Abinadab (H0041I)(?), Shimeah (H8093)(?), Nethanel (H5417H)(?), Raddai (H7288)(?), Ozem (H0684)(?), Zeruiah (H6870)(?), Abigail (H0026H)(?) and Elihu (H0453J)(?); married to Jether (H3500H); mother of: Amasa (H6021) § Abigail = "my father is joy" sister of David
Usage: Occurs in 17 OT verses. KJV: Abigal. See also: 1 Samuel 25:3; 1 Samuel 25:42; 1 Chronicles 3:1.
בַּת
bath
H1323
"Bath (Shua)"
N-fs
The Hebrew word for daughter is used to describe a female child or a woman, and can also be used figuratively. In the Bible, it is used to describe women like Bathsheba, the wife of Uriah and later of King David.
Definition: A woman living at the time of the Patriarchs, first mentioned at Gen.38.2; daughter of: Shua (H7770); married to Judah (H3063); mother of: Er (H6147), Onan (H0209) and Shelah (H7956) the wife of Uriah whom David had murdered, having had adulterous relations with her; subsequently wife of David and mother of Solomon, Shimea, Shobab, and Nathan (alternate spelling to 'Bathsheba')
Usage: Occurs in 498 OT verses. KJV: apple (of the eye), branch, company, daughter, [idiom] first, [idiom] old, [phrase] owl, town, village. See also: Genesis 5:4; Exodus 2:21; Ruth 1:13.
נָחָ֔שׁ
Nâchâsh
H5176
"Nahash"
N-proper
Nahash was a non-Israelite king of the Ammonites who lived during King Saul's time, as mentioned in 2 Samuel 10:2. His name means serpent, and he is also the father of Shobi and Abigail's mother.
Definition: A man of the Ammonites living at the time of United Monarchy, only mentioned at 2Sa.17.27; father of: Shobi (H7629) § Nahash = "serpent" 1) a king of the Ammonites during the time of king Saul 2) the father of Abigail, the mother of Amasa, the commander of Absalom's army
Usage: Occurs in 8 OT verses. KJV: Nahash. See also: 1 Samuel 11:1; 2 Samuel 17:25; 1 Chronicles 19:2.
אֲח֥וֹת
ʼâchôwth
H269
"sister"
N-fs
A sister in the Bible can be a biological sibling, a half-sister, or a close relative. In Genesis 4:2, Cain's sister is not named, but in Genesis 24:15, Rebekah is Isaac's cousin and future wife.
Definition: 1) sister 1a) sister (same parents) 1b) half-sister (same father) 1c) relative 1c1) (metaph) of Israel's and Judah's relationship 1d) beloved 1d1) bride 1e) (fig.) of intimate connection 1f) another
Usage: Occurs in 104 OT verses. KJV: (an-) other, sister, together. See also: Genesis 4:22; 2 Samuel 13:22; Proverbs 7:4.
צְרוּיָ֖ה
Tsᵉrûwyâh
H6870
"Zeruiah"
N-proper
Zeruiah was an Israelite woman, sister of David, and mother of three leading heroes in his army. Her name means balsam and she is first mentioned in 1 Samuel 26:6. Zeruiah was the daughter of Jesse and Nahash.
Definition: A woman living at the time of United Monarchy, first mentioned at 1Sa.26.6; daughter of: Jesse (H3448) and Nahash (H5176I); sister of: David (H1732), Eliab (H0446I), Abinadab (H0041I), Nethanel (H5417H), Raddai (H7288), Ozem (H0684), Abigail (H0026H)(?) and Elihu (H0453J), Shimeah (H8093) § Zeruiah = "balsam" sister of David and mother of the 3 leading heroes of David's army-Abishai, Joab, and Asahel
Usage: Occurs in 25 OT verses. KJV: Zeruiah. See also: 1 Samuel 26:6; 2 Samuel 21:17; 1 Chronicles 27:24.
אֵ֥ם
ʼêm
H517
"mother"
N-fs
The Hebrew word for 'mother' is used in the Bible to describe a female parent or a maternal figure. It can also refer to the source or origin of something, such as a river or a family. In some cases, it is used figuratively to describe a person's relationship to others.
Definition: 1) mother 1a) of humans 1b) of Deborah's relationship to the people (fig.) 1c) of animals 2) point of departure or division
Usage: Occurs in 202 OT verses. KJV: dam, mother, [idiom] parting. See also: Genesis 2:24; 2 Kings 4:19; Psalms 22:10.
יוֹאָֽב
Yôwʼâb
H3097
"Joab"
N-proper
Joab was a prominent Israelite, his name means Jehovah is father. He was King David's nephew and army general, playing a key role in the Bible, including in the books of Samuel and Kings.
Definition: A man living at the time of Exile and Return, only mentioned at Ezr.8.9 § Joab = "Jehovah is father" 1) son of David's sister Zeruiah and general of David's army 2) a Judaite descendant of Kenaz 3) a post exilic family
Usage: Occurs in 124 OT verses. KJV: Joab. See also: 1 Samuel 26:6; 2 Samuel 19:2; Psalms 60:2.
Study Notes — 2 Samuel 17:25
Show Verse Quote Highlights
- Context
- Cross References
- 2 Samuel 17:25 Summary
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Reflection Questions
- Gill's Exposition on 2 Samuel 17:25
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on 2 Samuel 17:25
- Matthew Poole's Commentary on 2 Samuel 17:25
- Trapp's Commentary on 2 Samuel 17:25
- Ellicott's Commentary on 2 Samuel 17:25
- Adam Clarke's Commentary on 2 Samuel 17:25
- Cambridge Bible on 2 Samuel 17:25
- Barnes' Notes on 2 Samuel 17:25
- Sermons on 2 Samuel 17:25
Context — Hushai’s Warning Saves David
23When Ahithophel saw that his advice had not been followed, he saddled his donkey and set out for his house in his hometown. He put his affairs in order and hanged himself. So he died and was buried in his father’s tomb.
24Then David went to Mahanaim, and Absalom crossed the Jordan with all the men of Israel.
25Absalom had appointed Amasa over the army in place of Joab. Amasa was the son of a man named Ithra, the Ishmaelite who had married Abigail, the daughter of Nahash and sister of Zeruiah the mother of Joab.
26So the Israelites and Absalom camped in the land of Gilead. 27When David came to Mahanaim, he was met by Shobi son of Nahash from Rabbah of the Ammonites, Machir son of Ammiel from Lo-debar, and Barzillai the Gileadite from Rogelim.Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1 Chronicles 2:13 | Jesse was the father of Eliab his firstborn; Abinadab was born second, Shimea third, |
| 2 | 2 Samuel 19:13 | And say to Amasa, ‘Aren’t you my flesh and blood? May God punish me, and ever so severely, if from this time you are not the commander of my army in place of Joab!’” |
| 3 | 2 Samuel 20:9–12 | “Are you well, my brother?” Joab asked Amasa. And with his right hand Joab grabbed Amasa by the beard to kiss him. Amasa was not on guard against the dagger in Joab’s hand, and Joab stabbed him in the stomach and spilled out his intestines on the ground. And Joab did not need to strike him again, for Amasa was dead. Then Joab and his brother Abishai pursued Sheba son of Bichri. One of Joab’s young men stood near Amasa and said, “Whoever favors Joab, and whoever is for David, let him follow Joab!” But Amasa wallowed in his blood in the middle of the road, and when the man saw that all the troops were stopping there, he dragged the body off the road into a field and threw a garment over it. |
| 4 | 1 Chronicles 2:16–17 | Their sisters were Zeruiah and Abigail. And the three sons of Zeruiah were Abishai, Joab, and Asahel. Abigail was the mother of Amasa, whose father was Jether the Ishmaelite. |
| 5 | 1 Kings 2:32 | The LORD will bring his bloodshed back upon his own head, for without the knowledge of my father David he struck down two men more righteous and better than he when he put to the sword Abner son of Ner, commander of Israel’s army, and Amasa son of Jether, commander of Judah’s army. |
| 6 | 2 Samuel 20:4 | Then the king said to Amasa, “Summon the men of Judah to come to me within three days, and be here yourself.” |
| 7 | 1 Kings 2:5 | Moreover, you know what Joab son of Zeruiah did to me—what he did to Abner son of Ner and Amasa son of Jether, the two commanders of the armies of Israel. He killed them in peacetime to avenge the blood of war. He stained with the blood of war the belt around his waist and the sandals on his feet. |
2 Samuel 17:25 Summary
This verse tells us that Absalom, who was rebelling against his father David, chose a new commander for his army, named Amasa, to replace Joab, who was loyal to David (as seen in 2 Samuel 18:1-5). Amasa's family background is interesting because his mother was the sister of Zeruiah, the mother of Joab, making Amasa and Joab cousins, similar to the family relationships described in 1 Chronicles 2:13-17. This change in leadership shows how Absalom was trying to take control and assert his own power, which is a theme throughout the book of 2 Samuel, and is also seen in other passages like 1 Samuel 22:1-2 and 1 Kings 1:1-4. By studying this verse, we can learn more about the importance of loyalty, family, and leadership, and how these themes are developed throughout the Bible, such as in passages like Proverbs 24:3-4 and 1 Timothy 3:1-7.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Amasa and why did Absalom appoint him over the army?
Amasa was the son of Ithra, an Ishmaelite who had married Abigail, the daughter of Nahash and sister of Zeruiah, the mother of Joab, as seen in 2 Samuel 17:25. He was appointed by Absalom to replace Joab, possibly due to Joab's loyalty to David, as mentioned in 2 Samuel 18:1-5.
What is the significance of Amasa's family background?
Amasa's family background is significant because it shows the complex relationships within the royal family and the army leaders, similar to the relationships described in 1 Chronicles 2:13-17. His mother, Abigail, was the sister of Zeruiah, the mother of Joab, making Amasa the cousin of Joab.
Why did Absalom replace Joab with Amasa as the commander of the army?
Absalom replaced Joab with Amasa because Joab had remained loyal to David, as seen in 2 Samuel 18:1-5, and Absalom wanted to assert his own authority and control over the army, as part of his rebellion against his father, described in 2 Samuel 15:1-12.
How does Amasa's appointment reflect the themes of 2 Samuel?
Amasa's appointment reflects the themes of loyalty, power, and family dynamics in 2 Samuel, as seen in the stories of David, Joab, and Absalom, which are also explored in other passages like 1 Samuel 22:1-2 and 1 Kings 1:1-4.
Reflection Questions
- What does Amasa's appointment reveal about Absalom's character and leadership style, and how can we learn from his example?
- How do the complex family relationships in this verse impact our understanding of the story, and what can we learn about the importance of family and loyalty?
- What role do you think Amasa will play in the upcoming battle, and how might his appointment affect the outcome, in light of passages like Proverbs 21:31 and Ecclesiastes 9:11?
- In what ways can we see God's sovereignty at work in the events leading up to this verse, particularly in the choices made by Absalom and the responses of those around him, as described in Romans 8:28 and Ephesians 1:11?
Gill's Exposition on 2 Samuel 17:25
And Absalom made Amasa captain of the host instead of Joab,.... Who was along with David: which Amasa [was] a man's son whose name [was] Ithra, an Israelite; he is called Jether the Ishmaelite, 1
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on 2 Samuel 17:25
And Absalom made Amasa captain of the host instead of Joab: which Amasa was a man's son, whose name was Ithra an Israelite, that went in to Abigail the daughter of Nahash, sister to Zeruiah Joab's mother. Amasa.
Matthew Poole's Commentary on 2 Samuel 17:25
Ithra an Israelite. Object. He was an Ishmaelite, . Answ. Not Amasa; but Ithra, or Jether, Amasa’ s father, is there so called, because he was such, either by his birth from such parents, or by his long habitation among them, or for some other reason now unknown. Compare . And Amasa is here called an Israelite, either because he was a proselyte; or in opposition to Joab, who was of the tribe of Judah, as Amasa was of one of the ten tribes; or rather, to intimate, that although he or his parents were called Ishmaelites for some reason, yet as to their extraction they were indeed Israelites; which if Amasa had not been, it is not probable that he could have had so powerful an influence upon the tribe of Judah as he had, . That went in to Abigail, i.e. lay with her, whether being first married to her, or not, is uncertain. The daughter of Nahash. Nahash is either another name of Jesse; or rather, the name of Jesse’ s wife; by whom he had this Abigail, as he had Zeruiah by another wife; so they were sisters by the father, but not by the mother; and Nahash is here named to signify so much.
Trapp's Commentary on 2 Samuel 17:25
2 Samuel 17:25 And Absalom made Amasa captain of the host instead of Joab: which Amasa [was] a man’ s son, whose name [was] Ithra an Israelite, that went in to Abigail the daughter of Nahash, sister to Zeruiah Joab’ s mother.Ver. 25. Ithra an Israelite,] sc, For his faith and religion, as by nature he was an Ishmaelite. That went in to Abigail,] i.e., Married her; went in to the wedding chamber to her, as Judges 15:1. The daughter of Nahash.] Otherwise called Ishai, the father of David; wherefore many Greek copies for Naas have Jesse, and both Josephus and Jerome affirm him to be the same. Kimchi thinketh he was called Nahash, or Serpent, per antiphrasin, as being void of venom or bitterness.
Ellicott's Commentary on 2 Samuel 17:25
(25) Amasa.—Joab having adhered to David and gone away with him, Absalom chose his cousin to succeed him as commander-in-chief. Ithra an Israelite.—Called in 1 Chronicles 2:17. Jether the Ishmeelite. Jether and Ithra are merely different forms of the same name; but Israelite is probably an error for Ishmeelite. The LXX. has, in the Alexandrian copy, Ishmaelite, and in the Vatican, Jezreelite. Abigail the daughter of Nahash.—Since this Abigail is said to be “sister to Zeruiah,” and in 1 Chronicles 2:16 both Abigail and Zeruiah are said to be the sisters of Jesse’s sons, it follows, either that sister is used in the sense of half-sister, or else that Nahash, usually a man’s name, was the name of Jesse’s wife. It is impossible to decide certainly. The Jewish tradition that Nahash is another name for Jesse has no support.
Adam Clarke's Commentary on 2 Samuel 17:25
Verse 25. Amasa captain of the host] From the account in this verse, it appears that Joab and Amasa were sisters' children, and both nephews to David.
Cambridge Bible on 2 Samuel 17:25
25. Amasa] It has been supposed by some that he is the same as Amasai who came to David at Hebron (1 Chronicles 12:16-18). But if so, would not the fact of his relationship to David have been mentioned there? Ithra an Israelite] Called in 1 Chronicles 2:17 Jether the Ishmeelite. Jether and Ithra are different forms of the same name: and Ishmaelite should probably be read here in place of Israelite, which has no point. The Alex. MS. of the LXX reads Ishmaelite, the Vatican MS. Jezreelite. Abigal the daughter of Nahash] Amasa’s mother Abigal (or Abigail) was David’s sister, and we should naturally infer from 1 Chronicles 2:16-17 that Abigail and Zeruiah were Jesse’s daughters. Who then was Nahash?
To this three answers may be given. (1) The obvious one, that she was Jesse’s wife, to which the objection is that Nahash is not a woman’s name. (2) That Nahash is another name for Jesse, which is the Jewish tradition, but is not supported by any evidence. (3) That Nahash was the first husband of Jesse’s wife, so that Abigail and Zeruiah were only step-sisters to David. This view has in its favour the guarded statement of 1 Chronicles 2:16, which does not say that they were Jesse’s daughters, but sisters of his sons. To go on to identify Nahash with the king of the Ammonites defeated by Saul is mere conjecture. It should be noted that Amasa and Joab were cousins.
Barnes' Notes on 2 Samuel 17:25
Ithra an Israelite - Or “Jether the Ishmeelite” 1 Chronicles 2:17. “Ithra” and “Jether” are practically the same names. “Israelite” in the text is wrong. It should be either “Ishmaelite” or “Jezreelite” 2 Samuel 3:2.
Sermons on 2 Samuel 17:25
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
|
A Kind Inquiry by James Smith | James Smith preaches on the deceitful nature of kind words from cruel hearts, using the treacherous act of Joab towards Amasa as an example. He emphasizes the importance of spiritu |
|
David's Charge to Solomon by Chuck Smith | In this sermon, Pastor Chuck Smith discusses the life of King David and his charge to his son Solomon. He emphasizes David's deep love and respect for God, despite his failures and |