Menu

2 Samuel 4:12

2 Samuel 4:12 in Multiple Translations

So David commanded his young men, and they killed Rechab and Baanah. They cut off their hands and feet and hung their bodies by the pool in Hebron, but they took the head of Ish-bosheth and buried it in Abner’s tomb in Hebron.

And David commanded his young men, and they slew them, and cut off their hands and their feet, and hanged them up over the pool in Hebron. But they took the head of Ish-bosheth, and buried it in the sepulchre of Abner in Hebron.

And David commanded his young men, and they slew them, and cut off their hands and their feet, and hanged them up beside the pool in Hebron. But they took the head of Ish-bosheth, and buried it in the grave of Abner in Hebron.

And David gave orders to his young men and they put them to death, cutting off their hands and their feet and hanging them up by the side of the pool in Hebron. But they took the head of Ish-bosheth and put it in its last resting-place with Abner's body in Hebron.

David gave the order to his men, and they killed Rechab and Baanah. They chopped off their hands and feet, and hung their bodies by the pool in Hebron. Then they took Ishbosheth's head and buried it in Abner's grave in Hebron.

Then Dauid commanded his yong men, and they slew them, and cut off their hands and their feete, and hanged them vp ouer the poole in Hebron: but they tooke the head of Ishbosheth, and buried it in the sepulchre of Abner in Hebron.

And David commandeth the young men, and they slay them, and cut off their hands and their feet, and hang [them] over the pool in Hebron, and the head of Ish-Bosheth they have taken, and bury [it] in the burying-place of Abner in Hebron.

David commanded his young men, and they killed them, cut off their hands and their feet, and hanged them up beside the pool in Hebron. But they took the head of Ishbosheth and buried it in Abner’s grave in Hebron.

And David commanded his young men, and they slew them, and cut off their hands and their feet, and hanged them over the pool in Hebron. But they took the head of Ish-bosheth, and buried it in the sepulcher of Abner in Hebron.

And David commanded his servants and they slew them: and cutting off their hands and feet, hanged them up over the pool in Hebron: but the head of Isboseth they took and buried in the sepulchre of Abner in Hebron.

Then, following David’s orders, his soldiers killed the two men, and cut off their hands and their feet, and hung their bodies (OR, their hands and feet) on a pole near the pool at Hebron. But they took the head of Ishbosheth and buried it respectfully in the tomb of Abner, there at Hebron.

Study Highlights

Key words in the translations above are automatically highlighted. Names of God and Jesus are marked in purple, the Holy Spirit in orange, divine action verbs are underlined, and repeated key words are highlighted in yellow.

Enable Study Highlights
God & Jesus
Holy Spirit
Divine Actions
Repeated Words

Berean Amplified Bible — 2 Samuel 4:12

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 4:12 Interlinear (Deep Study)

BIB
HEB וַ/יְצַו֩ דָּוִ֨ד אֶת הַ/נְּעָרִ֜ים וַ/יַּהַרְג֗וּ/ם וַֽ/יְקַצְּצ֤וּ אֶת יְדֵי/הֶם֙ וְ/אֶת רַגְלֵי/הֶ֔ם וַ/יִּתְל֥וּ עַל הַ/בְּרֵכָ֖ה בְּ/חֶבְר֑וֹן וְ/אֵ֨ת רֹ֤אשׁ אִֽישׁ בֹּ֨שֶׁת֙ לָקָ֔חוּ וַ/יִּקְבְּר֥וּ בְ/קֶֽבֶר אַבְנֵ֖ר בְּ/חֶבְרֽוֹן
וַ/יְצַו֩ tsâvâh H6680 to command Conj | V-Piel-ConsecImperf-3ms
דָּוִ֨ד Dâvid H1732 David N-proper
אֶת ʼêth H853 Obj. DirObjM
הַ/נְּעָרִ֜ים naʻar H5288 youth Art | N-mp
וַ/יַּהַרְג֗וּ/ם hârag H2026 to kill Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3mp | Suff
וַֽ/יְקַצְּצ֤וּ qâtsats H7112 to cut Conj | V-Piel-ConsecImperf-3mp
אֶת ʼêth H853 Obj. DirObjM
יְדֵי/הֶם֙ yâd H3027 hand N-cd | Suff
וְ/אֶת ʼêth H853 Obj. Conj | DirObjM
רַגְלֵי/הֶ֔ם regel H7272 foot N-fd | Suff
וַ/יִּתְל֥וּ tâlâh H8518 to hang Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3mp
עַל ʻal H5921 upon Prep
הַ/בְּרֵכָ֖ה bᵉrêkâh H1295 pool Art | N-fs
בְּ/חֶבְר֑וֹן Chebrôwn H2275 Hebron (Valley) Prep | N-proper
וְ/אֵ֨ת ʼêth H853 Obj. Conj | DirObjM
רֹ֤אשׁ rôʼsh H7218 head N-ms
אִֽישׁ ʼÎysh-Bôsheth H378 Ish-bosheth N-proper
בֹּ֨שֶׁת֙ ʼÎysh-Bôsheth H378 Ish-bosheth N-proper
לָקָ֔חוּ lâqach H3947 to take V-Qal-Perf-3cp
וַ/יִּקְבְּר֥וּ qâbar H6912 to bury Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3mp
בְ/קֶֽבֶר qeber H6913 grave Prep | N-ms
אַבְנֵ֖ר ʼAbnêr H74 Abner N-proper
בְּ/חֶבְרֽוֹן Chebrôwn H2275 Hebron (Valley) Prep | N-proper
Hebrew Word Study

Select any word above to explore its original meaning, root, and usage across Scripture.

Use arrow keys to navigate between words.

Hebrew Word Reference — 2 Samuel 4:12

וַ/יְצַו֩ tsâvâh H6680 "to command" Conj | V-Piel-ConsecImperf-3ms
To command or give orders, as seen in the Bible when God gives charge to his people. It can also mean to appoint or ordain someone for a task. This word is used in various forms throughout the Old Testament.
Definition: 1) to command, charge, give orders, lay charge, give charge to, order 1a)(Piel) 1a1) to lay charge upon 1a2) to give charge to, give command to 1a3) to give charge unto 1a4) to give charge over, appoint 1a5) to give charge, command 1a6) to charge, command 1a7) to charge, commission 1a8) to command, appoint, ordain (of divine act) 1b) (Pual) to be commanded
Usage: Occurs in 475 OT verses. KJV: appoint, (for-) bid, (give a) charge, (give a, give in, send with) command(-er, -ment), send a messenger, put, (set) in order. See also: Genesis 2:16; Leviticus 10:13; Deuteronomy 12:11.
דָּוִ֨ד 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.
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.
הַ/נְּעָרִ֜ים naʻar H5288 "youth" Art | N-mp
In the original Hebrew, this word means a young person, either a boy or a girl, from infancy to adolescence. It is used to describe the servants and attendants who worked for kings and other important people in the Old Testament, like King David's servants.
Definition: 1) a boy, lad, servant, youth, retainer 1a) boy, lad, youth 1b) servant, retainer
Usage: Occurs in 221 OT verses. KJV: babe, boy, child, damsel (from the margin), lad, servant, young (man). See also: Genesis 14:24; 1 Samuel 25:5; Psalms 37:25.
וַ/יַּהַרְג֗וּ/ם hârag H2026 "to kill" Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3mp | Suff
To kill or slay with intent, as seen in the Bible when God instructs the Israelites to destroy certain nations. This word is used in various forms, including to murder or destroy. It appears in books like Exodus and Deuteronomy.
Definition: 1) to kill, slay, murder, destroy, murderer, slayer, out of hand 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to kill, slay 1a2) to destroy, ruin 1b) (Niphal) to be killed 1c) (Pual) to be killed, be slain
Usage: Occurs in 158 OT verses. KJV: destroy, out of hand, kill, murder(-er), put to (death), make (slaughter), slay(-er), [idiom] surely. See also: Genesis 4:8; 2 Kings 8:12; Psalms 10:8.
וַֽ/יְקַצְּצ֤וּ qâtsats H7112 "to cut" Conj | V-Piel-ConsecImperf-3mp
This verb means to cut something off, either physically or figuratively. It is used in the Bible to describe cutting off a branch or a piece of wood, and also to describe being cut off from a group or community.
Definition: 1) to cut off 1a) (Qal) to cut off 1b) (Piel) to cut or hew off, cut in two, cut in pieces 1c) (Pual) to be cut or hewn off Aramaic equivalent: qe.tsats (קְצַץ "to cut" H7113)
Usage: Occurs in 14 OT verses. KJV: cut (asunder, in pieces, in sunder, off), [idiom] utmost. See also: Exodus 39:3; 2 Kings 24:13; Psalms 46:10.
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.
יְדֵי/הֶם֙ yâd H3027 "hand" N-cd | Suff
In the Bible, 'yad' refers to an open hand, symbolizing power or direction. It can also mean strength or a part of something, like a side or a share. The word is used in many contexts, including anatomy and everyday life.
Definition: : hand/arm[anatomy] 1) hand 1a) hand (of man) 1b) strength, power (fig.) 1c) side (of land), part, portion (metaph.) (fig.) 1d) (various special, technical senses) 1d1) sign, monument 1d2) part, fractional part, share 1d3) time, repetition 1d4) axle-trees, axle 1d5) stays, support (for laver) 1d6) tenons (in tabernacle) 1d7) a phallus, a hand (meaning unsure) 1d8) wrists
Usage: Occurs in 1446 OT verses. KJV: ([phrase] be) able, [idiom] about, [phrase] armholes, at, axletree, because of, beside, border, [idiom] bounty, [phrase] broad, (broken-) handed, [idiom] by, charge, coast, [phrase] consecrate, [phrase] creditor, custody, debt, dominion, [idiom] enough, [phrase] fellowship, force, [idiom] from, hand(-staves, -y work), [idiom] he, himself, [idiom] in, labour, [phrase] large, ledge, (left-) handed, means, [idiom] mine, ministry, near, [idiom] of, [idiom] order, ordinance, [idiom] our, parts, pain, power, [idiom] presumptuously, service, side, sore, state, stay, draw with strength, stroke, [phrase] swear, terror, [idiom] thee, [idiom] by them, [idiom] themselves, [idiom] thine own, [idiom] thou, through, [idiom] throwing, [phrase] thumb, times, [idiom] to, [idiom] under, [idiom] us, [idiom] wait on, (way-) side, where, [phrase] wide, [idiom] with (him, me, you), work, [phrase] yield, [idiom] yourselves. See also: Genesis 3:22; Exodus 7:19; Leviticus 14:22.
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.
רַגְלֵי/הֶ֔ם regel H7272 "foot" N-fd | Suff
This word also means a foot, like when God says he will tread on the wicked in Malachi 4:3. It's used to describe human and animal feet, as well as the base of objects like tables or idols.
Definition: 1) foot 1a) foot, leg 1b) of God (anthropomorphic) 1c) of seraphim, cherubim, idols, animals, table 1d) according to the pace of (with prep) 1e) three times (feet, paces) Aramaic equivalent: re.gal (רְגַל "foot" H7271)
Usage: Occurs in 232 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] be able to endure, [idiom] according as, [idiom] after, [idiom] coming, [idiom] follow, (broken-)foot(-ed, -stool), [idiom] great toe, [idiom] haunt, [idiom] journey, leg, [phrase] piss, [phrase] possession, time. See also: Genesis 8:9; 2 Samuel 22:39; Psalms 8:7.
וַ/יִּתְל֥וּ tâlâh H8518 "to hang" Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3mp
To hang something or someone is what this Hebrew word means, often used to describe punishment or display. It can also mean to hang an object, like a curtain or a sign. The word is used in Exodus and Numbers.
Definition: 1) to hang 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to hang 1a1a) to hang up (any object) 1a1b) to put to death by hanging 1b) (Niphal) to be hanged 1c) (Piel) to hang, hang up (for display)
Usage: Occurs in 27 OT verses. KJV: hang (up). See also: Genesis 40:19; Esther 7:9; Psalms 137:2.
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/בְּרֵכָ֖ה bᵉrêkâh H1295 "pool" Art | N-fs
A pool is a reservoir of water, like those where camels rest. In the Bible, it refers to a place where fish live, providing food for people.
Definition: pool, pond
Usage: Occurs in 15 OT verses. KJV: (fish-) pool. See also: 2 Samuel 2:13; Nehemiah 3:16; Isaiah 7:3.
בְּ/חֶבְר֑וֹן Chebrôwn H2275 "Hebron (Valley)" Prep | N-proper
Hebron is a place in Palestine and also the name of two Israelites, one a descendant of Levi and the other of Caleb. It is first mentioned in the book of Genesis and is also referenced in 1 Chronicles.
Definition: Hebron = "association" Combined with e.meq (עֵ֫מֶק " Valley" H6010K)
Usage: Occurs in 66 OT verses. KJV: Hebron. See also: Genesis 13:18; 2 Samuel 3:19; 2 Chronicles 11:10.
וְ/אֵ֨ת 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.
רֹ֤אשׁ rôʼsh H7218 "head" N-ms
This Hebrew word means chief or prince, and is used to describe leaders in the Bible, such as in the book of 1 Samuel. It signifies a position of authority and importance.
Definition: : head 1) head, top, summit, upper part, chief, total, sum, height, front, beginning 1a) head (of man, animals) 1b) top, tip (of mountain) 1c) height (of stars) 1d) chief, head (of man, city, nation, place, family, priest) 1e) head, front, beginning 1f) chief, choicest, best 1g) head, division, company, band 1h) sum
Usage: Occurs in 547 OT verses. KJV: band, beginning, captain, chapiter, chief(-est place, man, things), company, end, [idiom] every (man), excellent, first, forefront, (be-)head, height, (on) high(-est part, (priest)), [idiom] lead, [idiom] poor, principal, ruler, sum, top. See also: Genesis 2:10; Numbers 17:18; 2 Samuel 4:7.
אִֽישׁ ʼÎysh-Bôsheth H378 "Ish-bosheth" N-proper
Ish-bosheth was King Saul's son, who ruled Israel for 7 years, as told in 2 Samuel 2:8-17. He was also known as Eshbaal and was the brother of Jonathan. His story is found in 2 Samuel.
Definition: A man of the tribe of Benjamin living at the time of United Monarchy, first mentioned at 2Sa.2.8; son of: Saul (H7586G); brother of: Jonathan (H3083H), Abinadab (H0041H), Malchi-shua (H4444), Merab (H4764), Michal (H4324), Armoni (H0764), Mephibosheth (H4648H) Also named: esh.ba.al (אֶשְׁבַּעַל "Eshbaal" H0792) § Ishbosheth = "man of shame" surviving son of Saul, king of Israel for 7 years while David was king over Judah; succeeded by David who united the kingdom
Usage: Occurs in 10 OT verses. KJV: Ish-bosheth. See also: 2 Samuel 2:8; 2 Samuel 3:14; 2 Samuel 4:12.
בֹּ֨שֶׁת֙ ʼÎysh-Bôsheth H378 "Ish-bosheth" N-proper
Ish-bosheth was King Saul's son, who ruled Israel for 7 years, as told in 2 Samuel 2:8-17. He was also known as Eshbaal and was the brother of Jonathan. His story is found in 2 Samuel.
Definition: A man of the tribe of Benjamin living at the time of United Monarchy, first mentioned at 2Sa.2.8; son of: Saul (H7586G); brother of: Jonathan (H3083H), Abinadab (H0041H), Malchi-shua (H4444), Merab (H4764), Michal (H4324), Armoni (H0764), Mephibosheth (H4648H) Also named: esh.ba.al (אֶשְׁבַּעַל "Eshbaal" H0792) § Ishbosheth = "man of shame" surviving son of Saul, king of Israel for 7 years while David was king over Judah; succeeded by David who united the kingdom
Usage: Occurs in 10 OT verses. KJV: Ish-bosheth. See also: 2 Samuel 2:8; 2 Samuel 3:14; 2 Samuel 4:12.
לָקָ֔חוּ lâqach H3947 "to take" V-Qal-Perf-3cp
This Hebrew word means to take or get something, and it is used in many different ways in the Bible. It can mean to take a wife, to take possession of something, or to receive a gift. For example, in Genesis 2:22, God takes a rib from Adam to create Eve.
Definition: : take 1) to take, get, fetch, lay hold of, seize, receive, acquire, buy, bring, marry, take a wife, snatch, take away 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to take, take in the hand 1a2) to take and carry along 1a3) to take from, take out of, take, carry away, take away 1a4) to take to or for a person, procure, get, take possession of, select, choose, take in marriage, receive, accept 1a5) to take up or upon, put upon 1a6) to fetch 1a7) to take, lead, conduct 1a8) to take, capture, seize 1a9) to take, carry off 1a10) to take (vengeance) 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be captured 1b2) to be taken away, be removed 1b3) to be taken, brought unto 1c) (Pual) 1c1) to be taken from or out of 1c2) to be stolen from 1c3) to be taken captive 1c4) to be taken away, be removed 1d) (Hophal) 1d1) to be taken unto, be brought unto 1d2) to be taken out of 1d3) to be taken away 1e) (Hithpael) 1e1) to take hold of oneself 1e2) to flash about (of lightning)
Usage: Occurs in 909 OT verses. KJV: accept, bring, buy, carry away, drawn, fetch, get, infold, [idiom] many, mingle, place, receive(-ing), reserve, seize, send for, take (away, -ing, up), use, win. See also: Genesis 2:15; Genesis 34:17; Exodus 30:23.
וַ/יִּקְבְּר֥וּ qâbar H6912 "to bury" Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3mp
To bury means to inter or lay someone to rest, often in a grave or tomb. This word is used throughout the Bible to describe the act of burying the dead, and is translated as bury in the KJV.
Definition: 1) to bury 1a) (Qal) to bury 1b) (Niphal) to be buried 1c) (Piel) to bury, bury (in masses) 1d) (Pual) to be buried
Usage: Occurs in 122 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] in any wise, bury(-ier). See also: Genesis 15:15; 1 Kings 14:31; Psalms 79:3.
בְ/קֶֽבֶר qeber H6913 "grave" Prep | N-ms
A grave or sepulchre is a place where the dead are buried, often a tomb or burial site. This word is used in the Bible to describe the final resting place of individuals, and is translated as burying place or sepulchre in the KJV.
Definition: grave, sepulchre, tomb
Usage: Occurs in 62 OT verses. KJV: burying place, grave, sepulchre. See also: Genesis 23:4; 2 Chronicles 32:33; Psalms 5:10.
אַבְנֵ֖ר ʼAbnêr H74 "Abner" N-proper
Abner was a prominent Israelite, cousin of King Saul, and army captain, who played a key role in the book of 1 Samuel.
Definition: A man of the tribe of Benjamin living at the time of United Monarchy, first mentioned at 1Sa.14.50; son of: Ner (H5369); father of: Jaasiel (H3300H) § Abner = "my father is a lamp" Saul's cousin and army captain, treacherously slain by Joab
Usage: Occurs in 53 OT verses. KJV: Abner. See also: 1 Samuel 14:50; 2 Samuel 3:8; 1 Chronicles 27:21.
בְּ/חֶבְרֽוֹן Chebrôwn H2275 "Hebron (Valley)" Prep | N-proper
Hebron is a place in Palestine and also the name of two Israelites, one a descendant of Levi and the other of Caleb. It is first mentioned in the book of Genesis and is also referenced in 1 Chronicles.
Definition: Hebron = "association" Combined with e.meq (עֵ֫מֶק " Valley" H6010K)
Usage: Occurs in 66 OT verses. KJV: Hebron. See also: Genesis 13:18; 2 Samuel 3:19; 2 Chronicles 11:10.

Study Notes — 2 Samuel 4:12

Show Verse Quote Highlights

Context — The Execution of Rechab and Baanah

10when someone told me, ‘Look, Saul is dead,’ and thought he was a bearer of good news, I seized him and put him to death at Ziklag. That was his reward for his news! 11How much more, when wicked men kill a righteous man in his own house and on his own bed, shall I not now require his blood from your hands and remove you from the earth!”

12So David commanded his young men, and they killed Rechab and Baanah. They cut off their hands and feet and hung their bodies by the pool in Hebron, but they took the head of Ish-bosheth and buried it in Abner’s tomb in Hebron.

Cross References

ReferenceText (BSB)
1 2 Samuel 1:15 Then David summoned one of the young men and said, “Go, execute him!” So the young man struck him down, and he died.
2 2 Samuel 3:32 When they buried Abner in Hebron, the king wept aloud at Abner’s tomb, and all the people wept.
3 Matthew 7:2 For with the same judgment you pronounce, you will be judged; and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.
4 2 Samuel 21:9 And he delivered them into the hands of the Gibeonites, and they hanged them on the hill before the LORD. So all seven of them fell together; they were put to death in the first days of the harvest, at the beginning of the barley harvest.
5 Deuteronomy 21:22–23 If a man has committed a sin worthy of death, and he is executed, and you hang his body on a tree, you must not leave the body on the tree overnight, but you must be sure to bury him that day, because anyone who is hung on a tree is under God’s curse. You must not defile the land that the LORD your God is giving you as an inheritance.
6 Psalms 55:23 But You, O God, will bring them down to the Pit of destruction; men of bloodshed and deceit will not live out half their days. But I will trust in You.

2 Samuel 4:12 Summary

This verse shows us that David was a man who took justice and righteousness very seriously, and he was willing to take action to uphold these values, even if it was difficult or unpopular (2 Samuel 4:11). He had Rechab and Baanah killed because they had murdered Ish-bosheth, and he buried Ish-bosheth's head in Abner's tomb as a sign of respect and honor. This teaches us that God is a God of justice and righteousness, and that He expects us to live our lives in a way that reflects these values (Psalm 37:28). By trusting in God's sovereignty and provision, we can have the courage to stand up for what is right, even in the face of adversity or opposition (Proverbs 3:5-6).

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did David have Rechab and Baanah killed?

David had them killed because they had murdered Ish-bosheth, a righteous man, in his own house and on his own bed, which is a grave injustice (2 Samuel 4:11). This act was a violation of the trust and respect due to a king, and David saw it as his responsibility to avenge Ish-bosheth's death (Deuteronomy 19:11-13).

What is the significance of cutting off their hands and feet?

The cutting off of their hands and feet was a public display of their guilt and shame, as well as a warning to others who would consider committing similar atrocities (Deuteronomy 21:22-23). This act also served as a visible reminder of the consequences of sin and the importance of upholding justice.

Why did David bury Ish-bosheth's head in Abner's tomb?

David buried Ish-bosheth's head in Abner's tomb as a sign of respect and honor for the king, as well as a demonstration of his commitment to uphold the dignity of the office of king, even in death (2 Samuel 3:31-39). This act also highlights David's desire to show kindness and compassion, even to those who may have been his enemies (Proverbs 25:21-22).

What can we learn from David's response to the death of Ish-bosheth?

We can learn that God is a God of justice and righteousness, and that He expects us to uphold these values in our lives (Psalm 37:28, Micah 6:8). David's response also shows us the importance of taking responsibility for our actions and being accountable for the consequences of our sin (Romans 3:23, 1 John 1:9).

Reflection Questions

  1. What are some ways that I can uphold justice and righteousness in my own life, and how can I be a reflection of God's character to those around me?
  2. How can I balance the need for justice and accountability with the need for mercy and compassion, and what role does forgiveness play in this balance?
  3. What are some ways that I can demonstrate respect and honor for those in authority over me, even if I disagree with them or they have wronged me in some way?
  4. How can I trust in God's sovereignty and provision, even in the midst of difficult or uncertain circumstances, and what role does faith play in this trust?

Gill's Exposition on 2 Samuel 4:12

And David commanded his young men, and they slew them,.... He ordered some of his guards about him to fall on them, and put them to death; and they accordingly did: and cut off their hands and their

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on 2 Samuel 4:12

And David commanded his young men, and they slew them, and cut off their hands and their feet, and hanged them up over the pool in Hebron. But they took the head of Ishbosheth, and buried it in the sepulchre of Abner in Hebron.

Matthew Poole's Commentary on 2 Samuel 4:12

His young men; those of his guard, who used to execute justice upon malefactors at the king’ s command. Their hands and their feet; which had been most instrumental in this villany; their hands to cut off his head, and their feet to carry them away, and his head with them. Hanged them up over the pool in Hebron; as monuments of their villany, and of David’ s abhorrency of it.

Trapp's Commentary on 2 Samuel 4:12

2 Samuel 4:12 And David commanded his young men, and they slew them, and cut off their hands and their feet, and hanged [them] up over the pool in Hebron. But they took the head of Ishbosheth, and buried [it] in the sepulchre of Abner in Hebron.Ver. 12. And they slew them.] Not without exquisite torments, saith Josephus; he crucified them, saith Theodoret. And cut off their hands and their feet.] Those weapons of wickedness. God taketh notice of the offending members. And hanged them up.] For a perpetual monument and punishment of their wickedness: and to declare David’ s innocence.

Ellicott's Commentary on 2 Samuel 4:12

(12) Over the pool in Hebron.—The mutilation of the bodies of the criminals was itself a disgrace, and the hanging them up near the pool, to which all the people resorted, made this as public as possible and a terrible warning against the commission of such crimes by others. On the other hand, the head of Ish-bosheth was honourably buried in the sepulchre of his chief friend and supporter, Abner.

Adam Clarke's Commentary on 2 Samuel 4:12

Verse 12. And they slew them] None ever more richly deserved death; and by this act of justice, David showed to all Israel that he was a decided enemy to the destruction of Saul's family; and that none could lift up their hands against any of them without meeting with condign punishment. In all these cases I know not that it was possible for David to show more sincerity, or a stricter regard for justice.

Cambridge Bible on 2 Samuel 4:12

12. And David commanded, &c.] Kitto compares the conduct of David towards the murderers of his rival with that of Alexander the Great towards Bessus, who murdered Darius, and of Caesar towards the murderers of Pompey. It may be questioned whether they were actuated by higher motives than “the traditional policy of rulers, who thus provide that they shall be protected for the present, and afterwards avenged” (Tac. Hist. I. 44), but David’s indignation was doubtless sincere. cut off their hands and their feet] The hands which had been stretched out against their master, the feet which had been “swift to shed blood” and to seek reward, were exposed to view in the most public and frequented spot in Hebron, for a spectacle and a warning. Cp. Deuteronomy 21:22. We may compare the practice, formerly in vogue in this country, of exposing the heads and limbs of traitors on the city gates. over the pool] Possibly one of the two great reservoirs, “doubtless of high antiquity,” which are still to be seen at Hebron. See Robinson’s Bibl. Res. II. 74.

Barnes' Notes on 2 Samuel 4:12

Cut off their hands ... - After they were dead. Their hands and feet were hung up in a place of public resort, both to deter others and also to let all Israel know that David was not privy to the murder of Ish-bosheth.

Whedon's Commentary on 2 Samuel 4:12

12. Cut off their hands and their feet — The hands that wrought the bloody deed, and the feet that brought the horrid tidings.

Sermons on 2 Samuel 4:12

SermonDescription
Duncan Campbell The Sacrifice That Is Pleasing to God by Duncan Campbell In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the concept of God's second chance. He highlights that after death, there is no second chance, but in life, God gives us the opportunity to c
Jim Cymbala Be a Blessing by Jim Cymbala In this sermon, the preacher discusses the promises made by God to Abraham in Genesis. The four promises mentioned are: making Abraham into a great nation, blessing him, making his
Leonard Ravenhill Beatitudes - Part 7 by Leonard Ravenhill In this sermon, the speaker recounts a conversation with a woman named Mrs. Crook who shares some distressing news. The speaker emphasizes the importance of obeying God and trustin
Chuck Smith When You Pray by Chuck Smith In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the importance of prayer and the kingdom of God. He begins by sharing a parable from Matthew 18, where Jesus illustrates the concept of forg
Aaron Dunlop The Day of Judgment by Aaron Dunlop In this sermon, the speaker discusses the judgment of God and its various aspects. The first aspect is the event of the judgment, which is referred to as the day of the Lord. The s
David Guzik (Obadiah) How God Deals With Pride by David Guzik In this sermon, the preacher discusses the downfall of a proud and fortified nation. He emphasizes that despite their confidence in their defenses, God declares that they will be s
Lew Clarkson Mid South Conference 1982-08 Luke 9:25 by Lew Clarkson In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the shortness of time and the importance of using it wisely. He highlights the fact that the average lifespan is only two billion seconds, an

Everything we make is available for free because of a generous community of supporters.

Donate