2 Samuel 11:21

Who was the one to strike Abimelech son of Jerubbesheth? Was it not a woman who dropped an upper millstone on him from the wall, so that he died in Thebez? Why did you get so close to the wall?' If so, then you are to say, 'Your servant Uriah the Hittite is dead as well.'"

Study Bible

Who struck Abimelech son of Jerubbesheth?
This phrase references an event from Judges 9:50-54, where Abimelech, a son of Gideon (also known as Jerubbaal or Jerubbesheth), was killed by a woman who dropped a millstone on his head. This historical context highlights the ignoble end of a leader who sought power through violence and treachery, serving as a cautionary tale about the consequences of pride and ambition.

Was it not a woman who dropped an upper millstone on him from the wall,
The mention of a woman using an upper millstone, a heavy stone used for grinding grain, emphasizes the unexpected and humbling nature of Abimelech's death. In ancient warfare, walls were strategic defensive structures, and the use of a millstone from the wall signifies the resourcefulness of the defenders. This incident underscores the theme of divine justice, where God uses unlikely means to bring about the downfall of the wicked.

so that he died in Thebez?
Thebez was a city in ancient Israel, and its mention here serves to remind the reader of the specific historical setting of Abimelech's demise. Thebez's successful defense against Abimelech's siege contrasts with the failure of his violent ambitions, illustrating the futility of opposing God's will.

Why did you get so close to the wall?’
This rhetorical question highlights the tactical error of approaching too closely to a fortified wall during a siege, a mistake that cost Abimelech his life. In the context of 2 Samuel 11, it serves as a parallel to David's own strategic and moral failures, as he orchestrates Uriah's death. The question implies a lack of wisdom and foresight, drawing a connection between physical and spiritual battles.

If he asks you this, then you are to say,
This instruction is part of a message crafted by David to Joab, his military commander. It reflects David's attempt to control the narrative and manage the consequences of his actions. The directive underscores the theme of manipulation and deceit, as David seeks to cover up his sin with Bathsheba by orchestrating Uriah's death.

‘Your servant Uriah the Hittite is dead as well.’”
Uriah's death marks the culmination of David's plan to conceal his adultery with Bathsheba. Uriah, a Hittite and a loyal soldier, represents the innocent victim of David's sin. This phrase highlights the tragic cost of David's moral failure and sets the stage for the subsequent judgment and repentance narrative. Uriah's inclusion as a Hittite also emphasizes the diversity within David's army and the broader theme of God's covenant extending beyond ethnic Israel.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Abimelech
The son of Jerubbesheth (Gideon), who was killed by a woman dropping a millstone on him in Thebez, as recounted in Judges 9:53. His death serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of pride and ambition.

2. Jerubbesheth (Gideon)
A judge of Israel, known for his military leadership and faith in God. His son Abimelech's downfall is a stark contrast to Gideon's legacy.

3. Uriah the Hittite
A loyal soldier in King David's army, whose death was orchestrated by David to cover up his adultery with Bathsheba, Uriah's wife.

4. Thebez
A city where Abimelech met his demise, symbolizing the unexpected consequences of reckless actions.

5. Joab
The commander of David's army, who followed David's orders to ensure Uriah's death, highlighting the moral complexities of leadership and obedience.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Sin
The account of Uriah's death reminds us that sin often leads to further sin, creating a cycle that can have devastating consequences.

The Importance of Accountability
David's actions demonstrate the need for accountability in leadership. Without it, even a man after God's own heart can fall into grave sin.

God's Justice and Mercy
While God is just and sin has consequences, He is also merciful and offers forgiveness to those who repent, as seen in David's later life.

The Dangers of Pride and Ambition
Abimelech's account serves as a warning against unchecked ambition and pride, which can lead to one's downfall.

The Role of Obedience
Joab's obedience to David's orders, despite their moral implications, raises questions about the limits of obedience and the importance of moral discernment.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the account of Abimelech's death in Judges 9 relate to the events in 2 Samuel 11:21, and what lessons can we learn about the consequences of pride and ambition?

2. In what ways does David's handling of Uriah's death reflect a failure of accountability, and how can we apply this lesson to our own lives and leadership roles?

3. How does Psalm 51 provide insight into David's heart and God's response to sin, and what does this teach us about repentance and forgiveness?

4. What role does Joab play in the events of 2 Samuel 11, and how can we discern when to obey authority and when to stand up for what is right?

5. How can we ensure that our actions align with God's will, especially when faced with difficult decisions that may have significant consequences?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Judges 9:50-57
This passage recounts the account of Abimelech's death, providing context for the reference in 2 Samuel 11:21. It illustrates the theme of divine justice and the consequences of sin.

2 Samuel 12:9-10
Nathan's rebuke of David for his sin with Bathsheba and Uriah connects to the events of 2 Samuel 11, emphasizing accountability and repentance.

Psalm 51
David's psalm of repentance after his sin with Bathsheba, highlighting themes of forgiveness and restoration.