2 Samuel 3:27

When Abner returned to Hebron, Joab pulled him aside into the gateway, as if to speak to him privately, and there Joab stabbed him in the stomach. So Abner died on account of the blood of Joab's brother Asahel.

Study Bible

When Abner returned to Hebron
Hebron was a significant city in the tribal territory of Judah, serving as David's capital before Jerusalem. It was also a city of refuge, where individuals accused of manslaughter could seek asylum. Abner's return to Hebron signifies his attempt to negotiate peace and consolidate the kingdom under David, following his defection from Ish-bosheth, Saul's son.

Joab pulled him aside into the gateway
The gateway of a city was a place of legal transactions and important discussions. Joab's action of pulling Abner aside suggests a pretense of a private conversation, which was a common tactic in ancient times to lower one's guard. Joab, David's military commander, had personal motives against Abner, as Abner had killed Joab's brother Asahel in battle.

as if to speak to him privately
This phrase indicates deception. Joab's intention was not to have a private conversation but to exact revenge. The act of speaking privately was a ruse to isolate Abner from any potential protectors, highlighting Joab's cunning and the personal vendetta he harbored.

and there Joab stabbed him in the stomach
Stabbing in the stomach was a brutal and personal method of killing, often associated with vengeance. This act of violence was not only a personal vendetta but also a violation of the sanctuary that Hebron, as a city of refuge, was supposed to provide. Joab's actions were against the spirit of justice and mercy that the cities of refuge represented.

So Abner died on account of the blood of Joab’s brother Asahel
This phrase underscores the theme of blood vengeance, which was a prevalent cultural practice in ancient Israel. The death of Asahel at the hands of Abner during a previous battle set the stage for this act of retribution. However, Abner had killed Asahel in self-defense during wartime, which complicates the moral and legal justification for Joab's actions. This incident reflects the cycle of violence and the challenges of leadership and justice in David's rise to power.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Abner
The commander of Saul's army, who had initially opposed David but later sought to make peace and support David's kingship over all Israel.

2. Joab
The commander of David's army and a nephew of David. He was a fierce warrior and a strategic leader but often acted out of personal vendetta.

3. Hebron
A significant city in Judah, serving as David's capital during his early reign. It was also a city of refuge, where individuals could seek asylum.

4. Asahel
Joab's brother, who was killed by Abner during a battle. His death was the catalyst for Joab's act of revenge.

5. The Gateway
The location where Joab deceitfully lured Abner under the pretense of a private conversation, ultimately leading to Abner's murder.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Revenge
Joab's murder of Abner was driven by personal vengeance, which led to further bloodshed and turmoil. Christians are called to leave vengeance to God and pursue peace.

The Importance of Integrity
Joab's deceitful actions contrast with the biblical call to honesty and integrity. Believers should strive to be truthful and transparent in their dealings with others.

The Role of Forgiveness
The account highlights the destructive nature of holding onto grudges. Forgiveness is a central tenet of Christian faith, promoting healing and reconciliation.

Respect for God's Anointed
Abner's shift to support David as God's chosen king was significant. Joab's actions disregarded God's plan and timing, reminding us to respect God's authority and anointed leaders.

The Dangers of Unchecked Power
Joab's position and influence led him to act independently of David's wishes. This serves as a warning against the misuse of power and the need for accountability.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Joab's act of revenge against Abner reflect the broader biblical teaching on vengeance and justice?

2. In what ways does the setting of Hebron as a city of refuge add depth to the account of Abner's murder?

3. How can we apply the principle of forgiveness in our own lives, especially when wronged by others?

4. What lessons can we learn from Joab's lack of integrity and how can we ensure our actions align with biblical values?

5. How does this passage challenge us to respect and support God's anointed leaders in our communities and churches?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 9:6
This verse underscores the sanctity of life and the divine mandate against murder, highlighting the gravity of Joab's actions.

Numbers 35:9-34
Discusses cities of refuge and the laws concerning revenge and murder, providing context for Hebron's significance and Joab's violation of these laws.

Matthew 5:21-22
Jesus' teaching on anger and murder, emphasizing the heart's condition and the seriousness of harboring hatred or seeking revenge.