2 Samuel 3

KJ3 Literal Translation — Chapter 3 of 24

1 And there was a long war between the house of Saul and the house of David. And David was going on and was strong, but the house of Saul was going on and was weak.

2 And sons were born to David in Hebron. And his first-born was Amnon, of Ahinoam of Jezreel.

3 And his second was Chileab, of Abigail the former wife of Nabal of Carmel. And the third was Absalom the son of Maacah, the daughter of Talmai the king of Geshur.

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Chapter Summary

David is stronger. Six sons were born to him in Hebron. Abner joins David. Joab murders Abner. David mourns for Abner.

Key Hebrew Words

בְּרִית covenant H1285 · TWOT 282a
חֶ֫סֶד loyal kindness H2617 · TWOT 698a
מִלְחָמָה war H4421 · TWOT 1104c
שָׁלוֹם peace H7965 · TWOT 2401a
דָּם bloodguilt H1818 · TWOT 436
קִינֵן chant a lament H6969 · TWOT 2018

People & Context

David

King of Judah growing stronger over Saul's house; makes a covenant with Abner and mourns his murder

Abner

Saul's army commander who defects to David, then is treacherously killed by Joab

Joab

David's commander who lures Abner back to Hebron and murders him to avenge his brother Asahel

Ishbosheth

Saul's son and rival king who confronts Abner and fearfully yields Michal to David

Abishai

Joab's brother who joins in killing Abner over Asahel's death at Gibeon

Michal

Saul's daughter and David's wife, demanded back from Phaltiel as a condition of the covenant

Timeline

Long War and David's Sons Born

A long war ensues where David's house grows stronger and Saul's grows weaker. Six sons are born to David in Hebron.

2 Samuel 3:1-5
Abner Angered by Ishbosheth

Ishbosheth accuses Abner of sleeping with Saul's concubine, Rizpah. Abner becomes exceedingly angry and vows to hand the kingdom over to David.

2 Samuel 3:6-11
Abner Offers Covenant and David Demands Michal

Abner sends messengers to make a covenant with David. David agrees on the condition that his wife Michal is returned to him.

2 Samuel 3:12-14

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