“And Abner said again to Asahel, Turn thee aside from following me: wherefore should I smite thee to the ground? how then should I hold up my face to Joab thy brother?”
Context:The passage takes place during a period of transition and conflict in Israel’s history. Saul, the first king of Israel, had died, and David had been anointed as the next king by Samuel. However, Saul’s son Ishbosheth was appointed as king over the northern tribes of Israel. In the midst of this political turmoil, a battle occurs between the forces of David, led by his general Joab, and the forces of Ishbosheth, led by his general Abner.
The characters involved:
- Abner: He was the commander of Saul’s army and played a significant role in the political landscape after Saul’s death.
- Asahel: He was one of David’s mighty men and the brother of Joab. He was known for his swiftness and agility.
Abner’s warning to Asahel:In this verse, Abner warns Asahel to stop pursuing him and to turn aside, preventing a confrontation. He questions Asahel’s motives and raises a concern about killing him, which would make it difficult for Abner to face Joab, Asahel’s brother.
The significance of Abner’s warning:
- Abner’s warning reflects his desire to avoid unnecessary bloodshed between the factions. He recognizes that killing Asahel would create further tension and animosity.
- Abner’s reference to Joab, Asahel’s brother, suggests that he doesn’t want to harm a family member. It reveals a sense of honour and respect for the familial relationship.
- Abner’s warning also indicates that he recognised Asahel’s skill and speed, which could pose a threat to him in battle.
Lessons we can learn:
- Wisdom and discernment: Abner’s warning demonstrates wisdom and discernment. Sometimes, it is important to recognise when a conflict can be avoided and pursue peaceful resolutions instead of engaging in unnecessary battles.
- Respect and restraint: Abner’s consideration for Joab, Asahel’s brother, reminds us of the importance of respecting family ties and relationships. It highlights the significance of restraint in situations where harm could be inflicted on loved ones.
- The value of life: Abner’s words emphasise the value of human life and the desire to avoid unnecessary violence. It prompts us to consider the sanctity of life and the importance of preserving it when possible.
It is important to read the entire chapter and the surrounding context to gain a comprehensive understanding of the events and the lessons that can be learned from this passage.
