“And the children of Benjamin gathered themselves together after Abner, and became one troop, and stood on the top of an hill.”
To understand the significance of this verse, it’s helpful to provide some context from the surrounding verses and chapters. In 2 Samuel 2, we find a turbulent time in Israel’s history following the death of Saul, the first king of Israel. David had already been anointed as the future king of Israel by the prophet Samuel, but Saul’s son, Ish-bosheth, was crowned as king over the northern tribes.
Now let’s analyze the verse itself and explore its implications:
Unity:The verse begins by stating, “And the children of Benjamin gathered themselves together after Abner.” This indicates that the tribe of Benjamin, which was aligned with Ish-bosheth’s rule, united under the leadership of Abner, who was the commander of Saul’s army. This unity is significant because it demonstrates the strength and determination of Benjamin’s loyalty to their chosen king.
Military positioning:The verse continues, stating that they “became one troop, and stood on the top of a hill.” Here, the children of Benjamin consolidated their forces, forming a unified troop. The strategic decision to position themselves on the top of a hill implies that they were seeking an advantageous position for defense and observation. This action demonstrates their readiness for potential conflict.
This verse highlights the political and military tensions between the tribes of Israel at the time. It sets the stage for the conflict that ensues between David’s forces and the forces loyal to Ish-bosheth, eventually leading to David’s consolidation of power over all Israel.
As with any Bible study, it’s essential to consider the historical and cultural context, as well as the larger narrative of Scripture. Understanding the background and the broader story of David’s ascent to the throne helps provide a more comprehensive understanding of this particular verse and its significance in the overall narrative of God’s plan for Israel.
