2 Samuel 4:6

And they came thither into the midst of the house, as though they would have fetched wheat; and they smote him under the fifth rib: and Rechab and Baanah his brother escaped.

2 Samuel 4:6 (KJV)

Context

After King Saul died in battle, the kingdom of Israel split. David ruled in Hebron over Judah, while Ishbosheth, another son of Saul, ruled over the rest of Israel. This division created tension and competing loyalties.

Rechab and Baanah were captains in Ishbosheth’s army and sons of Rimmon the Beerothite. They came to his house at noon, pretending to fetch wheat. Their cover story allowed them to enter the king’s residence without suspicion.

Meaning

The phrase “smote him under the fifth rib” is a Hebrew way of describing a fatal blow to a vital area. It shows the violence and treachery of the act. The two brothers murdered their own king while he rested, then escaped.

Their motive is not stated, but they likely hoped to gain favor with David and secure power in the new kingdom. They brought Ishbosheth’s head to David at Hebron, expecting a reward. Their act was one of deceit and brutality, driven by political ambition.

Biblical connections

David’s response, recorded in 2 Samuel 4:9-12, was the opposite of what they expected. He condemned their act as the murder of a righteous man and ordered their execution. David refused to rejoice over the death of a rival, showing his integrity and his trust in God to establish his throne.

Application

This account warns against using deceit and violence to achieve personal goals. Rechab and Baanah thought their crime would bring reward, but it brought judgment. God’s purposes are accomplished even through evil actions, yet those who commit evil remain accountable.

Reflection

David’s example teaches us to wait on God rather than seize power through wrong means. We are called to act with honesty and to leave our vindication in God’s hands. The contrast between the brothers’ wickedness and David’s integrity reminds us that godly leadership fears the Lord and seeks justice, not personal gain.