2 Samuel 2:27 Meaning and Explanation
“And Joab said, As God liveth, unless thou hadst spoken, surely then in the morning the people had gone up every one from following his brother.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Joab swears that if Abner had not spoken, the people would only have given up the pursuit by morning.
What Does 2 Samuel 2:27 Mean?
Joab answers with an oath, 'As God liveth.' He says that had Abner not spoken, the people would have kept up the chase until morning before breaking off. His reply lays the responsibility for prolonging the fight at Abner's feet, even as he agrees to call a halt now that Abner has asked.
Joab's words are edged, and the wound of his brother's death is plainly behind them. Yet he does consent to stop. There is a hard grace in agreeing to end the killing even while feeling the loss keenly. Joab will carry this grievance, as later chapters show, but for now the sword is sheathed. Sometimes peace is accepted by men whose hearts have not yet forgiven.
Frequently Asked Questions About 2 Samuel 2:27
What does 2 Samuel 2:27 mean?
Joab swears that if Abner had not spoken, the people would only have given up the pursuit by morning.