2 Samuel 20:21 Meaning and Explanation
“The matter is not so: but a man of mount Ephraim, Sheba the son of Bichri by name, hath lifted up his hand against the king, even against David: deliver him only, and I will depart from the city. And the woman said unto Joab, Behold, his head shall be thrown to thee over the wall.”
King James Version (KJV)
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Read Full Chapter →Joab explains he only wants Sheba, the rebel; hand him over, and he will withdraw. The woman promises Sheba's head.
What Does 2 Samuel 20:21 Mean?
Joab lays out his true terms. He has no quarrel with Abel; he seeks one man, Sheba, who has raised his hand against King David. Surrender that single rebel, he says, and the army will leave the city in peace. The woman answers boldly that Sheba's head will be thrown to him over the wall.
The whole siege now turns on the choice of a city: shield one guilty man and perish, or give him up and live. Her decisive reply shows the resolve wisdom brings once the real issue is clear. There are moments when faithfulness to the larger good requires letting go of what brings ruin, however costly the cutting away.
Frequently Asked Questions About 2 Samuel 20:21
What does 2 Samuel 20:21 mean?
Joab explains he only wants Sheba, the rebel; hand him over, and he will withdraw. The woman promises Sheba's head.