2 Samuel 3:8 Meaning and Explanation
“Then was Abner very wroth for the words of Ishbosheth, and said, Am I a dog’s head, which against Judah do shew kindness this day unto the house of Saul thy father, to his brethren, and to his friends, and have not delivered thee into the hand of David, that thou chargest me to day with a fault concerning this woman?”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Abner reacts with fury, protesting his loyalty to Saul's house and resenting the accusation.
What Does 2 Samuel 3:8 Mean?
Abner explodes in anger. He recounts all the loyalty he has shown Saul's house and bitterly asks whether he is treated like a worthless dog's head over a single woman. His pride is deeply wounded.
Wounded pride is a powerful and perilous thing. Abner's outburst reveals a heart that has been serving Saul's house for its own sake rather than for God's will, and now feels unappreciated. The next verses show how quickly such resentment can turn a man against the very cause he championed. Honor sought for self leaves a soul restless and easily provoked.
2 Samuel 3:8 in the Original Language
keleb (כֶּלֶב), 'dog' -- in that culture an image of something lowly and contemptible, sharpening Abner's sense of insult.
Frequently Asked Questions About 2 Samuel 3:8
What does 2 Samuel 3:8 mean?
Abner reacts with fury, protesting his loyalty to Saul's house and resenting the accusation.