Old Testament
2 Samuel 11:21
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Who killed Abimelech son of Jerubbesheth? Wasn't it a woman who dropped a millstone on him from the wall at Thebez? Why did you go near the wall?' — then tell him, 'Your servant Uriah the Hittite is dead as well.'"
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Who smote Abimelech the son of Jerubbesheth? did not a woman cast a piece of a millstone upon him from the wall, that he died in Thebez? why went ye nigh the wall? then say thou, Thy servant Uriah the Hittite is dead also.
What 2 Samuel 11:21 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, a messenger is reporting to King David about the battle and the death of Uriah the Hittite. He references a past event where a woman killed Abimelech by dropping a millstone on him from a wall. This serves as a reminder of the dangers of approaching the walls of a city during battle. The messenger is instructed to inform David of Uriah's death, which is significant because Uriah was a loyal soldier and had been wronged by David. The mention of Abimelech's death highlights the unexpected ways in which fate can strike, often through seemingly small actions. It also emphasizes the consequences of decisions made in the heat of conflict. The messenger's report is not just about Uriah's death; it carries the weight of betrayal and the moral implications of David's actions. This moment encapsulates the tragic outcomes of war and the personal cost of leadership decisions, reminding us that every action has repercussions that can affect many lives beyond the battlefield.
How to apply 2 Samuel 11:21 to your life
This passage encourages us to reflect on our decisions and their impact on others. Just as David faced the consequences of his actions, we too must consider how our choices affect those around us. Loyalty and integrity are vital in our relationships, reminding us to act with care and responsibility in all situations. We should strive to be mindful of the potential fallout from our actions, especially in challenging circumstances.
Curated for this public verse page. 2 Samuel Summary
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Illustrated scene from David's story: David and Bathsheba (2 Samuel 11:1–27)
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David
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725043). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nablus and Mount Gerizim, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Shechem
Where God promised the land to Abram, and where Joshua led Israel to renew the covenant.
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Keep studying 2 Samuel 11:21
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At a Glance — the Book of 2 Samuel
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Samuel, Nathan, and Gad
- Written
- Around 930 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- The Israelites of the early monarchy
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does 2 Samuel 11:21 mean?
This verse recounts a messenger informing King David about the death of Uriah the Hittite, referencing a past event where a woman killed Abimelech by dropping a millstone on him. It highlights the dangers of battle and serves as a reminder of the consequences of decisions made during conflict.
What is the significance of Uriah's death in 2 Samuel 11:21?
Uriah's death is significant because he was a loyal soldier who was wronged by David. The messenger's report underscores the moral implications of David's actions and the tragic outcomes of war.
What does the mention of Abimelech in 2 Samuel 11:21 signify?
The mention of Abimelech serves to illustrate the unexpected ways in which fate can strike during battle, emphasizing the dangers of approaching city walls and the consequences of decisions made in conflict.
What themes are present in 2 Samuel 11:21?
Key themes in this verse include betrayal, consequences, leadership, war, and loyalty. It reflects on the personal costs of leadership decisions and the impact of actions on others.
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