Old Testament
2 Samuel 17:9
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, a character is being tracked down, and the speaker notes that he is likely hiding in a pit or some other concealed spot.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Samuel, Nathan, and Gad
- Written
- Around 930 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- The Israelites of the early monarchy
Look, he is hiding now in some pit or in some other place. When some of them are overthrown at the start, whoever hears it will say, 'There is a slaughter among the people who follow Absalom.'
Behold, he is hid now in some pit, or in some other place: and it will come to pass, when some of them be overthrown at the first, that whosoever heareth it will say, There is a slaughter among the people that follow Absalom.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, a character is being tracked down, and the speaker notes that he is likely hiding in a pit or some other concealed spot. The concern is that if a few of Absalom's followers are defeated early in the conflict, it will create panic. People will hear about the initial losses and assume that a massacre is happening among Absalom's supporters. This highlights the fear and uncertainty that can arise in times of conflict. The mention of hiding suggests a desperate situation, where survival is paramount. The verse captures the tension of the moment, as the outcome of the battle hangs in the balance. It serves as a reminder of how quickly rumors can spread and influence perceptions during chaotic times. The fear of defeat can lead to a swift collapse of morale among followers, emphasizing the importance of unity and strength in challenging situations. This moment illustrates the fragility of power and the impact of early setbacks in a conflict, shaping the narrative of the struggle.
Related Bible verses
How to apply 2 Samuel 17:9 to your life
In our lives, we may face situations where fear and uncertainty cloud our judgment. It's essential to stay grounded and not jump to conclusions based on initial setbacks. Building strong relationships and maintaining open communication can help us navigate through challenges. Remember, early losses do not define the outcome of our journey. Stay resilient and focused on the bigger picture as you move forward in life’s battles.
Curated for this public verse page. 2 Samuel Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does 2 Samuel 17:9 mean about hiding in a pit?
In 2 Samuel 17:9, the mention of hiding in a pit symbolizes desperation and the instinct for self-preservation during conflict. It reflects the character's fear of being captured or killed, highlighting the lengths individuals will go to protect themselves in dangerous situations.
How does this verse relate to the theme of fear in conflict?
This verse illustrates how fear can escalate during conflict. The anticipation of defeat among Absalom's followers creates a sense of panic, suggesting that initial losses can lead to widespread anxiety and chaos. It emphasizes the psychological impact of warfare on individuals and groups.
What can we learn about rumors from this verse?
2 Samuel 17:9 shows how quickly rumors can spread in times of crisis. The fear that initial losses will be perceived as a massacre highlights the importance of communication and the potential for misinformation to influence morale and perceptions during conflict.
How does this verse emphasize the importance of morale?
The verse underscores that early setbacks can significantly affect the morale of Absalom's followers. If they believe that a slaughter is occurring, it could lead to panic and disarray, demonstrating how crucial it is to maintain unity and confidence in challenging times.
The Book of 2 Samuel
2 Samuel 1: David Mourns Saul and Jonathan
The book of 2 Samuel opens with David at Ziklag, having just returned from his victory over the Amalekites. An Amalekite man arrives from Saul's camp with his clothes torn and dust on his head, bringing news of the battle at Mount Gilboa. He tells David that the Israelites have been defeated and that Saul and his son Jonathan are dead. To prove his story, he presents David with the crown and bracelet from Saul's arm. The man claims that he came upon the wounded Saul, who asked to be killed, and that he mercifully ended the king's life. He likely expects a reward for this news and for his role in the king's death.
Unlock the full 2 Samuel summary
Continue reading every chapter — themes, structure, and turning points.
The complete summary of 2 Samuel — a chapter-by-chapter breakdown covering all 24 chapters.
What you get
Every chapter of 2 Samuel summarized in clear, modern English
How each section connects — narrative flow, key themes, and turning points
Permanent access — read anytime, on any device
Best value • Save over 90%
One-time purchase • Access anytime
ClearBible summaries are proprietary content and may not be copied, republished, or resold.
Checkout works as a guest. After payment, you create an account to claim your unlock.