Old Testament
2 Samuel 3:27
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
When Abner returned to Hebron, Joab pulled him aside in the gateway as if to speak privately. There he stabbed him in the stomach, and Abner died. Joab did this to avenge the blood of his brother Asahel.
Compare translations
And when Abner was returned to Hebron, Joab took him aside in the gate to speak with him quietly, and smote him there under the fifth rib, that he died, for the blood of Asahel his brother.
What 2 Samuel 3:27 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this moment, Joab, a fierce warrior, confronted Abner, who had just returned to Hebron. Joab pretended to want a private conversation, but his true intention was revenge. Abner had previously killed Joab's brother, Asahel, in battle, and Joab's anger consumed him. He stabbed Abner in the stomach, leading to Abner's death. This act of vengeance highlights the destructive nature of unresolved conflict and the lengths to which people will go to seek justice for their loved ones. Joab's actions not only ended Abner's life but also deepened the cycle of violence and hatred between their factions. This tragic event serves as a reminder of how personal grievances can escalate into larger conflicts, affecting many lives. It challenges us to consider the consequences of our actions and the importance of forgiveness in breaking the cycle of revenge and violence in our own lives. We must strive to resolve our differences peacefully, rather than allowing anger to dictate our choices.
How to apply 2 Samuel 3:27 to your life
Reflect on how unresolved conflicts can lead to destructive actions in your life. Consider the importance of forgiveness and communication in your relationships. Instead of seeking revenge, strive to find peaceful resolutions to disagreements, fostering understanding and healing instead of further pain and division. Choose love over anger in your interactions with others.
Curated for this public verse page. 2 Samuel Summary
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from David's story: David Mourns Abner (2 Samuel 3:1–39)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
David
Photo: Zeev Stein / PikiWiki Israel, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.5. Source. Location: Tel Beer Sheva National Park, Israel. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Beersheba
Where Abraham and Isaac dug wells and worshiped the LORD, at the southern edge of the land.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about 2 Samuel 3:27
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying 2 Samuel 3:27
Related Bible verses
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 3:27 mean?
2 Samuel 3:27 describes the moment Joab killed Abner in a deceptive manner, pretending to speak privately. This act was motivated by Joab's desire for revenge for his brother Asahel's death, illustrating the destructive consequences of unresolved conflict.
What is the significance of Joab's actions in 2 Samuel 3:27?
Joab's actions in 2 Samuel 3:27 highlight themes of revenge and betrayal. His choice to kill Abner under the guise of a private conversation shows how personal grievances can escalate into violence, impacting broader relationships and conflicts.
What does the phrase 'smote him there under the fifth rib' mean in 2 Samuel 3:27?
The phrase 'smote him there under the fifth rib' refers to the specific location where Joab stabbed Abner, indicating a lethal attack. This detail emphasizes the brutality of the act and Joab's intent to kill rather than merely injure.
How does 2 Samuel 3:27 relate to themes of conflict and revenge?
2 Samuel 3:27 encapsulates the cycle of conflict and revenge, as Joab's killing of Abner is driven by a desire for retribution. This event illustrates how unresolved issues can perpetuate violence and deepen divisions between factions.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.