Definition: And I will come upon him while he [is] weary and weak handed, and will make him afraid: and all the people that [are] with him shall flee; and I will smite the king only:

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from 2 Samuel 17:2. It’s a really powerful and dramatic passage about God’s plan to punish someone who has wronged Israel. Here’s a simplified explanation: The Basic Story: This verse comes after King David is captured by the Philistines and imprisoned. The story then shifts to God, who is preparing to deliver justice against David's murderer, Goliath. It’s essentially saying that God is about to intervene in this situation. Let’s unpack it word-by-word: “And I will come upon him while he [is] weary and weak handed…” – This is a key phrase. “Come upon” means to appear or approach. The speaker is saying, “God is going to appear to David.” The fact that he’s “weary and weak-handed” suggests he's vulnerable and perhaps struggling with something. “…handed…” – This is a little tricky. It means "in a vulnerable position" or "with his back turned." David was likely being manipulated, possibly by someone else. “And will make him afraid:” - God intends to instill fear in David. “…and all the people that [are] with him shall flee; and I will smite the king only:" – This is the core of the verse. "All the people that [are] with him”: This refers to all the people who are supporting David, including his followers, his guards, and perhaps even those who were involved in his downfall. “shall flee”: This means they will run away from danger. "I will smite the king only:" This is a crucial part. “Smite” means to punish severely. "Only" emphasizes that this punishment specifically targets David, and not any other person. Overall Meaning – A Warning & God’s Plan: The verse paints a picture of God's righteous judgment. It’s not about revenge; it's about delivering justice for David's wrongdoing. God is deliberately choosing to show his power and punish David, intending to make him fearful . The verse suggests that this punishment will be swift and decisive. Why is this a significant passage? It shows God’s Sovereignty: It demonstrates that God is in control of events and has the power to intervene. It highlights Divine Justice: The verse emphasizes that justice will be served, even when people are causing trouble. It's a Warning: It serves as a warning to those who are involved with David and his followers, urging them to be mindful of their actions and potential consequences. In short, this verse describes God’s deliberate action of punishing David, intending to instill fear and deliver justice. --- Would you like me to: Explain any part in more detail? Provide a parallel passage from another Bible verse?

Definition: And when Absalom’s servants came to the woman to the house, they said, Where [is] Ahimaaz and Jonathan? And the woman said unto them, They be gone over the brook of water. And when they had sought and could not find [them], they returned to Jerusalem.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 2 Samuel 17:20 together. It's a really important passage in the Bible that tells us about a very dramatic shift in events. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Story: Absalom is a Problem: The verse focuses on Absalom, the son of King David, who was deeply unhappy and rebellious. He was constantly trying to undermine his father's rule and was causing trouble. Servants Seek Information: A group of Absalom’s servants – likely those loyal to him – were asking questions about where Absalom and his brother Jonathan were. They were looking for clues as to their whereabouts. The Secret is Revealed: The woman, who was a trusted advisor to King David, tells them that they had left Absalom and Jonathan over by the brook of water. “They be gone over the brook.” Searching and Finding Them: The servants then searched for them for a while, but eventually, they gave up and returned to Jerusalem. Putting it All Together – A Quick Summary: King David’s son, Absalom, was causing problems, and his servants were trying to find him. They discovered that Absalom and his brother Jonathan had gone to the brook of water. The woman told them they left them there. This suggests a significant shift in events - Absalom's rebellion is being quietly dealt with. Key Takeaways & Significance: Disruption: The verse highlights a period of unrest and disruption within David’s family. Divine Intervention (Potentially): The fact that the servants eventually returned to Jerusalem suggests that God was involved in resolving this conflict, even if it wasn't immediately apparent. It implies a plan or intervention might be at play. Important Note: This verse is often interpreted as a foreshadowing of David’s death and the eventual rebuilding of Jerusalem. It's a moment of crisis for the royal family. --- Do you want me to: Explain any specific aspect in more detail? Connect this verse to other stories or biblical themes? Provide a bit more context about the time period?

Definition: And it came to pass, after they were departed, that they came up out of the well, and went and told king David, and said unto David, Arise, and pass quickly over the water: for thus hath Ahithophel counselled against you.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 2 Samuel 17:21. It's a really important passage about a past disagreement and God’s plan. Here's a simplified explanation: The Basic Story: This verse comes after King David was being unfairly treated by his advisors. These advisors, led by a person named Ahithophel, were trying to sabotage David’s reign and make him look bad. They advised David to do something that would ultimately harm him. What's Happening in the Verse: “And it came to pass, after they were departed…” : This means the advisors had left the scene. “…that they came up out of the well…” : They emerged from a place of secrecy and deceit – essentially, they started speaking out against David. "...and went and told king David, and said unto David, Arise, and pass quickly over the water:” They told David that he needed to take action – to step forward and confront the advisors. They were urging him to do something to protect himself. “For thus hath Ahithophel counselled against you.” : This is the crucial part. Ahithophel was a wise advisor who had been telling David to do this thing. The verse means that Ahithophel’s advice was wrong and harmful. What Does it Mean? Essentially, this verse describes a past situation where advisors tried to manipulate David into doing something bad. God, in his wisdom, intervened and stopped them from causing harm. It's a reminder that sometimes, we need to trust God's plan even when others try to steer us wrong. In simpler terms: David was being manipulated by some shady advisors who were trying to hurt him. God showed up and prevented them from doing so. Important Note: This verse is part of a larger story in the Bible about David’s life and his relationship with God. It highlights the importance of trusting God's guidance over our own desires. --- Would you like me to: Explain another verse? Connect this passage to a specific story or theme in the Bible?

Definition: Then David arose, and all the people that [were] with him, and they passed over Jordan: by the morning light there lacked not one of them that was not gone over Jordan.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 2 Samuel 17:22. It’s a really important part of understanding David’s story and his relationship with God. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Story: David was facing a huge problem: In the book of 2 Samuel, King David was being hunted down by the army of Absalom, son of King Solomon. He was seriously threatened and about to be captured. He rallied his people: David knew he couldn’t defeat the enemy alone. So, he called for a massive gathering of his soldiers and all the people surrounding him. They crossed over Jordan: This is the key point. They actually crossed the Jordan River – which was a significant obstacle! - to escape the army's attack. Everyone went over: It’s clear from this verse that everyone in David’s group, including his soldiers and loyal followers, made it safely across the river. What it Means – A Simple Explanation: This verse is a powerful statement about David’s strength and faith: He was strong enough to overcome the enemy: David’s presence with his army demonstrated that he wasn’t just a king; he was a leader who could protect his people. He didn't give up: The fact that everyone made it across shows that David's faith and determination were unwavering. It wasn't just him, but the whole group – his supporters and followers – that persevered. It’s a Reminder of God’s Protection: This verse also subtly reminds us that God is always protecting His people, even when they face difficult situations. He doesn't give up on those who trust in Him. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the significance of this passage in a broader context?

Definition: And when Ahithophel saw that his counsel was not followed, he saddled [his] ass, and arose, and gat him home to his house, to his city, and put his household in order, and hanged himself, and died, and was buried in the sepulchre of his father.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this incredibly difficult passage from 2 Samuel 17:23. It’s a very sad and dramatic story about a man named Ahithophel. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Story: Ahithophel was a powerful advisor to King David. He was incredibly influential and had a lot of power over the king. David was facing a serious threat from Ahithophel. He was planning to attack David’s kingdom, and David needed someone to stop him. Ahithophel tried to trick David into giving him a secret plan to defeat him. He convinced David that he wasn't really capable of doing it himself. But David refused to listen! He trusted his own judgment and didn’t believe Ahithophel. When Ahithophel saw this, he was extremely upset. He realized his plan had failed. Instead of continuing to try and manipulate David, he made a terrible decision. He deliberately plotted to kill himself. He then arranged for his own death. He left his home, family, and possessions behind, and died alone in a sepulchre (a burial place). What it Means – A Bit More Deeply: This verse is a powerful illustration of several things: The Importance of Trusting God’s Plan: David's refusal to be swayed by someone else's trickery highlights the idea that we should always trust in God’s plan, even when it seems difficult. We shouldn’t rely on people or situations to make decisions for us. The Consequences of Deceit: Ahithophel’s act shows how betrayal and deception can have devastating consequences. The Value of Courage & Integrity: David's refusal to be manipulated, even when it was difficult, speaks to the importance of standing up for what is right and being true to yourself. It’s a Moment of Great Tragedy: This story is incredibly bleak. It shows a man who chose to end his own life rather than continue to pursue a dangerous and ultimately futile plan. It's a stark reminder that even the most powerful people can be vulnerable and susceptible to despair. Important Note: This passage describes a very dark moment in history, but it’s important to remember that it doesn’t excuse Ahithophel’s actions. It’s about the choice he made when faced with an impossible situation. --- Do you want me to: Explain any of these concepts further? Connect this story to a specific biblical theme (like faith, repentance, or obedience)?

Definition: Then David came to Mahanaim. And Absalom passed over Jordan, he and all the men of Israel with him.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 2 Samuel 17:24. It’s a really important part of the story of David and his son Absalom. Here's what it means in simpler terms: Basically, after David lost the battle against Goliath, Absalom, his son, passed over Jordan . He and all the men of Israel were allowed to go on their way without fighting. Let’s unpack that a little further: David Lost the Battle: In the Old Testament, David was a powerful king. But in this story, he lost a huge battle against Goliath. Goliath was much bigger and stronger than any army David had faced before. Absalom Passes Over Jordan: After losing the battle, Absalom was allowed to travel south towards Mahanaim. "Passing over Jordan" means he crossed the Jordan River, which was a significant boundary between his kingdom and the land of Israel. Israel Was Allowed to Go Onward: Importantly, the verse says all the men of Israel were allowed to go on their way. This signifies that the Israelites (the people of Israel) weren't involved in the conflict. They were simply left to continue on their journey. What’s the significance? This is a pivotal moment in history. It shows that David, despite losing a significant battle, wasn't completely defeated. He was allowed to move on, signifying a shift in power and possibly hinting at a future reconciliation or peace. In short, it’s a story of survival and a chance for forgiveness – even though the initial conflict was devastating. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Provide more context about the situation before this verse?

Definition: And Absalom made Amasa captain of the host instead of Joab: which Amasa [was] a man’s son, whose name [was] Ithra an Israelite, that went in to Abigail the daughter of Nahash, sister to Zeruiah Joab’s mother.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break this Bible verse down. It’s a really important and somewhat complex passage from 2 Samuel 17:25, and it tells us about a significant shift in the leadership of Absalom, King of Israel. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Situation: Absalom was angry: The verse starts with Absalom feeling incredibly bitter and upset. He was deeply wronged by his brother, Joab. He made a change: Instead of Joab leading the army, Absalom decided to make Amasa captain of the host – basically, the military leader. Amasa was a son of a woman: Amasa was born to a woman named Abigail, who was the daughter of Nahash, a man who had lost his brother, Joab. Putting it all together – A bit of a story: This verse describes a situation where Absalom’s anger and desire for revenge led him to make a drastic, and somewhat humiliating, decision. He essentially replaced Joab with Amasa. It wasn't a fair replacement: Joab was a very important and respected leader. Absalom’s choice of Amasa was a blatant act of disrespect and an attempt to control the situation. Amasa was a descendant of Nahash: This is key! Abigail, the woman Amasa came from, was connected to Nahash. This connection adds another layer of bitterness and suggests that Absalom's actions were rooted in a long-standing conflict with his family. Why it’s significant: This verse is often seen as a sign of Absalom's growing instability and descent into rebellion. It highlights the dangers of unchecked anger and the potential for these issues to escalate. It shows how quickly things can spiral out of control when someone isn't handling their emotions well. In short, it’s a story about a king who made a terrible choice fueled by his own pain, leading to a difficult situation. --- Disclaimer: I am an AI Chatbot and not a biblical scholar. This explanation is based on common interpretations of the text. Would you like me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the context of this passage in more detail?

Definition: So Israel and Absalom pitched in the land of Gilead.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from 2 Samuel 17:26. It’s a really important part of the story of David and his son Absalom. Here’s what it means in simple terms: Basically, it says that after David lost the throne to Absalom, he and his followers settled down and established a base of operations – a place called “Gilead” – in the region of Gilead. Let's unpack that a little further: “So Israel and Absalom…” : This refers to two people - Israel (David’s family) and Absalom, who was David’s son. “…pitched in the land…” : This means they settled down and made it their home in a particular area. "...of Gilead." : Gilead was a specific location in the region of Israel. It wasn't just any place; it was a strategically important spot that became known as “Gilead” for its significance. Why is this significant? This is a crucial part of the story because it explains why David lost the throne. Absalom plotted to overthrow David and take over the kingdom, but David, with the help of his closest advisors, managed to thwart him. Setting up a base in Gilead symbolized that he was protecting himself and his family from Absalom's ambitions. In essence, it’s a description of how David and his followers established their stronghold during a period of instability. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Give more context about the story of David and Absalom?

Definition: And it came to pass, when David was come to Mahanaim, that Shobi the son of Nahash of Rabbah of the children of Ammon, and Machir the son of Ammiel of Lodebar, and Barzillai the Gileadite of Rogelim,

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 2 Samuel 17:27. It’s a really important passage about a conflict and a surprising resolution. Here's what it means in plain language: The Basic Situation: David was visiting Mahanaim (a region near Jerusalem): David, the King of Israel, was traveling through this area. These people are involved in a bitter feud: Shobi, Nahash’s son, Machir, and Barzillai are all involved in a long-standing disagreement with David. They’ve been fighting for years, and it's escalating into something serious. What Happened Next: Shobi demands retribution: Shobi of Rabbah, who is a powerful leader in Ammon (a region to the east), wants to punish David for a past offense. He’s demanding revenge – he wants to make him pay for something that happened long ago. The dispute began with a betrayal: The core of the conflict stems from a betrayal. It was revealed that Machir, who was supposed to be protecting David, secretly sided with Nahash's enemies and helped them plot against him. The Key Revelation – This is where it gets interesting: David confronts his enemies: David, in response to this betrayal, challenges Shobi and his followers to come before him. He doesn’t want to fight; he wants to understand the situation and resolve it. What Does this Verse Mean? (Simplified) This verse essentially says: "David is standing up to those who are trying to cause him harm, even though they've wronged him." It highlights a crucial moment where David’s authority and justice are being challenged. It shows that he isn’t just defending himself; he's taking action against those who seek to destroy him. Important Context: This verse is part of a larger narrative in the Bible about conflict, betrayal, and ultimately, God’s plan for David's reign. It demonstrates a shift from a purely defensive posture to one of active challenge and seeking justice. --- Disclaimer: I am an AI Chatbot and not a biblical scholar. This explanation is based on general understanding of scripture and should be considered a simplified overview. Would you like me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the significance of this passage in more detail?

Definition: Brought beds, and basons, and earthen vessels, and wheat, and barley, and flour, and parched [corn], and beans, and lentiles, and parched [pulse],

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 2 Samuel 17:28. It's a really interesting and somewhat surprising passage about David’s actions after he was captured by Goliath! Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Core Idea: David, who was facing a huge battle with Goliath, made tools – beds, vessels for storing food, even things like wheat and barley – to prepare for the fight. He wasn't just trying to be polite; he was actively preparing for war. Let’s unpack it layer by layer: “Brought beds…” : David was physically setting up preparations for battle. He wasn’t just sitting around; he was working. “…and basons…” : “Basons” means to examine or inspect something closely. So, he was carefully checking and ensuring everything was in good condition. “…and earthen vessels…” : "Earthen vessels" refers to simple, unglazed clay pots – the kind used for storing food. They were durable and meant to hold things. “…and wheat, and barley, and flour, and parched [corn], and beans, and lentiles, and parched [pulse]…” : This is the really significant part. David was meticulously collecting a wide variety of grains – wheat, barley, lentils, and parched corn (a type of grain that’s been dried). He was gathering resources to feed his army. What's the significance? This is often interpreted as a sign that David wasn't just trying to be strong or boastful. He was showing humility and preparing for a long, difficult battle. It suggests he was thinking ahead and taking practical steps to prepare for war. It’s like saying, “I’m not just going to fight; I’m also going to make sure we have enough food to last.” Important Note: The word "parched" is key here. It implies a state of dryness or being weakened – essentially, the grain was already slightly damaged. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of this verse? Discuss why this verse is significant in biblical history? Connect it to a broader theme (like David’s character)?