Definition: And Joab said unto the man that told him, And, behold, thou sawest [him], and why didst thou not smite him there to the ground? and I would have given thee ten [shekels] of silver, and a girdle.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 2 Samuel 18:11. It’s a really interesting and somewhat complex passage about justice and punishment. Here's the explanation in simpler terms: The Basic Story: This verse comes after David’s friend, Joab, tells him that someone has told him about a man who was caught stealing from him. Joab is furious and asks why he didn't immediately punish this man. What’s Happening – It’s About Justice & Reward: Joab's Anger: Joab is incredibly angry because he feels betrayed. He wants to make the thief pay a heavy price. The Offer: He offers to give the thief ten shekels (which was a large amount of money at the time – roughly equivalent to $200-$300 today) and a “girdle” (a piece of clothing). This is essentially a reward for punishing him. The Meaning – It’s About Punishment & Reward: This verse isn't just about giving a reward. It speaks to a broader idea of justice . Here’s what it suggests: David’s Perspective: David, as the King, is concerned with maintaining order and justice in his kingdom. He wants to punish those who violate the law. The Reward: The offer – ten shekels and a girdle – is a clear indication that David believes he should punish this man severely. It’s not just about money; it's about making him pay for his wrongdoing. It’s a Bit of a Puzzle - A Moral Dilemma: The verse raises a question: Is David justified in offering this reward? Some people interpret it as suggesting that David should punish the thief, even if it means giving him a substantial reward. In short, this verse is a snapshot of a moment where David was considering a harsh punishment for someone who had wronged him. It highlights his concern with justice and his desire to protect his kingdom. --- Disclaimer: I'm providing this explanation as a helpful assistant based on the text of the Bible. I’m not offering theological interpretations or philosophical analysis. Do you want me to: Explain another part of 2 Samuel 18? Discuss the context of this verse in more detail?