Definition: And Abner said to him, Turn thee aside to thy right hand or to thy left, and lay thee hold on one of the young men, and take thee his armour. But Asahel would not turn aside from following of him.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 2 Samuel 2:21. It’s a really important moment in the story of Asahel and his confrontation with Abner. Here's what it means, explained simply: The Basic Situation: Asahel is a young man serving in the army under King Asahel. He’s loyal to Asahel and follows him closely. Abner is the King’s advisor and a powerful commander. He’s trying to get close to Asahel, perhaps for political reasons or to gain an advantage. He wants to use Asahel as leverage. Abner wants to take Asahel's armor. This is his goal – he wants to force Asahel to surrender his weapons and become a pawn in his game. What Happens Next: Abner tells Asahel to choose a side – to hold on to one of the young men, or to lay him down on his right or left hand. He’s essentially giving Asahel a choice: obedience or defiance. Asahel refuses. He firmly insists he will not turn aside from following Abner. This is crucial! What It Means – The Core of the Story: This verse highlights a fundamental conflict between loyalty and obedience. It speaks to several key themes: Loyalty & Duty: Asahel is loyal to his king, and he’s resisting Abner's attempt to manipulate him. Disobedience as a Stand: Asahel’s refusal isn’t just about personal preference; it’s a deliberate act of defiance against Abner’s power. It demonstrates that disobeying authority can be a powerful act. The Importance of Standing Up for What's Right: Asahel’s insistence on not turning aside shows his commitment to following God’s will and doing what is right, even when it’s difficult. In essence, the verse establishes a core tension: A man must choose between obeying authority and standing firm in his convictions. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of this story? Talk about the significance of the biblical context (like it relates to broader themes)?