Definition: And Abner sent messengers to David on his behalf, saying, Whose [is] the land? saying [also], Make thy league with me, and, behold, my hand [shall be] with thee, to bring about all Israel unto thee.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 2 Samuel 3:12. It’s a really important and dramatic moment in the story of David and Abner. Here's what it means, explained simply: The Basic Situation: David is in trouble: David was in a precarious position – he was being hunted down by the Israelis! The Hebrew word "hunters" (meaning “to pursue” or “to chase”) is used here, and it’s very clear he's being targeted. Abner wants to help: Abner, a trusted advisor to David, decides to intervene. He’s essentially offering to help David escape the danger. What Abner is Asking: “Whose land is it?” – This isn’t about where the land is located; it's about who owns it. Abner wants to know who has the legal right to rule over Israel. “Make thy league with me, and, behold, my hand shall be with thee, to bring about all Israel unto thee.” – This is the crucial part! Abner is offering a deal: He will help David escape, but he will be the one to lead the entire nation of Israel towards him. “Seeing” means “to guide,” and "hand" signifies his influence or authority. In simpler terms: Abner is asking David to join him in a plan to get out of danger. In exchange for helping David, Abner promises to be the leader of all the Israelites, effectively controlling them. What’s the Big Takeaway? This verse highlights several themes: Strategic Alliance: It shows that alliances are often forged with self-interest – each side is working towards a common goal (getting out of danger). Power and Influence: Abner's offer demonstrates how someone can gain power through strategic maneuvering. The Nature of Leadership: It suggests that leadership isn’t always about being the first to be recognized, but rather about having influence and controlling a group of people. Do you want me to explain any of this further? For example, we could delve into: The context of David's situation? What "Israel" means in biblical terms?