Definition: For when they came into the house, he lay on his bed in his bedchamber, and they smote him, and slew him, and beheaded him, and took his head, and gat them away through the plain all night.
Explanation: Okay, let's break down this passage from 2 Samuel 4:7. It’s a really intense and dramatic scene in the Bible! Here’s what it means, explained in simple terms: The Basic Story: This verse tells us about King David after he was captured and imprisoned by Goliath. It describes a horrific act of violence against him – his execution. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “When they came into the house…” - This refers to the soldiers who captured David. “…he lay on his bed in his bedchamber…” - Imagine a king, usually sitting on a throne, lying down in his room, probably with his guards watching him. It’s a very private and vulnerable position. “and they smote him…” - This means the soldiers attacked him, likely with spears and arrows. They were trying to kill him. “…and slew him…” – This is a forceful killing – David was killed by a sword. “…and beheaded him…” - This is a very final act – his head was cut off! “and took his head…” - The soldiers removed his head, which was a significant symbol of his power and leadership. “and gat them away through the plain all night…” - This is a crucial part. “Gat” means to carry away or remove something. The soldiers carried David's body out of the city, through the plain (a large field), all night . This suggests he was taken away very quickly and without fanfare. What’s the Significance? This passage is a powerful illustration of God’s judgment on sin and rebellion. It shows: Divine Justice: God is punishing David for his sins – specifically, his betrayal of God and his disobedience to him. Severity of Punishment: The punishment is extreme – death. It's not just a simple inconvenience; it's a complete end to his life. God’s Sovereignty: It shows that God is in control and doesn't tolerate wrongdoing. He isn’t just punishing David; he’s punishing him for his choices. In short, this verse describes a brutal act of violence against a king who had offended God, demonstrating God's unwavering justice. --- Resources if you want to learn more: Bible Gateway: [https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2 Samuel+4%207](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2 Samuel+4%207) Wikipedia - 2 Samuel 4: [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2_Samuel_4](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2_Samuel_4) Would you like me to: Explain a different part of the verse? Discuss the context of this event in the Bible?