2 Samuel 12:27
2 Samuel 12:27 in Multiple Translations
Then Joab sent messengers to David to say, “I have fought against Rabbah and have captured the water supply of the city.
And Joab sent messengers to David, and said, I have fought against Rabbah, and have taken the city of waters.
And Joab sent messengers to David, and said, I have fought against Rabbah; yea, I have taken the city of waters.
And Joab sent men to David, saying, I have made war against Rabbah and have taken the water-town.
Joab sent messengers to David to tell him, “I have attacked Rabbah and I have also captured its water supply.
Therefore Ioab sent messengers to Dauid, saying, I haue fought against Rabbah, and haue taken the citie of waters.
and Joab sendeth messengers unto David, and saith, 'I have fought against Rabbah — also I have captured the city of waters;
Joab sent messengers to David, and said, “I have fought against Rabbah. Yes, I have taken the city of waters.
And Joab sent messengers to David, and said, I have fought against Rabbah, and have taken the city of waters.
And Joab sent messengers to David, saying: I have fought against Rabbath, and the city of waters is about to be taken.
Then Joab sent messengers to David, to tell him this: “My troops are attacking Rabbah, and we have captured the city’s water supply.
Berean Amplified Bible — 2 Samuel 12:27
BAB
Word Study
Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.
Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.
2 Samuel 12:27 Interlinear (Deep Study)
BIB
HEB
וַ/יִּשְׁלַ֥ח
יוֹאָ֛ב
מַלְאָכִ֖ים
אֶל
דָּוִ֑ד
וַ/יֹּ֨אמֶר֙
נִלְחַ֣מְתִּי
בְ/רַבָּ֔ה
גַּם
לָכַ֖דְתִּי
אֶת
עִ֥יר
הַ/מָּֽיִם
וַ/יִּשְׁלַ֥ח
shâlach
H7971
to send
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms
יוֹאָ֛ב
Yôwʼâb
H3097
Joab
N-proper
מַלְאָכִ֖ים
mălʼâk
H4397
messenger
N-mp
אֶל
ʼêl
H413
to(wards)
Prep
דָּוִ֑ד
Dâvid
H1732
David
N-proper
וַ/יֹּ֨אמֶר֙
ʼâmar
H559
to say
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms
נִלְחַ֣מְתִּי
lâcham
H3898
to fight
V-Niphal-Perf-1cs
בְ/רַבָּ֔ה
Rabbâh
H7237
Rabbah
Prep | N-proper
גַּם
gam
H1571
also
DirObjM
לָכַ֖דְתִּי
lâkad
H3920
to capture
V-Qal-Perf-1cs
אֶת
ʼêth
H853
Obj.
DirObjM
עִ֥יר
ʻîyr
H5892
excitement
N-fs
הַ/מָּֽיִם
mayim
H4325
Water (Gate)
Art | N-mp
Hebrew Word Study
Select any word above to explore its original meaning, root, and usage across Scripture.
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Hebrew Word Reference — 2 Samuel 12:27
וַ/יִּשְׁלַ֥ח
shâlach
H7971
"to send"
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms
To send or depart is the meaning of this Hebrew word, which has various applications in the Bible. It can describe sending someone or something away, or letting something go.
Definition: : depart/send 1) to send, send away, let go, stretch out 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to send 1a2) to stretch out, extend, direct 1a3) to send away 1a4) to let loose 1b) (Niphal) to be sent 1c) (Piel) 1c1) to send off or away or out or forth, dismiss, give over, cast out 1c2) to let go, set free 1c3) to shoot forth (of branches) 1c4) to let down 1c5) to shoot 1d) (Pual) to be sent off, be put away, be divorced, be impelled 1e) (Hiphil) to send
Usage: Occurs in 790 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] any wise, appoint, bring (on the way), cast (away, out), conduct, [idiom] earnestly, forsake, give (up), grow long, lay, leave, let depart (down, go, loose), push away, put (away, forth, in, out), reach forth, send (away, forth, out), set, shoot (forth, out), sow, spread, stretch forth (out). See also: Genesis 3:22; Exodus 9:27; Joshua 14:11.
יוֹאָ֛ב
Yôwʼâb
H3097
"Joab"
N-proper
Joab was a prominent Israelite, his name means Jehovah is father. He was King David's nephew and army general, playing a key role in the Bible, including in the books of Samuel and Kings.
Definition: A man living at the time of Exile and Return, only mentioned at Ezr.8.9 § Joab = "Jehovah is father" 1) son of David's sister Zeruiah and general of David's army 2) a Judaite descendant of Kenaz 3) a post exilic family
Usage: Occurs in 124 OT verses. KJV: Joab. See also: 1 Samuel 26:6; 2 Samuel 19:2; Psalms 60:2.
מַלְאָכִ֖ים
mălʼâk
H4397
"messenger"
N-mp
A messenger or representative, often of God, like an angel, prophet, or priest, as seen in Isaiah 42:19 and Haggai 1:13, carrying out God's will.
Definition: : messenger 1) messenger, representative 1a) messenger 1b) angel 1c) the theophanic angel
Usage: Occurs in 196 OT verses. KJV: ambassador, angel, king, messenger. See also: Genesis 16:7; 2 Samuel 24:16; Psalms 34:8.
אֶל
ʼêl
H413
"to(wards)"
Prep
This Hebrew word means 'to' or 'toward', showing direction or movement. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus, to indicate where someone is going. The KJV translates it in various ways, like 'about', 'according to', or 'against'.
Definition: 1) to, toward, unto (of motion) 2) into (limit is actually entered) 2a) in among 3) toward (of direction, not necessarily physical motion) 4) against (motion or direction of a hostile character) 5) in addition to, to 6) concerning, in regard to, in reference to, on account of 7) according to (rule or standard) 8) at, by, against (of one's presence) 9) in between, in within, to within, unto (idea of motion to)
Usage: Occurs in 4205 OT verses. KJV: about, according to, after, against, among, as for, at, because(-fore, -side), both...and, by, concerning, for, from, [idiom] hath, in(-to), near, (out) of, over, through, to(-ward), under, unto, upon, whether, with(-in). See also: Genesis 1:9; Genesis 21:14; Genesis 31:13.
דָּוִ֑ד
Dâvid
H1732
"David"
N-proper
David was the youngest son of Jesse and a king of Judah, first mentioned in Ruth 4:17, and an ancestor of Jesus.
Definition: A king of the tribe of Judah living at the time of United Monarchy, first mentioned at Rut.4.17; son of: Jesse (H3448) and Nahash (H5176I); brother of: Eliab (H0446I), Abinadab (H0041I), Shimeah (H8093), Zeruiah (H6870), Abigail (H0026H)(?), Nethanel (H5417H), Raddai (H7288), Ozem (H0684) and Elihu (H0453J); married to Michal (H4324), Abigail (H0026), Ahinoam (H0293H), Maacah (H4601I), Haggith (H2294), Abital (H0037), Eglah (H5698) and Bathsheba (H1339); father of: Amnon (H0550), Chileab (H3609), Absalom (H0053), Adonijah (H0138), Shephatiah (H8203), Ithream (H3507), Shammua (H8051H), Shobab (H7727), Nathan (H5416), Solomon (H8010), Ibhar (H2984), Elishua (H0474), Nepheg (H5298H), Japhia (H3309I), Elishama (H0476H), Eliada (H0450), Eliphelet (H0467), Tamar (H8559H), Elpelet (H0467I), Nogah (H5052) and Jerimoth (H3406N) Also named: Daueid, Dauid, Dabid (Δαυείδ, Δαυίδ, Δαβίδ "David" G1138) § David = "beloved" youngest son of Jesse and second king of Israel
Usage: Occurs in 912 OT verses. KJV: David. See also: Ruth 4:17; 1 Samuel 20:41; 1 Samuel 27:9.
וַ/יֹּ֨אמֶר֙
ʼâmar
H559
"to say"
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms
This Hebrew word means to say or speak, and it's used in many different ways in the Bible. It can mean to command, promise, or think, and it's translated in the KJV as 'answer', 'appoint', or 'command'.
Definition: 1) to say, speak, utter 1a) (Qal) to say, to answer, to say in one's heart, to think, to command, to promise, to intend 1b) (Niphal) to be told, to be said, to be called 1c) (Hithpael) to boast, to act proudly 1d) (Hiphil) to avow, to avouch Aramaic equivalent: a.mar (אֲמַר "to say" H0560)
Usage: Occurs in 4337 OT verses. KJV: answer, appoint, avouch, bid, boast self, call, certify, challenge, charge, [phrase] (at the, give) command(-ment), commune, consider, declare, demand, [idiom] desire, determine, [idiom] expressly, [idiom] indeed, [idiom] intend, name, [idiom] plainly, promise, publish, report, require, say, speak (against, of), [idiom] still, [idiom] suppose, talk, tell, term, [idiom] that is, [idiom] think, use (speech), utter, [idiom] verily, [idiom] yet. See also: Genesis 1:3; Genesis 18:23; Genesis 25:32.
נִלְחַ֣מְתִּי
lâcham
H3898
"to fight"
V-Niphal-Perf-1cs
In the Bible, this word means to feed on or consume something, often referring to eating food or battling against someone. It's used in stories like David's battles and the Israelites' struggles in the wilderness.
Definition: 1) to fight, do battle, make war 1a) (Qal) to fight, do battle 1b) (Niphal) to engage in battle, wage war
Usage: Occurs in 171 OT verses. KJV: devour, eat, [idiom] ever, fight(-ing), overcome, prevail, (make) war(-ring). See also: Exodus 1:10; 2 Samuel 8:10; Psalms 35:1.
בְ/רַבָּ֔ה
Rabbâh
H7237
"Rabbah"
Prep | N-proper
Rabbah is a place name in the Bible, referring to two cities in Palestine. It means great and is used to describe the capital city of the Ammonites, located east of the Jordan River. The KJV translates it as Rabbah or Rabbath.
Definition: Rabbath = "great" the capital city of the Ammonites located east of the Jordan Another name of am.mon (עַמּוֹן "Ammon" H5983)
Usage: Occurs in 14 OT verses. KJV: Rabbah, Rabbath. See also: Deuteronomy 3:11; 2 Samuel 17:27; Jeremiah 49:2.
גַּם
gam
H1571
"also"
DirObjM
Also means 'even' or 'too', used for emphasis or to connect ideas, like 'both...and' or 'neither...nor'. It can introduce a climax or show contrast.
Definition: 1) also, even, indeed, moreover, yea 1a) also, moreover (giving emphasis) 1b) neither, neither...nor (with negative) 1c) even (for stress) 1d) indeed, yea (introducing climax) 1e) also (of correspondence or retribution) 1f) but, yet, though (adversative) 1g) even, yea, yea though (with 'when' in hypothetical case) 2) (TWOT) again, alike
Usage: Occurs in 661 OT verses. KJV: again, alike, also, (so much) as (soon), both (so)...and, but, either...or, even, for all, (in) likewise (manner), moreover, nay...neither, one, then(-refore), though, what, with, yea. See also: Genesis 3:6; Exodus 19:9; 1 Samuel 14:21.
לָכַ֖דְתִּי
lâkad
H3920
"to capture"
V-Qal-Perf-1cs
This verb means to capture or seize, often using a net or trap. In the Bible, it is used to describe taking control of something or someone, and is also used figuratively to describe being caught or stuck in a situation.
Definition: 1) to capture, take, seize 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to capture, seize 1a2) to capture (of men) (fig.) 1a3) to take (by lot) 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be captured 1b2) to be caught (of men in trap, snare) (fig.) 1c) (Hithpael) to grasp each other
Usage: Occurs in 112 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] at all, catch (self), be frozen, be holden, stick together, take. See also: Numbers 21:32; 2 Kings 18:10; Psalms 9:16.
אֶת
ʼêth
H853
"Obj."
DirObjM
In the original Hebrew, this word points out the object of a verb or preposition, like 'namely' or 'even'. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus. It's not directly translated in English, but helps clarify the meaning of sentences.
Definition: sign of the definite direct object, not translated in English but generally preceding and indicating the accusative Aramaic equivalent: yat (יָת "whom" H3487)
Usage: Occurs in 6782 OT verses. KJV: (as such unrepresented in English). See also: Genesis 1:1; Genesis 10:8; Genesis 19:21.
עִ֥יר
ʻîyr
H5892
"excitement"
N-fs
In the Bible, this word refers to a city or town, often a place with a wall or a watchman. It is used to describe a settlement or encampment, like the city of Ai, which is mentioned in the book of Joshua. The word is used to identify specific locations in the Bible.
Definition: 1) excitement, anguish 1a) of terror
Usage: Occurs in 936 OT verses. KJV: Ai (from margin), city, court (from margin), town. See also: Genesis 4:17; Deuteronomy 3:6; Joshua 14:12.
הַ/מָּֽיִם
mayim
H4325
"Water (Gate)"
Art | N-mp
This word means water, referring to a liquid or a source of refreshment. It appears in the Bible as a literal and figurative term, including references to wasting or urine. The word is used in various contexts, such as in Genesis and Leviticus.
Definition: This name means water, refreshment
Usage: Occurs in 525 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] piss, wasting, water(-ing, (-course, -flood, -spring)). See also: Genesis 1:2; Leviticus 14:9; Joshua 18:15.
Study Notes — 2 Samuel 12:27
Show Verse Quote Highlights
- Context
- Cross References
- 2 Samuel 12:27 Summary
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Reflection Questions
- Gill's Exposition on 2 Samuel 12:27
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on 2 Samuel 12:27
- Matthew Poole's Commentary on 2 Samuel 12:27
- Trapp's Commentary on 2 Samuel 12:27
- Adam Clarke's Commentary on 2 Samuel 12:27
- Cambridge Bible on 2 Samuel 12:27
- Barnes' Notes on 2 Samuel 12:27
- Sermons on 2 Samuel 12:27
Context — The Capture of Rabbah
25and sent word through Nathan the prophet to name him Jedidiah because the LORD loved him.
26Meanwhile, Joab fought against Rabbah of the Ammonites and captured the royal fortress.
27Then Joab sent messengers to David to say, “I have fought against Rabbah and have captured the water supply of the city.
28Now, therefore, assemble the rest of the troops, lay siege to the city, and capture it. Otherwise I will capture the city, and it will be named after me.” 29So David assembled all the troops and went to Rabbah; and he fought against it and captured it.Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Ezekiel 21:20 | Mark out one road for the sword to come against Rabbah of the Ammonites, and another against Judah into fortified Jerusalem. |
| 2 | 2 Samuel 11:1 | In the spring, at the time when kings march out to war, David sent out Joab and his servants with the whole army of Israel. They destroyed the Ammonites and besieged Rabbah, but David remained in Jerusalem. |
| 3 | Deuteronomy 3:11 | (For only Og king of Bashan had remained of the remnant of the Rephaim. His bed of iron, nine cubits long and four cubits wide, is still in Rabbah of the Ammonites.) |
2 Samuel 12:27 Summary
In 2 Samuel 12:27, Joab sends a message to David to let him know that he has captured the water supply of the city of Rabbah. This was an important move, as it would help them win the battle against the city. It's like finding the key to unlocking a strong door. Just like Joab had a plan to capture the city, we can trust God to have a plan to help us through our own challenges (as seen in Jeremiah 29:11). By trusting in God and seeking His guidance, we can gain the strength and wisdom we need to overcome them.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of capturing the water supply of Rabbah in 2 Samuel 12:27?
Capturing the water supply was a crucial strategic move, as it would weaken the city's defenses and make it more vulnerable to attack, as seen in Deuteronomy 20:19-20, where siege warfare tactics are discussed.
Why did Joab send messengers to David to report the capture of the water supply?
Joab sent messengers to David to inform him of the progress and to request his presence to complete the capture of the city, as David was the king and ultimate authority, as seen in 1 Samuel 8:7 where the people asked for a king to lead them in battle.
What can we learn from Joab's actions in this verse about leadership and communication?
Joab's actions demonstrate the importance of clear communication and seeking guidance from those in authority, as seen in Proverbs 11:14, where it is written that 'where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety'.
How does this verse relate to the overall narrative of David's reign as king?
This verse is part of the larger story of David's military campaigns and his efforts to expand and secure Israel's borders, as seen in 2 Samuel 8:1-14, where David's military victories are summarized.
Reflection Questions
- What are some ways that I can apply the strategic thinking seen in Joab's capture of the water supply to my own life and challenges?
- How can I, like Joab, effectively communicate with those in authority over me and seek their guidance and direction?
- What are some areas in my life where I need to 'capture the water supply' and gain a strategic advantage, and how can I trust God to guide me in these efforts?
- In what ways can I, like David, demonstrate leadership and trust in God's sovereignty over the battles and challenges I face?
Gill's Exposition on 2 Samuel 12:27
And Joab sent messengers to David,.... To acquaint him how he had proceeded, and what success he had had: and said, I have fought against Rabbah; laid siege to it, and skirmished with parties that
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on 2 Samuel 12:27
And Joab sent messengers to David, and said, I have fought against Rabbah, and have taken the city of waters. The city of waters.
Matthew Poole's Commentary on 2 Samuel 12:27
The same royal city so called, because it either stood beside the river, or was encompassed with water, both for defence and delight. Although the words are by some learned men rendered thus, I have taken, or intercepted, or cut off water from the city; which well agrees, both with the words, eth being here put for meeth, which is frequent; as 44:4 , &c.; and with the relation of Josephus the Jew, who saith, The conduits of water were cut off, and so the city was taken; and with a relation of Polybius concerning the same city, which was taken afterwards by Antiochus in the same manner, by cutting off water from the city.
Trapp's Commentary on 2 Samuel 12:27
2 Samuel 12:27 And Joab sent messengers to David, and said, I have fought against Rabbah, and have taken the city of waters.Ver. 27. The city of waters,] i.e., The palace royal encompassed with waters, both for safeguard and delight. Or, The city of waters, that is, the waters of the city; so that it cannot long hold out; praecisis aquae ductibus, saith Josephus. By Hypallage. Jun
Adam Clarke's Commentary on 2 Samuel 12:27
Verse 27. And have taken the city of waters.] The city where the tank or reservoir was that supplied the city and suburbs with water. Some think that the original, לכדתי את עיר המים lachadti eth ir hammayim, should be translated I have intercepted, or cut off, the waters of the city: and Houbigant translates the place, et aquas ab urbe jam derivavi; "And I have already drawn off the waters from the city." This perfectly agrees with the account in Josephus, who says ωντεὑδατωναυτουςαποτεμνομενος, having cut off their waters, Antiq., lib. vii., cap. 7. This was the reason why David should come speedily, as the citadel, deprived of water, could not long hold out.
Cambridge Bible on 2 Samuel 12:27
27. the city of waters] “Just before reaching Ammân [the modern name of Rabbah], the gorge takes a sudden turn to the north, and then swells into a narrow plain, covered with luxuriant grass, and embosomed in low round hills. The fish-stocked stream, with shells studding every stone and pebble, winds in the midst, a narrow channel, receiving occasional affluents in its course, and making Rabbah most truly a ‘city of waters.’ ” Tristram’s Land of Israel, p. 533.
Barnes' Notes on 2 Samuel 12:27
The city of waters - The lower town of Rabbah (the modern Ammam), so called from a stream which rises within it and flows through it.
Sermons on 2 Samuel 12:27
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
|
Dating: God's Way by Joshua Harris | In this sermon, the speaker discusses the importance of living differently in order to avoid negative consequences in relationships. He shares a story about a young boy who cheats |
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David's Cry for Mercy by Art Katz | In this sermon, the preacher begins by expressing gratitude for the trust and welcome of the congregation. He emphasizes the importance of risking everything for God, even if it me |
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Ancestors by Jim Cymbala | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the need for guidance and nourishment in our spiritual lives. He compares humans to sheep, highlighting their dependence on a shepherd to lea |
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(2 Samuel) a Not-So-Sudden Fall by David Guzik | In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the tragic events described in Second Samuel chapter 11. He emphasizes the importance of learning from God's word rather than from bitter ex |
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Crisis by George Verwer | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of understanding the Christian life as a life of grace, not driven by the law or false guilt. He encourages believers to rest |
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David's Attempt to Cover His Sin Part 1 by Chuck Smith | In this sermon, Pastor Chuck Smith discusses the story of David's attempt to cover his sin after committing adultery with Bathsheba. He highlights the common human tendency to try |
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Restoring Broken Trust, Joseph & Mary by Michael Flowers | In this sermon, the speaker discusses the beginning of God's redemptive plan, which starts with a sex scandal involving Joseph and Mary. Joseph is troubled and disillusioned by Mar |