2 Samuel 20:9
2 Samuel 20:9 in Multiple Translations
“Are you well, my brother?” Joab asked Amasa. And with his right hand Joab grabbed Amasa by the beard to kiss him.
And Joab said to Amasa, Art thou in health, my brother? And Joab took Amasa by the beard with the right hand to kiss him.
And Joab said to Amasa, Is it well with thee, my brother? And Joab took Amasa by the beard with his right hand to kiss him.
And Joab said to Amasa, Is it well, my brother? And with his right hand he took him by the hair of his chin to give him a kiss.
“How are you doing, my brother?” Joab asked Amasa. Joab held Amasa by the beard with his right hand to kiss him.
And Ioab sayde to Amasa, Art thou in health, my brother? and Ioab tooke Amasa by the beard with the right hand to kisse him.
And Joab saith to Amasa, 'Art thou [in] peace, my brother?' and the right hand of Joab layeth hold on the beard of Amasa to give a kiss to him;
Joab said to Amasa, “Is it well with you, my brother?” Joab took Amasa by the beard with his right hand to kiss him.
And Joab said to Amasa, Art thou in health, my brother? And Joab took Amasa by the beard with the right hand to kiss him.
And Joab said to Amasa: God save thee, my brother. And he took Amasa by the chin with his right hand to kiss him.
Joab said to Amasa, “Are things going well with you, my friend?” Then Joab grabbed Amasa’s beard with his right hand, in order to kiss him.
Berean Amplified Bible — 2 Samuel 20:9
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 20:9 Interlinear (Deep Study)
BIB
HEB
וַ/יֹּ֤אמֶר
יוֹאָב֙
לַ/עֲמָשָׂ֔א
הֲ/שָׁל֥וֹם
אַתָּ֖ה
אָחִ֑/י
וַ/תֹּ֜חֶז
יַד
יְמִ֥ין
יוֹאָ֛ב
בִּ/זְקַ֥ן
עֲמָשָׂ֖א
לִ/נְשָׁק
לֽ/וֹ
וַ/יֹּ֤אמֶר
ʼâmar
H559
to say
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms
יוֹאָב֙
Yôwʼâb
H3097
Joab
N-proper
לַ/עֲמָשָׂ֔א
ʻĂmâsâʼ
H6021
Amasa
Prep | N-proper
הֲ/שָׁל֥וֹם
shâlôwm
H7965
Peace
Part | N-ms
אַתָּ֖ה
ʼattâh
H859
you(m.s.)
Pron
אָחִ֑/י
ʼâch
H251
brother
N-ms | Suff
וַ/תֹּ֜חֶז
ʼâchaz
H270
to grasp
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3fs
יַד
yâd
H3027
hand
N-cs
יְמִ֥ין
yâmîyn
H3225
Ben]jamin
N-fs
יוֹאָ֛ב
Yôwʼâb
H3097
Joab
N-proper
בִּ/זְקַ֥ן
zâqân
H2206
beard
Prep | N-cs
עֲמָשָׂ֖א
ʻĂmâsâʼ
H6021
Amasa
N-proper
לִ/נְשָׁק
nâshaq
H5401
to kiss
Prep | V-Qal-Inf-a
לֽ/וֹ
Prep | Suff
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 20:9
וַ/יֹּ֤אמֶר
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.
יוֹאָב֙
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.
לַ/עֲמָשָׂ֔א
ʻĂmâsâʼ
H6021
"Amasa"
Prep | N-proper
Amasa was a general in the army of Absalom and the son of Ithra or Jether by Abigail, David's sister. His name means burden and he is mentioned in 2 Chronicles 28:12.
Definition: A man living at the time of Divided Monarchy, only mentioned at 2Ch.28.12; son of: Hadlai (H2311) § Amasa = "burden" 1) son of Ithra or Jether by Abigail the sister of David and general of the army of Absalom 2) son of Hadlai and a prince of Ephraim in the reign of king Ahaz
Usage: Occurs in 12 OT verses. KJV: Amasa. See also: 2 Samuel 17:25; 2 Samuel 20:10; 2 Chronicles 28:12.
הֲ/שָׁל֥וֹם
shâlôwm
H7965
"Peace"
Part | N-ms
This Hebrew word for peace, shalom, means completeness, wellness, and friendship, and is often used to describe God's relationship with humanity, as seen in the covenant with the Israelites. It encompasses physical and spiritual health, prosperity, and harmony.
Definition: This name means completeness, peace Another name of ye.ho.vah (יהוה "LORD" H3068G)
Usage: Occurs in 209 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] do, familiar, [idiom] fare, favour, [phrase] friend, [idiom] great, (good) health, ([idiom] perfect, such as be at) peace(-able, -ably), prosper(-ity, -ous), rest, safe(-ty), salute, welfare, ([idiom] all is, be) well, [idiom] wholly. See also: Genesis 15:15; Esther 2:11; Psalms 4:9.
אַתָּ֖ה
ʼattâh
H859
"you(m.s.)"
Pron
You is the translation of a Hebrew word used to address someone directly, like when God says you to someone in the Bible. It can be singular or plural, and is often translated as thee, thou, or ye.
Definition: you (second pers. sing. masc.)
Usage: Occurs in 997 OT verses. KJV: thee, thou, ye, you. See also: Genesis 3:11; Exodus 23:9; Deuteronomy 14:1.
אָחִ֑/י
ʼâch
H251
"brother"
N-ms | Suff
In the Bible, this Hebrew word means a brother or male sibling, but it can also refer to a close relative, friend, or someone with a similar relationship. It is used to describe the bond between brothers, like the relationship between Cain and Abel in Genesis.
Definition: : male-sibling 1) brother 1a) brother of same parents 1b) half-brother (same father) 1c) relative, kinship, same tribe 1d) each to the other (reciprocal relationship) 1e) (fig.) of resemblance
Usage: Occurs in 572 OT verses. KJV: another, brother(-ly); kindred, like, other. Compare also the proper names beginning with 'Ah-' or 'Ahi-'. See also: Genesis 4:2; Genesis 42:13; Numbers 25:6.
וַ/תֹּ֜חֶז
ʼâchaz
H270
"to grasp"
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3fs
The Hebrew word means to grasp or take hold of something, often holding it in possession. It can also mean to be caught or settled. This verb is used in various forms throughout the Bible, including in the books of Exodus and Psalms.
Definition: 1) grasp, take hold, seize, take possession 1a) (Qal) to grasp, take hold of 1b) (Niphal) to be caught, grasped, be settled 1c) (Piel) to enclose, overlay 1d) (Hophal) fastened
Usage: Occurs in 63 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] be affrighted, bar, (catch, lay, take) hold (back), come upon, fasten, handle, portion, (get, have or take) possess(-ion). See also: Genesis 22:13; Nehemiah 7:3; Psalms 48:7.
יַד
yâd
H3027
"hand"
N-cs
In the Bible, 'yad' refers to an open hand, symbolizing power or direction. It can also mean strength or a part of something, like a side or a share. The word is used in many contexts, including anatomy and everyday life.
Definition: : hand/arm[anatomy] 1) hand 1a) hand (of man) 1b) strength, power (fig.) 1c) side (of land), part, portion (metaph.) (fig.) 1d) (various special, technical senses) 1d1) sign, monument 1d2) part, fractional part, share 1d3) time, repetition 1d4) axle-trees, axle 1d5) stays, support (for laver) 1d6) tenons (in tabernacle) 1d7) a phallus, a hand (meaning unsure) 1d8) wrists
Usage: Occurs in 1446 OT verses. KJV: ([phrase] be) able, [idiom] about, [phrase] armholes, at, axletree, because of, beside, border, [idiom] bounty, [phrase] broad, (broken-) handed, [idiom] by, charge, coast, [phrase] consecrate, [phrase] creditor, custody, debt, dominion, [idiom] enough, [phrase] fellowship, force, [idiom] from, hand(-staves, -y work), [idiom] he, himself, [idiom] in, labour, [phrase] large, ledge, (left-) handed, means, [idiom] mine, ministry, near, [idiom] of, [idiom] order, ordinance, [idiom] our, parts, pain, power, [idiom] presumptuously, service, side, sore, state, stay, draw with strength, stroke, [phrase] swear, terror, [idiom] thee, [idiom] by them, [idiom] themselves, [idiom] thine own, [idiom] thou, through, [idiom] throwing, [phrase] thumb, times, [idiom] to, [idiom] under, [idiom] us, [idiom] wait on, (way-) side, where, [phrase] wide, [idiom] with (him, me, you), work, [phrase] yield, [idiom] yourselves. See also: Genesis 3:22; Exodus 7:19; Leviticus 14:22.
יְמִ֥ין
yâmîyn
H3225
"Ben]jamin"
N-fs
Benjamin was a son of Israel and Rachel, and the brother of Joseph, mentioned in Genesis 35:18. The name also refers to the right hand or south direction.
Definition: A man of the tribe of Benjamin living at the time of the Patriarchs, first mentioned at Gen.35.18; son of: Israel (H3478) and Rachel (H7354); brother of: Joseph (H3130); half-brother of: Reuben (H7205), Simeon (H8095), Levi (H3878), Judah (H3063), Dan (H1835H), Naphtali (H5321), Gad (H1410), Asher (H0836), Issachar (H3485), Zebulun (H2074) and Dinah (H1783); father of: Bela (H1106A), Becher (H1071), Ashbel (H0788), Gera (H1617), Naaman (H5283), Ehi (H0278), Rosh (H7220), Muppim (H4649), Huppim (H2650H), Ard (H0714), Ahiram (H0297) and Jediael (H3043); also called Jamin at 1Sa.9.1,4; 22.7; 1x Another name of bin.ya.min (בִּנְיָמִין "Benjamin" H1144G)
Usage: Occurs in 134 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] left-handed, right (hand, side), south. See also: Genesis 13:9; Psalms 18:36; Psalms 16:8.
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.
בִּ/זְקַ֥ן
zâqân
H2206
"beard"
Prep | N-cs
This Hebrew word refers to a beard, often indicating age or wisdom, as seen in the customs of ancient Israelite men. It is first mentioned in Leviticus 19:27. The beard was a symbol of dignity and respect.
Definition: 1) beard, chin 1a) beard 1b) chin
Usage: Occurs in 18 OT verses. KJV: beard. See also: Leviticus 13:29; 2 Samuel 20:9; Psalms 133:2.
עֲמָשָׂ֖א
ʻĂmâsâʼ
H6021
"Amasa"
N-proper
Amasa was a general in the army of Absalom and the son of Ithra or Jether by Abigail, David's sister. His name means burden and he is mentioned in 2 Chronicles 28:12.
Definition: A man living at the time of Divided Monarchy, only mentioned at 2Ch.28.12; son of: Hadlai (H2311) § Amasa = "burden" 1) son of Ithra or Jether by Abigail the sister of David and general of the army of Absalom 2) son of Hadlai and a prince of Ephraim in the reign of king Ahaz
Usage: Occurs in 12 OT verses. KJV: Amasa. See also: 2 Samuel 17:25; 2 Samuel 20:10; 2 Chronicles 28:12.
לִ/נְשָׁק
nâshaq
H5401
"to kiss"
Prep | V-Qal-Inf-a
To kiss or touch, also to equip with weapons, as seen in armed men or rulers. It appears in various forms, including a romantic kiss or a mode of attachment. In the Bible, it is used to describe intimate touch.
Definition: 1) to put together, kiss 1a) (Qal) to kiss 1b) (Piel) to kiss 1c) (Hiphil) to touch gently
Usage: Occurs in 35 OT verses. KJV: armed (men), rule, kiss, that touched. See also: Genesis 27:26; 2 Samuel 14:33; Psalms 2:12.
לֽ/וֹ
""
Prep | Suff
Study Notes — 2 Samuel 20:9
Show Verse Quote Highlights
- Context
- Cross References
- 2 Samuel 20:9 Summary
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Reflection Questions
- Gill's Exposition on 2 Samuel 20:9
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on 2 Samuel 20:9
- Matthew Poole's Commentary on 2 Samuel 20:9
- Trapp's Commentary on 2 Samuel 20:9
- Cambridge Bible on 2 Samuel 20:9
- Whedon's Commentary on 2 Samuel 20:9
- Sermons on 2 Samuel 20:9
Context — Sheba’s Rebellion
7So Joab’s men, along with the Cherethites, the Pelethites, and all the mighty men, marched out of Jerusalem in pursuit of Sheba son of Bichri.
8And while they were at the great stone in Gibeon, Amasa joined them. Now Joab was dressed in military attire, with a dagger strapped to his belt. And as he stepped forward, he slipped the dagger from its sheath.
9“Are you well, my brother?” Joab asked Amasa. And with his right hand Joab grabbed Amasa by the beard to kiss him.
10Amasa was not on guard against the dagger in Joab’s hand, and Joab stabbed him in the stomach and spilled out his intestines on the ground. And Joab did not need to strike him again, for Amasa was dead. Then Joab and his brother Abishai pursued Sheba son of Bichri. 11One of Joab’s young men stood near Amasa and said, “Whoever favors Joab, and whoever is for David, let him follow Joab!”Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Luke 22:47–48 | While He was still speaking, a crowd arrived, led by the man called Judas, one of the Twelve. He approached Jesus to kiss Him. But Jesus asked him, “Judas, are you betraying the Son of Man with a kiss?” |
| 2 | Matthew 26:48–49 | Now the betrayer had arranged a signal with them: “The One I kiss is the man; arrest Him.” Going directly to Jesus, he said, “Greetings, Rabbi!” and kissed Him. |
| 3 | Micah 7:2 | The godly man has perished from the earth; there is no one upright among men. They all lie in wait for blood; they hunt one another with a net. |
| 4 | Proverbs 26:24–26 | A hateful man disguises himself with his speech, but he lays up deceit in his heart. When he speaks graciously, do not believe him, for seven abominations fill his heart. Though his hatred is concealed by deception, his wickedness will be exposed in the assembly. |
| 5 | Psalms 55:21 | His speech is smooth as butter, but war is in his heart. His words are softer than oil, yet they are swords unsheathed. |
2 Samuel 20:9 Summary
In this verse, Joab is pretending to be friendly with Amasa, but really he wants to hurt him. This shows us that people are not always what they seem, and we need to be careful who we trust. Just like Joab, we can all put on a mask to hide our true feelings or intentions, but God sees our hearts and wants us to be honest and authentic, as seen in 1 Samuel 16:7 and Matthew 5:8. By being real with God and others, we can build stronger relationships and live with integrity.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of Joab grabbing Amasa by the beard to kiss him?
In ancient Middle Eastern culture, grabbing someone by the beard was a sign of affection or respect, as seen in 2 Samuel 20:9, and the kiss was a common greeting, similar to the one Jesus received from Judas in Luke 22:47-48.
Why did Joab pretend to greet Amasa with a kiss?
Joab's actions were a ruse to get close to Amasa and ultimately kill him, as described in 2 Samuel 20:10, demonstrating the deceit and violence that can arise from unchecked ambition and jealousy, as warned against in Proverbs 27:4.
How does this verse relate to the broader story of King David?
This event occurs during a time of turmoil in King David's reign, as he deals with the rebellion of Sheba son of Bichri, and Joab's actions are a result of his own interests and loyalties, which are complex and sometimes at odds with David's, as seen in 2 Samuel 19:13 and 1 Kings 2:5-6.
What spiritual lessons can be learned from Joab's actions in this verse?
Joab's actions serve as a warning against the dangers of hypocrisy and violence, and the importance of integrity and honesty in our relationships, as taught in Matthew 5:33-37 and Ephesians 4:25.
Reflection Questions
- What are some ways that I may be pretending to be someone I'm not, or hiding my true intentions, and how can I work on being more authentic in my relationships?
- How can I balance my desire for power or control with the need to trust in God's sovereignty and timing, as seen in Psalm 37:7 and Proverbs 3:5-6?
- What are some areas in my life where I may be using manipulation or coercion to get what I want, and how can I instead use honesty and humility to build stronger relationships?
- How can I cultivate a deeper sense of empathy and compassion for others, even those who may be different from me or have wronged me, as taught in Matthew 5:44 and Luke 6:27-28?
Gill's Exposition on 2 Samuel 20:9
And Joab said to Amasa,.... In a friendly manner, with all the air of pleasantry and good humour: [art] thou in health, my brother?
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on 2 Samuel 20:9
And Joab said to Amasa Art thou in health my brother? And Joab took Amasa by the beard with the right And Joab said to Amasa, Art thou in health, my brother? And Joab took Amasa by the beard with the right hand to kiss him.
Matthew Poole's Commentary on 2 Samuel 20:9
As the manner of ancient times was, when they kissed and saluted one another.
Trapp's Commentary on 2 Samuel 20:9
2 Samuel 20:9 And Joab said to Amasa, [Art] thou in health, my brother? And Joab took Amasa by the beard with the right hand to kiss him.Ver. 9. Art thou in health, my brother?] Of all kinds of revenge that is most execrable and deadly, which, like a serpent in the green grass, lies lurking in the flatteries and fawnings of a fleeting face. The Hebrew here hath it, Art thou peace? Oh, base! And Joab took Amasa by the beard to kiss him.] Indeed, to kill him. But that this was the ancient manner of saluting, see Plin., lib. xi. cap. 5.
Cambridge Bible on 2 Samuel 20:9
9. took Amasa by the beard] It is said to be still customary among the Arabs and Turks to lay hold of a person’s beard in giving him the kiss of welcome.
Whedon's Commentary on 2 Samuel 20:9
9. To kiss him — How like the treachery of Judas! Matthew 26:49. Joab was versed in treacherous acts like this. Compare 2 Samuel 3:27.
Sermons on 2 Samuel 20:9
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
|
A Kind Inquiry by James Smith | James Smith preaches on the deceitful nature of kind words from cruel hearts, using the treacherous act of Joab towards Amasa as an example. He emphasizes the importance of spiritu |
|
Belly Worshippers by Ian Paisley | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the consequences of rejecting Christ and living a life of sin. He warns that those who reject Christ not only face damnation themselves, but |
|
Steering by Gods Compass by A.W. Tozer | In this sermon on love, the preacher delves into the concept of 'phileo' love, which is a friendship type of love based on emotions and personal attachment. 'Phileo' is a love that |
|
Betrayed With a Kiss by Eric Ludy | This sermon focuses on the importance of standing firm in the truth of Jesus Christ amidst challenges and deceptions in the world. It emphasizes the need for discernment, spiritual |
|
The Situation Is Desperate by Vance Havner | In this sermon, the preacher discusses the concept of holy desperation and how it is reflected in the book of Lamentations and Micah. He emphasizes the desperate state of the world |
|
The Evil Tongue by Thomas Watson | Thomas Watson preaches about the destructive power of the evil tongue, describing it as a fire fueled by hell that corrupts the whole person. He delves into various aspects of the |
|
Secret Faults and Presumptuous Sins by Carter Conlon | In this sermon, the preacher discusses the human tendency to be both praising and accusing God at the same time. He emphasizes the importance of surrendering our unsatisfied desire |