2 Samuel 21:17
2 Samuel 21:17 in Multiple Translations
But Abishai son of Zeruiah came to his aid, struck the Philistine, and killed him. Then David’s men swore to him, “You must never again go out with us to battle, so that the lamp of Israel may not be extinguished.”
But Abishai the son of Zeruiah succoured him, and smote the Philistine, and killed him. Then the men of David sware unto him, saying, Thou shalt go no more out with us to battle, that thou quench not the light of Israel.
But Abishai the son of Zeruiah succored him, and smote the Philistine, and killed him. Then the men of David sware unto him, saying, Thou shalt go no more out with us to battle, that thou quench not the lamp of Israel.
But Abishai, the son of Zeruiah, came to his help, and, turning on the Philistine, gave him his death-blow. Then David's men took an oath, and said, Never again are you to go out with us to the fight, so that you may not put out the light of Israel.
But Abishai, son of Zeruiah, came to his rescue, attacked the Philistine, and killed him. Then David's men made him promise, saying, “Don't ever go out with us to battle again, so that the Israel's light isn't snuffed out!”
But Abishai the sonne of Zeruiah succoured him, and smote the Philistim, and killed him. Then Dauids men sware vnto him, saying, Thou shalt goe no more out with vs to battell, lest thou quench the light of Israel.
and Abishai son of Zeruiah giveth help to him, and smiteth the Philistine, and putteth him to death; then swear the men of David to him, saying, 'Thou dost not go out again with us to battle, nor quench the lamp of Israel.'
But Abishai the son of Zeruiah helped him, and struck the Philistine and killed him. Then the men of David swore to him, saying, “Don’t go out with us to battle any more, so that you don’t quench the lamp of Israel.”
But Abishai the son of Zeruiah succored him, and smote the Philistine, and killed him. Then the men of David swore to him, saying, Thou shalt go out no more with us to battle, that thou mayest not extinguish the light of Israel.
And Abisai the son of Sarvia rescued him, and striking the Philistine killed him. Then David’s men swore unto him, saying: Thou shalt go no more out with us to battle, lest thou put out the lamp of Israel.
But Abishai came to help David, and attacked the giant and killed him. Then David’s soldiers forced him to promise that he would not go with them into a battle again. They said to him, “If you die, and none of your descendants become king, that would be like [MET] extinguishing the last light in Israel.”
But one of David’s boss soldiers came to save him from that big man. He attacked the big man and killed him dead. That brave man was Abishai, the son of David’s sister called Zeruiah. After that, David’s men made a promise to him. They said, “We will never let you come with us again to fight. They might kill you dead. You are like the lamp in God’s ceremony house. Nobody puts out its fire. You see, your life is like that. We don’t want anybody to kill you and finish up Israel’s lamp.” (We have not yet translated 21:18—24:25. It is about some of the other things that David did before he died. The last bit of this story is from another book called the 1st book of the Big Bosses. We call that book 1 Kings, and these verses are from 1 Kings 2:10-12.) David died when he was an old man. They buried him in the city called Jerusalem, in that part of the city they call the city of David. David was the big boss of Israel for 40 years. First he was the boss in the town called Hebron for 7 years, then he was the boss in Jerusalem for 33 years. Then David’s son Solomon became the big boss. He took over from his father and controlled the whole country.
Berean Amplified Bible — 2 Samuel 21:17
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 21:17 Interlinear (Deep Study)
BIB
HEB
וַ/יַּֽעֲזָר
ל/וֹ֙
אֲבִישַׁ֣י
בֶּן
צְרוּיָ֔ה
וַ/יַּ֥ךְ
אֶת
הַ/פְּלִשְׁתִּ֖י
וַ/יְמִיתֵ֑/הוּ
אָ֣ז
נִשְׁבְּעוּ֩
אַנְשֵׁי
דָוִ֨ד
ל֜/וֹ
לֵ/אמֹ֗ר
לֹא
תֵצֵ֨א
ע֤וֹד
אִתָּ֨/נוּ֙
לַ/מִּלְחָמָ֔ה
וְ/לֹ֥א
תְכַבֶּ֖ה
אֶת
נֵ֥ר
יִשְׂרָאֵֽל
וַ/יַּֽעֲזָר
ʻâzar
H5826
to help
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms
ל/וֹ֙
Prep | Suff
אֲבִישַׁ֣י
ʼĂbîyshay
H52
Abishai
N-proper
בֶּן
bên
H1121
son
N-ms
צְרוּיָ֔ה
Tsᵉrûwyâh
H6870
Zeruiah
N-proper
וַ/יַּ֥ךְ
nâkâh
H5221
to smite
Conj | V-Hiphil-ConsecImperf-3ms
אֶת
ʼêth
H853
Obj.
DirObjM
הַ/פְּלִשְׁתִּ֖י
Pᵉlishtîy
H6430
Philistines
Art | Ngmsa
וַ/יְמִיתֵ֑/הוּ
mûwth
H4191
to die
Conj | V-Hiphil-ConsecImperf-3ms | Suff
אָ֣ז
ʼâz
H227
then
Adv
נִשְׁבְּעוּ֩
shâbaʻ
H7650
to swear
V-Niphal-Perf-3cp
אַנְשֵׁי
ʼîysh
H376
man
N-mp
דָוִ֨ד
Dâvid
H1732
David
N-proper
ל֜/וֹ
Prep | Suff
לֵ/אמֹ֗ר
ʼâmar
H559
to say
Prep | V-Qal-Inf-a
לֹא
lôʼ
H3808
not
Part
תֵצֵ֨א
yâtsâʼ
H3318
to come out
V-Qal-Imperf-2ms
ע֤וֹד
ʻôwd
H5750
still
Adv
אִתָּ֨/נוּ֙
ʼêth
H854
with
Prep | Suff
לַ/מִּלְחָמָ֔ה
milchâmâh
H4421
battle
Prep | N-fs
וְ/לֹ֥א
lôʼ
H3808
not
Conj | Part
תְכַבֶּ֖ה
kâbâh
H3518
to quench
V-Piel-Imperf-2ms
אֶת
ʼêth
H853
Obj.
DirObjM
נֵ֥ר
nîyr
H5216
lamp
N-ms
יִשְׂרָאֵֽל
Yisrâʼêl
H3478
Israel
N-proper
Hebrew Word Study
Select any word above to explore its original meaning, root, and usage across Scripture.
Use ← → arrow keys to navigate between words.
Hebrew Word Reference — 2 Samuel 21:17
וַ/יַּֽעֲזָר
ʻâzar
H5826
"to help"
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms
To help or aid is the meaning of this Hebrew word, used to describe God's protection or assistance. It is used in the Psalms to express trust in God's help and in the book of Exodus to describe God's aid to the Israelites.
Definition: 1) to help, succour, support 1a) (Qal) to help 1b) (Niphal) to be helped 1c) (Hiphil) to help
Usage: Occurs in 77 OT verses. KJV: help, succour. See also: Genesis 49:25; Job 26:2; Psalms 10:14.
ל/וֹ֙
""
Prep | Suff
אֲבִישַׁ֣י
ʼĂbîyshay
H52
"Abishai"
N-proper
Abishai was an Israelite and nephew of King David, first mentioned in 1 Samuel 26:6, his name means my father is Jesse or my father is a gift. He was the brother of Joab and Asahel. Abishai played a significant role in the United Monarchy.
Definition: A man living at the time of United Monarchy, first mentioned at 1Sa.26.6 and Zeruiah (H6870); brother of: Joab (H3097) and Asahel (H6214) § Abishai = "my father is Jesse" or "my father is a gift" grandson of Jesse, nephew of David via his sister Zeruiah, brother of Joab
Usage: Occurs in 24 OT verses. KJV: Abishai. See also: 1 Samuel 26:6; 2 Samuel 18:5; 1 Chronicles 19:15.
בֶּן
bên
H1121
"son"
N-ms
In the Bible, this word means a son or descendant, and can also refer to a grandson, nation, or quality. It appears in 1 Chronicles 24, describing a Levite named Beno. The word is used to show family relationships and inheritance.
Definition: : child/son
Usage: Occurs in 3653 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] afflicted, age, (Ahoh-) (Ammon-) (Hachmon-) (Lev-) ite, (anoint-) ed one, appointed to, ([phrase]) arrow, (Assyr-) (Babylon-) (Egypt-) (Grec-) ian, one born, bough, branch, breed, [phrase] (young) bullock, [phrase] (young) calf, [idiom] came up in, child, colt, [idiom] common, [idiom] corn, daughter, [idiom] of first, [phrase] firstborn, foal, [phrase] very fruitful, [phrase] postage, [idiom] in, [phrase] kid, [phrase] lamb, ([phrase]) man, meet, [phrase] mighty, [phrase] nephew, old, ([phrase]) people, [phrase] rebel, [phrase] robber, [idiom] servant born, [idiom] soldier, son, [phrase] spark, [phrase] steward, [phrase] stranger, [idiom] surely, them of, [phrase] tumultuous one, [phrase] valiant(-est), whelp, worthy, young (one), youth. See also: Genesis 3:16; Genesis 23:3; Genesis 34:18.
צְרוּיָ֔ה
Tsᵉrûwyâh
H6870
"Zeruiah"
N-proper
Zeruiah was an Israelite woman, sister of David, and mother of three leading heroes in his army. Her name means balsam and she is first mentioned in 1 Samuel 26:6. Zeruiah was the daughter of Jesse and Nahash.
Definition: A woman living at the time of United Monarchy, first mentioned at 1Sa.26.6; daughter of: Jesse (H3448) and Nahash (H5176I); sister of: David (H1732), Eliab (H0446I), Abinadab (H0041I), Nethanel (H5417H), Raddai (H7288), Ozem (H0684), Abigail (H0026H)(?) and Elihu (H0453J), Shimeah (H8093) § Zeruiah = "balsam" sister of David and mother of the 3 leading heroes of David's army-Abishai, Joab, and Asahel
Usage: Occurs in 25 OT verses. KJV: Zeruiah. See also: 1 Samuel 26:6; 2 Samuel 21:17; 1 Chronicles 27:24.
וַ/יַּ֥ךְ
nâkâh
H5221
"to smite"
Conj | V-Hiphil-ConsecImperf-3ms
In the Bible, this Hebrew word means to strike or hit something, and it's used in many different ways, like in Exodus when God strikes down the Egyptians. It can also mean to punish or destroy, as seen in Isaiah. The word is used to describe God's judgment.
Definition: 1) to strike, smite, hit, beat, slay, kill 1a)(Niphal) to be stricken or smitten 1b) (Pual) to be stricken or smitten 1c) (Hiphil) 1c1) to smite, strike, beat, scourge, clap, applaud, give a thrust 1c2) to smite, kill, slay (man or beast) 1c3) to smite, attack, attack and destroy, conquer, subjugate, ravage 1c4) to smite, chastise, send judgment upon, punish, destroy 1d) (Hophal) to be smitten 1d1) to receive a blow 1d2) to be wounded 1d3) to be beaten 1d4) to be (fatally) smitten, be killed, be slain 1d5) to be attacked and captured 1d6) to be smitten (with disease) 1d7) to be blighted (of plants)
Usage: Occurs in 461 OT verses. KJV: beat, cast forth, clap, give (wounds), [idiom] go forward, [idiom] indeed, kill, make (slaughter), murderer, punish, slaughter, slay(-er, -ing), smite(-r, -ing), strike, be stricken, (give) stripes, [idiom] surely, wound. See also: Genesis 4:15; Joshua 10:20; 1 Samuel 29:5.
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.
הַ/פְּלִשְׁתִּ֖י
Pᵉlishtîy
H6430
"Philistines"
Art | Ngmsa
A Philistine is a person from the region of Philistia, which was inhabited by immigrants from other places. The Philistines were known for their conflicts with the Israelites, as recorded in the Bible. They were a distinct ethnic group.
Definition: Philistine = "immigrants" an inhabitant of Philistia; descendants of Mizraim who immigrated from Caphtor (Crete?) to the western seacoast of Canaan Another name of ga.dol (גָּדוֹל "Great( Sea)" H1419J)
Usage: Occurs in 244 OT verses. KJV: Philistine. See also: Genesis 10:14; 1 Samuel 17:8; 1 Chronicles 10:1.
וַ/יְמִיתֵ֑/הוּ
mûwth
H4191
"to die"
Conj | V-Hiphil-ConsecImperf-3ms | Suff
In the Bible, this Hebrew word means to die, either literally or as a punishment, and is used in books like Genesis and Exodus. It can also mean to perish or be killed. This concept is seen in the story of Adam and Eve, where death enters the world as a result of sin.
Definition: 1) to die, kill, have one executed 1a)(Qal) 1a1) to die 1a2) to die (as penalty), be put to death 1a3) to die, perish (of a nation) 1a4) to die prematurely (by neglect of wise moral conduct) 1b) (Polel) to kill, put to death, dispatch 1c) (Hiphil) to kill, put to death 1d) (Hophal) 1d1) to be killed, be put to death 1d1a) to die prematurely
Usage: Occurs in 695 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] at all, [idiom] crying, (be) dead (body, man, one), (put to, worthy of) death, destroy(-er), (cause to, be like to, must) die, kill, necro(-mancer), [idiom] must needs, slay, [idiom] surely, [idiom] very suddenly, [idiom] in (no) wise. See also: Genesis 2:17; Exodus 21:18; Numbers 35:21.
אָ֣ז
ʼâz
H227
"then"
Adv
This Hebrew word refers to a past time or place, often used to describe something that happened earlier. It can also be used as a conjunction to show a cause-and-effect relationship. In the Bible, it appears in books like Genesis and Isaiah.
Definition: 1) then, at that time 1a) temporal expressions 1a1) then (past) 1a2) then, if...then (future) 1a3) earlier 1b) logical expressions 1b1) in that case 1b2) that (being so)
Usage: Occurs in 133 OT verses. KJV: beginning, for, from, hitherto, now, of old, once, since, then, at which time, yet. See also: Genesis 4:26; 1 Chronicles 22:13; Psalms 2:5.
נִשְׁבְּעוּ֩
shâbaʻ
H7650
"to swear"
V-Niphal-Perf-3cp
This Hebrew word means to swear an oath, like making a promise or vow. In the Bible, it is used when someone is making a serious promise, often with God as a witness. The KJV translates it as adjure or take an oath.
Definition: 1) to swear, adjure 1a) (Qal) sworn (participle) 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to swear, take an oath 1b2) to swear (of Jehovah by Himself) 1b3) to curse 1c) (Hiphil) 1c1) to cause to take an oath 1c2) to adjure
Usage: Occurs in 175 OT verses. KJV: adjure, charge (by an oath, with an oath), feed to the full (by mistake for H7646 (שָׂבַע)), take an oath, [idiom] straitly, (cause to, make to) swear. See also: Genesis 21:23; Judges 21:18; Psalms 15:4.
אַנְשֵׁי
ʼîysh
H376
"man"
N-mp
The Hebrew word for man, referring to a male person or individual, is used in the Bible to describe humans in contrast to God or animals, as seen in Genesis and Psalms. It can also mean husband or servant. In the KJV, it is translated as man or male.
Definition: : man 1) man 1a) man, male (in contrast to woman, female) 1b) husband 1c) human being, person (in contrast to God) 1d) servant 1e) mankind 1f) champion 1g) great man 2) whosoever 3) each (adjective)
Usage: Occurs in 1851 OT verses. KJV: also, another, any (man), a certain, [phrase] champion, consent, each, every (one), fellow, (foot-, husband-) man, (good-, great, mighty) man, he, high (degree), him (that is), husband, man(-kind), [phrase] none, one, people, person, [phrase] steward, what (man) soever, whoso(-ever), worthy. Compare H802 (אִשָּׁה). See also: Genesis 2:23; Genesis 42:25; Exodus 32:23.
דָוִ֨ד
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.
ל֜/וֹ
""
Prep | Suff
לֵ/אמֹ֗ר
ʼâmar
H559
"to say"
Prep | V-Qal-Inf-a
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.
לֹא
lôʼ
H3808
"not"
Part
The Hebrew word for not or no is used to indicate absence or negation, as when God says no to the Israelites' requests, or when they disobey His commands.
Definition: 1) not, no 1a) not (with verb-absolute prohibition) 1b) not (with modifier-negation) 1c) nothing (subst) 1d) without (with particle) 1e) before (of time) Aramaic equivalent: la (לָא "not" H3809)
Usage: Occurs in 3967 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] before, [phrase] or else, ere, [phrase] except, ig(-norant), much, less, nay, neither, never, no((-ne), -r, (-thing)), ([idiom] as though...,(can-), for) not (out of), of nought, otherwise, out of, [phrase] surely, [phrase] as truly as, [phrase] of a truth, [phrase] verily, for want, [phrase] whether, without. See also: Genesis 2:5; Genesis 31:15; Exodus 4:9.
תֵצֵ֨א
yâtsâʼ
H3318
"to come out"
V-Qal-Imperf-2ms
In the Bible, this Hebrew word means to go out or come out, and it's used in many different ways, like leaving a place or starting a new journey, as seen in Genesis and Exodus.
Definition: : come/go_out/escape 1) to go out, come out, exit, go forth 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to go or come out or forth, depart 1a2) to go forth (to a place) 1a3) to go forward, proceed to (to or toward something) 1a4) to come or go forth (with purpose or for result) 1a5) to come out of 1b) (Hiphil) 1b1) to cause to go or come out, bring out, lead out 1b2) to bring out of 1b3) to lead out 1b4) to deliver 1c) (Hophal) to be brought out or forth
Usage: Occurs in 991 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] after, appear, [idiom] assuredly, bear out, [idiom] begotten, break out, bring forth (out, up), carry out, come (abroad, out, thereat, without), [phrase] be condemned, depart(-ing, -ure), draw forth, in the end, escape, exact, fail, fall (out), fetch forth (out), get away (forth, hence, out), (able to, cause to, let) go abroad (forth, on, out), going out, grow, have forth (out), issue out, lay (lie) out, lead out, pluck out, proceed, pull out, put away, be risen, [idiom] scarce, send with commandment, shoot forth, spread, spring out, stand out, [idiom] still, [idiom] surely, take forth (out), at any time, [idiom] to (and fro), utter. See also: Genesis 1:12; Exodus 9:33; Leviticus 26:45.
ע֤וֹד
ʻôwd
H5750
"still"
Adv
The word 'still' means something continues or happens again, like in Genesis 29:26 and Isaiah 2:11. It can also mean 'more' or 'additionally'.
Definition: subst 1) a going round, continuance adv 2) still, yet, again, besides 2a) still, yet (of continuance or persistence) 2b) still, yet, more (of addition or repetition) 2c) again 2d) still, moreover, besides Aramaic equivalent: od (עוֹד "still" H5751)
Usage: Occurs in 459 OT verses. KJV: again, [idiom] all life long, at all, besides, but, else, further(-more), henceforth, (any) longer, (any) more(-over), [idiom] once, since, (be) still, when, (good, the) while (having being), (as, because, whether, while) yet (within). See also: Genesis 4:25; Judges 9:37; 2 Chronicles 32:16.
אִתָּ֨/נוּ֙
ʼêth
H854
"with"
Prep | Suff
This Hebrew preposition means 'with' or 'near', indicating a close relationship or physical proximity. It's used in Genesis 1:26 to describe God's relationship with humanity, and in many other places to show connection or closeness.
Definition: 1) with, near, together with 1a) with, together with 1b) with (of relationship) 1c) near (of place) 1d) with (poss.) 1e) from...with, from (with other prep)
Usage: Occurs in 787 OT verses. KJV: against, among, before, by, for, from, in(-to), (out) of, with. Often with another prepositional prefix. See also: Genesis 4:1; Genesis 42:32; Numbers 1:5.
לַ/מִּלְחָמָ֔ה
milchâmâh
H4421
"battle"
Prep | N-fs
This word means battle or war, describing a fight or conflict. It is used in the Bible to talk about wars and battles, like the ones in the book of Joshua. The KJV translates it as battle or fight.
Definition: battle, war
Usage: Occurs in 308 OT verses. KJV: battle, fight(-ing), war(-rior). See also: Genesis 14:2; 1 Samuel 30:24; 2 Chronicles 13:14.
וְ/לֹ֥א
lôʼ
H3808
"not"
Conj | Part
The Hebrew word for not or no is used to indicate absence or negation, as when God says no to the Israelites' requests, or when they disobey His commands.
Definition: 1) not, no 1a) not (with verb-absolute prohibition) 1b) not (with modifier-negation) 1c) nothing (subst) 1d) without (with particle) 1e) before (of time) Aramaic equivalent: la (לָא "not" H3809)
Usage: Occurs in 3967 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] before, [phrase] or else, ere, [phrase] except, ig(-norant), much, less, nay, neither, never, no((-ne), -r, (-thing)), ([idiom] as though...,(can-), for) not (out of), of nought, otherwise, out of, [phrase] surely, [phrase] as truly as, [phrase] of a truth, [phrase] verily, for want, [phrase] whether, without. See also: Genesis 2:5; Genesis 31:15; Exodus 4:9.
תְכַבֶּ֖ה
kâbâh
H3518
"to quench"
V-Piel-Imperf-2ms
To quench means to put out or extinguish something, like a fire or a flame, as seen in Ezekiel 20:47 where God warns of a fire that will not be quenched. It can also refer to satisfying a desire or need.
Definition: 1) to quench, put out, be put out, be quenched, be extinguished 1a) (Qal) to be quenched, be extinguished 1b) (Piel) to quench, extinguish
Usage: Occurs in 24 OT verses. KJV: go (put) out, quench. See also: Leviticus 6:5; Isaiah 34:10; Proverbs 26:20.
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.
נֵ֥ר
nîyr
H5216
"lamp"
N-ms
A lamp is a device that holds a flame, providing light. In the Bible, it's often used to symbolize guidance or spiritual light. The word can also refer to the light itself, rather than just the lamp.
Definition: lamp Also means: nir (נִיר "lamp" H5216B)
Usage: Occurs in 42 OT verses. KJV: candle, lamp, light. See also: Exodus 25:37; 1 Chronicles 28:15; Psalms 18:29.
יִשְׂרָאֵֽל
Yisrâʼêl
H3478
"Israel"
N-proper
Israel is the symbolic name of Jacob, also referring to his descendants. Jacob, son of Isaac and Rebekah, had 12 sons who became the tribes of Israel, as told in Genesis 25:26. His story is crucial to the Bible's narrative.
Definition: A man living at the time of the Patriarchs, first mentioned at Gen.25.26; son of: Isaac (H3327) and Rebekah (H7259); brother of: Esau (H6215); married to Rachel (H7354), Leah (H3812), Zilpah (H2153) and Bilhah (H1090A); father of: Reuben (H7205), Simeon (H8095), Levi (H3878), Judah (H3063), Dan (H1835H), Naphtali (H5321), Gad (H1410), Asher (H0836), Issachar (H3485), Zebulun (H2074), Dinah (H1783), Joseph (H3130) and Benjamin (H1144); also called Jacob frequently § Israel = "God prevails" 1) the second name for Jacob given to him by God after his wrestling with the angel at Peniel 2) the name of the descendants and the nation of the descendants of Jacob 2a) the name of the nation until the death of Solomon and the split 2b) the name used and given to the northern kingdom consisting of the 10 tribes under Jeroboam; the southern kingdom was known as Judah 2c) the name of the nation after the return from exile
Usage: Occurs in 2231 OT verses. KJV: Israel. See also: Genesis 32:29; Exodus 13:18; Exodus 40:38.
Study Notes — 2 Samuel 21:17
Show Verse Quote Highlights
- Context
- Cross References
- 2 Samuel 21:17 Summary
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Reflection Questions
- Gill's Exposition on 2 Samuel 21:17
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on 2 Samuel 21:17
- Matthew Poole's Commentary on 2 Samuel 21:17
- Trapp's Commentary on 2 Samuel 21:17
- Ellicott's Commentary on 2 Samuel 21:17
- Adam Clarke's Commentary on 2 Samuel 21:17
- Cambridge Bible on 2 Samuel 21:17
- Whedon's Commentary on 2 Samuel 21:17
- Sermons on 2 Samuel 21:17
Context — Four Battles against the Philistines
15Once again the Philistines waged war against Israel, and David and his servants went down and fought against the Philistines. But David became exhausted.
16Then Ishbi-benob, a descendant of Rapha, whose bronze spear weighed three hundred shekels and who was bearing a new sword, resolved to kill David.
17But Abishai son of Zeruiah came to his aid, struck the Philistine, and killed him. Then David’s men swore to him, “You must never again go out with us to battle, so that the lamp of Israel may not be extinguished.”
18Some time later at Gob, there was another battle with the Philistines. At that time Sibbecai the Hushathite killed Saph, a descendant of Rapha. 19Once again there was a battle with the Philistines at Gob, and Elhanan son of Jair the Bethlehemite killed the brother of Goliath the Gittite, the shaft of whose spear was like a weaver’s beam.Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1 Kings 11:36 | I will give one tribe to his son, so that My servant David will always have a lamp before Me in Jerusalem, the city where I chose to put My Name. |
| 2 | 2 Samuel 18:3 | But the people pleaded, “You must not go out! For if we have to flee, they will pay no attention to us. Even if half of us die, they will not care; but you are worth ten thousand of us. It is better for now if you support us from the city.” |
| 3 | Psalms 132:17 | There I will make a horn grow for David; I have prepared a lamp for My anointed one. |
| 4 | 1 Kings 15:4 | Nevertheless, for the sake of David, the LORD his God gave him a lamp in Jerusalem by raising up a son to succeed him and to make Jerusalem strong. |
| 5 | 2 Samuel 20:6–10 | And David said to Abishai, “Now Sheba the son of Bichri will do us more harm than Absalom. Take your lord’s servants and pursue him, or he will find fortified cities and elude us. ” So 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. And 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. “Are you well, my brother?” Joab asked Amasa. And with his right hand Joab grabbed Amasa by the beard to kiss him. Amasa 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. |
| 6 | John 1:8–9 | He himself was not the Light, but he came to testify about the Light. The true Light who gives light to every man was coming into the world. |
| 7 | 2 Samuel 22:19 | They confronted me in my day of calamity, but the LORD was my support. |
| 8 | Psalms 144:10 | to Him who gives victory to kings, who frees His servant David from the deadly sword. |
| 9 | 2 Samuel 14:7 | Now the whole clan has risen up against your maidservant and said, ‘Hand over the one who struck down his brother, that we may put him to death for the life of the brother whom he killed. Then we will cut off the heir as well!’ So they would extinguish my one remaining ember by not preserving my husband’s name or posterity on the earth.” |
| 10 | Psalms 46:1 | God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in times of trouble. |
2 Samuel 21:17 Summary
This verse, 2 Samuel 21:17, tells us that David's men were worried about him going into battle because they knew he was very important to the nation of Israel, and they didn't want anything to happen to him. They called him 'the lamp of Israel', meaning he was the one who brought light and guidance to the people, much like a lamp brings light to a room (as seen in Matthew 5:14-16). David's men wanted to protect him so that he could continue to lead the nation, and this shows us the importance of having people in our lives who care about us and want to help us. Just like David, we can trust in God's sovereignty and protection, as seen in Jeremiah 29:11, and know that He has a plan to prosper us and give us hope for the future.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did David's men not want him to go out to battle with them anymore?
David's men did not want him to go out to battle with them anymore because they recognized that he was the lamp of Israel, the one who God had chosen to lead the nation, and they feared that if he were to be killed, the nation would be left in darkness, as seen in 2 Samuel 21:17, and this is reminiscent of the importance of leaders in the Bible, such as in 1 Samuel 15:23 where leadership is a crucial aspect of God's plan.
Who was Abishai son of Zeruiah and why was he significant in this story?
Abishai son of Zeruiah was a brave warrior and the brother of Joab, who was one of David's most trusted generals, as seen in 2 Samuel 2:13, and his actions in 2 Samuel 21:17 demonstrate his loyalty to David and his willingness to protect him.
What does the phrase 'the lamp of Israel' mean in this context?
The phrase 'the lamp of Israel' refers to David, who was the chosen leader of God's people, and the one through whom God's light and guidance shone, much like the lampstand in the tabernacle, as described in Exodus 25:31-40, which symbolized the presence of God among His people.
How does this story relate to the broader theme of God's sovereignty and protection?
This story demonstrates God's sovereignty and protection over His people, as seen in Psalm 121:7-8, where it is written that God will keep us from all harm, and in 2 Samuel 21:17, we see how God used Abishai to protect David, illustrating God's faithfulness to His promises and His people.
Reflection Questions
- What does it mean for me to be a 'lamp' in my own sphere of influence, shining God's light to those around me?
- How can I, like Abishai, demonstrate loyalty and protection to those in my life who are in positions of leadership or authority?
- In what ways can I trust in God's sovereignty and protection, even in the midst of challenging circumstances, as seen in Psalm 23:4?
- What are some ways that I can prioritize the safety and well-being of those who are important to me, just as David's men did for him?
Gill's Exposition on 2 Samuel 21:17
But Abishai the son of Zeruiah succoured him,.... Observing him in danger, made haste to his relief: and smote the Philistine, and killed him; it seems as if Abishai engaged with the Philistine, and
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on 2 Samuel 21:17
But Abishai the son of Zeruiah succoured him, and smote the Philistine, and killed him. Then the men of David sware unto him, saying, Thou shalt go no more out with us to battle, that thou quench not the light of Israel.
Matthew Poole's Commentary on 2 Samuel 21:17
Lest thou be slain, and thereby thy people be ruined. Good kings are in Scripture justly called the light of their people, as 15:4 , because the beauty and glory, the conduct and direction, the comfort, and safety, and welfare of a people depend upon them, and come from them.
Trapp's Commentary on 2 Samuel 21:17
2 Samuel 21:17 But Abishai the son of Zeruiah succoured him, and smote the Philistine, and killed him. Then the men of David sware unto him, saying, Thou shalt go no more out with us to battle, that thou quench not the light of Israel.Ver. 17. That thou quench not the light of Israel.] As Epaminondas, by his death, did the Thebans, who were after that famous for their calamities, and no more for their victories. The body drowneth not whilst the head is above water; when that once sinketh, death is near: so here. Pray therefore for the preservation of good princes; we cannot pray for them, and not pray for ourselves.
Ellicott's Commentary on 2 Samuel 21:17
(17) And smote.—The original leaves it doubtful whether Abishai is the nominative to the verb, or whether it should be simply he, referring to David. 2 Samuel 21:22 seems to imply that one at least of the sons of the giant fell by David’s own hand. Sware unto him.—This was a solemn transaction, by which David should hereafter be restrained from personal exposure in battle. That he should be spoken of as “the light of Israel” implies that his government over all Israel had continued long enough already to make its immense benefits sensible.
Adam Clarke's Commentary on 2 Samuel 21:17
Verse 17. That thou quench not the light of Israel.] David is here considered as the lamp by which all Israel was guided, and without whom all the nation must be involved in darkness. The lamp is the emblem of direction and support. Light is used in this sense by Homer: - ΟυδετιΠατροκλῳγενομηνφαος, αυδ ' ἑταροισιπ Τοιςαλλοις, οἱδηπολεεςδαμενἙκτοριδιῳ. Iliad, lib. xviii. ver. 102. "I have neither been a LIGHT to Patroclus nor to his companions, who have been slain by the noble Hector."
Cambridge Bible on 2 Samuel 21:17
17. and smote] Perhaps, and he (David) smote; as 2 Samuel 21:22 seems to imply that one of them fell by David’s own hand. that thou quench not the light of Israel] Extinguishing the lamp is a natural metaphor for changing the light of prosperity into the darkness of calamity; and in particular David’s sovereignty was the lamp which God’s favour had lighted for the well-being of His people. An Arab in misfortune says, “Fate has put out my lamp.” Cp. Job 18:6; Proverbs 13:9. The expression light of Israel seems to indicate that David was already king of all Israel, and if so, the incident may have happened in one of the wars recorded in ch. 2 Samuel 5:17-25.
Whedon's Commentary on 2 Samuel 21:17
17. Sware unto him — The word ðùׁ ?áòå seems here to have rather a causative signification, made him swear; that is, administered an oath unto him.
Sermons on 2 Samuel 21:17
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
|
The Lord Is My Light by Erlo Stegen | In this sermon, the speaker shares personal anecdotes and reflections on the preaching of the word of God. They mention a specific verse that came to mind and their desire to share |
|
Jesus Is the Horn of Salvation by John Piper | John Piper preaches on the story of Zechariah and Elizabeth, highlighting God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises despite human doubts and limitations. Zechariah's silence se |
|
The Spirit of Law and the Spirit of Grace by Denny Kenaston | In this sermon, the speaker begins by praying for guidance and blessings for the congregation. They emphasize the importance of living in grace rather than under the law, both in p |
|
The Foolish and How Riches Cannot Redeem by Chuck Smith | In this sermon, Pastor Chuck Smith discusses the folly of focusing on earthly riches and neglecting the eternal. He emphasizes the brevity of our time on earth and the importance o |
|
Something Is Wrong - Part 05 of 05 by Richard Owen Roberts | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of not letting the teachings of God slip away. He compares it to a boat slipping away from its mooring due to the tide and wa |
|
Conscience - Part 2 by Dai Patterson | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of allowing the word of God to transform our lives. He uses the analogy of giving someone something to eat, indicating that wh |
|
What Is a Backslider? by John R. Rice | John R. Rice preaches about the reality of Christians backsliding, emphasizing that even the most faithful believers in the Bible fell into sin, showcasing the constant struggle wi |