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2 Samuel 11:24

And the shooters shot from off the wall upon thy servants; and some of the king's servants be dead, and thy servant Uriah the Hittite is dead also.

2 Samuel 11:24 · King James Version

Meaning

This verse from the Bible describes a tragic event in which King David's servants are killed by shooters from the wall, including Uriah the Hittite, who was one of the king's own servants. The context of this verse is the story of David's sinful actions, specifically his affair with Uriah's wife, Bathsheba. After Bathsheba becomes pregnant, David tries to cover up his wrongdoing by calling Uriah back from the battlefield in order to get him to spend time with his wife. However, Uriah refuses to go home while his fellow soldiers are still fighting. In a desperate attempt to hide his sin, David ends up sending Uriah to the front lines of battle where he is ultimately killed. This verse serves as a grim reminder of the consequences of David's actions and the innocent lives lost in the process.

Theological Overview

In this verse, there is a theological interpretation regarding the consequences of sin and the collateral damage that can be caused by one's actions. The mention of "shooters" attacking from the wall highlights the violence and destruction that can result from disobedience to God's laws. The death of the king's servants, as well as the death of Uriah the Hittite, serves as a tragic reminder of how sin can lead to devastating outcomes not only for the sinner but also for innocent bystanders. This verse underscores the importance of accountability and the far-reaching effects of sin.

2 Samuel 11:24 in other translations

American Standard Version

And the shooters shot at thy servants from off the wall; and some of the king's servants are dead, and thy servant Uriah the Hittite is dead also.

World English Bible

The shooters shot at your servants from off the wall; and some of the king’s servants are dead, and your servant Uriah the Hittite is dead also.”

Douay-Rheims

And the archers shot their arrows at thy servants from off the wall above: and some of the king's servants are slain, and thy servant Urias the Hethite is also dead.

Geneva Bible (1599)

But the shooters shot from ye wall against thy seruants, and some of the Kings seruants be dead: and thy seruant Vriah the Hittite is also dead.