2 Samuel 18:3
But the people answered, Thou shalt not go forth: for if we flee away, they will not care for us; neither if half of us die, will they care for us: but now thou art worth ten thousand of us: therefore now it is better that thou succour us out of the city.
2 Samuel 18:3 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse, the people are pleading with a leader not to abandon them in a time of crisis. They recognize that if they were to flee, they would not be cared for by their enemies. Even if some were to die in the attempt to escape, it would not change their enemies' indifference towards them. The people value their leader's life greatly, acknowledging that he is worth more than all of them combined. They appeal to him to come to their aid, recognizing that his presence and leadership are crucial for their survival. This verse emphasizes the importance of unity and leadership in times of difficulty, as well as the selflessness and sacrifice required of leaders to care for and protect their people.
Theological Overview
The theological interpretation of this verse reflects the concept of sacrificial leadership. The people are expressing their loyalty and willingness to sacrifice themselves for the sake of their leader. By acknowledging the worth of their leader as being greater than their own, they are demonstrating a sense of honor and duty. This selfless act of recognizing the leader's value above their own lives speaks to the biblical theme of servant leadership and humility. The word "succour" in this context signifies the act of providing assistance or support. The people are requesting their leader to protect and rescue them, highlighting the importance of relying on divine intervention in times of need. Through this theological lens, the verse underscores the significance of selflessness, sacrifice, and trust in God's provision.
2 Samuel 18:3 in other translations
American Standard Version
But the people said, Thou shalt not go forth: for if we flee away, they will not care for us; neither if half of us die, will they care for us: but thou art worth ten thousand of us; therefore now it is better that thou be ready to succor us out of the city.
World English Bible
But the people said, “You shall not go out; for if we flee away, they will not care for us; neither if half of us die, will they care for us. But you are worth ten thousand of us. Therefore now it is better that you are ready to help us out of the city.”
Douay-Rheims
And the people answered: Thou shalt not go forth: for if we flee away, they will not much mind us: or if half of us should fall, they will not greatly care: for thou alone art accounted for ten thousand: it is better therefore that thou shouldst be in the city to succour us.
Geneva Bible (1599)
But the people answered, Thou shalt not goe foorth: for if we flee away, they will not regarde vs, neither will they passe for vs, though halfe of vs were slaine: but thou art now worth ten thousande of vs: therefore nowe it is better that thou succour vs out of the citie.