2 Samuel 3:21
And Abner said unto David, I will arise and go, and will gather all Israel unto my lord the king, that they may make a league with thee, and that thou mayest reign over all that thine heart desireth. And David sent Abner away; and he went in peace.
2 Samuel 3:21 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse from the book of 2 Samuel, Abner, who was the commander of Saul's army, has a meeting with David, who was anointed by God to be the next king of Israel. Abner expresses his desire to gather all of Israel to make a league with David and to have him reign over all that his heart desires. This interaction signifies a turning point in David's journey to kingship, as it shows a moment of recognition and support from key figures in the nation. David, in response, sends Abner away in peace, highlighting his willingness to engage in diplomacy and efforts to unite the divided tribes of Israel. This verse showcases the political maneuvering and strategic alliances that were key components in the establishment of David's reign and the unification of the Israelite nation under his rule.
Theological Overview
In this verse from 2 Samuel, we see Abner, who was the commander of Saul's army, approaching David, who had been anointed as the next king of Israel. Abner pledges his loyalty to David and offers to gather all of Israel to make a covenant with him, acknowledging David as the rightful king. This interaction between Abner and David reveals the transition of power from Saul to David, as well as the importance of unity and submission in God's kingdom. The theological interpretation of this verse highlights the concept of God's sovereignty and his ability to raise up leaders according to his divine plan. The word "league" can be seen as a symbol of the covenant relationship between God and his people, emphasizing the importance of loyalty and obedience to the rightful king. David's acceptance of Abner's offer in peace further demonstrates his trust in God's providence and his willingness to establish a kingdom according to God's will.
2 Samuel 3:21 in other translations
American Standard Version
And Abner said unto David, I will arise and go, and will gather all Israel unto my lord the king, that they may make a covenant with thee, and that thou mayest reign over all that thy soul desireth. And David sent Abner away; and he went in peace.
World English Bible
Abner said to David, “I will arise and go, and will gather all Israel to my lord the king, that they may make a covenant with you, and that you may reign over all that your soul desires.” David sent Abner away; and he went in peace.
Douay-Rheims
And Abner said to David: I will rise, that I may gather all Israel unto thee my lord the king, and may enter into a league with thee, and that thou mayst reign over all as thy soul desireth. Now when David had brought Abner on his way, and he was gone in peace,
Geneva Bible (1599)
Then Abner sayde vnto Dauid, I will rise vp, and goe gather all Israel vnto my lorde the King, that they may make a couenant with thee, and that thou mayest reigne ouer all that thine heart desireth. Then Dauid let Abner depart, who went in peace.