2 Samuel 4:7
For when they came into the house, he lay on his bed in his bedchamber, and they smote him, and slew him, and beheaded him, and took his head, and gat them away through the plain all night.
2 Samuel 4:7 · King James Version
Meaning
According to this verse, a man was killed in his own home while he was lying in his bedchamber. The perpetrators smote him, slew him, and beheaded him before escaping through the plain under the cover of night. This event serves as a reminder of the dangers that lurk both inside and outside one's home, highlighting the vulnerability of individuals even in the supposed safety of their own dwellings. It also emphasizes the brutality that can exist in society and the lengths to which some are willing to go to achieve their goals. This verse underscores the importance of security measures and vigilance in protecting oneself from harm, as well as the harsh realities that people may face in their everyday lives. Overall, this passage serves as a cautionary tale, urging readers to be mindful of their surroundings and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety.
Theological Overview
This verse describes a brutal and violent event in which a man is smitten, slain, and ultimately beheaded in his own bedchamber. The imagery of the assailants entering the house emphasizes the treachery and cruelty of the act. The theological interpretation of this verse can highlight the theme of betrayal and the consequences of turning against someone in such a drastic manner. The use of violence and murder in this context can also serve as a reminder of the consequences of hatred and evil actions. In studying the words used in this verse, words such as "smote," "slew," and "beheaded" evoke a sense of finality and irrevocable harm, emphasizing the severity of the crime committed. The mention of the assailants fleeing through the plain under the cover of night further adds to the sinister nature of the event. Ultimately, this verse serves as a cautionary tale about the destructive power of betrayal and violence, urging readers to reflect on the consequences of their actions and the importance of showing mercy and kindness in all circumstances.
2 Samuel 4:7 in other translations
American Standard Version
Now when they came into the house, as he lay on his bed in his bedchamber, they smote him, and slew him, and beheaded him, and took his head, and went by the way of the Arabah all night.
World English Bible
Now when they came into the house, as he lay on his bed in his bedroom, they struck him, and killed him, and beheaded him, and took his head, and went by the way of the Arabah all night.
Douay-Rheims
For when they came into the house, he was sleeping upon his bed in a parlour, and they struck him and killed him and taking away his head they went off by the way of the wilderness, walking all night.
Geneva Bible (1599)
For when they came into the house, he slept on his bed in his bed chamber, and they smote him, and slewe him, and beheaded him, and tooke his head, and gate them away through the plaine all the night.