2 Samuel 18:21 (KJV)

What does 2 Samuel 18:21 mean?

2 Samuel 18:21 describes Joab instructing a man called Cushi to go and report to King David what he has witnessed. Cushi shows respect to Joab by bowing, then immediately runs to deliver the message.

In this scene, Joab is the commander of David’s army, and Cushi is likely a messenger or servant. The context is right after a major battle where Absalom, David’s son, has been killed. Joab wants Cushi to inform David about the outcome. The verse highlights both Joab’s authority and Cushi’s willingness to obey quickly and respectfully.

The Hebrew behind 2 Samuel 18:21

• "said" (אָמַר, ’amar): This is the common Hebrew word for "said" or "spoke," showing Joab’s direct command to Cushi.
• "Cushi" (כּוּשִׁי, Kushi): This name likely refers to a person of Cushite (African) descent, which may explain why he is chosen as a messenger rather than a prominent Israelite.
• "bowed" (שָׁחָה, shachah): This word means to bow down or prostrate, showing Cushi’s respect and submission to Joab’s authority.
• "ran" (רָץ, rats): The word for "ran" here emphasizes Cushi’s eagerness and urgency in carrying out Joab’s order.

Why 2 Samuel 18:21 matters

• This verse shows the chain of command and respect in David’s army, with Joab giving orders and Cushi responding promptly and humbly.
• The choice of Cushi as messenger, rather than a more prominent figure, may reflect Joab’s intentions about who should deliver difficult news to David.
• The verse sets up the following events, where the news of Absalom’s fate will deeply affect King David, highlighting the tension and sensitivity around delivering such messages.