Howbeit he refused to turn aside: wherefore Abner with the hinder end of the spear smote him under the fifth rib, that the spear came out behind him; and he fell down there, and died in the same place: and it came to pass, that as many as came to the place where Asahel fell down and died stood still.

2 SAMUEL 2:23KJV
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2 Samuel 2:23 (KJV)

What does 2 Samuel 2:23 mean?

2 Samuel 2:23 describes how Asahel, refusing to turn aside, was killed by Abner during a pursuit; Abner struck Asahel with the back end of his spear under the fifth rib, causing Asahel to die on the spot. The verse notes that everyone who came to the place where Asahel fell stopped and stood still.

This scene takes place during a conflict between the followers of David and Saul. Asahel, known for his speed, was chasing Abner, the commander of Saul’s army. Despite warnings, Asahel would not give up the chase, leading Abner to defend himself in a fatal way. The detail that people stopped at the place where Asahel died shows the shock and seriousness of his death in the midst of battle.

The Hebrew behind 2 Samuel 2:23

  • "refused" (מָאֵן, māʾēn): This word means to be unwilling or to refuse. Asahel’s refusal to turn aside shows his determination or stubbornness, which directly led to his death.
  • "fifth" (חֹמֶשׁ, ḥōmesh): The phrase "under the fifth rib" is often used in Hebrew to refer to a vital spot near the abdomen or lower ribs, suggesting a mortal wound rather than just a random injury.
  • "smote" (נָכָה, nākhāh): This verb means to strike or hit, often with deadly force. Here, it emphasizes that Abner’s action was forceful and decisive.
  • "stood still" (עָמַד, ʿāmad): The reaction of those who arrived at the scene—standing still—shows the impact of Asahel’s death, marking it as a significant and sobering moment.

Why 2 Samuel 2:23 matters

  • This verse highlights the personal cost and tragedy that can come with civil conflict, especially among those who were once united.
  • The mention of the "fifth rib" shows the deliberate and fatal nature of the blow, not just an accidental death in battle.
  • The reaction of the people who stopped at the place of Asahel’s death underlines how his loss was deeply felt, setting the stage for further tension between the two sides.