2 Samuel 3:7 (KJV)

What does 2 Samuel 3:7 mean?

2 Samuel 3:7 describes a moment when Ishbosheth, Saul’s son, accuses Abner, Saul’s former army commander, of having relations with Saul’s concubine Rizpah. In the culture of the time, this was seen as a challenge to the former king’s authority and could be interpreted as a claim to the throne.

In this verse, Ishbosheth confronts Abner about his relationship with Rizpah, the daughter of Aiah, who had been Saul’s concubine. The accusation is serious because taking a former king’s concubine was often viewed as a political act, not just a personal one. This confrontation sets off a major conflict between Ishbosheth and Abner, which has significant consequences in the story that follows.

The Hebrew behind 2 Samuel 3:7

• "Concubine" (פִּילֶגֶשׁ, pilegesh): This word refers to a woman in a recognized relationship with a man, but with lower status than a wife. In royal contexts, concubines could symbolize political power, so Abner’s alleged involvement with Rizpah carried political weight.
• "Gone in" (בּוֹא, bo): This phrase is a common Hebrew euphemism for sexual relations. Here, it highlights the seriousness of Ishbosheth’s accusation against Abner, as such an act could be seen as an attempt to claim Saul’s legacy or authority.
• "Father’s" (אָב, av): The use of this word emphasizes the connection to Saul, underlining that Rizpah was not just any woman, but specifically Saul’s concubine, making the accusation even more charged.

Why 2 Samuel 3:7 matters

• This verse shows how personal relationships in royal families could have major political implications, especially regarding succession and legitimacy.
• The accusation against Abner becomes a turning point in the relationship between Ishbosheth and Abner, leading to Abner’s defection to David’s side.
• Understanding the cultural meaning of taking a king’s concubine helps clarify why Ishbosheth’s question was so serious and why it led to such dramatic consequences in the narrative.