And when Abner was returned to Hebron, Joab took him aside in the gate to speak with him quietly, and smote him there under the fifth [rib], that he died, for the blood of Asahel his brother.
Ver. 27. To speak with him quietly.] Or, Peaceably, or privately. Tremellius rendereth it imprudeutem, unwitting: the LXX, εν παραλογισμω, by a fallacy.
And smote him under the fifth rib.] Basely and treacherously, but not without divine providence: that David might come a fairer way to the kingdom, than by Abner's perfidy.
For the blood of Asahel his brother.] This was the pretext, and might be some cause; but the main reason was, lest Abner should by David be promoted above him.