2 Samuel 10 - Introduction - Matthew Henry's Whole Bible Commentary

Bible Comments

S E C O N D   S A M U E L

CHAP. X.

      This chapter gives us an account of a war David has with the Ammonites and the Syrians their allies, with the occasion and success of it. I. David sent a friendly embassy to Hanun king of the Ammonites, 2 Samuel 10:1; 2 Samuel 10:2. II. He, upon a base surmise that it was ill intended, abused David's ambassadors, 2 Samuel 10:3; 2 Samuel 10:4. III. David resenting it (2 Samuel 10:5), and the Ammonites prepared for war against him, 2 Samuel 10:6. IV. David carried the war into their country, sent against them. Joab and Abishai, who addressed themselves to the battle with a great deal of conduct and bravery, 2 Samuel 10:7-12. V. The Ammonites, and the Syrians their allies, were totally routed, 2 Samuel 10:13; 2 Samuel 10:14. VI. The forces of the Syrians, which rallied again, were a second time defeated, 2 Samuel 10:15-19. Thus did David advance his own reputation for gratitude, in returning kindness, and for justice, in repaying injuries.