Now therefore hold him not guiltless: for thou art a wise man, and knowest what thou oughtest to do unto him; but his hoar head bring thou down to the grave with blood.
Now therefore, don't let him go unpunished. You are a wise man and know what you should do to him. Even though he has gray hair from old age, make sure he dies a violent death.
The writer is recording David's final instruction to Solomon to ensure that Shimei faces deadly consequences for his past actions, despite his old age.
📚 Historical Context
This is part of King David's deathbed instructions to his son Solomon about unfinished business from his reign. Shimei had previously cursed David when he fled from Absalom's rebellion, and though David had sworn not to kill him personally, he wanted Solomon to handle this matter. David was ensuring that threats to the throne would be eliminated to secure Solomon's rule.
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