KJV ORIGINAL
And David said, What have I to do with you, ye sons of Zeruiah, that ye should this day be adversaries unto me? shall there any man be put to death this day in Israel? for do not I know that I am this day king over Israel?
Close to the original. Clear modern English.
✦ MADE SIMPLE
But David said, 'What business is this of yours, sons of Zeruiah? Why are you opposing me today? Should anyone be executed today in Israel? Don't I know that today I am king over Israel?'
⚡ THE BOTTOM LINE
David is asserting his authority as king and choosing mercy over revenge, refusing to let anyone be executed on the day he reclaims his throne.
📚 Historical Context
This occurs when David is returning to Jerusalem after his son Absalom's failed rebellion and death. The 'sons of Zeruiah' refers to Joab and Abishai, David's nephews and military commanders, who wanted to execute Shimei for cursing David during his exile. David is choosing reconciliation over retribution as he reestablishes his reign.
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