But the people answered, Thou shalt not go forth: for if we flee away, they will not care for us; neither if half of us die, will they care for us: but now thou art worth ten thousand of us: therefore now it is better that thou succour us out of the city.
But the people answered, 'You must not go out to battle with us. If we have to retreat, the enemy won't care about us. Even if half of us are killed, they won't care about us. But you are worth ten thousand of us, so it's better for you to help us by staying in the city.'
The people are telling King David that his life is too valuable to risk in battle - he's worth more to them alive and safe than fighting alongside them.
📚 Historical Context
In the biblical narrative of 2 Samuel, King David is in the midst of a civil war against his son Absalom, who has rebelled and seized the throne, forcing David to flee Jerusalem. As David's loyal troops prepare for battle, they strongly advise him not to join the fight on the front lines, arguing that his life is irreplaceable and that the enemy would not value their lives as they do his. This reflects the ancient Israelite culture, where the king was seen as the cornerstone of national stability, and his survival was essential for the people's future.
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