KJV ORIGINAL
Then there arose and went over by number twelve of Benjamin, which pertained to Ishbosheth the son of Saul, and twelve of the servants of David.
Close to the original. Clear modern English.
✦ MADE SIMPLE
Then twelve young men from the tribe of Benjamin, who served under Ishbosheth (Saul's son), stepped forward, along with twelve of David's men.
⚡ THE BOTTOM LINE
This verse describes the beginning of a contest between representatives from two rival groups - those loyal to Saul's family and those loyal to David.
📚 Historical Context
This takes place during the civil war period after King Saul's death, when his son Ishbosheth and David were competing for control of Israel. The two armies had met at Gibeon, and their commanders arranged for a representative combat between selected warriors rather than a full battle. This was a common ancient practice to settle disputes with minimal casualties.
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