KJV ORIGINAL
And Abner said again to Asahel, Turn thee aside from following me: wherefore should I smite thee to the ground? how then should I hold up my face to Joab thy brother?
Close to the original. Clear modern English.
✦ MADE SIMPLE
Abner spoke to Asahel again, saying, 'Stop chasing me! Why should I have to kill you? How could I face your brother Joab after that?'
⚡ THE BOTTOM LINE
Abner is desperately trying to warn the young warrior Asahel to stop pursuing him, knowing he doesn't want to kill him and face the consequences with Asahel's powerful brother.
📚 Historical Context
This occurs during the civil war between David's forces and those loyal to Saul's son Ish-bosheth. Asahel, a swift runner and one of David's mighty men, was pursuing Abner (Saul's former general) after a battle. Joab, Asahel's brother, was the commander of David's army and a formidable warrior whom Abner knew he would have to answer to.
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