What does 2 Samuel 17:10 mean?
"And he also that is valiant, whose heart is as the heart of a lion, shall utterly melt: for all Israel knoweth that thy father is a mighty man, and they which be with him are valiant men." - 2 Samuel 17:10
The Bible verse 2 Samuel 17:10 in the King James Version reads: "And he also that is valiant, whose heart is as the heart of a lion, shall utterly melt: for all Israel knoweth that thy father is a mighty man, and they which be with him are valiant men."
This verse is part of the Old Testament narrative that recounts the turbulent and often violent struggles for power and dominance among the ancient Israelites. In this particular passage, the context is the impending battle between the followers of King David and the forces of his rebellious son, Absalom.
The verse speaks to the qualities of bravery, strength, and leadership that are lauded and revered in the biblical tradition. The reference to having a heart "as the heart of a lion" evokes the image of the lion as a symbol of strength, courage, and ferocity. In the ancient world, the lion was often seen as the king of beasts, and its heart was thought to be the source of its power and bravery. By likening a person's heart to that of a lion, the verse extols the virtue of valor and resoluteness in the face of conflict and adversity.
The verse also alludes to the reputation of the great warrior and leader, King David, as a "mighty man" and the leader of "valiant men." This references the broader theme of the passing down of power and authority within the patriarchal structure of ancient Israelite society. In this hierarchical system, strength and valor were seen as essential qualities for leaders and warriors, and the verse underscores the importance of lineage and heritage in determining one's worth and prowess.
Furthermore, the verse is significant in its portrayal of the social and cultural values of the ancient Israelites. It reflects the prevalent belief in the intrinsic connection between a person's character and their lineage, as well as the enduring legacy of renowned leaders and warriors. The passage also conveys the deeply ingrained ideals of bravery and honor that were esteemed and upheld in the ancient world.
Moreover, the verse can be interpreted as a commentary on the nature of power and influence in human society. It alludes to the recognition and acknowledgment of one's prowess and might, as well as the impact of reputation and status on the actions and decisions of individuals. The verse suggests that the perception of a person's strength and leadership qualities can have a profound effect on the attitudes and loyalties of others, shaping the dynamics of conflict and power struggles.
In conclusion, the Bible verse 2 Samuel 17:10 in the King James Version conveys profound themes of bravery, strength, and leadership, and reflects the cultural and social values of the ancient Israelites. It offers a glimpse into the enduring significance of lineage and heritage, the idealization of renowned leaders and warriors, and the impact of reputation and status in shaping human affairs. This verse serves as a poignant reminder of the timeless and universal themes that resonate throughout the biblical narrative and continue to hold relevance in contemporary society.
Have questions about 2 Samuel 17:10?
Dive deeper into this scripture with Bible Chat — an AI-powered tool for exploring God's Word through conversation. Ask questions, get context, and grow in your understanding of the Bible.
Get Our Apps
2 Samuel 17:10 Artwork
2 Samuel 17:10 - "And he also that is valiant, whose heart is as the heart of a lion, shall utterly melt: for all Israel knoweth that thy father is a mighty man, and they which be with him are valiant men."
"And he also that is valiant, whose heart is as the heart of a lion, shall utterly melt: for all Israel knoweth that thy father is a mighty man, and they which be with him are valiant men." - 2 Samuel 17:10
1 Samuel 10:17 - "¶ And Samuel called the people together unto the LORD to Mizpeh;"
2 Samuel 10:17 - "And when it was told David, he gathered all Israel together, and passed over Jordan, and came to Helam. And the Syrians set themselves in array against David, and fought with him."
"¶ And Samuel called the people together unto the LORD to Mizpeh;" - 1 Samuel 10:17
2 Samuel 1. 17-27
2 Samuel 22:17-20
2 Samuel 10:4
2 Samuel 10:4
2 Samuel 17:26 - "So Israel and Absalom pitched in the land of Gilead."
1 Samuel 17:10 - "And the Philistine said, I defy the armies of Israel this day; give me a man, that we may fight together."
2 Samuel 17:4 - "And the saying pleased Absalom well, and all the elders of Israel."
2 Samuel 2:17 - "And there was a very sore battle that day; and Abner was beaten, and the men of Israel, before the servants of David."
2 Samuel 1:17 - "¶ And David lamented with this lamentation over Saul and over Jonathan his son:"
2 Samuel 17:17 - "Now Jonathan and Ahimaaz stayed by En-rogel; for they might not be seen to come into the city: and a wench went and told them; and they went and told king David."
2 Samuel 8:17 - "And Zadok the son of Ahitub, and Ahimelech the son of Abiathar, were the priests; and Seraiah was the scribe;"
2 Samuel 17:7 - "And Hushai said unto Absalom, The counsel that Ahithophel hath given is not good at this time."
2 Samuel 15:17 - "And the king went forth, and all the people after him, and tarried in a place that was far off."
2 Corinthians 10:17 - "But he that glorieth, let him glory in the Lord."
2 Samuel 5:10 - "And David went on, and grew great, and the LORD God of hosts was with him."
2 Samuel 17:24 - "Then David came to Mahanaim. And Absalom passed over Jordan, he and all the men of Israel with him."
2 Samuel 16:17 - "And Absalom said to Hushai, Is this thy kindness to thy friend? why wentest thou not with thy friend?"
2 Samuel 10:10 - "And the rest of the people he delivered into the hand of Abishai his brother, that he might put them in array against the children of Ammon."
1 Samuel 2:17 - "Wherefore the sin of the young men was very great before the LORD: for men abhorred the offering of the LORD."
2 Samuel 7:17 - "According to all these words, and according to all this vision, so did Nathan speak unto David."
2 Samuel 22:17 - "He sent from above, he took me; he drew me out of many waters;"
1 Samuel 17:2 - "And Saul and the men of Israel were gathered together, and pitched by the valley of Elah, and set the battle in array against the Philistines."
2 Samuel 17:19 - "And the woman took and spread a covering over the well's mouth, and spread ground corn thereon; and the thing was not known."
2 Samuel 22:10 - "He bowed the heavens also, and came down; and darkness was under his feet."
2 Samuel 10:15 - "¶ And when the Syrians saw that they were smitten before Israel, they gathered themselves together."