Then Abishai the son of Zeruiah said to the king, Why should this dead dog curse my lord the king? Let me go over and take off his head — Abishai offers to kill Shimei, calling him a *kelev* *met* (dead dog)—a term of utter contempt. His willingness to murder in defense of the king's honor is immediate and fierce. Abishai cannot tolerate the cursing of David; his loyalty is absolute and protective. Yet David must now choose between military protection and spiritual acceptance.

COMMUNITY REFLECTIONS

Publish a note on this verse