2 Samuel 19:3

3 And the people made their way back to the town quietly and secretly, as those who are shamed go secretly when they go in flight from the war.

2 Samuel 19:3 Meaning and Commentary

2 Samuel 19:3

And the people got them by stealth that day into the city
Did not march into it in companies, in a public and triumphant manner, as conquerors used to do; but entered in a private manner, one by one, or a very few together, not caring to be seen or known, at least by the king, as fearing they had incurred his displeasure: but

as people being ashamed steal away when they flee in battle;
as if they had been conquered, and not conquerors; nay, had acted a cowardly part, and ran away; and so cared not to be seen, lest they should be reproached, or suffer for their cowardice.

2 Samuel 19:3 In-Context

1 And word was given to Joab that the king was weeping and sorrowing for Absalom.

2 And the salvation of that day was changed to sorrow for all the people: for it was said to the people, The king is in bitter grief for his son.

3 And the people made their way back to the town quietly and secretly, as those who are shamed go secretly when they go in flight from the war.

4 But the king, covering his face, gave a great cry, O my son Absalom, O Absalom, my son, my son!

5 And Joab came into the house to the king and said, Today you have put to shame the faces of all your servants who even now have kept you and your sons and your daughters and your wives and all your women safe from death;