2 Samuel 3:11

11 Ish-Bosheth did not dare to say another word to Abner, because he was afraid of him.

2 Samuel 3:11 in Other Translations

11 And he could not answer Abner a word again, because he feared him.

11 And Ish-bosheth could not answer Abner another word, because he feared him.

11 Ishbosheth didn’t dare say another word because he was afraid of what Abner might do.

11 Ish-Bosheth, cowed by Abner's outburst, couldn't say another word.

11 Ish-bosheth could not answer Abner because he was afraid of him.

2 Samuel 3:11 Meaning and Commentary

2 Samuel 3:11

And he could not answer Abner a word again
That is, he would not, he durst not; otherwise, if it was fact he charged him with, he could have insisted on the truth of it, and aggravated the crime and scandal of it; and observed it to him, that the kindness he had shown him was no excuse for it; but such things, though he would, he durst not say:

because he feared him;
he had the army at his command, and could dethrone him when he pleased; and it has been the fate of greater men than Ishbosheth to be awed by their generals, and even David himself; see ( 2 Samuel 3:39 ) .

2 Samuel 3:11 In-Context

9 May God deal with Abner, be it ever so severely, if I do not do for David what the LORD promised him on oath

10 and transfer the kingdom from the house of Saul and establish David’s throne over Israel and Judah from Dan to Beersheba.”

11 Ish-Bosheth did not dare to say another word to Abner, because he was afraid of him.

12 Then Abner sent messengers on his behalf to say to David, “Whose land is it? Make an agreement with me, and I will help you bring all Israel over to you.”

13 “Good,” said David. “I will make an agreement with you. But I demand one thing of you: Do not come into my presence unless you bring Michal daughter of Saul when you come to see me.”