Translations
Modern
“If the Arameans are too strong for me,” said Joab, “then you will come to my rescue. And if the Ammonites are too strong for you, then I will come to your rescue.
Traditional
And he said, If the Syrians be too strong for me, then thou shalt help me: but if the children of Ammon be too strong for thee, then I will come and help thee.
Literal
And he said, “If Aram is too strong for me, then you will be to me for salvation. But if the sons of Ammon are too strong for you, then I will go to give salvation to you.
Latin
Et ait Joab: Si prævaluerint adversum me Syri, eris mihi in adjutorium: si autem filii Ammon prævaluerint adversum te, auxiliabor tibi.
Original
Hebrew
English
“If the Arameans are too strong for me,” said Joab, “then you will come to my rescue. And if the Ammonites are too strong for you, then I will come to your rescue.
Notes
After the break in 2 Samuel 9, the story goes back to David's military successes. The Ammonites were likely the dominant political power in Transjordan (the area east of the Jordan) during Saul’s reign and the early years of David’s reign.
Events
Parallels
Places
Ammon: An ancient nation and its capital city, enemies of Israel Syria: Ancient region north of Israel, often in conflict
Glossary
David Gilead (Place) Hadadezer Hanun Joab Kindness Kings, Books of First and Second Samuel, Books of First and Second Zobah
Topics
Joab: Son of David's Sister: Defeats the Ammonites Syria: David: Sent Joab Against the Armies of, Hired by the Ammonites Syria: Inhabitants of Called Syrians The Ammonites: Victories of Joab Over Zobah: Its Inhabitants Mercenaries of the Ammonites Against David