2 Kingdoms (2 Samuel) 3:34Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

David’s heartfelt lament for Avenir vividly illustrates the agony of his spirit: “And the king raised his voice,” states the Scripture, “and wept over the tomb of Avenir, and said, ‘Is Avenir dead by the death of Nabal? Thy hands are not bound; thy feet are not in fetters; thou hast not come as Nabal did; before the son of unrighteousness thou hast fallen.’”

He appreciated courage, even among those who opposed him, believing it important to demonstrate justice not only to his own but also to his adversaries who took up arms against him. He held Avenir, the valiant commander of his foes, in high regard for his martial prowess. When Avenir sought peace, he granted this request and celebrated him with a feast. Upon Avenir’s unjust assassination, David was deeply saddened, mourning for him and paying his respects by participating in the funeral procession.

What is the significance of the phrase ‘Abner died the death of Nabal’ (2 Sam. 3:33)? Nabal, characterized as a cruel, unjust, and ungrateful individual, rightly faced the divine judgment set upon him; however, Abner was known for his integrity in counsel and bravery in combat. In response, David stated: ‘Thy hands are not bound, thy feet are not in fetters; thou hast not come as Nabal, before the sons of unrighteousness thou hast fallen’ (2 Sam. 3:34), meaning that you did not suffer defeat in battle, nor were you captured like a prisoner, but rather, it was the treachery of false friendship that dealt you this blow. Therefore, the king mourned deeply, and his expressions of grief endeared him to the people.