Book of 1 Chronicles - Chapter 19 - Verse 4

After David sent his servants to console Hanun, the king of the Ammonites, upon his father's death, Hanun suspected they were spies and treated them harshly. He shaved off half of their beards and cut off their garments at the buttocks, leaving them exposed and humiliated. This act was not only a physical abuse but also a deep insult to their dignity. By stripping them in such a way, Hanun sought to disgrace and shame David's representatives. It was a dishonorable and disrespectful treatment that was meant to show disdain for David as their leader. This action ultimately led to a conflict between the Ammonites and Israel, demonstrating how a simple misunderstanding and an act of disrespect could escalate into a much larger conflict. This passage serves as a reminder of the importance of communication and diplomacy in avoiding unnecessary conflicts and misunderstandings.

In this verse from 2 Samuel 10:4, there are several important theological interpretations and word studies that shed light on the significance of the actions taken by Hanun. The Hebrew word used for "shaved" in this verse is "galach," which can also mean to strip or to make bare. This act of shaving off half their beards was not simply a humiliation of David's servants, but also a symbol of shame and disgrace in ancient Near Eastern culture. Additionally, the cutting off of their garments to expose their buttocks was a further act of humiliation and disrespect towards David's representatives. This verse highlights the themes of pride, disrespect, and the cultural significance of appearance in biblical times. It also serves as a reminder of the consequences of arrogance and the importance of treating others with dignity and respect, even in times of conflict.