Definition: Then said Ahimaaz the son of Zadok yet again to Joab, But howsoever, let me, I pray thee, also run after Cushi. And Joab said, Wherefore wilt thou run, my son, seeing that thou hast no tidings ready?

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 2 Samuel 18:22. It's a really interesting and dramatic moment in the story of David and his army. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Situation: David was leading an attack against Goliath. He had been planning this for a long time, but then… a crucial piece of information is lost. Joab, David’s advisor, realizes that David isn't prepared to follow up with a full-scale assault on the enemy. What happened next: Ahimaaz pleads with Joab: Ahimaaz, David’s son, is frantically trying to get Joab’s attention. He’s urging Joab to run after Cushi (who was previously in charge of scouting). Joab's response: Joab initially dismisses it as a foolish request. He says, "Wherefore wilt thou run, my son, seeing that thou hast no tidings ready?" What “tidings” means: This is the key. "Tidings" in this context refers to news – reports, warnings, or preparations for an attack. Joab is asking why David would rush into a battle without any information about the enemy’s positions or strength. The Meaning of the Verse - A Bit More Nuanced: This verse paints a picture of a moment of doubt and anxiety . It suggests that David might be thinking about launching an attack, but he's not fully ready. He’s grappling with the possibility of failure – a potential defeat – and is desperately trying to find a way to react quickly. Overall Interpretation: It's a snapshot of a moment of intense pressure and uncertainty during a critical part of David's campaign. It highlights his strategic challenges and his attempt to overcome obstacles before committing fully. It’s a little bit dramatic, but it speaks to the human experience of facing difficult decisions with incomplete information. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Discuss its significance within the larger context of the story? Explore potential interpretations of Joab’s reaction?