Definition: In that thou lovest thine enemies, and hatest thy friends. For thou hast declared this day, that thou regardest neither princes nor servants: for this day I perceive, that if Absalom had lived, and all we had died this day, then it had pleased thee well.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 2 Samuel 19:6. It’s a really interesting and somewhat dramatic passage about a king’s perspective on his relationship with his enemies. Here's a simple explanation: The Core Idea: This verse is essentially saying that the king believes that if Absalom, his son, had lived and everything had gone wrong, he would have been pleased. He’s expressing a deep feeling of gratitude – or perhaps regret – about what might have been. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “In that thou lovest thine enemies…” : This is the key phrase. It means the king believes that if he had loved his enemies, things would have gone better. He’s acknowledging that he has a negative feeling about those who oppose him. “…and hatest thy friends.” : This part clarifies that his love for enemies isn't just a general feeling; it’s a resentment . He actively dislikes and is hostile toward his friends. It suggests a deep-seated anger or bitterness. “For this day I perceive…” : This is where the verse gets really powerful. The king is declaring that he sees a specific outcome – a terrible future – if Absalom had lived. This isn’t just a prediction; it's a perception of what would have happened . “…that if Absalom had lived, and all we had died this day, then it had pleased thee well.” : This is the crucial part. The king believes that if Absalom had lived, and everything had gone horribly wrong – meaning a significant loss of life – then he would have been happy. It’s a plea for divine approval or a sense of comfort. What's it saying? The verse is a powerful expression of the king’s grief over his son’s fate and his belief that his actions (his love for enemies) are responsible for this terrible outcome. It speaks to themes of: Responsibility: The king feels accountable for what might have happened if his son had lived. Fate & Prophecy: It hints at a sense of predetermined doom, where the king’s choices have consequences. Divine Perspective: The king is framing this as a plea for divine approval - asking God to recognize something about his actions. Important Note: This verse is complex and open to interpretation. It's often seen as a reflection on the king's own character, his tendency towards bitterness, and the consequences of his choices. Resources if you want to learn more: Bible Gateway: [https://www.biblegateway.com/resources/bible/2 Samuel/19/6](https://www.biblegateway.com/resources/bible/2 Samuel/19/6) The Bible Project: [https://thebibleproject.com/chapter/2-samuel-19/](https://thebibleproject.com/chapter/2-samuel-19/) --- Do you want me to: Explain a specific part of the verse in more detail? Discuss the historical context of this passage? Explore its symbolic meaning?