Definition: And David said to Joab, and to all the people that [were] with him, Rend your clothes, and gird you with sackcloth, and mourn before Abner. And king David [himself] followed the bier.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 2 Samuel 3:31. It’s a pretty intense moment in King David’s story! Here's what it means, explained simply: The Basic Situation: David is feeling betrayed. The verse tells us that David is deeply upset and mourning after his friend, Joab, and the people with him, have left him. He’s preparing for a funeral. He’s essentially setting himself up for a solemn burial – a kind of farewell ceremony. Let's unpack it word-by-word: “And David said to Joab, and to all the people that [were] with him…” This is David explaining what he’s doing. He’s addressing his loyal warriors and the entire group with him – essentially, he’s telling them what he’s planning to do. “…Rend your clothes, and gird you with sackcloth…” This is the core of the message. “Rend” means to strip away or remove. “Gird you with sackcloth” means to wrap himself in a large piece of cloth – like a burial shroud. It's a sign of mourning and respect. “…and mourn before Abner.” This is the key point. David is specifically grieving because he’s been tricked by his friend, Abner. Abner learned about David’s plans to flee and, instead of supporting him, plotted against him. “And king David [himself] followed the bier.” “The bier” was a special wooden frame used for transporting bodies to the grave. David is following it – meaning he's going towards his burial place. Overall Meaning & Context: This verse paints a picture of intense sorrow and a significant betrayal. It’s a moment where David feels deeply wounded and humiliated by someone who should have been there for him. The actions he takes – stripping himself in mourning, wrapping himself in a shroud – are a way to acknowledge the injustice and show respect for his own mortality. It highlights his vulnerability and the pain of being wronged. Why is it important? This verse shows that David was dealing with a serious problem, and it's not just about him being sad; it’s tied to a larger narrative of betrayal and judgment. It sets the stage for more dramatic events in the Bible! --- Do you want me to: Explain a specific part of the verse in more detail? Discuss the significance of this passage within the broader context of David's life and story?