Stank — This is a strong figure of speech, meaning to be odious or detested. Compare the marginal references.

The Syrians of Beth-…

Saw that they stank. —The Hebrew, translated literally, shows that they were conscious that this was by their own fault—“that they…

And when the children of Ammon saw that they stank before
David
Or had made themselve…

Those who are at war with the Son of David not only give the provocation but begin the war. God has forces to send against those who set his wrath …