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So Hanun took David`s servants, and shaved off the one half of their beards, and cut off their garments in the middle, even to their buttocks, and sent them away.
Verse Takeaways
1
An Extreme Cultural Insult
Commentators unanimously explain that Hanun's actions were a profound cultural humiliation. In the ancient Near East, a man's beard was a symbol of honor and masculinity. To shave it, especially only half, was a grave indignity, which scholars compare to flogging or branding. Cutting their long garments to expose them added deep shame and ridicule.
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2 Samuel
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4
18th Century
Presbyterian
In 1 Chronicles 19:4, it is more concisely stated as being shaved. Cutting off a person’s beard is regarded by Arabs as an ind…
19th Century
Anglican
Shaved off the one half of their beards. — According to Middle Eastern customs, this was the greatest insult that could have been inflicte…
17th Century
Reformed Baptist
Wherefore Hanun took David's servants His ambassadors:
and shaved off one half of their beards
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Nahash had been an enemy to Israel, yet had shown kindness to David. David therefore resolves gratefully to return it. If a Pharisee gives alms in …