What does 2 Samuel 3:6 mean?

Even in the midst of a civil war, one man was busy building his own influence. What does this tell us about human nature and leadership?

The verse highlights Abner's strategic maneuvering during a time of intense conflict between two royal houses. While Saul's family and David's supporters were locked in battle, Abner wasn't just a general; he was actively consolidating his own power base within Saul's remaining faction.

Building His Own Throne?

This wasn't passive leadership. The phrase "making himself strong" suggests a deliberate effort to gain authority, resources, and loyalty. He was positioning himself as a key figure, perhaps even with aspirations beyond merely serving the house of Saul, especially as Saul's line weakened. This independence from David's growing movement, even while ostensibly fighting for Saul, created a dangerous tension.

The ongoing conflict wasn't just between armies; it was a spiritual and political struggle. How did Abner navigate this treacherous landscape?

This verse sets the stage for the complex political and personal drama that unfolds in 2 Samuel. The "house of Saul" represents the old guard, the remnants of the monarchy that was once divinely appointed but was now fractured. The "house of David" represents the rising power, acknowledged by God but not yet fully established on the throne.

A Tightrope Walk

Abner, as the commander of Saul's army, was in a precarious position. He was loyal to Saul's lineage but likely saw the shifting tides of power. His actions of "making himself strong" could be interpreted as a survival tactic, an attempt to secure his own future and influence regardless of who ultimately won. This ambiguity is key to understanding his later actions, including his eventual defection to David.