Yesterday, I shared some rabbinical reasoning on why Avner made Ishboshesh king when he knew Israel’s throne was already reserved for David.
The ancient Hebrew sages say that two kings had to come from Jacob’s loins based on the following verse in the Book of Genesis:
“And God said to him, ‘I am God Almighty; be fruitful and increase in number. A nation and a community of nations will come from you, and kings will be among your descendants.’”-Genesis 35:11
Repeating what I said, it was believed that because none of Jacob’s sons had become kings so far, any future kings had to come from a son who wasn’t born yet.
It was believed the only son not yet born at this time was Benjamin.
Therefore, at least two kings had to emerge from Benjamin’s line before David assumed his throne.
One was Saul, and the other was Ishboshesh who Avner crowned.
The idea was that Avner was helping David become king by ensuring the prophecy in Genesis 35:11 (the verse above) was fulfilled.
So, I’m not sure I agree.
Do you recall our discussion about why the Bible is the only book you need to succeed in business?
I reasoned that the Scriptures give us unparalleled insight into human psychology.
I think this perspective better explains why Avner made Ishbosheth king.
See, here’s the thing, homies.
We’ve gotta understand that once Saul passed away, Avner was now the REAL power in the north.
And Ishboshesh, being young and dumb, didn’t have the leadership capability to lead Israel.
Avner was well aware that by making Ishboshesh king, he could control Israel himself, using Saul’s last surviving son as a puppet.
Plus, in the people’s eyes, it would seem like he was doing the honorable thing by keeping Saul’s dynasty intact.
So that’s probably how the wheels were turning in Avner’s head.
By positioning himself in this way, Avner strategized that David would probably grant him a high-ranking role when he finally did take the throne.
Plus, he could enjoy his current high-status position as Ishoboshesh’s right hand until David became king.
So here’s the takeaway for today.
Some of you may be thinking, who do you think you are to offer up an opinion that would differ from what the ancient Rabbis said?
First, let me say, I HIGHLY, HIGHLY respect the commentary and teachings of the Rabbis.
They’re a million times better than any of that anti-Semitic, replacement theology Christian junk that’s out there.
Now, here’s the thing.
By offering a different interpretation, I’m exercising a value that Judaism greatly respects.
You’ve heard the expression, “Two Jews, three opinions”, right?
The Jewish people, particularly in religious, philosophical, or political discussions, have always welcomed diverse and often conflicting viewpoints.
It highlights the tradition of debate and critical thinking, where even a small group can produce a variety of opinions on a given issue.
So that’s exactly what I’m doing when I use my God-given brain to think (something so rare these days) and share a point I feel is valid.
Ya feel me?
See ya all next time.
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