2 Samuel 18:1-3

New English Translation

The Death of Absalom

18 David assembled the army that was with him. He appointed leaders of thousands and leaders of hundreds. ² David then sent out the army—a third under the leadership of Joab, a third under the leadership of Joab’s brother Abishai son of Zeruiah, and a third under the leadership of Ittai the Gittite. The king said to the troops, “I too will indeed march out with you.”

³ But the soldiers replied,^[a] “You should not do this!^[b] For if we should have to make a rapid retreat, they won’t be concerned about us.^[c] Even if half of us should die, they won’t be concerned. But you^[d] are like 10,000 of us! So it is better if you remain in the city for support.”