18 They crossed at the ford to take the king's household over and to do whatever he wished. When Shimei son of Gera crossed the Jordan, he fell prostrate before the king

Other Translations of 2 Samuel 19:18

King James Version

18 And there went over a ferry boat to carry over the king's household, and to do what he thought good. And Shimei the son of Gera fell down before the king, as he was come over Jordan;

English Standard Version

18 and they crossed the ford to bring over the king's household and to do his pleasure. And Shimei the son of Gera fell down before the king, as he was about to cross the Jordan,

The Message

18 and brought his entourage across, doing whatever they could to make the king comfortable.

New King James Version

18 Then a ferryboat went across to carry over the king's household, and to do what he thought good.Now Shimei the son of Gera fell down before the king when he had crossed the Jordan.

New Living Translation

18 They crossed the shallows of the Jordan to bring the king's household across the river, helping him in every way they could. David's Mercy to Shimei As the king was about to cross the river, Shimei fell down before him.

Matthew Henry's Commentary on 2 Samuel 19:18

Commentary on 2 Samuel 19:16-23

(Read 2 Samuel 19:16-23)

Those who now slight and abuse the Son of David, would be glad to make their peace when he shall come in his glory; but it will be too late. Shimei lost no time. His abuse had been personal, and with the usual right feeling of good men, David could more easily forgive it.