Abner proposed representative combat, similar to David’s previous fight with Goliath (see 1 Samuel 17:1–58). Instead of a big fight involving all the men from both armies, certain men were chosen to represent the armies in question.1 The outcome of their fight would then be considered as the outcome of the battle and the will of God.
14 And Abner said to Joab, “Let the young men arise and compete before us.” And Joab said, “Let them arise.”