The phrase used by Abner is cryptic. It could imply that the land belonged to him and that he had the right to decide who would be king.1 Alternatively, it could be a question that is simply meant to encourage debate between him and David. In reality, the land belonged to the Lord (Leviticus 25:25; Deuteronomy 10:14; Psalm 24:1).
12 Abner envoya des messagers à David pour lui dire de sa part: A qui est le pays? Fais alliance avec moi, et voici, ma main t'aidera pour tourner vers toi tout Israël.