שמואל ב, פרק ד׳, פסוק י״ב

A harsh and public execution serves as a powerful statement of justice and a warning to the nation. David responds to the murder of Ish-bosheth with severe measures, commanding the young men in his presence to execute the killers [ביאור שטיינזלץ]. Following the execution, the men's limbs are severed [מצודת ציון] in order to publicly disgrace them [ביאור שטיינזלץ]. This carries a deep symbolic meaning, as the punishment directly mirrors the crime: the hands that physically committed the murder and the feet that hurried to bring the news to David are specifically targeted [מלבי״ם].

Their bodies and severed limbs are then hung by the pool, near the entrance of the water [מצודת ציון]. This prominent location guarantees that the public witnesses the punishment of these wicked individuals [ביאור שטיינזלץ]. There are two primary reasons for such a visible display. First, it proves to the people that David acts with complete integrity, willing to avenge the blood of Saul’s household even though they are his political rivals [רד״ק]. Second, it creates a strict deterrent, ensuring that no one else will dare to attack a royal figure. Because of the extreme nature of the crime, this severe punishment is carried out under the special authority of a royal decree, rather than through the standard rules of Torah law [מלבי״ם].

In contrast to the public disgrace of the murderers, the victim is treated with respect. Ish-bosheth's head is taken and buried in Abner's grave in Hebron. This location is chosen because Abner is a family member, and there is no closer or more practical place for a proper burial at that moment [ביאור שטיינזלץ].