2 Samuel 16
Meaning of 2 Samuel 16
2 Samuel 16 is a chapter in the second book of Samuel, an Old Testament book in the Bible. The chapter itself describes several events in the life of King David when he was fleeing from his son Absalom, who had usurped his throne.
1. The chapter begins with David being brought food and other provisions by Ziba, the servant of Mephibosheth. Ziba uses this chance to lie about his master, claiming that Mephibosheth is trying to retake the throne of his grandfather, Saul. This isn’t true as later revealed in 2 Samuel 19.
2. As David proceeds with his flee, he meets Shimei, who is from the same clan as Saul. Shimei curses and throws stones at David, blaming him for the downfall of the house of Saul. One of David’s men suggests killing Shimei, but David prevents him, interpreting his mistreatment as a punishment from God for his past sins.
3. David reaches Bahurim and is offered hospitality by a wealthy man called Barzillai.
4. The episode ends dramatically with the betrayal of David by his advisor Ahithophel, who joins Absalom’s rebellion. Ahithophel advises Absalom to sleep with his father’s concubines to demonstrate his control over David’s house. Absalom follows this advice, fulfilling the prophecy made by Nathan in 2 Samuel 12 about the public disgrace David will suffer because of his sin with Bathsheba.
Broadly, this chapter is often viewed as an illustration of the consequences of David’s sins, the complexities of political power, and the trials and tribulations faced by David. It expresses themes of betrayal, penance, and the struggle between human ego and divine will.
2 Samuel 16 kjv
2 Samuel 16 is a chapter in the Old Testament of the King James Version (KJV) of the Bible. Here’s a basic summary of the chapter:
The chapter begins with David being met by Ziba, the servant of Mephibosheth (the disabled son of Saul’s son Jonathan). Ziba brings David supplies and falsely claims Mephibosheth has stayed in Jerusalem to reclaim his grandfather Saul’s throne. David, believing Ziba, gives him all of Mephibosheth’s properties.
Then David is cursed and pelted with stones by Shimei, a member of Saul’s family. Shimei accuses David of taking Saul’s throne unjustly and being a man of bloodshed. When Abishai, David’s nephew, offers to kill Shimei for his insults, David doesn’t allow it, suggesting that God might have ordered Shimei to curse him.
The last part of 2 Samuel 16 describes Absalom’s (David’s son) entry into Jerusalem. Ahithophel, David’s former advisor who has defected to Absalom, advises Absalom to sleep with David’s concubines as a public assertion of his power. Absalom does this in sight of all Israel, fulfilling Nathan’s earlier prophecy in 2 Samuel 12:11-12.
In summary, this chapter describes further troubles for David during the time of his son Absalom’s rebellion. It encapsulates themes of deception, disrespect, prophecy fulfillment, and power plays during the time of David’s reign.
2 Samuel 16 nkjv
2 Samuel 16, in the New King James Version (NKJV) of the Bible, presents an episode in the life of King David, where his rule is being challenged by his own son, Absalom.
1. The chapter starts with David being met by Ziba, the former servant of Jonathan. Ziba provides David and his company with provisions for their journey, which David sees as a kindness. Ziba also tells David that his master, Mephibosheth (the son of Jonathan and grandson of King Saul), has stayed in Jerusalem saying that now the house of Israel will restore to him his grandfather’s kingdom.
2. From this conversation, David decides that everything that belonged to Mephibosheth shall now belong to Ziba.
3. As David continues his journey, he is then cursed by a man named Shimei, who is from the family of Saul. Shimei throws stones and curses David, blaming him for the bloodshed of Saul’s house.
4. Despite being urged by his men to kill Shimei, David refuses, stating that perhaps the Lord has told Shimei to curse him, and he accepts his humiliation as God’s will.
5. Meanwhile, the story shifts to Absalom, David’s son, who had now entered Jerusalem. He is given advice by Ahithophel, previously David’s counselor, to sleep with David’s concubines in front of all Israel to demonstrate his power and to solidify his breach with David.
6. The chapter ends mentioning that in those days, the advice of Ahithophel was highly regarded by both David and Absalom.
In this chapter, David is facing a serious crisis with his rule, and there seems to be a change in his fortunes along with the rise of Absalom. However, he remains steadfast in his faith, expressing acceptance of his situation and carrying his faith in God’s plan. The chapter delves into themes of betrayal, rebellion, and penance.
2 Samuel 16 niv
2 Samuel 16 is a chapter in the Old Testament of the Bible, specifically in the second book of Samuel (NIV stands for New International Version, one of the translations). The chapter tells about the time of Absalom’s rebellion against his father, King David.
Here is a general explanation of the chapter:
1-4: In the beginning of the chapter, David encounters Ziba, the servant of Mephibosheth, Jonathan’s son. Ziba comes bearing gifts and informs David that Mephibosheth has stayed in Jerusalem hoping to claim the throne. David, in response, decides to give Ziba everything that belonged to Mephibosheth in return for his support.
5-14: Next, David is confronted by Shimei, a man from Saul’s family, who curses David, throws stones, and accuses him of being a murderer and a scoundrel. Even when one of his men offers to kill Shimei, David doesn’t allow it. David suggests that maybe God has told Shimei to curse him. David and his men continue onwards.
15-19: Meanwhile, Absalom and all his supporters arrive in Jerusalem. Hushai the Arkite, a friend and confidant of David that was sent back to Jerusalem to sabotage Absalom’s plans, also arrives and offers his services to Absalom.
20-23: Towards the end of the chapter, Absalom seeks the counsel of Ahithophel. Ahithophel advises him to sleep with David’s concubines, in order to demonstrate his power and the extent of his father’s disgrace. Absalom follows this advice, thus fulfilling Nathan’s prophecy in 2 Samuel 12:11.
It’s a chapter full of politics, intrigue, and escalating conflict in the time of King David.
What is 2 Samuel 16 all about?
2 Samuel 16 is a chapter in the Old Testament of the Bible. It continues the narratives concerning King David’s reign and the challenges he faced, mainly focusing on two individual events.
1. David and Ziba: The chapter starts with the story of Ziba, the servant of Mephibosheth, Saul’s grandson. David had earlier shown Mephibosheth kindness and given him the property of Saul’s family. Now, as David was fleeing Jerusalem due to Absalom’s rebellion, Ziba met him with supplies, claiming that Mephibosheth stayed in Jerusalem hoping to gain the throne. This led David to decide that the property earlier given to Mephibosheth should instead be given to Ziba.
2. Shimei Curses David: Another main event in this chapter is when Shimei, part of Saul’s house, cursed David as he fled from Jerusalem. Shimei blamed David for Saul’s downfall, accusing him of bloodshed. Though David was advised to kill him, he refrained, accepting the curses as perhaps God’s will due to his guilt over Bathsheba and Uriah.
Later in the chapter, we see Ahithophel, David’s former counselor, becoming advisor to Absalom. His first advice to Absalom was to sleep with his father’s concubines, partly as a symbolic act showing Absalom’s claim to David’s throne, and partly as a fulfillment of the prophecy made to David because of his sin with Bathsheba.
The events in this chapter reflect the larger narrative of two themes: the consequences David is facing due to his misdeeds, and the ongoing political and familial dynamics around the kingship of Israel.
What does 2 Samuel 16 teaches?
2 Samuel 16 is a chapter from the second book of Samuel, a book in the Old Testament of the Bible. It records some significant events in the life of King David, primarily focusing on his fleeing from his rebellious son, Absalom.
In this chapter, there are three main narratives:
1. The story of David and Ziba: Ziba, who was a servant of Saul’s family, met David as he was fleeing from Jerusalem and lied to David about his master, Mephibosheth, saying that Mephibosheth stayed in Jerusalem hoping that he would become king. Believing Ziba’s words, David gave him all of Mephibosheth’s properties. This story teaches us about deceit and its potential benefits, albeit deceit that will likely be discovered later.
2. The episode of Shimei cursing David: As David and his men were leaving Jerusalem, a man named Shimei from the family of Saul cursed David, throwing stones and dirt at him and blaming him for Saul’s death. David’s men wanted to kill Shimei, but David stopped them, choosing instead to bear the insult and trust in God’s justice. This incident teaches a lesson in humility, patience, and trust in God during times of distress and humiliation.
3. The betrayal of Ahithophel: Ahithophel was one of David’s trusted advisors, but he turned to Absalom, providing him with counsel. In this episode, Ahithophel advised Absalom to sleep with his fathers’ concubines, which Absalom did in the sight of all Israel. This act was both an absolute act of disrespect to David and a proclamation of Absalom’s claim to his father’s throne. Ahithophel’s betrayal may serve as a reminder of the pain of betrayal and the destructiveness of power struggle and rebellion.
In conclusion, 2 Samuel 16 teaches values such as trust in God’s justice, the virtue of endurance in the face of humiliation, and the potential pain of betrayal. It also provides a warning against deception and the pitfalls of a power struggle. As with many biblical texts, interpretations can vary widely based on perspective and doctrine.
A Sermon on 2 Samuel 16
2 Samuel 16 is a chapter from the Old Testament of the Bible, involving the lives and times of King David and his son, Absalom. Understanding this chapter involves knowing the background story of family discord, strife, and royal conflict. Below is a breakdown of the chapter.
2 Samuel 16 starts with King David leaving Jerusalem because his son Absalom has revolted against him – aiming to overtake his throne. David is in a state of disgrace and humiliation, fleeing from his own city and son. This situation reminds us that even those in high positions can face hardships and that God might not spare his most beloved from testing times.
Verses 1-4: Here we see David having an encounter with Ziba, the servant of Mephibosheth. Ziba brings gifts to David as an act of allegiance, and then falsely accuses his master Mephibosheth of treason. David does not cross-check the information and hastily rewards Ziba, indicating how appearances can be deceptive and how ensuring proper judgment is crucial.
Verses 5-14: We see Shimei, a man from Saul’s family, cursing and throwing stones at David, believing that David is being punished by God for seizing the throne from Saul. Instead of retaliating, David restrains his men, showing patience and humility in accepting the humiliation, viewing it as a part of God’s will. This teaches us about forbearance and accepting whatever comes as God’s will.
Verses 15-19: Absalom enters Jerusalem and is advised by Hushai, David’s friend, who expresses his loyalty to him. However, Hushai actually remains loyal to David and is acting as a spy, teaching us that loyalty and wisdom are vital during times of crisis.
Verses 20-23: Absalom publicly sleeps with David’s concubines on advice from Ahithophel, an affair symbolizing the usurpation of David’s throne. This act is sinful and disrupts moral laws, signaling Absalom’s downfall.
The overall lesson from 2 Samuel 16 is a mix of humility, loyalty, deceit, forbearance, and the significance of divine retribution. It reminds us of the unpredictable nature of life but simultaneously reassures us about the presence of God’s justice. Can we remain patient and humble like David in times of trouble? Or, do we quickly judge and act impulsively? Our faith, patience, wisdom, and humility during trying times are what define us.
Key people in 2 Samuel 16
1. David: David is the central figure in 2 Samuel 16. He is the second king of Israel and is fleeing from his son Absalom who has seized the throne.
2. Ziba: He is Saul’s former servant. He meets David and his people as they are fleeing Jerusalem and shows kindness to them by bringing provisions. He also tells David that Mephibosheth has stayed in Jerusalem in the hope of claiming the kingdom.
3. Mephibosheth: He is Jonathan’s son and Saul’s grandson. Mephibosheth, who is disabled, stayed in Jerusalem when David fled, raising suspicions about his loyalty. Ziba implies that Mephibosheth is hoping to reclaim his grandfather Saul’s throne.
4. Shimei: Shimei was from the same clan as Saul, the former king. He curses David as he leaves Jerusalem, throws rocks at him, and accuses him of being a bloodied man and a man of Belial (worthlessness).
5. Absalom: Absalom is David’s son who has rebelled against his father, seizing control of Jerusalem and proclaiming himself king.
6. Ahithophel: He is David’s former adviser who has aligned himself with Absalom. Ahithophel advises Absalom to sleep with David’s concubines, essentially marking a point of no return in his rebellion against David.
7. Hushai: Hushai is a close friend and loyalist of David’s who pretends to defect to Absalom’s camp at David’s request. He is there to counteract Ahithophel’s advice, serve as a spy, and relay information back to David.
8. David’s Concubines: They are left behind to look after the palace. Absalom sleeps with them in public view, following Ahithophel’s advice, as a way of demonstrating his dominance and control over his father’s kingdom. Their dignity and wellbeing are compromised as a result of this power play.
These characters contribute to the narrative of conflict, loyalty, deception, and divine justice that unfolds in this part of 2 Samuel.
Real world examples on 2 Samuel 16
2 Samuel 16 shows King David in a time of personal crisis, where he faces opposition from his own son, Absalom, as well as being ridiculed by Shimei, a member of Saul’s house. Despite this, King David shows restraint in these adverse situations, trusting in God’s plans for him, which ultimately turns out for his good.
Real World Examples:
1. Family Opposition: Similarly, in real life, people often face opposition or betrayal from those near and dear to them- family or close friends. David’s situation with Absalom can be seen as a reflection of instances when family or friends, driven by their own ambition or misguided perceptions, go against their loved ones.
2. Public Humiliation: The mockery and insults David receives from Shimei could be compared to situations where people face public humiliation or slander. The way David handles this cite, with patience, suggests how one might proceed in such situations – not by vengeance but by maintaining dignity and trusting in the justice of a higher power or in time’s capacity to reveal the truth.
3. Grace in Troubled Times: David’s decision to let Shimei curse him since “the Lord hath said unto him, Curse David.” exemplifies grace under fire and trust in God, a valuable lesson for all who are going through tricky periods. Often, we can find parallels in life where maintaining one’s composure during difficult times eventually leads to perseverance and better days ahead.
4. Taking Wise Counsel: The chapter also highlights the importance of having good counsel. Hushai, a loyal friend and advisor, plays a crucial role in foiling Absalom’s plans. This can be correlated with our lives emphasizing the importance of good, trusted advisers who can guide us when we face confusing or threatening situations.
Remember, the personal successes or failures we draw from these stories may differ from one individual to another as everyone has their unique set of experiences and interpretations influenced by their faith, ideology, or personal beliefs.
Brief Explanation of 2 Samuel 16
2 Samuel 16 is a part of the Old Testament of the Bible that continues the narrative of King David’s reign.
The chapter begins with David fleeing from his rebellious son, Absalom. On his journey, he encounters Ziba, a servant of Saul’s household who offers him provisions out of loyalty. As David continues his flight, he encounters Shimei, a man from Saul’s family who curses David and throws stones at him, blaming him for Saul’s death. Despite the advice from his men to kill Shimei, David shows mercy.
In the latter part of the chapter, Absalom enters Jerusalem and is advised by Ahithophel, David’s former counsellor who has sided with Absalom, to go into his father’s concubines as a show of power and an act of great insult to David. This act signifies the total appropriation of David’s throne. The chapter ends with Absalom following Ahithophel’s advice.
Overall, this chapter portrays David as a king facing personal devastation and intense opposition, testing his mercy and humility. Meanwhile Absalom’s actions depict a young, ruthless contender for the throne, guided by clever but morally questionable counselors.
Frequently asked questions for 2 Samuel 16
1. Who was throwing stones at King David in 2 Samuel 16?
In this chapter, we learn about a man named Shimei from the same clan as Saul’s family. He insulted and threw stones at King David, cursing him as he did so.
2. Why is Ziba lying about Mephibosheth in 2 Samuel 16: 1-4?
Ziba seems to have lied about Mephibosheth to gain personal benefits. When David fled Jerusalem after Absalom’s revolt, Ziba deceived David by saying that Mephibosheth stayed in Jerusalem hoping that the house of Israel would restore the kingdom to him. For this report, David gave Ziba what belonged to Mephibosheth.
3. How did David respond to Shimei’s cursing in 2 Samuel 16: 5-14?
Instead of ordering his death, David allows Shimei to continue his cursing and throwing stones, stating that it may be the Lord’s will and perhaps the Lord will see his distress and repay him with good.
4. Who was Ahithophel, and why was his counsel highly regarded as mentioned in 2 Samuel 16: 23?
Ahithophel was one of David’s counselors who later joined Absalom during his rebellion against David. The Bible suggests that his advice was so highly valued that it was ‘as if one had inquired of the word of God’. His counsel was mainly sought for its wisdom and understanding.
5. What role did Hushai the Arkite play in 2 Samuel 16:15-19?
Hushai the Arkite was a friend and loyal supporter of King David. Upon David’s instruction, Hushai pretended to defect to Absalom to counteract the counsel of Ahithophel, thus giving opportunity to send information back to David.
6. What was the significance of Absalom sleeping with his father’s concubines on the roof in 2 Samuel 16: 20-23?
Absalom sleeping with David’s concubines was an act of political significance, showing the public that he had assumed authority and that there was no chance of reconciliation with David. It was also fulfillment of Nathan’s prophecy in 2 Samuel 12:11-12 that David would be punished for his sin with Bathsheba by having his wives taken by someone close to him in broad daylight.
Possible References for 2 Samuel 16
2 Samuel 16 is a chapter in the Old Testament of the Bible that details some events during King David’s reign.
Here are some possible references:
1. Absalom’s Conspiracy (2 Samuel 16:1-14): The chapter begins with Ziba, a servant of Saul, offering David donkeys and provisions to win David’s favour. Further, Shimei, a man from Saul’s family, curses David, throwing stones at him and his servants. Despite the provocations, David does not retaliate or allow his men to kill Shimei, but accepts his insults with humility.
2. Ahithophel’s Advice (2 Samuel 16:15-19): When Absalom reaches Jerusalem he asked Ahithophel (David’s former counselor) for advice. Ahithophel was known for his wise counsel and his words were highly valued. This increases Absalom’s confidence in his coup.
3. Ahithophel’s Counsel about Bathsheba(2 Samuel 16:20-23): Ahithophel advises Absalom to sleep with his father’s concubines (which were considered property of David), as a show of power. This was believed to be a way to strengthen his position as king by committing a public act that was considered a point of no return in his rebellion against David.
In summation, 2 Samuel 16 is pivotal in many ways. King David’s personal weakness and decisions have consequences as his kingdom is undermined by those closest to him. Absalom’s rebellion and Ahithophel’s counsel to Absalom show how the prophecy about troubles within David’s own house (predicted by prophet Nathan in 2 Samuel 12) was coming true.
Conclusion on 2 Samuel 16
2 Samuel 16 is a chapter from the Old Testament of the Bible, outlining the challenges King David faced during his rule. The conclusion of this chapter centers around the humiliation of David by Shimei, a man from the same clan as Saul’s family, and the advice given to Absalom by Ahithophel, previously a counselor to David.
In essence, the conclusion involves David being cursed and pelted with stones by Shimei as he flees Jerusalem, a symbolism showcasing David’s humiliation and vulnerability. Despite his men’s insistence to retaliate, David opts not to, suggesting that this might be divine punishment for his previous sins.
Meanwhile, Ahithophel advises Absalom to sleep with his father’s concubines, which he does. Ahithophel’s advice is seen as words from God himself, illustrating his significant influence. Absalom’s actions, performed publicly on a rooftop, are direct defiance and an attempt to undermine David’s throne, fulfilling Nathan’s prophecy from 2 Samuel 12.
In conclusion, 2 Samuel 16 chronicles a period of hardship for David, a low point in his reign caused by his family strife, prior sins, and political intrigue. By showing his humility and acceptance of his fate, David’s character depth is further developed. At the same time, Absalom’s actions show his ambition and lack of moral restraint, setting the stage for further conflict.