1 Now there happened to be there a worthless man, whose name was Sheba, the son of Bichri, a Benjaminite. And he blew the trumpet and said, “We have no portion in David, and we have no inheritance in the son of Jesse; every man to his tents, O Israel!”
2 So all the men of Israel withdrew from David and followed Sheba the son of Bichri. But the men of Judah followed their king steadfastly from the Jordan to Jerusalem.
3 And David came to his house at Jerusalem. And the king took the ten concubines whom he had left to care for the house and put them in a house under guard and provided for them, but did not go in to them. So they were shut up until the day of their death, living as if in widowhood.
4 Then the king said to Amasa, “Call the men of Judah together to me within three days, and be here yourself.”
5 Amasa went to summon Judah, but he delayed beyond the set time that had been appointed him.
6 And David said to Abishai, “Now Sheba the son of Bichri will do us more harm than Absalom. Take your lord’s servants and pursue him, lest he get himself to fortified cities and escape from us.”
7 And Joab’s men went out after him, along with the Cherethites and the Pelethites, and all the mighty men. They went out from Jerusalem to pursue Sheba the son of Bichri.
8 When they were at the great stone that is in Gibeon, Amasa came to meet them. And Joab was wearing a soldier’s garment, and over it was a belt with a sword in its sheath fastened on his thigh, and as he went forward it fell out.
9 And Joab said to Amasa, “Is it well with you, my brother?” And Joab took Amasa by the beard with his right hand to kiss him.
10 But Amasa did not observe the sword that was in Joab’s hand. So Joab struck him with it in the stomach and spilled his entrails to the ground without striking a second blow, and he died. Then Joab and Abishai his brother pursued Sheba the son of Bichri.
11 And one of Joab’s young men took his stand by Amasa and said, “Whoever favors Joab, and whoever is for David, let him follow Joab.”
12 And Amasa lay wallowing in his blood in the highway. And anyone who came by, seeing him, stopped. And when the man saw that all the people stopped, he carried Amasa out of the highway and into the field and threw a garment over him.
13 And when he was removed from the highway, all the men passed on after Joab to pursue Sheba the son of Bichri.
14 And Sheba passed through all the tribes of Israel to Abel of Beth-maacah, and all the Bichrites assembled and followed him in.
15 And all the men who were with Joab came and besieged him in Abel of Beth-maacah. They cast up a mound against the city, and it stood against the rampart, and they were battering the wall to throw it down.
16 Then a wise woman called from the city, “Listen! Listen! Tell Joab, ‘Come here, that I may speak to you.’”
17 And he came near her, and the woman said, “Are you Joab?” He answered, “I am.” Then she said to him, “Listen to the words of your servant.” And he said, “I am listening.”
18 Then she said, “They used to say in former times, ‘Let them but ask counsel at Abel,’ and so they settled a matter.
19 I am one of those who are peaceable and faithful in Israel. You seek to destroy a city that is a mother in Israel. Why will you swallow up the heritage of the Lord?”
20 Joab answered, “Far be it from me, far be it, that I should swallow up or destroy!
21 That is not true. But a man of the hill country of Ephraim, called Sheba the son of Bichri, has lifted up his hand against King David. Give up him alone, and I will withdraw from the city.” And the woman said to Joab, “Behold, his head shall be thrown to you over the wall.”
22 Then the woman went to all the people in her wisdom. And they cut off the head of Sheba the son of Bichri and threw it out to Joab. So he blew the trumpet, and they dispersed from the city, every man to his home. And Joab returned to Jerusalem to the king.
23 Now Joab was in command of all the army of Israel; and Benaiah the son of Jehoiada was in command of the Cherethites and the Pelethites;
24 And Adoram was in charge of the forced labor, and Jehoshaphat the son of Ahilud was the recorder,
25 and Sheva was secretary; and Zadok and Abiathar were priests;
26 and Ira the Jairite was also David’s priest.
The True Meaning of 2 Samuel 20
The book of 2 Samuel was written by the prophet Nathan and the scribe Gad, who were close companions of King David. They provide a detailed account of David’s reign as the second king of Israel, chronicling both his triumphs and his struggles. Sheba, a man who sought to challenge David’s authority, led a rebellion, and we witness its aftermath in this chapter. David and his commanders navigate this crisis, drawing upon their wisdom and military prowess to maintain the unity of the kingdom as we delve into the events that unfold. The chapter also sheds light on the complex relationships and power dynamics within David’s court, offering valuable insights into the challenges faced by a leader during this tumultuous period in Israel’s history.
Throughout the passage, we’ll find echoes of earlier biblical narratives, such as the rebellion of Absalom in 2 Samuel 15-18. These connections serve to remind us of the ongoing struggle for power and the fragility of political stability, even in the reign of a great king like David. May we gain a deeper understanding of the complexities of leadership and the importance of unity in the face of adversity as we explore this chapter.
2 Samuel 20:1-2
Absalom’s rebellion against King David is seen in the aftermath in 2 Samuel 20:1-2. The verse states, “Now a troublemaker named Sheba son of Bikri, a Benjamite, happened to be there. He sounded the trumpet and shouted, ‘We have no share in David, no part in Jesse’s son! Every man to his tent, Israel!’ So all the men of Israel deserted David to follow Sheba son of Bikri. But the men of Judah stayed by their king all the way from the Jordan to Jerusalem.”
Here we are introduced to Sheba, a troublemaker who seized the opportunity to incite division and rebellion against King David after the turmoil caused by Absalom’s rebellion. Sheba’s call for the people of Israel to abandon David and return to their tents was a direct challenge to David’s reign and authority. Sheba’s actions highlight the constant political turmoil and power struggles that plagued the kingdom during this time.
The loyalty of the men of Judah to King David is noteworthy in these verses. Despite the chaos and tensions within the kingdom, the men of Judah remained steadfast in their support of David. This demonstrates the importance of loyalty and unity, especially in times of crisis. Their unwavering commitment to their king contrasts with the fickle nature of the other tribes of Israel who were swayed by Sheba’s rhetoric.
This episode with Sheba and the division it caused among the tribes of Israel serves as a reminder of the consequences of rebellion and disunity. It underlines the importance of remaining faithful to God-appointed leaders and the dangers of following those who seek to sow discord and lead people astray. Throughout the Bible, we see the negative outcomes of rebellion and division, and the importance of unity among God’s people.
This incident also echoes the themes of betrayal and loyalty seen throughout Scripture. It is reminiscent of the betrayal of Judas Iscariot against Jesus, where one individual’s actions led to widespread consequences. The story of Sheba also serves as a cautionary tale about the impact of leaders who exploit grievances and stir up strife for their own selfish ambitions, leading people away from God’s intended path. We, as Christians, are called to stand firm in our faith and allegiance to God, resisting the temptations of rebellion and division.
2 Samuel 20:3
David took the ten concubines he had left to take care of the palace and put them in a house under guard when he came to his palace in Jerusalem, as stated in 2 Samuel 20:3. He provided for them but had no sexual relations with them. They were kept in confinement till the day of their death, living as widows.” This verse follows the aftermath of Absalom’s rebellion against King David. Absalom had publicly slept with David’s concubines to assert his authority over the kingdom, fulfilling the prophecy made by Nathan the prophet in 2 Samuel 12:11-12.
The mention of David’s concubines being put in a house under guard and living as widows has significant implications. Confining them signaled the end of their roles as intimate companions to the king, reflective of a new era in David’s reign where trust was shattered and relationships were broken due to Absalom’s rebellion. This event highlights the consequences of sin not only on the individual, as seen with Absalom’s sinful act, but also on those connected to them.
While the plight of these concubines is bleak, it serves as a reminder of the repercussions of sin and the importance of righteous leadership. David’s actions, although seeking to protect his concubines, also reflect a lack of restoration and forgiveness. This can be contrasted with other biblical stories like that of the prodigal son in Luke 15:11-32, where forgiveness and reconciliation are central themes.
The treatment of the concubines also reflects the broader narrative of the treatment of women in ancient societies and the importance of justice and mercy in the face of oppression. This episode adds a layer of complexity to David’s character and reign, showcasing the tangled consequences of both personal and political sin. This verse ultimately serves as a sobering reminder of the lasting effects of sin and the necessity of seeking forgiveness and reconciliation in the midst of brokenness.
2 Samuel 20:4-10
The verse 2 Samuel 20:4-10 narrates a significant event in the turbulent time of King David’s reign, after Absalom’s failed rebellion. A remarkable woman enters the scene in this section, and her actions have far-reaching consequences. The breakdown of the verse is as follows:
- “Then the king said to Amasa, ‘Call the men of Judah together to me within three days, and be present here yourself.’” (2 Samuel 20:4)
-
King David instructs Amasa to gather the men of Judah quickly. Amasa had recently been appointed as the commander of David’s army by Absalom as a political maneuver to gain the support of Judah against David. However, David’s pardon of Amasa was an attempt to reconcile with the tribe of Judah and reassert his authority over the kingdom.
-
“So Amasa went to assemble the men of Judah, but he took longer than the set time which David had appointed him.” (2 Samuel 20:5)
-
Amasa’s delay in gathering the men of Judah within the specified three days shows a lack of organization or urgency. This failure on Amasa’s part to meet the king’s deadline would have serious repercussions in the events that follow.
-
“And David said to Abishai, ‘Now Sheba the son of Bichri will do us more harm than Absalom. Take your lord’s servants and pursue him, lest he find for himself fortified cities, and escape us.’” (2 Samuel 20:6)
-
David recognizes the threat posed by Sheba, a rebel leader, who could potentially cause more damage than Absalom did. This acknowledgment emphasizes the ongoing political unrest and David’s need to assert his authority to maintain stability in the kingdom.
-
“So Joab’s men, with the Cherethites, the Pelethites, and all the mighty men, went out after him. And they went out of Jerusalem to pursue Sheba the son of Bichri.” (2 Samuel 20:7)
-
Joab, David’s former commander, leads a pursuit after Sheba, the rebel, demonstrating his loyalty to David despite their past conflicts. Joab’s military prowess and reputation as a strong leader prove instrumental in dealing with the threat posed by Sheba.
-
“When they were at the large stone which is in Gibeon, Amasa came before them. Now Joab was dressed in battle armor; on it was a belt with a sword fastened in its sheath at his hips; and as he was going forward, it fell out.” (2 Samuel 20:8)
-
Here, Amasa encounters Joab on the way to pursue Sheba. Joab’s appearance in battle gear with a sword dropping from its sheath highlights the imminent danger and tension in the encounter, foreshadowing a violent turn of events.
-
“Then Joab said to Amasa, ‘Are you in health, my brother?’ And Joab took Amasa by the beard with his right hand to kiss him.” (2 Samuel 20:9)
-
Joab’s seemingly friendly gesture towards Amasa is deceptively treacherous. Joab conceals his true intentions by embracing him as a brother and kissing him, which are revealed in the following verse.
-
“But Amasa did not notice the sword that was in Joab’s hand. And he struck him with it in the stomach, and his entrails poured out on the ground; and he did not strike him… ” (2 Samuel 20:10a)
- The climax of this passage is Joab’s brutal act of assassinating Amasa. Joab eliminates Amasa as a rival by deceitfully gaining his trust and then delivering a fatal blow, a ruthless act that solidifies Joab’s position as David’s chief commander, despite his controversial methods.
The narrative of betrayal, power struggles, and violence in this passage serves as a poignant reminder of the consequences of political ambition and the destructive nature of human sin. It also sheds light on the complexities of relationships and loyalties, as seen through the characters of Joab and Amasa. This event mirrors other instances in the Bible where loyalty is tested, such as Judas’ betrayal of Jesus for thirty pieces of silver in Matthew 26:14-16. It emphasizes the biblical theme of trusting in God alone rather than in human power or alliances, as demonstrated by David’s reliance on God’s guidance throughout his reign.
2 Samuel 20:11-13
The wise woman of Abel Beth Maacah in 2 Samuel 20:11-13 plays a significant role in averting a potentially disastrous situation. She addresses Joab, the commander of David’s army, when he besieges her city to capture Sheba, a rebel who has taken refuge there. This woman’s courage and shrewdness are evident as she negotiates with Joab. She stands on the city wall and engages in dialogue with him, highlighting the peace-loving nature of her city and its commitment to righteousness and faithfulness.
This passage underscores the powerful impact of wisdom, eloquence, and diplomacy in diffusing conflicts. The wise woman’s words resonate with timeless truths about the value of peace, demonstrating how a calm and reasoned approach can de-escalate tensions and bring about resolution. Her actions serve as a reminder of the importance of seeking peaceful solutions and striving for reconciliation rather than resorting to violence and warfare.
Furthermore, this narrative echoes the theme of the power of women in the Bible. Throughout the scriptures, we see numerous instances where women, often marginalized in society, play pivotal roles in shaping events and influencing outcomes. This parallels with the overarching message in the Bible of the intrinsic value and importance of all individuals, regardless of gender or status.
The story of the wise woman of Abel Beth Maacah also aligns with biblical teachings on the qualities of wisdom and prudence. Proverbs 14:1 states, “The wise woman builds her house, but with her own hands the foolish one tears hers down.” This woman exemplifies the wisdom and discernment that characterize a virtuous person, illustrating the positive impact that such traits can have on individuals and communities. The narrative in 2 Samuel 20:11-13 illustrates the influence of wisdom, diplomacy, and righteousness in navigating conflicts and promoting peace. It underscores the significance of choosing words carefully, seeking understanding, and pursuing reconciliation, rather than allowing differences to escalate into violence and strife. The enduring message of the Bible ultimately emphasizes the importance of pursuing peace, practicing wisdom, and upholding justice in all aspects of life.
2 Samuel 20:14-15
A significant incident involving a wise woman from the city of Abel Beth Maakah occurs in 2 Samuel 20:14-15. The context of this narrative is essential to understanding its significance. Following the rebellion of Sheba, a troublemaker who led a revolt against King David, he was pursued by Joab, the commander of David’s army. Joab besieged the city of Abel Beth Maakah to capture Sheba as he sought refuge there. A wise woman emerged as a peacemaker in this dire situation. She displayed remarkable wisdom and courage in negotiating with Joab. Her plea to spare the city instead of destroying it to capture Sheba reflects not only her concern for the innocent lives in the city but also demonstrates her understanding of the consequences of Joab’s actions. She addresses Joab with humility and pragmatism, appealing to his sense of reason and avoiding unnecessary bloodshed.
This unnamed woman serves as an exemplary figure of wisdom in the Bible. Her actions align with the wisdom literature found in Proverbs and Ecclesiastes, emphasizing the value of prudence, diplomacy, and the importance of seeking peaceful resolutions in times of conflict. Her intervention also highlights the power of righteous and discerning individuals to influence outcomes even in the midst of chaos and turmoil. Her bravery in standing up to Joab, a powerful military leader, showcases the strength of character and conviction. Themes of redemption and mercy that we see throughout the Bible echo in this story. The woman’s plea for the city’s salvation mirrors the biblical principle of intercession and the belief in the possibility of salvation even in the midst of judgment. Her actions parallel those of other heroines in the Bible, such as Deborah or Esther, who used their wisdom and courage to bring about positive change in challenging circumstances.
The narrative of the wise woman of Abel Beth Maakah serves as a reminder of the enduring relevance of wisdom, compassion, and diplomacy in resolving conflicts and promoting peace. It also underscores the profound impact that individuals, particularly women, can have in shaping the course of history through their actions and choices. This passage challenges readers to reflect on their own responses to conflict and adversity, inspiring them to seek peaceful solutions and to embody wisdom and righteousness in their interactions with others.
2 Samuel 20:16-22
A wise woman from the city of Abel Beth Maacah negotiated with Joab, the commander of David’s army, to save her city from destruction in the famous story found in 2 Samuel 20:16-22. The verse reads, “Then a wise woman called from the city, ‘Listen! Listen! Tell Joab, ‘Come here so I can speak to you.’” This woman perceived the imminent danger her city faced as Joab’s army besieged it. She took it upon herself to confront Joab and present her case, displaying remarkable wisdom and courage.
The actions of this wise woman are noteworthy for several reasons. Firstly, her willingness to engage in dialogue with a powerful military leader like Joab shows her incredible boldness and intelligence. Her initiative in seeking a peaceful resolution to the conflict rather than resorting to violence is commendable and exemplifies the importance of diplomacy and negotiation in resolving disputes. This narrative highlights the significant role that individuals, regardless of their social status or gender, can play in shaping the outcome of historical events.
Furthermore, the wise woman’s actions shed light on the theme of the value of wisdom highlighted throughout the Bible. Proverbs 4:6-7 states, “Do not forsake wisdom, and she will protect you; love her, and she will watch over you. The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom. Though it cost all you have, get understanding.” This story serves as a powerful example of how wisdom can be a powerful tool in averting disaster and resolving conflicts.
Additionally, the woman’s plea to Joab emphasizes the importance of compassion and empathy in leadership. Her words were not only aimed at saving her city but also at appealing to Joab’s humanity and sense of justice. This serves as a reminder that leaders should consider the well-being of all individuals, even in the midst of conflict and war. The narrative of the wise woman of Abel Beth Maacah in 2 Samuel 20:16-22 offers valuable lessons on the power of wisdom, courage, diplomacy, and compassion in the face of adversity. Her actions serve as a timeless example of how individuals can make a difference in challenging circumstances and influence the course of history for the better.
2 Samuel 20:23-26
David’s officials and their roles within his kingdom are described in 2 Samuel 20:23-26. Let’s break down this verse to gain a deeper understanding:
“And Joab was over all the host of Israel: and Benaiah the son of Jehoiada was over the Cherethites and over the Pelethites: And Adoram was over the tribute: and Jehoshaphat the son of Ahilud was recorder: And Sheva was scribe: and Zadok and Abiathar were the priests: And Ira also the Jairite was a chief ruler about David.”
Firstly, Joab being described as “over all the host of Israel” was David’s military commander. Joab was known for his skill in warfare and his loyalty to David, although he also had moments of great controversy and violence throughout his time serving David. His actions, both good and bad, offer a complex look at loyalty, duty, and the consequences of one’s actions. Joab’s story arc highlights the importance of loyalty and the consequences of acting out of personal interest rather than for the greater good.
Benaiah, the son of Jehoiada, was appointed over the Cherethites and Pelethites, who were likely David’s bodyguards or elite soldiers. Benaiah was a valiant warrior known for his many heroic deeds, including killing a lion in a snowy pit and defeating two of Moab’s mightiest men. His loyalty and bravery are evident throughout his actions. The story of Benaiah emphasizes courage, faithfulness, and the rewards of serving faithfully under a leader like David, who valued these qualities in his commanders.
Adoram being “over the tribute” indicates his role in collecting taxes or tribute for the kingdom. Efficient management of financial matters was crucial for the stability and prosperity of the kingdom. The reference to Adoram highlights the importance of administration and financial stewardship in any organization, including the divine principle of giving, as seen in passages such as Malachi 3:10 which talks about bringing the whole tithe into the storehouse.
Jehoshaphat, the son of Ahilud, served as the recorder, which likely involved keeping records and chronicles of the kingdom’s affairs. Chronicling events was important for historical accuracy and for passing down stories from one generation to the next. This emphasizes the significance of recording and preserving history, an important theme throughout the Bible, as seen in verses like Deuteronomy 32:7 which encourages remembering the past and learning from it.
Sheva served as the scribe, responsible for writing and potentially interpreting legal documents and royal decrees. The role of the scribe underscores the importance of literacy, communication, and accurate transmission of important messages. This is reminiscent of the emphasis on the Word of God itself and the significance of accurately recording and transmitting His messages, as highlighted in passages like Psalm 119:105 which describes the Word as a lamp to our feet and a light to our path.
Zadok and Abiathar were priests, responsible for the spiritual well-being of the nation. The presence of two high priests indicates the division and conflict within the priesthood during David’s reign, as both were initially loyal to David but later supported different claimants to the throne. This highlights the importance of spiritual leadership and the consequences of straying from God’s commands, as seen in the numerous accounts throughout the Old Testament where leaders face repercussions for their actions.
After 2 Samuel 20
The chapter concluded with the death of the rebel Sheba. Though the kingdom had been spared from further bloodshed, the scars of civil war remained. The reverend knew that the true test lay ahead as the people sought to rebuild. For in the aftermath of such turmoil, the true strength of a nation’s faith would be revealed. The reverend could only hope that the people would turn to the Lord, lest they be consumed by the darkness that had threatened to engulf them.
Reverend Ogunlade is a seasoned Church Minister with over three decades of experience in guiding and nurturing congregations. With profound wisdom and a serene approach, Reverend Ogunlade has carried out various pastoral duties, including delivering uplifting sermons, conducting religious ceremonies, and offering sage counsel to individuals seeking spiritual guidance. Their commitment to fostering harmony and righteousness within their community is exemplified through their compassionate nature, making them a beloved and trusted figure among the congregation.