2 Samuel 11:4

Then David sent messengers to get her, and when she came to him, he slept with her. (Now she had just purified herself from her uncleanness.) Then she returned home.

Study Bible

Then David sent messengers
The Hebrew word for "sent" is שָׁלַח (shalach), which often implies a deliberate action or command. In the context of ancient Israel, a king's word was authoritative, and his messengers acted with his full authority. This phrase highlights David's active role in initiating the events that follow, underscoring his responsibility. The use of "messengers" indicates a formal and official act, reflecting the power dynamics at play. David's decision to send for Bathsheba marks a pivotal moment of moral failure, as he abuses his kingly authority for personal desire.

to bring her
The phrase "to bring her" suggests a lack of agency on Bathsheba's part. The Hebrew verb לָקַח (laqach) means "to take" or "to fetch," indicating that Bathsheba was brought to David without her consent being a factor. This reflects the cultural and societal norms of the time, where women often had limited autonomy, especially in the face of royal authority. The narrative here subtly critiques the misuse of power and foreshadows the consequences of David's actions.

and she came to him
This phrase can be seen as a continuation of the previous action, emphasizing Bathsheba's compliance with the king's summons. The Hebrew verb בּוֹא (bo) means "to come" or "to enter," and while it describes Bathsheba's physical movement, it also highlights the inevitability of the situation given the power imbalance. The text does not provide Bathsheba's perspective, which invites readers to consider the complexities of her position and the societal constraints she faced.

and he slept with her
The Hebrew verb שָׁכַב (shakab) is used here, which means "to lie down" or "to sleep with," often implying sexual relations. This phrase marks the culmination of David's sin, as he violates the sanctity of marriage and God's commandments. From a conservative Christian perspective, this act is a grave moral failing, illustrating the dangers of unchecked desire and the importance of adhering to God's laws. It serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of sin and the need for repentance.

Now she had just purified herself from her uncleanness
This phrase refers to the ritual purification required after menstruation, as outlined in Levitical law (Leviticus 15:19-30). The Hebrew word טָהֵר (taher) means "to be clean" or "to purify." This detail is significant because it establishes the timeline for Bathsheba's conception, confirming that she was not pregnant before her encounter with David. It also underscores the irony of the situation: Bathsheba had just completed a ritual act of purification, only to be drawn into an act that would lead to moral and spiritual impurity.

Then she returned to her house
The phrase "returned to her house" signifies the end of the encounter and Bathsheba's return to her normal life, albeit now irrevocably changed. The Hebrew verb שׁוּב (shuv) means "to return" or "to go back," indicating a physical movement but also symbolizing a return to reality after a moment of transgression. This return marks the beginning of the unfolding consequences of David's actions, setting the stage for the subsequent narrative of sin, repentance, and redemption. It serves as a reminder of the enduring impact of sin and the need for accountability and reconciliation with God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. David
The King of Israel, a man after God's own heart, who falls into sin by committing adultery with Bathsheba.

2. Bathsheba
The wife of Uriah, who is brought to David and becomes pregnant by him.

3. Messengers
Individuals sent by David to bring Bathsheba to him, playing a role in the unfolding of this event.

4. Jerusalem
The city where these events take place, serving as the backdrop for David's moral failure.

5. Purification
Bathsheba had just completed a ritual purification, indicating the timing of the event and her state of ceremonial cleanliness.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Sin
David's actions lead to a series of tragic events, reminding us that sin often has far-reaching consequences.

The Importance of Accountability
David's isolation as king may have contributed to his moral failure. We need accountability in our lives to help prevent sin.

The Deceptiveness of Desire
David's desire for Bathsheba led him to ignore God's commandments. We must guard our hearts against desires that lead us away from God.

The Need for Repentance
Despite his sin, David's later repentance shows the importance of turning back to God and seeking His forgiveness.

God's Grace and Redemption
Even in the midst of sin, God's grace is available. David's lineage ultimately leads to Jesus, demonstrating God's redemptive plan.

Bible Study Questions

1. What steps can we take to avoid the pitfalls of temptation as seen in David's life?

2. How does the account of David and Bathsheba illustrate the importance of accountability in our spiritual walk?

3. In what ways can we ensure that our desires align with God's will, avoiding the deception of sin?

4. How does David's eventual repentance in Psalm 51 provide a model for us when we fall into sin?

5. What does the account of David and Bathsheba teach us about God's grace and redemption, even in the midst of our failures?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 20:14
The commandment against adultery highlights the gravity of David's sin.

Psalm 51
David's psalm of repentance, traditionally understood to be written after his sin with Bathsheba, showing his remorse and plea for forgiveness.

James 1:14-15
Describes the process of temptation leading to sin, which parallels David's actions in this account.

Matthew 5:27-28
Jesus' teaching on adultery, expanding the understanding of sin to include lustful thoughts, which can be related to David's initial desire for Bathsheba.