2 Samuel 13:5

Jonadab told him, "Lie down on your bed and pretend you are ill. When your father comes to see you, say to him, 'Please let my sister Tamar come and give me something to eat. Let her prepare it in my sight so I may watch her and eat it from her hand.'"

Study Bible

Go to bed and pretend to be ill
This phrase marks the beginning of a deceitful plan. The Hebrew root for "pretend" (הִתְחַזֵּה, hithchazeh) implies a deliberate act of deception. In the context of ancient Israel, feigning illness was a manipulative tactic, often used to gain sympathy or manipulate circumstances. This highlights the moral decline and the lengths to which individuals would go to fulfill their desires, contrasting sharply with the biblical call for truth and integrity.

said Jonadab
Jonadab, a cousin and advisor to Amnon, plays a pivotal role in this narrative. His name in Hebrew (יוֹנָדָב, Yonadav) means "Yahweh is noble," which is ironic given his involvement in this immoral scheme. Historically, advisors held significant influence in royal courts, and Jonadab's counsel reflects the potential for such influence to be wielded for evil rather than good. This serves as a cautionary tale about the company one keeps and the advice one heeds.

When your father comes to see you
This phrase underscores the familial dynamics at play. King David, Amnon's father, is portrayed as a caring parent, yet his discernment is called into question. The Hebrew word for "father" (אָב, av) is a term of endearment and authority, highlighting the trust and expectation placed upon paternal figures. The narrative foreshadows the tragic consequences of David's inability to perceive the deceit and protect his daughter Tamar.

say to him, 'Please let my sister Tamar come and give me something to eat
The request for Tamar, Amnon's sister, to attend to him is laden with ulterior motives. The Hebrew name "Tamar" (תָּמָר) means "palm tree," symbolizing beauty and grace. In the cultural context, a sister's care for her brother was a natural expression of familial love and duty. However, Amnon's request perverts this relationship, setting the stage for his heinous act. This highlights the distortion of God-given family roles and the violation of trust.

Let her prepare the food in my sight so that I may watch her and eat it from her hand
This phrase reveals the premeditated nature of Amnon's intentions. The act of preparing food was a common domestic duty, yet Amnon's desire to watch Tamar and eat from her hand is indicative of his lustful obsession. The Hebrew culture placed significant importance on hospitality and the sharing of meals, which were acts of fellowship and intimacy. Amnon's manipulation of this sacred tradition for his selfish desires serves as a stark reminder of the corruption of sin and the importance of maintaining purity and respect within relationships.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jonadab
A cunning and shrewd man, Jonadab is the cousin of Amnon and a nephew of King David. He is known for his manipulative advice, which leads to tragic consequences.

2. Amnon
The eldest son of King David, Amnon is infatuated with his half-sister Tamar. His actions, influenced by Jonadab's advice, lead to sin and family turmoil.

3. Tamar
The daughter of King David and sister of Absalom, Tamar is a victim of Amnon's deceit and lust. Her account is one of innocence and tragedy.

4. King David
The father of Amnon and Tamar, David is the king of Israel. His family is deeply affected by the events that unfold due to Amnon's actions.

5. The Event
The deceitful plan concocted by Jonadab and executed by Amnon, which involves pretending to be ill to lure Tamar into a vulnerable situation.

Teaching Points

The Danger of Ungodly Counsel
Be cautious of advice that contradicts God's Word. Jonadab's counsel led to sin and destruction, reminding us to seek wisdom from Godly sources.

The Consequences of Sin
Sin often has far-reaching and devastating effects, not only on the sinner but also on those around them. Amnon's actions led to family strife and personal ruin.

The Importance of Integrity
Upholding integrity in our actions and relationships is crucial. Amnon's lack of integrity resulted in harm to Tamar and dishonor to his family.

The Role of Accountability
Surround yourself with individuals who hold you accountable to God's standards. Amnon lacked accountability, which contributed to his downfall.

The Need for Repentance and Restoration
When sin occurs, repentance and seeking restoration are vital. The account of Amnon and Tamar underscores the need for turning back to God after wrongdoing.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Jonadab's advice to Amnon reflect the nature of ungodly counsel, and what steps can we take to ensure we receive Godly advice in our lives?

2. In what ways do the consequences of Amnon's actions illustrate the principle of sowing and reaping found in Galatians 6:7-8?

3. How can we apply the warnings in Proverbs 1:10-19 to avoid falling into the trap of following sinful advice?

4. What role does accountability play in preventing sin, and how can we cultivate relationships that encourage accountability in our spiritual walk?

5. Reflecting on the account of Amnon and Tamar, what steps can we take to seek repentance and restoration when we have wronged others?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 3
The deceitful nature of Jonadab's advice can be compared to the serpent's deception of Eve, highlighting the destructive power of cunning counsel.

Proverbs 1:10-19
This passage warns against following the advice of sinners, which parallels Jonadab's influence over Amnon.

Galatians 6:7-8
The principle of sowing and reaping is evident in the consequences faced by Amnon and David's family, reflecting the outcomes of sinful actions.