2 Samuel 13:6

So Amnon lay down and feigned illness. When the king came to see him, Amnon said, "Please let my sister Tamar come and make a couple of cakes in my sight, so that I may eat from her hand."

Study Bible

So Amnon lay down
The name "Amnon" is derived from the Hebrew root "אמנ" (aman), which means "faithful" or "trustworthy." Ironically, Amnon's actions in this narrative are anything but faithful. This highlights the tragic fall from grace of a character who was expected to uphold the values of his lineage. The act of lying down symbolizes a premeditated plan, a deliberate choice to deceive, which is a stark contrast to the integrity his name suggests.

and pretended to be ill
The Hebrew word for "pretended" is "וַיִּתְחַל" (vayitchal), which implies deceit and falsehood. This act of feigning illness is a manipulation of trust, exploiting the compassion of others for selfish gain. In a broader scriptural context, this reflects the human tendency to use deception as a means to fulfill sinful desires, a theme that resonates throughout the Bible.

When the king came to see him
The "king" here is David, Amnon's father. David's visit signifies the responsibility and care expected of a father and a king. Historically, kings were seen as shepherds of their people, responsible for their well-being. David's presence underscores the gravity of Amnon's deceit, as it involves not just familial betrayal but also a breach of royal duty and trust.

Amnon said, 'Please let my sister Tamar come
The plea for "my sister Tamar" is laden with familial intimacy and trust. The name "Tamar" means "palm tree," symbolizing beauty and grace. In the cultural and historical context, a sister's role was to be a source of support and care within the family. Amnon's request is a perversion of this sacred bond, setting the stage for the tragic events that follow.

and make a couple of cakes in my sight
The request for Tamar to "make a couple of cakes" is a seemingly innocent domestic task. In ancient Israel, food preparation was a common expression of care and hospitality. However, Amnon's insistence on it being done "in my sight" reveals his ulterior motives. This phrase highlights the misuse of cultural norms for personal gratification, a distortion of the nurturing role traditionally held by women.

so that I may eat from her hand
Eating "from her hand" suggests an intimate and personal interaction. In biblical times, sharing food was a sign of fellowship and trust. Amnon's desire to eat from Tamar's hand is a manipulation of this intimate act, turning a gesture of love and care into one of exploitation. This phrase underscores the violation of trust and the perversion of familial bonds, serving as a cautionary tale about the destructive power of unchecked desires.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Amnon
The eldest son of King David, who harbors an illicit desire for his half-sister Tamar.

2. Tamar
The daughter of King David and sister of Absalom, known for her beauty and innocence.

3. King David
The ruler of Israel, father to both Amnon and Tamar, who is unwittingly drawn into Amnon's deceit.

4. The Deception
Amnon feigns illness to manipulate his father and sister, setting the stage for his sinful actions.

5. The Royal Household
The setting is within the palace, highlighting the personal and familial nature of the events.

Teaching Points

The Deceptive Nature of Sin
Sin often begins with deception, both of oneself and others. Amnon's feigned illness is a reminder of how sin can disguise itself as something innocent or necessary.

Guarding the Heart
Amnon's actions stem from unchecked desires. Believers are called to guard their hearts and minds, aligning their desires with God's will.

The Consequences of Sin
Amnon's deceit leads to devastating consequences for himself and his family. This serves as a warning of the far-reaching impact of sin.

The Role of Authority
David's role as a father and king is compromised by his inability to discern Amnon's intentions. Leaders must seek wisdom and discernment to protect those under their care.

The Importance of Integrity
Tamar's innocence contrasts with Amnon's deceit, highlighting the value of maintaining integrity and purity in all relationships.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Amnon's deception reflect the nature of sin as described in other parts of the Bible?

2. In what ways can unchecked desires lead to destructive actions, and how can we guard against this in our own lives?

3. What role does King David play in this account, and what can we learn about the responsibilities of leadership and discernment?

4. How does the account of Amnon and Tamar illustrate the broader biblical theme of the consequences of sin?

5. Reflect on a time when you faced a situation requiring integrity. How did you respond, and what biblical principles guided your actions?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 3
The deception of Eve by the serpent parallels Amnon's deceit, illustrating the destructive nature of sin and manipulation.

Proverbs 6:16-19
Lists things the Lord hates, including a lying tongue and a heart that devises wicked schemes, which relate to Amnon's actions.

Galatians 5:19-21
Discusses the acts of the flesh, including impurity and debauchery, which are evident in Amnon's behavior.

James 1:14-15
Describes how desire leads to sin, and sin, when full-grown, leads to death, mirroring Amnon's progression from desire to action.