2 Samuel 14:6

And your maidservant had two sons who were fighting in the field with no one to separate them, and one struck the other and killed him.

Study Bible

Now your maidservant
The term "maidservant" in Hebrew is "אֲמָתֶךָ" (amatecha), which denotes a female servant or handmaid. This phrase is used to convey humility and submission, often employed by women in the Old Testament to show respect and deference. In the context of 2 Samuel 14, the woman from Tekoa uses this term to address King David, indicating her lower social status and appealing to his sense of justice and mercy. This reflects the cultural norms of ancient Israel, where social hierarchies were pronounced, and approaching a king required a demonstration of humility.

had two sons
The mention of "two sons" is significant in the biblical narrative, as sons were considered a blessing and a source of strength for a family in ancient Israel. Sons carried on the family name and inheritance, and their well-being was of utmost importance. The loss of a son was a devastating blow, both emotionally and economically. This detail sets the stage for the gravity of the situation the woman is presenting to King David, emphasizing the personal tragedy and the potential extinction of her family line.

and they quarreled in the field
The phrase "quarreled in the field" suggests a dispute that escalated beyond mere words. The Hebrew word for "quarreled" is "נִצּוּ" (nitsu), which can imply a physical altercation. The setting "in the field" indicates a place away from the community's watchful eyes, where disputes could easily turn violent without intervention. This detail highlights the isolation and vulnerability of the situation, underscoring the need for justice and reconciliation, themes central to the narrative.

with no one to separate them
This phrase underscores the absence of a mediator or peacemaker, which is crucial in preventing conflicts from escalating. In biblical times, community elders or family members often played the role of mediators. The lack of such a figure in this scenario emphasizes the inevitability of the tragic outcome. It also serves as a metaphor for the need for divine intervention and wisdom in resolving human conflicts, a recurring theme in the Bible.

and one struck the other
The act of striking, "וַיַּכֶּה" (vayyakkeh), implies a deliberate and forceful action. This word choice indicates the severity of the conflict and the intent behind the action. In the biblical context, such violence within a family is particularly tragic, as it disrupts the God-ordained harmony and unity expected among kin. This phrase serves as a reminder of the destructive power of unchecked anger and the importance of self-control and forgiveness.

and killed him
The finality of "killed him" (וַיָּמֶתֵהוּ, vayyametehu) brings the narrative to its tragic climax. The taking of a life is the ultimate breach of God's commandments, specifically the sixth commandment, "You shall not murder" (Exodus 20:13). This act not only results in the loss of life but also in the spiritual and social consequences for the perpetrator and the community. In the context of 2 Samuel 14, this phrase sets the stage for the woman's plea for mercy and justice, reflecting the biblical themes of repentance, redemption, and the hope for restoration through God's grace.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Woman of Tekoa
A wise woman from Tekoa, instructed by Joab to present a parable to King David to persuade him to reconcile with his son Absalom.

2. Joab
David's military commander who orchestrates the plan to bring Absalom back to Jerusalem by using the woman of Tekoa to appeal to David's sense of justice and mercy.

3. King David
The King of Israel, who is estranged from his son Absalom after Absalom killed his brother Amnon.

4. Absalom
David's son, who is in exile after avenging his sister Tamar by killing Amnon.

5. Amnon
David's son, who was killed by Absalom for raping their sister Tamar.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Sin
The account illustrates how unchecked sin can lead to devastating consequences within families. It serves as a reminder to address sin early and seek reconciliation.

The Role of Intercession
Joab's use of the woman of Tekoa shows the power of intercession and wise counsel in resolving conflicts and restoring relationships.

Forgiveness and Reconciliation
David's eventual decision to bring Absalom back reflects the importance of forgiveness and the restoration of broken relationships, aligning with biblical teachings on mercy.

The Complexity of Justice
The account challenges us to consider the balance between justice and mercy, as David must navigate his roles as both king and father.

The Power of Storytelling
The woman of Tekoa's parable demonstrates how accounttelling can be a powerful tool to convey truth and provoke change in hearts and minds.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the conflict between the two sons in 2 Samuel 14:6 reflect the broader theme of sibling rivalry and its consequences in the Bible?

2. In what ways does the account of the woman of Tekoa illustrate the importance of wise counsel and intercession in resolving family conflicts?

3. How can we apply the principles of forgiveness and reconciliation from this passage to our own lives, especially in strained family relationships?

4. What lessons can we learn from King David's struggle to balance justice and mercy, and how can these lessons be applied in leadership roles today?

5. How does the use of a parable by the woman of Tekoa compare to Jesus' use of parables in the New Testament, and what does this teach us about the power of accounttelling in conveying spiritual truths?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 4:8
The account of Cain and Abel, where one brother kills another, parallels the account of fraternal conflict and the consequences of sin.

Matthew 18:21-22
Jesus' teaching on forgiveness, which can be related to David's need to forgive Absalom and restore their relationship.

Luke 15:11-32
The Parable of the Prodigal Son, which highlights themes of reconciliation and forgiveness between a father and son.