2 Samuel 14:9

But the woman of Tekoa said to the king, "My lord the king, may any blame be on me and on my father's house, and may the king and his throne be guiltless."

Study Bible

But the woman of Tekoa
The phrase introduces us to a significant character in this narrative, a wise woman from Tekoa. Tekoa was a town in Judah, known for its strategic location and its association with the prophet Amos. The Hebrew root for "Tekoa" suggests a place of setting up or pitching tents, indicating its historical role as a settlement area. The woman’s wisdom and courage are highlighted, as she approaches King David with a bold request, reflecting the important role women played in biblical narratives, often as vessels of divine intervention or wisdom.

said to the king
This phrase underscores the direct communication between the woman and King David. In ancient Israel, approaching the king was a significant act, often requiring courage and a sense of purpose. The Hebrew verb "אמר" (amar), meaning "said," is frequently used in the Old Testament to denote not just speech but the conveyance of important messages or divine revelations. The woman’s approach to the king signifies her understanding of the gravity of her mission and her respect for the king’s authority.

My lord the king
The use of "my lord" reflects the woman’s respect and acknowledgment of David’s authority. The Hebrew term "אדני" (Adoni) is a title of respect and submission, often used in addressing those in positions of power. This phrase sets the tone for her plea, indicating her recognition of the king’s role as a judge and leader, and her hope that he will act with justice and mercy.

may the guilt be on me and on my father’s house
Here, the woman takes upon herself and her family the potential consequences of her request. This reflects a deep understanding of the concept of collective responsibility in ancient Israelite society, where families often bore the consequences of individual actions. The Hebrew word for "guilt" is "עון" (avon), which can denote iniquity or punishment. Her willingness to bear the guilt highlights her selflessness and the seriousness of her plea, as she seeks to protect others from potential harm.

and may the king and his throne be guiltless
This phrase emphasizes the woman’s desire to absolve the king and his reign from any wrongdoing. The throne symbolizes not just David’s physical seat of power but also the divine mandate and justice associated with his rule. The Hebrew word for "throne" is "כסא" (kise), often used to denote authority and governance. By seeking to keep the king and his throne guiltless, the woman appeals to David’s sense of justice and his responsibility to uphold righteousness in his kingdom.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Woman of Tekoa
A wise woman from the town of Tekoa, enlisted by Joab to speak to King David. Her role is pivotal in the account as she uses a parable to influence the king's decision regarding Absalom.

2. King David
The reigning king of Israel, known for his complex character and leadership. In this passage, he is approached by the woman of Tekoa with a plea that indirectly addresses his estranged son, Absalom.

3. Joab
David's military commander who orchestrates the woman's appeal to the king. He is a key figure in the account, seeking to reconcile David with Absalom.

4. Tekoa
A town in Judah, known for its wise inhabitants. It is the hometown of the woman who approaches King David.

5. Absalom
David's son, who is in exile after killing his brother Amnon. The underlying issue in this passage is his estrangement from David.

Teaching Points

The Power of Intercession
The woman of Tekoa demonstrates the impact of intercession. Believers are called to intercede for others, seeking reconciliation and restoration in relationships.

Wisdom in Approach
The woman's tactful approach to King David teaches the importance of wisdom and discernment when addressing sensitive issues.

The Burden of Guilt
The woman's willingness to bear the guilt highlights the concept of sacrificial love and points to Christ's ultimate sacrifice for our sins.

Reconciliation and Forgiveness
The account encourages believers to pursue reconciliation and forgiveness, reflecting God's heart for restored relationships.

Leadership and Justice
David's role as king underscores the responsibility of leaders to act justly and with compassion, balancing justice with mercy.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the woman of Tekoa's approach to King David demonstrate the importance of wisdom and tact in difficult conversations?

2. In what ways does the theme of intercession in this passage connect to other biblical examples of intercessory prayer?

3. How can we apply the concept of bearing another's guilt in our own relationships, and what does this teach us about Christ's sacrifice?

4. What steps can we take to pursue reconciliation and forgiveness in our personal lives, and how does this reflect God's character?

5. How does King David's response to the woman's plea challenge us to balance justice and mercy in our own leadership roles or relationships?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 18
The intercession of Abraham for Sodom shows a similar theme of pleading for mercy and justice, highlighting the role of intercessors in biblical accounts.

Luke 15
The Parable of the Prodigal Son reflects the themes of reconciliation and forgiveness, akin to the underlying message in the woman of Tekoa's plea to David.

Matthew 18
Jesus' teaching on forgiveness and reconciliation parallels the need for David to forgive Absalom and restore their relationship.