2 Samuel 20:1

Now a worthless man named Sheba son of Bichri, a Benjamite, happened to be there, and he blew the ram's horn and shouted: "We have no share in David, no inheritance in Jesse's son. Every man to his tent, O Israel!"

Study Bible

Now a wicked man
The Hebrew word for "wicked" is "בְּלִיַּעַל" (belial), which often denotes worthlessness or lawlessness. In the context of ancient Israel, being labeled as "wicked" suggests a person who acts against God's covenant and the established order. This sets the stage for understanding Sheba's actions as rebellious and contrary to God's anointed king, David.

named Sheba son of Bichri
The name "Sheba" (שֶׁבַע) can mean "oath" or "seven," which might imply completeness or fullness. However, in this context, it is ironic, as Sheba's actions are far from complete or faithful. "Son of Bichri" identifies his lineage, which is significant in the tribal culture of Israel. Bichri, a Benjamite, ties Sheba to the tribe of Saul, suggesting possible lingering loyalties or grievances after Saul's fall from kingship.

a Benjamite
The tribe of Benjamin held a unique position in Israel's history. As the tribe of Israel's first king, Saul, there may have been residual tension and rivalry with the tribe of Judah, from which David hailed. This tribal identity is crucial in understanding the political and social dynamics at play, as Sheba's rebellion could be seen as an attempt to restore Benjamite prominence.

happened to be there
This phrase suggests a seemingly coincidental presence, yet in the biblical narrative, such occurrences often carry divine significance. It implies that Sheba's rebellion was part of a larger unfolding of events under God's sovereign plan, even as it challenges David's rule.

He sounded the trumpet
The trumpet, or "shofar" (שׁוֹפָר), was an instrument used for signaling important events, such as the call to battle or assembly. Sheba's use of the trumpet signifies a public and urgent call to action, rallying those discontented with David's reign. It underscores the seriousness of his rebellion.

and said, 'We have no share in David
This declaration is a direct challenge to David's authority and legitimacy as king. The phrase "no share" (חֵלֶק) implies a rejection of David's leadership and a refusal to acknowledge his rule. It reflects a deep-seated division within the nation, highlighting the fragility of the united kingdom.

no inheritance in Jesse’s son
By referring to David as "Jesse’s son," Sheba diminishes David's royal status, reducing him to his familial origins. "Inheritance" (נַחֲלָה) is a significant term in Israel, often associated with the land and God's promises. This statement is a denial of David's God-given right to rule, challenging the divine covenant established with him.

Every man to his tent, O Israel!
This call to return to one's tent is a call to abandon the current leadership and return to personal or tribal autonomy. It echoes the language of disunity and division, reminiscent of the period of the Judges when "every man did what was right in his own eyes" (Judges 21:25). It is a rallying cry for rebellion, seeking to fracture the unity of Israel under David's kingship.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Sheba
A Benjamite described as a "wicked man" who instigates a rebellion against King David. His actions reflect discontent and division within Israel.

2. Bichri
The father of Sheba, indicating Sheba's lineage from the tribe of Benjamin, which is significant given the historical tensions between the tribes of Israel.

3. David
The King of Israel at the time, representing the divinely appointed leadership and the unity of the nation under God's covenant.

4. Israel
The nation experiencing internal strife and division, highlighting the challenges of maintaining unity among the tribes.

5. The Trumpet
A symbol of rallying and calling people to action, used by Sheba to incite rebellion.

Teaching Points

The Danger of Division
Sheba's rebellion serves as a warning against allowing personal grievances or tribal loyalties to disrupt the unity of God's people. Unity is essential for fulfilling God's purposes.

Leadership and Loyalty
David's kingship, though divinely appointed, faced challenges from within. This highlights the importance of loyalty to God-ordained leadership and the need for leaders to seek God's wisdom in resolving conflicts.

The Power of Influence
Sheba's ability to rally people to his cause demonstrates the power of influence. Believers must be discerning about whom they follow and ensure their actions align with God's will.

The Role of Heritage and Identity
Sheba's identity as a Benjamite plays a role in his actions. Understanding our identity in Christ should guide our actions and decisions, promoting unity rather than division.

The Call to Return to God
In times of division, the call is to return to God and His covenant promises, seeking His guidance and strength to overcome challenges and maintain unity.

Bible Study Questions

1. What can we learn from Sheba's rebellion about the dangers of division within the body of Christ today?

2. How does the historical context of tribal tensions in Israel inform our understanding of Sheba's actions?

3. In what ways can we ensure our loyalty to God-ordained leadership while addressing legitimate grievances within the church?

4. How can we discern the influence of leaders and movements in our lives, ensuring they align with biblical principles?

5. Reflecting on our identity in Christ, how can we promote unity and reconciliation in our communities and churches?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Judges 19-21
The tribal tensions and civil strife in Israel's history, particularly involving the tribe of Benjamin, provide context for understanding the recurring theme of division.

1 Kings 12
The division of the kingdom under Rehoboam and Jeroboam echoes the rebellion led by Sheba, illustrating the ongoing struggle for unity in Israel.

Psalm 133
This psalm emphasizes the beauty and blessing of unity among God's people, contrasting with the division seen in Sheba's rebellion.