1 Chronicles 19:4

So Hanun took David's servants, shaved their beards, cut off their garments at the hips, and sent them away.

Study Bible

So Hanun took David’s servants
The name "Hanun" is derived from the Hebrew root "חָנַן" (chanan), meaning "to be gracious" or "to show favor." Ironically, Hanun's actions are anything but gracious. This highlights the tragic misuse of power and the failure to live up to one's name or potential. In the historical context, David's servants were emissaries, representing the king himself. Their mistreatment was not just a personal affront but a diplomatic insult, reflecting the tensions between Israel and Ammon.

shaved them
In ancient Near Eastern cultures, shaving a man's beard was a severe humiliation. The beard was a symbol of dignity and masculinity. The Hebrew word "גָּלַח" (galach) means "to shave" and is often associated with disgrace or mourning. This act by Hanun was a deliberate attempt to shame David's men, indicating a deep disrespect for Israel and its king. It serves as a reminder of the cultural significance of personal appearance and the deep offense caused by altering it without consent.

cut off their garments at the buttocks
The act of cutting off garments at the buttocks was intended to expose and humiliate. Clothing in biblical times was not only functional but also a sign of status and identity. The Hebrew word "כָּרַת" (karat) means "to cut off" or "to cut down," often used in contexts of covenant or judgment. This act of cutting their garments was a symbolic stripping away of dignity and honor, leaving the servants vulnerable and ashamed. It underscores the theme of dishonor and the lengths to which Hanun went to insult David.

and sent them away
Sending the servants away in such a state was a final act of contempt. The Hebrew word "שָׁלַח" (shalach) means "to send" or "to let go," often used in contexts of release or dismissal. This phrase indicates not only a physical sending away but also a rejection and dismissal of David's overture of peace. It reflects the broken relationship and the ensuing conflict between the two nations. Spiritually, it serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of pride and the rejection of peace.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Hanun
The new king of the Ammonites, who succeeded his father Nahash. He misinterpreted David's intentions and humiliated David's envoys.

2. David
The King of Israel, who sent his servants to express sympathy to Hanun after the death of Hanun's father, Nahash, who had shown kindness to David.

3. David’s Servants
The envoys sent by David to comfort Hanun. They were humiliated by having their beards shaved and garments cut.

4. Ammonites
A neighboring nation to Israel, often in conflict with them. Their capital was Rabbah.

5. Nahash
The deceased king of the Ammonites, who had previously shown kindness to David.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Intentions and Perceptions
Misunderstandings can lead to conflict. Hanun misjudged David's intentions, leading to unnecessary hostility. We should strive to understand others' intentions before reacting.

Cultural Sensitivity and Respect
The shaving of the beard and cutting of garments were culturally significant insults. We should be aware of cultural sensitivities and show respect in our interactions.

Responding to Kindness with Kindness
David's gesture was one of kindness and respect. As Christians, we are called to respond to kindness with gratitude and reciprocation, not suspicion or hostility.

Handling Humiliation and Offense
David's servants were humiliated, yet David handled the situation with wisdom and restraint. We can learn to respond to personal offenses with grace and seek God's guidance.

The Consequences of Pride and Misjudgment
Hanun's pride and misjudgment led to conflict with Israel. Pride can blind us to the truth and lead to destructive decisions.

Bible Study Questions

1. How can we ensure that we correctly interpret the intentions of others, especially when they differ from our own cultural or personal expectations?

2. In what ways can we show respect and understanding towards cultural differences in our daily interactions?

3. How does Jesus' teaching on loving our enemies challenge us to respond to those who may misunderstand or mistreat us?

4. What steps can we take to handle personal humiliation or offense in a way that honors God and maintains our integrity?

5. Reflect on a time when pride or misjudgment led to conflict in your life. How can you apply the lessons from this passage to avoid similar situations in the future?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Samuel 10:4
This parallel account provides additional context and details about the incident, emphasizing the humiliation and the subsequent conflict.

Leviticus 19:27
This verse discusses the cultural and religious significance of beards in Israelite society, highlighting why the shaving of the beard was a significant insult.

Matthew 5:44
Jesus' teaching on loving enemies can be contrasted with the actions of Hanun, who responded to kindness with hostility.