2 Samuel 11:5

And the woman conceived and sent word to David, saying, "I am pregnant."

Study Bible

And the woman conceived
This phrase marks a pivotal moment in the narrative, highlighting the consequence of David's actions with Bathsheba. The Hebrew word for "conceived" is "הרָה" (harah), which signifies the beginning of a new life. In the context of ancient Israel, conception was often seen as a divine act, a blessing from God. However, in this scenario, it underscores the gravity of David's sin, as it leads to a series of tragic events. The conception is not just a biological event but a catalyst for the unfolding drama that will challenge David's kingship and moral integrity.

and sent word to David
The phrase "sent word" indicates Bathsheba's initiative in communicating with David. In the ancient Near Eastern context, women often had limited agency, yet Bathsheba takes a decisive step to inform David of the situation. This action sets in motion David's subsequent decisions, which are marked by attempts to cover up his sin. The Hebrew verb "שָׁלַח" (shalach) for "sent" implies a deliberate action, suggesting Bathsheba's awareness of the gravity of her condition and the need for David to respond.

saying, 'I am pregnant.'
The declaration "I am pregnant" is straightforward yet profound. It is a statement of fact that carries significant implications for both Bathsheba and David. The Hebrew phrase "הָרָה אָנֹכִי" (harah anokhi) is simple but loaded with meaning. In the cultural and historical context, pregnancy outside of marriage could lead to severe social and legal repercussions. For David, this announcement is a moment of truth that confronts him with the reality of his actions. It is a call to accountability, challenging him to face the consequences of his sin. This phrase serves as a turning point in the narrative, leading to David's eventual repentance and the unfolding of God's redemptive plan through the lineage of David, despite his failings.

Persons / Places / Events

1. David
The King of Israel, a man after God's own heart, who falls into sin by committing adultery with Bathsheba.

2. Bathsheba
The woman with whom David commits adultery. She is the wife of Uriah the Hittite.

3. Uriah the Hittite
Bathsheba's husband, a loyal soldier in David's army.

4. Jerusalem
The city where David resides as king and where the events unfold.

5. The Conception
The event where Bathsheba becomes pregnant as a result of her encounter with David.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Sin
Sin often begins with a seemingly small compromise but can lead to significant consequences, as seen in David's life.

The Importance of Accountability
David's isolation as king may have contributed to his moral failure. Christians should seek accountability to avoid similar pitfalls.

Repentance and Restoration
Despite his sin, David's later repentance (Psalm 51) shows that God offers forgiveness and restoration to those who genuinely seek it.

Guarding the Heart
Believers are called to guard their hearts and minds against temptation, recognizing that sin often begins with internal desires.

The Impact of Leadership Failures
David's sin had repercussions not only for himself but for his family and nation, highlighting the broader impact of a leader's moral failures.

Bible Study Questions

1. What steps can we take to guard our hearts against the initial temptations that lead to sin, as seen in David's account?

2. How does David's failure in this chapter serve as a warning for those in positions of leadership or influence?

3. In what ways can we seek accountability in our own lives to prevent moral failures similar to David's?

4. How does David's eventual repentance in Psalm 51 provide a model for us when we fall into sin?

5. How can understanding the broader consequences of sin, as seen in David's life, motivate us to pursue holiness and integrity?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 20:14
This verse provides the commandment against adultery, which David violates in this account.

Psalm 51
David's psalm of repentance, traditionally understood to be written after his sin with Bathsheba, showing his remorse and plea for God's mercy.

Matthew 5:27-28
Jesus expands on the commandment against adultery, teaching that even lustful thoughts are sinful, which connects to David's initial sin of coveting Bathsheba.

James 1:14-15
This passage describes the process of temptation leading to sin and death, paralleling David's progression from desire to action.