2 Samuel 13:2

Amnon was sick with frustration over his sister Tamar, for she was a virgin, and it seemed implausible for him to do anything to her.

Study Bible

Amnon was frustrated
The Hebrew root for "frustrated" is "צרר" (tsarar), which conveys a sense of being distressed or vexed. This word choice highlights the intense emotional turmoil Amnon experiences. In the broader biblical context, such frustration often arises from desires that are misaligned with God's will, reflecting the inner conflict between fleshly desires and spiritual obedience. Amnon's frustration is a cautionary tale of allowing unchecked desires to fester, leading to destructive outcomes.

to the point of illness
The phrase indicates a physical manifestation of Amnon's emotional and mental state. In ancient times, the connection between emotional distress and physical health was recognized, though not fully understood as it is today. This highlights the biblical truth that sin and unchecked desires can have tangible, detrimental effects on one's well-being. It serves as a reminder of the holistic nature of human beings, where spiritual, emotional, and physical health are interconnected.

on account of his sister Tamar
The mention of "his sister Tamar" emphasizes the familial relationship, which makes Amnon's desires not only sinful but also socially and morally reprehensible. The Hebrew name "Tamar" means "palm tree," symbolizing beauty and grace. This familial bond should have been one of protection and care, yet Amnon's perversion of this relationship underscores the depth of his moral corruption. It serves as a stark warning against the distortion of God-given relationships.

for she was a virgin
In the ancient Near Eastern context, virginity was highly valued, symbolizing purity and honor. The Hebrew word "בתולה" (bethulah) is used here, underscoring Tamar's innocence and the societal expectations placed upon her. This detail highlights the gravity of Amnon's intentions, as they threaten not only Tamar's personal dignity but also her social standing and future prospects. It reflects the biblical principle of honoring and protecting purity.

and it seemed impossible
The phrase "it seemed impossible" reflects Amnon's perception of his situation. The Hebrew root "פלא" (pala) often denotes something extraordinary or beyond comprehension. This suggests that Amnon's desires were so consuming that he could not see a righteous path forward. It serves as a reminder of how sin can cloud judgment and lead individuals to feel trapped, emphasizing the need for divine intervention and guidance.

for him to do anything to her
The phrase "to do anything to her" is a euphemism for Amnon's illicit intentions. The Hebrew verb "עשה" (asah) is commonly used for actions or deeds, but here it carries a sinister connotation. This highlights the premeditated nature of Amnon's sin, illustrating how unchecked desires can lead to deliberate planning of wrongdoing. It serves as a sobering reminder of the progression of sin from thought to action, urging believers to guard their hearts and minds.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Amnon
The firstborn son of King David, who becomes infatuated with his half-sister Tamar. His obsession leads to tragic consequences.

2. Tamar
The beautiful sister of Absalom and half-sister to Amnon. She is a central figure in this account, representing innocence and victimhood.

3. David
The King of Israel and father to Amnon, Tamar, and Absalom. His family dynamics and lack of intervention play a significant role in the unfolding events.

4. Absalom
Tamar's full brother, who later seeks revenge for the wrong done to his sister, leading to further family strife.

5. The Royal Palace
The setting for much of the account, symbolizing both the power and the moral failings within David's household.

Teaching Points

Guarding the Heart
Amnon's account illustrates the dangers of unchecked desires. Believers are called to guard their hearts and minds against lustful thoughts (Proverbs 4:23).

The Consequences of Sin
Sinful actions, especially those driven by lust, can have devastating effects on individuals and families. This account serves as a warning of the ripple effects of sin.

The Importance of Godly Counsel
Amnon's actions were influenced by the poor advice of his friend Jonadab. Surrounding oneself with godly counsel is crucial (Proverbs 13:20).

The Role of Leadership
David's failure to address the situation highlights the importance of active and righteous leadership in the family and community.

Seeking Justice and Healing
Tamar's plight calls for a response of justice and compassion. Believers are encouraged to seek justice and provide support for victims of wrongdoing (Micah 6:8).

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Amnon's obsession with Tamar illustrate the dangers of unchecked desires, and what steps can we take to guard our hearts against similar temptations?

2. In what ways does the account of Amnon and Tamar reflect the broader consequences of sin within a family or community? Can you think of other biblical examples where sin had a ripple effect?

3. How can we ensure that we are receiving and giving godly counsel in our relationships, and what biblical principles should guide this process?

4. What lessons can we learn from David's response (or lack thereof) to the situation, and how can we apply these lessons to our roles as leaders in our families or communities?

5. How can the church today respond to situations of injustice and victimization, drawing from biblical principles and the example of Christ's compassion and justice?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 34
The account of Dinah and Shechem, which similarly involves the violation of a woman and the subsequent family turmoil.

Proverbs 6:32
Discusses the consequences of adultery and lust, which can be related to Amnon's destructive desires.

Galatians 5:19-21
Lists the acts of the flesh, including sexual immorality and impurity, which are evident in Amnon's actions.

James 1:14-15
Describes how desire, when conceived, gives birth to sin, paralleling Amnon's progression from desire to sinful action.