2 Samuel 13:32

But Jonadab, the son of David's brother Shimeah, spoke up: "My lord must not think they have killed all the sons of the king, for only Amnon is dead. In fact, Absalom has planned this since the day Amnon violated his sister Tamar.

Study Bible

But Jonadab, the son of David’s brother Shimeah, spoke up:
Jonadab is identified as the son of Shimeah, David's brother, making him David's nephew. This familial connection places Jonadab within the royal family, giving him access to insider information. His role in the narrative highlights the complex family dynamics and political intrigue within David's court. Jonadab's earlier involvement in advising Amnon (2 Samuel 13:3-5) shows his cunning nature, which is consistent with his ability to assess the situation quickly and accurately.

My lord must not think they have killed all the sons of the king:
Jonadab addresses King David, attempting to calm his fears. The phrase reflects the immediate panic and chaos following the news of the attack on the king's sons. In the ancient Near Eastern context, the death of royal heirs could lead to political instability and power struggles. Jonadab's reassurance is crucial in preventing David from making rash decisions based on incomplete information.

For only Amnon is dead:
This statement confirms the targeted nature of the attack. Amnon, as the eldest son of David, was a significant figure in the line of succession. His death is a pivotal moment in the narrative, as it removes a potential heir and sets the stage for further conflict within David's family. The focus on Amnon's death underscores the personal vendetta of Absalom, who seeks justice for his sister Tamar.

In fact, Absalom has planned this since the day Amnon violated his sister Tamar:
This phrase reveals the premeditated nature of Absalom's actions. The violation of Tamar by Amnon (2 Samuel 13:1-14) is a critical event that sets off a chain reaction of vengeance and retribution. Absalom's calculated response reflects the cultural importance of family honor and the severe consequences of sexual misconduct. The reference to Absalom's long-standing plan highlights his patience and determination, traits that foreshadow his later rebellion against David. This incident also illustrates the broader theme of sin and its repercussions within David's household, echoing Nathan's prophecy in 2 Samuel 12:10-12 about the sword never departing from David's house.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jonadab
The son of Shimeah, David's brother, making him David's nephew. Known for his cunning nature, Jonadab plays a significant role in the events surrounding Amnon and Absalom.

2. Amnon
The eldest son of King David, who committed a grievous sin by violating his half-sister Tamar, leading to his murder by Absalom.

3. Absalom
Another son of King David, who sought revenge for his sister Tamar by orchestrating the murder of Amnon.

4. Tamar
The sister of Absalom and half-sister of Amnon, who was violated by Amnon, setting off a tragic chain of events.

5. King David
The reigning king of Israel, father to Amnon, Absalom, and Tamar, who is caught in the turmoil of his children's actions.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Sin
Sin often leads to a ripple effect of pain and destruction, as seen in the lives of David's children. We must be vigilant in guarding our hearts and actions.

The Dangers of Cunning Counsel
Jonadab's role as a cunning advisor reminds us to seek godly wisdom and counsel rather than manipulative or deceitful advice.

The Importance of Justice and Mercy
Absalom's response to Amnon's sin was driven by a desire for justice, yet it lacked mercy and led to further sin. We must balance justice with mercy, as God does.

Family Dynamics and Leadership
David's family struggles highlight the importance of strong, godly leadership within the family unit. Parents and leaders must address sin and conflict with wisdom and courage.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the account of Amnon, Tamar, and Absalom illustrate the principle of sowing and reaping found in Galatians 6:7-8?

2. In what ways can we ensure that we are receiving godly counsel rather than cunning or deceitful advice, as seen with Jonadab?

3. How can we apply the balance of justice and mercy in our own lives when dealing with those who have wronged us?

4. What lessons can we learn from King David's response to the events in his family, and how can we apply these lessons to our own family dynamics?

5. How does the account of Absalom's revenge relate to the broader biblical theme of vengeance belonging to the Lord, and how can we apply this understanding in our lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 4
The account of Cain and Abel, which parallels the theme of familial violence and the consequences of sin.

Proverbs 6:16-19
Highlights the things the Lord hates, including a heart that devises wicked schemes, which can be related to Jonadab's cunning advice and Absalom's premeditated murder.

Galatians 6:7-8
Discusses the principle of sowing and reaping, which is evident in the consequences faced by David's family due to sin.