2 Samuel 13:36

And as he finished speaking, the sons of the king came in, wailing loudly. Then the king and all his servants also wept very bitterly.

Study Bible

As he finished speaking
This phrase marks the conclusion of a report or message being delivered. In the context of 2 Samuel 13, this refers to the moment when Jonadab, the son of Shimeah, David's brother, finishes informing King David about the tragic events involving his sons. The Hebrew root for "speaking" (דָּבַר, dabar) often implies not just the act of speaking but conveying a message of significance. This moment is pivotal, as it transitions from the revelation of a tragedy to the emotional response it elicits.

the sons of the king arrived
This phrase indicates the arrival of King David's sons, who were involved in the preceding events. The term "sons of the king" underscores their royal status and the expectations placed upon them. Historically, the arrival of royal offspring would be significant, as they were seen as the future of the kingdom. Their arrival here, however, is marked by sorrow rather than triumph, highlighting the gravity of the situation.

and they lifted up their voices and wept
The act of lifting up one's voice and weeping is a profound expression of grief in ancient Near Eastern cultures. The Hebrew word for "wept" (בָּכָה, bakah) conveys a deep, lamenting cry, often associated with mourning and loss. This public display of emotion reflects the intense sorrow and despair felt by the sons, indicating the depth of the familial and national tragedy.

Then the king and all his servants also wept
King David, along with his servants, joins in the mourning. The inclusion of "all his servants" suggests a communal grief that extends beyond the immediate family to the entire royal household. This collective weeping signifies the widespread impact of the events, affecting not just the family but the entire kingdom. It reflects the biblical theme of shared suffering and the importance of community in times of distress.

very bitterly
The adverb "very" intensifies the bitterness of the weeping, indicating an overwhelming and consuming sorrow. The Hebrew root for "bitterly" (מָרַר, marar) is often used to describe a deep, visceral pain, akin to the bitterness of taste. This bitterness is not just emotional but spiritual, reflecting the brokenness and consequences of sin within the royal family. It serves as a poignant reminder of the far-reaching effects of moral failings and the need for divine intervention and healing.

Persons / Places / Events

1. King David
The reigning king of Israel, father to Amnon, Absalom, and Tamar. He is deeply affected by the events that unfold within his family.

2. Absalom
David's son, who orchestrates the murder of his brother Amnon in revenge for the rape of their sister Tamar.

3. Amnon
Another son of David, who commits the grievous sin of raping his half-sister Tamar, leading to his murder by Absalom.

4. Tamar
The daughter of King David, who suffers the trauma of being raped by her half-brother Amnon.

5. The King's Servants
Those who serve King David and share in the collective mourning over the tragic events within the royal family.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Sin
Sin has far-reaching consequences that affect not only the sinner but also those around them. Amnon's sin led to a cascade of grief and tragedy within David's family.

The Importance of Justice and Righteousness
The lack of immediate justice for Tamar's suffering led to further sin and violence. Upholding justice and righteousness is crucial in preventing further harm.

The Role of Grief in Healing
Grieving is a natural and necessary response to loss and tragedy. It is important to allow oneself to mourn and seek comfort in God and community.

Family Dynamics and Forgiveness
Family relationships can be complex and fraught with tension. Forgiveness and reconciliation, though difficult, are essential for healing and restoration.

God's Presence in Suffering
Even in the midst of deep sorrow and tragedy, God is present and offers comfort to those who turn to Him.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the account of Amnon, Tamar, and Absalom illustrate the consequences of unchecked sin within a family?

2. In what ways can we seek justice and righteousness in our own lives to prevent harm to others?

3. How can we find comfort in God during times of deep personal or communal grief?

4. What steps can we take to foster forgiveness and reconciliation in strained family relationships?

5. How does understanding God's presence in our suffering change the way we approach our own trials and those of others?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 37:34-35
The mourning of Jacob for Joseph parallels David's grief, highlighting the deep sorrow a parent feels over the loss or suffering of a child.

Psalm 6:6-7
David's own writings express his experience of deep sorrow and weeping, providing insight into his emotional state during times of distress.

Matthew 5:4
Jesus' teaching on those who mourn being comforted connects to the hope of divine comfort amidst human sorrow.