2 Samuel 13:39

And King David longed to go to Absalom, for he had been consoled over Amnon's death.

Study Bible

Then King David
The phrase "Then King David" situates us in the narrative of David's life, a man after God's own heart, yet deeply flawed and human. David, the shepherd boy turned king, is a central figure in the Old Testament, representing both the ideal king and the fallen man. His life is a tapestry of triumphs and tragedies, and this verse finds him in a moment of personal conflict and familial strife. The Hebrew root for "David" (דָּוִד) means "beloved," reminding us of his special place in God's plan despite his imperfections.

longed to go to Absalom
The word "longed" conveys a deep, emotional yearning. In Hebrew, the root word is "kashaph" (כָּשַׁף), which can imply a strong desire or a compelling need. This longing is significant because it reflects David's paternal love and the complexity of his relationship with Absalom. Absalom, his son, had fled after avenging his sister Tamar by killing Amnon, David's firstborn. David's longing indicates a desire for reconciliation and the restoration of familial bonds, despite the betrayal and bloodshed.

for he had been consoled
The phrase "for he had been consoled" suggests a process of healing and acceptance. The Hebrew root "nacham" (נָחַם) means to be comforted or to repent. This indicates that David had reached a point of emotional resolution regarding Amnon's death. It is a reminder of the human capacity to heal over time, even from deep wounds. In the broader biblical narrative, consolation often comes from God, who is the ultimate source of comfort and peace.

over Amnon’s death
"Amnon’s death" is a pivotal event in the narrative of David's family. Amnon, David's eldest son, was killed by Absalom as retribution for the rape of their sister Tamar. This act of vengeance set off a chain of events that would lead to further turmoil in David's household. The historical context here is crucial; it reflects the ancient Near Eastern customs of family honor and retribution. Amnon's death is a tragic consequence of sin and a reminder of the destructive power of unchecked desires and the failure to uphold justice.

Persons / Places / Events

1. King David
The second king of Israel, a man after God's own heart, who is dealing with the aftermath of family tragedy and conflict.

2. Absalom
David's son, who fled after avenging his sister Tamar by killing his half-brother Amnon.

3. Amnon
David's firstborn son, who committed a grievous sin against his half-sister Tamar, leading to his death at the hands of Absalom.

4. Tamar
David's daughter and Absalom's sister, who was wronged by Amnon, setting off a chain of tragic events.

5. Geshur
The place where Absalom fled to after killing Amnon, seeking refuge with his maternal grandfather.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Sin
The account of David's family illustrates how sin can have far-reaching and devastating effects on relationships and communities.

The Complexity of Forgiveness
David's longing for Absalom shows the struggle between justice and mercy, and the difficulty of forgiving those who have wronged us or others.

The Importance of Reconciliation
The account encourages believers to seek reconciliation and healing in broken relationships, reflecting God's desire for unity and peace.

Parental Responsibility
David's passive response to Amnon's sin and Absalom's actions highlights the need for parents to address wrongdoing and guide their children in righteousness.

God's Sovereignty in Family Dynamics
Despite human failures, God's purposes prevail, and He can bring redemption and restoration even in the most broken situations.

Bible Study Questions

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

2. In what ways can we apply Jesus' teachings on reconciliation to the conflicts we face in our own families or communities?

3. How does David's longing for Absalom reflect the tension between justice and mercy, and how can we navigate this tension in our own lives?

4. What lessons can parents learn from David's handling of his children's actions, and how can they apply these lessons to their own parenting?

5. How can we trust in God's sovereignty and seek His guidance in restoring broken relationships, as seen in the account of David's family?

Connections to Other Scriptures

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

Psalm 51
David's psalm of repentance, reflecting his understanding of sin and the need for God's mercy, relevant to his family's turmoil.

Matthew 5:23-24
Jesus' teaching on reconciliation, highlighting the importance of resolving conflicts and seeking forgiveness.

Romans 12:19
Paul's instruction on leaving vengeance to God, contrasting with Absalom's personal vendetta.

Ephesians 4:31-32
Paul's exhortation to forgive and be kind, which speaks to the need for healing in David's family.