2 Samuel 14:15

Now therefore, I have come to present this matter to my lord the king because the people have made me afraid. Your servant thought, 'I will speak to the king. Perhaps he will grant the request of his maidservant.

Study Bible

So now I have come
This phrase indicates a decisive action taken by the woman from Tekoa, orchestrated by Joab to influence King David. The Hebrew root for "come" (בּוֹא, bo) often signifies entering or approaching with purpose. In the historical context, approaching a king was a significant and often daunting task, reflecting the gravity and urgency of the situation she was presenting.

to present this matter
The Hebrew word for "present" (דָּבַר, dabar) can also mean to speak or declare. This implies not just a casual mention but a formal presentation of a case. The "matter" refers to the parable she was instructed to tell, which was a strategic move to appeal to David's sense of justice and mercy, reflecting the wisdom and cunning often necessary in courtly life.

to my lord the king
The use of "my lord" (אֲדֹנִי, adoni) is a term of respect and submission, acknowledging the king's authority. In ancient Israel, the king was seen as God's appointed ruler, and addressing him with such reverence was customary. This reflects the hierarchical structure of society and the divine right of kings, a concept deeply rooted in theocratic governance.

because the people have made me afraid
Fear (יָרֵא, yare) in this context is not just personal but communal. The "people" likely refers to the broader societal pressures and potential unrest due to Absalom's banishment. This fear underscores the tension and instability within the kingdom, highlighting the need for wise and compassionate leadership.

Your maidservant thought
The term "maidservant" (שִׁפְחָה, shiphchah) denotes humility and service. Her self-identification as a maidservant emphasizes her lowly status and the boldness required to approach the king. This reflects the biblical theme of God using the humble and lowly to accomplish His purposes, as seen throughout Scripture.

‘I will speak to the king
The resolve to "speak" (דָּבַר, dabar) indicates courage and determination. In the biblical narrative, speaking to the king was not only a privilege but also a risk, as it could lead to favor or punishment. This highlights the woman's bravery and the importance of advocacy and intercession.

Perhaps he will grant the request
The word "perhaps" (אוּלַי, ulay) suggests hope and uncertainty. It reflects the woman's faith in the king's mercy and the possibility of a favorable outcome. This mirrors the biblical principle of approaching God with requests, trusting in His goodness and sovereignty.

of his maidservant
Reiterating her position as a "maidservant" reinforces her humility and dependence on the king's grace. It serves as a reminder of the power dynamics at play and the need for those in authority to act justly and compassionately. This aligns with the biblical call for leaders to shepherd their people with integrity and care.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joab
The commander of King David's army who orchestrates the plan to reconcile David with his son Absalom by using a wise woman from Tekoa.

2. The Wise Woman of Tekoa
A woman chosen by Joab to present a parable to King David, aiming to convince him to bring Absalom back to Jerusalem.

3. King David
The ruler of Israel, who is dealing with the estrangement from his son Absalom after Absalom's murder of his brother Amnon.

4. Absalom
David's son, who is in exile after killing his brother Amnon in revenge for the rape of their sister Tamar.

5. Tekoa
A town in Judah, known for its wise inhabitants, from which the woman who speaks to David is brought.

Teaching Points

The Power of Intercession
The wise woman of Tekoa serves as an intercessor, demonstrating the importance of speaking up for reconciliation and peace. Believers are called to be peacemakers in their communities.

Wisdom in Approach
The woman's tactful and respectful approach to King David shows the value of wisdom and discernment in difficult conversations. Christians should seek God's wisdom in their interactions.

Courage in Advocacy
Despite her fear, the woman speaks to the king, showing courage in advocating for others. Believers are encouraged to overcome fear and stand up for justice and reconciliation.

The Role of Fear
The woman's fear of the people's reaction highlights how fear can motivate action. Christians should examine how fear influences their decisions and seek to act in faith.

Reconciliation and Forgiveness
The account underscores the importance of reconciliation within families and communities. Believers are reminded of the call to forgive and restore broken relationships.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the wise woman of Tekoa's approach to King David reflect the principles found in Proverbs 15:1, and how can we apply this in our own lives?

2. In what ways does the account of Absalom and David parallel the Parable of the Prodigal Son, and what lessons can we draw about forgiveness and reconciliation?

3. What role does fear play in the actions of the characters in 2 Samuel 14:15, and how can we ensure that our actions are guided by faith rather than fear?

4. How can we act as intercessors in our own communities, advocating for peace and reconciliation as the wise woman did?

5. Reflect on a time when you had to approach someone in authority with a difficult request. What did you learn from that experience, and how might this passage inform your approach in the future?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Samuel 13
Provides the background of Absalom's estrangement from David, detailing the events leading to Amnon's murder and Absalom's subsequent flight.

Luke 15:11-32
The Parable of the Prodigal Son, which similarly deals with themes of estrangement and reconciliation within a family.

Proverbs 15:1
Highlights the power of a gentle answer, which can be related to the wise woman's approach to King David.