2 Samuel 14:19

So the king asked, "Is the hand of Joab behind all this?" The woman answered, "As surely as you live, my lord the king, no one can turn to the right or to the left from anything that my lord the king says. Yes, your servant Joab is the one who gave me orders; he told your maidservant exactly what to say.

Study Bible

The king asked
This phrase indicates King David's discernment and authority. In the Hebrew context, the word for "asked" (שָׁאַל, sha'al) often implies a deeper inquiry or seeking of truth. David's ability to perceive Joab's involvement reflects his wisdom and experience as a ruler. Historically, kings were expected to be wise and discerning, and David's question shows his active engagement in governance and justice.

Is the hand of Joab with you in all this?
The "hand" symbolizes agency or involvement. Joab, David's military commander, was known for his strategic mind and sometimes ruthless actions. The Hebrew word for "hand" (יָד, yad) often signifies power or influence. David's suspicion of Joab's involvement highlights the complex political dynamics within his court. Joab's influence was significant, and his actions often had profound implications for the kingdom.

The woman answered
The woman from Tekoa, used by Joab to convey his message, plays a crucial role in this narrative. Her response is respectful and acknowledges the king's authority. In ancient Israel, women often held positions of influence indirectly, and this woman's role underscores the importance of wisdom and eloquence in communication.

As surely as you live, my lord the king
This oath underscores the seriousness and sincerity of her response. The phrase "as surely as you live" is a common Hebrew idiom (חַי־יְהוָה, chai-YHWH) used to affirm truthfulness. It reflects the cultural and religious practice of invoking God's name to validate one's words, emphasizing the gravity of the situation.

no one can turn to the right or to the left
This expression signifies unwavering adherence to the king's words. In Hebrew culture, "turning to the right or to the left" (לֹא־יָסוּר, lo-yasur) often implies deviation from a set path or command. The phrase highlights the king's authority and the expectation of obedience, reflecting the hierarchical structure of ancient Israelite society.

from anything my lord the king says
The phrase emphasizes the absolute authority of the king's words. In theocratic Israel, the king was seen as God's appointed ruler, and his words carried divine weight. This reflects the biblical principle of respecting and honoring those in authority, as they are placed by God for governance.

Yes, it was your servant Joab who instructed me
The woman's admission reveals Joab's orchestration behind the scenes. The term "servant" (עֶבֶד, eved) denotes loyalty and duty, yet Joab's actions often blur the lines between service and manipulation. This acknowledgment sheds light on Joab's complex character—loyal yet ambitious, serving David while pursuing his own agenda.

and who put all these words in my mouth
This phrase indicates the deliberate and strategic planning by Joab. The act of putting words in someone's mouth (שׂוּם, sum) suggests careful scripting and manipulation. It highlights the theme of influence and persuasion in leadership, reminding readers of the power of words and the importance of integrity in communication.

Persons / Places / Events

1. King David
The ruler of Israel, known for his heart after God, but also for his personal and familial struggles.

2. Joab
The commander of David's army, known for his military prowess and political maneuvering.

3. The Wise Woman of Tekoa
A woman used by Joab to deliver a parable to King David, aiming to influence his decision regarding Absalom.

4. Absalom
David's son, who was in exile after killing his brother Amnon. His return to Jerusalem is the central issue in this account.

5. Tekoa
A town in Judah, known for its wise inhabitants, including the prophet Amos.

Teaching Points

The Power of Influence
Joab's use of the woman from Tekoa demonstrates how influence can be wielded to achieve desired outcomes. We must be discerning about who influences us and how we influence others.

Wisdom in Counsel
The woman from Tekoa was chosen for her wisdom. This highlights the importance of seeking wise counsel in our own lives, especially when making significant decisions.

Confrontation and Reconciliation
The account underscores the need for addressing wrongs and seeking reconciliation, as seen in the attempt to bring Absalom back. This is a reminder of the importance of forgiveness and restoration in our relationships.

God's Sovereignty in Leadership
Despite human manipulation, God's purposes prevail. We can trust that God is ultimately in control, even when human leaders make flawed decisions.

The Role of Parables
The use of a parable to convey a message to David shows the power of accounttelling in revealing truth and prompting reflection. We can use accounts to communicate effectively and engage others in meaningful dialogue.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Joab's influence over the situation with Absalom reflect the power dynamics in our own lives, and how can we ensure that our influence aligns with God's will?

2. In what ways can we seek and apply wise counsel in our decision-making processes, as seen in the role of the wise woman of Tekoa?

3. How does the theme of reconciliation in this passage challenge us to address unresolved conflicts in our own relationships?

4. What does this passage teach us about God's sovereignty over human affairs, and how can this understanding impact our trust in His plans?

5. How can we use accounttelling or parables in our own lives to convey truth and encourage others towards reflection and change?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Samuel 12
Nathan's parable to David about the rich man and the poor man's lamb, which parallels the use of parables to confront David with his own decisions.

Proverbs 21:1
The idea that the king's heart is in the hand of the Lord, reflecting on how God can use others to influence leaders.

Matthew 18:15-17
The process of reconciliation and addressing sin, which relates to the theme of bringing Absalom back to Jerusalem.