2 Samuel 16:2

"Why do you have these?" asked the king. Ziba replied, "The donkeys are for the king's household to ride, the bread and summer fruit are for the young men to eat, and the wine is to refresh those who become exhausted in the wilderness."

Study Bible

“Why do you have these?” asked the king.
In this passage, King David is fleeing Jerusalem due to Absalom's rebellion. The king's question to Ziba, the servant of Mephibosheth, reflects a moment of uncertainty and vulnerability. David's inquiry suggests a need for understanding Ziba's intentions, as he is in a precarious situation. This moment highlights David's reliance on others during his time of distress, a theme seen throughout his life, such as when he depended on Jonathan's loyalty (1 Samuel 20).

Ziba replied, “The donkeys are for the king’s household to ride,
Ziba's response indicates his intention to support David's escape by providing transportation. Donkeys were common beasts of burden in ancient Israel, used for travel and carrying loads. This provision would have been practical for David's household, emphasizing the urgency and necessity of their flight. The mention of donkeys also connects to other biblical narratives where donkeys play a role in significant journeys, such as Balaam's donkey (Numbers 22) and Jesus' entry into Jerusalem (Matthew 21:1-7).

the bread and summer fruit are for the young men to eat,
The bread and summer fruit symbolize sustenance and provision. In the ancient Near East, bread was a staple food, and summer fruits like figs and raisins were common, providing necessary energy and nutrition. This provision reflects the cultural practice of hospitality and care for those in need. The young men, likely David's soldiers or attendants, would require nourishment for their journey, paralleling God's provision for the Israelites in the wilderness (Exodus 16).

and the wine is to refresh those who become exhausted in the wilderness.”
Wine in biblical times was often used for refreshment and medicinal purposes. In the context of the wilderness, a harsh and unforgiving environment, wine would serve to rejuvenate and strengthen those who were weary. This provision can be seen as an act of kindness and foresight by Ziba, ensuring that David's followers remain capable and alert. The wilderness motif is significant in Scripture, representing both physical and spiritual trials, as seen in Israel's wanderings (Deuteronomy 8:2) and Jesus' temptation (Matthew 4:1-11).

Persons / Places / Events

1. King David
The reigning king of Israel, who is fleeing from his son Absalom during a time of political and familial turmoil.

2. Ziba
The servant of Mephibosheth, who brings provisions to David and his men as they flee.

3. Absalom
David's son, who has initiated a rebellion against his father, causing David to flee Jerusalem.

4. The Wilderness
The setting where David and his followers find themselves, symbolizing a place of trial and testing.

5. Mephibosheth
The son of Jonathan and grandson of Saul, whom David had previously shown kindness to by restoring his grandfather's land and allowing him to eat at the king's table.

Teaching Points

God's Provision in Times of Need
Just as Ziba provided for David and his men, God often uses unexpected means and people to provide for our needs during difficult times.

Discernment in Relationships
David's interaction with Ziba reminds us of the importance of discernment. Not all who appear to help have pure motives, and we must seek God's wisdom in understanding the intentions of others.

The Role of Servanthood
Ziba's actions, whether genuine or self-serving, highlight the role of servanthood. As Christians, we are called to serve others, reflecting Christ's love and humility.

Trusting God in the Wilderness
The wilderness represents times of trial and uncertainty. Like David, we must trust in God's faithfulness and provision, knowing He is with us even in the most challenging circumstances.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Ziba's provision for David and his men reflect God's provision for us in our times of need?

2. In what ways can we practice discernment in our relationships, especially when receiving help or advice from others?

3. How does the concept of servanthood in this passage challenge us to serve others in our daily lives?

4. What are some "wilderness" experiences in your life where you have seen God's provision and faithfulness?

5. How can the account of David's flight from Absalom encourage us to trust God during our own trials and uncertainties?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Samuel 9
This chapter provides background on David's kindness to Mephibosheth, which contrasts with Ziba's actions and claims in 2 Samuel 16.

Psalm 23
David's experience in the wilderness can be seen as a real-life reflection of the themes in this Psalm, where God provides and sustains even in the valley of the shadow of death.

Proverbs 25:21-22
The act of providing for one's enemy or those in need, as Ziba does, aligns with the wisdom of showing kindness and generosity.