2 Samuel 19:19

and said, "My lord, do not hold me guilty, and do not remember your servant's wrongdoing on the day my lord the king left Jerusalem. May the king not take it to heart.

Study Bible

and said
This phrase introduces the plea of Shimei, who approaches King David with a request for mercy. The Hebrew root for "said" is "אָמַר" (amar), which is often used to denote a formal declaration or request. In the context of ancient Israel, speaking directly to a king was a significant act, often requiring courage and humility. Shimei's approach is a testament to his recognition of David's authority and his own need for forgiveness.

My lord
The term "lord" here is translated from the Hebrew "אֲדֹנִי" (adoni), a respectful title used for someone in a position of authority. By addressing David as "my lord," Shimei acknowledges David's sovereignty and his own subordinate position. This reflects the hierarchical social structure of ancient Israel, where kings were seen as divinely appointed leaders.

do not hold me guilty
The plea for not being held guilty is a request for forgiveness. The Hebrew word for "guilty" is "עָוֹן" (avon), which can also mean iniquity or wrongdoing. Shimei is asking David to overlook his past transgressions, highlighting a theme of repentance and mercy that runs throughout the Bible. This request underscores the biblical principle that true repentance can lead to forgiveness.

and do not remember
The act of remembering in Hebrew, "זָכַר" (zakar), often implies an active consideration or bringing to mind. Shimei is asking David to forget his past sins, which is a profound request given the human tendency to hold grudges. This reflects the biblical teaching that God, in His mercy, chooses not to remember our sins when we repent (Isaiah 43:25).

your servant’s wrongdoing
By referring to himself as "your servant," Shimei is expressing humility and submission. The Hebrew word for "servant" is "עֶבֶד" (eved), which denotes a position of servitude and loyalty. Shimei's acknowledgment of his "wrongdoing" (Hebrew "חֵטְא" - chet) is an admission of guilt, which is the first step towards reconciliation and forgiveness.

on the day my lord the king left Jerusalem
This phrase refers to the historical context of David's flight from Jerusalem during Absalom's rebellion. Shimei had cursed David during this time of vulnerability (2 Samuel 16:5-8). By referencing this specific day, Shimei is pinpointing the moment of his transgression, which is crucial for genuine repentance. It also highlights the tumultuous period in David's reign and the challenges he faced as a leader.

May the king not take it to heart
The phrase "take it to heart" is a Hebrew idiom that means to hold onto something emotionally or to let it affect one's feelings deeply. Shimei is asking David to let go of any bitterness or desire for retribution. This request aligns with the biblical call to forgive others as God forgives us, emphasizing the importance of releasing past grievances to restore relationships.

Persons / Places / Events

1. David
The King of Israel, who is returning to Jerusalem after the rebellion of his son Absalom.

2. Shimei
A member of the tribe of Benjamin who had previously cursed David but now seeks forgiveness as David returns to power.

3. Jerusalem
The capital city of Israel, from which David had fled during Absalom's rebellion.

4. Absalom
David's son, who led a rebellion against his father, causing David to flee Jerusalem.

5. The Jordan River
The location where David is met by Shimei and others as he returns to Jerusalem.

Teaching Points

The Power of Repentance
Shimei's plea for forgiveness underscores the importance of acknowledging wrongdoing and seeking reconciliation. True repentance involves humility and a sincere request for mercy.

The Heart of Forgiveness
David's response to Shimei can teach us about the heart of forgiveness. As believers, we are called to forgive others, reflecting God's grace and mercy in our own lives.

Remembering God's Mercy
Just as David was merciful to Shimei, we are reminded of the mercy God extends to us. This should inspire us to be merciful to others, recognizing our own need for forgiveness.

The Role of Leadership in Forgiveness
David's decision to forgive Shimei highlights the responsibility of leaders to model forgiveness and reconciliation, setting an example for others to follow.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Shimei's approach to David demonstrate the principles of repentance and humility? How can we apply these principles in our own lives when seeking forgiveness?

2. In what ways does David's response to Shimei reflect the teachings of Jesus on forgiveness? How can we incorporate these teachings into our daily interactions with others?

3. How does the account of Shimei and David parallel the Parable of the Prodigal Son? What lessons can we learn about God's forgiveness and our response to it?

4. Consider a time when you were in a position to forgive someone. How did you handle it, and what can you learn from David's example in this passage?

5. How can leaders today apply the principles of forgiveness and reconciliation in their roles, whether in the church, workplace, or family? What impact might this have on those they lead?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Samuel 24
David's earlier encounter with Saul, where he chooses not to harm the Lord's anointed, demonstrating mercy and restraint.

Matthew 6:14-15
Jesus' teaching on forgiveness, emphasizing the importance of forgiving others as God forgives us.

Psalm 51
David's own plea for forgiveness from God, highlighting the theme of repentance and mercy.

Luke 15:11-32
The Parable of the Prodigal Son, illustrating themes of repentance, forgiveness, and restoration.