2 Samuel 20:19

I am among the peaceable and faithful in Israel, but you are trying to destroy a city that is a mother in Israel. Why would you swallow up the LORD's inheritance?"

Study Bible

I am among the peaceful
The Hebrew word for "peaceful" is "shalom," which encompasses not only peace but also completeness, welfare, and harmony. In the context of ancient Israel, being "among the peaceful" suggests a commitment to maintaining the social and spiritual order that God intended for His people. This phrase highlights the speaker's identity as one who values and upholds the covenantal peace that God established with Israel.

and faithful in Israel
The term "faithful" is derived from the Hebrew word "emunah," which signifies steadfastness, trustworthiness, and fidelity. In the historical context of Israel, being faithful was synonymous with adhering to the laws and commandments given by God. This phrase underscores the speaker's dedication to living a life that is aligned with God's will, serving as a model for others in the community.

but you are trying to destroy
The act of destruction here is not merely physical but also spiritual and communal. The Hebrew root "shachat" implies corruption and ruin. The speaker is addressing the moral and ethical implications of the actions being taken against the city, emphasizing the gravity of disrupting the God-ordained order and the community's well-being.

a city that is a mother in Israel
The phrase "a mother in Israel" is rich with cultural and historical significance. In ancient times, a "mother" city was one that provided leadership, protection, and sustenance to its inhabitants and surrounding areas. This metaphor elevates the city's status, indicating its importance in the social and spiritual fabric of the nation. It suggests that the city plays a nurturing and guiding role, much like a mother would for her children.

Why would you swallow up
The imagery of "swallowing up" conveys a sense of complete and utter destruction. The Hebrew word "bala" is often used to describe the engulfing or consuming of something entirely. This phrase questions the rationale behind such total devastation, urging the listener to consider the consequences of their actions on the community and their relationship with God.

the LORD’s inheritance?
The term "inheritance" refers to the land and people of Israel, which are considered God's possession and gift to His chosen people. The Hebrew word "nachalah" signifies a heritage or possession that is passed down through generations. This phrase serves as a reminder of the divine covenant and the sacred responsibility to protect and preserve what God has entrusted to His people. It calls for a reflection on the spiritual and communal duties that come with being part of God's inheritance.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Wise Woman of Abel
A key figure in this passage, she is a wise and influential woman from the city of Abel Beth Maacah. She intervenes to prevent the destruction of her city by negotiating with Joab.

2. Joab
The commander of King David's army, tasked with quelling the rebellion led by Sheba. He is known for his military prowess and sometimes ruthless tactics.

3. Abel Beth Maacah
A city in northern Israel, described as a "mother in Israel," indicating its importance and possibly its role as a center of wisdom and counsel.

4. Sheba son of Bichri
A Benjamite who led a rebellion against King David, seeking to divide the kingdom. His rebellion is the reason for Joab's siege of Abel Beth Maacah.

5. The LORD’s Inheritance
Refers to the people of Israel, whom God has chosen as His own. The term underscores the sacredness of the nation and its cities.

Teaching Points

The Power of Wisdom and Peacemaking
The wise woman of Abel demonstrates the profound impact of wisdom and diplomacy. Her actions remind us that God values peacemakers and those who seek to resolve conflicts through understanding and negotiation.

The Importance of Community and Heritage
The reference to the city as a "mother in Israel" highlights the importance of community and heritage. We are called to protect and cherish the spiritual and communal legacies entrusted to us.

God’s Inheritance and Our Responsibility
The phrase "the LORD’s inheritance" reminds us of our responsibility to care for and preserve what God has given us, whether it be our families, communities, or spiritual gifts.

The Role of Women in God’s Plan
This passage, like others in the Bible, underscores the significant role women play in God’s plan. It challenges us to recognize and value the contributions of women in our faith communities.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the wise woman's approach to conflict resolution in 2 Samuel 20:19 inspire you to handle disputes in your own life?

2. In what ways can we, like the wise woman, act as peacemakers in our communities today?

3. Reflect on a time when you witnessed or experienced the power of wisdom in resolving a difficult situation. How did it impact the outcome?

4. How can we ensure that we are protecting and valuing the "inheritance" God has given us, both spiritually and communally?

5. What lessons can we learn from the roles of women like the wise woman of Abel and Abigail in the Bible, and how can we apply these lessons in our church and community life?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Proverbs 14:1
This verse speaks of the wisdom of a woman in building her house, which parallels the wise woman's actions in preserving her city.

Matthew 5:9
Jesus' teaching on peacemakers being blessed connects to the wise woman's role as a peacemaker, seeking to resolve conflict without bloodshed.

1 Samuel 25
The account of Abigail, another wise woman who intervenes to prevent bloodshed, showing a pattern of God using women to bring peace.