2 Samuel 20:22

Then the woman went to all the people with her wise counsel, and they cut off the head of Sheba son of Bichri and threw it to Joab. So he blew the ram's horn and his men dispersed from the city, each to his own home. And Joab returned to the king in Jerusalem.

Study Bible

So the woman went to all the people with her wise counsel
The phrase highlights the pivotal role of a wise woman in the narrative. In Hebrew, "wise" is "חָכְמָה" (chokmah), which denotes not just intelligence but practical wisdom and skill in living. This woman exemplifies the biblical ideal of wisdom, reminiscent of Proverbs 31, where wisdom is portrayed as a guiding force for good. Her counsel averts disaster, demonstrating how God often uses unexpected individuals to fulfill His purposes.

and they cut off the head of Sheba the son of Bichri
This action reflects the brutal realities of ancient Near Eastern justice and warfare. Sheba, a Benjamite, had rebelled against King David, and his execution was a means to restore peace. The act of beheading, while harsh, was a common practice for dealing with traitors, symbolizing the removal of rebellion and the restoration of order. It underscores the seriousness of rebellion against God's anointed king, a theme prevalent throughout the Davidic narrative.

and threw it to Joab
Joab, David's military commander, is a complex figure in the biblical text. His receipt of Sheba's head signifies the end of the rebellion. Joab's role is often controversial, as he is both a loyal servant to David and a man of violence. This act of throwing the head symbolizes the submission of the city to David's rule and the restoration of his authority.

So he blew the trumpet
The blowing of the trumpet, or "שׁוֹפָר" (shofar) in Hebrew, is a significant biblical motif. It often signals the end of conflict or the beginning of a new phase. Here, it marks the cessation of hostilities and the return to peace. The shofar is also used in religious contexts, such as the announcement of the Year of Jubilee, symbolizing freedom and restoration.

and they dispersed from the city, each to his own home
This dispersal signifies the return to normalcy after the crisis. The phrase "each to his own home" suggests a restoration of peace and order, allowing the people to resume their daily lives. It reflects the biblical theme of God bringing order out of chaos, a recurring motif from Genesis through Revelation.

And Joab returned to the king in Jerusalem
Joab's return to Jerusalem, the city of David, signifies the re-establishment of David's rule and the centralization of power. Jerusalem, as the political and spiritual center of Israel, represents God's chosen place for His name to dwell. Joab's return to the king underscores the restoration of divine order and the fulfillment of God's covenant promises to David.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Wise Woman
An unnamed woman from the city of Abel Beth Maacah who uses her wisdom to save her city by negotiating with Joab.

2. Sheba son of Bichri
A Benjamite who led a rebellion against King David, declaring, "We have no share in David."

3. Joab
The commander of King David's army, tasked with quelling Sheba's rebellion.

4. Abel Beth Maacah
A fortified city in northern Israel where Sheba sought refuge.

5. King David
The reigning king of Israel during this event, though not directly mentioned in this verse, he is the central figure in the broader account.

Teaching Points

The Power of Wisdom
The wise woman's counsel demonstrates the profound impact that wisdom can have in resolving conflict and bringing peace. In our lives, seeking and applying godly wisdom can lead to peaceful resolutions in difficult situations.

Courage in Action
The woman’s boldness in approaching Joab and negotiating for her city’s safety is a testament to the courage that often accompanies wisdom. We are encouraged to act courageously when standing for what is right.

The Role of Peacemakers
The woman acts as a peacemaker, preventing further bloodshed. As Christians, we are called to be peacemakers in our communities, reflecting Christ’s peace.

Consequences of Rebellion
Sheba’s rebellion against David serves as a reminder of the consequences of opposing God’s anointed leadership. It encourages us to respect and support godly leadership in our lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the wise woman's approach to Joab reflect the biblical principle of using wisdom to resolve conflict? Can you think of a situation in your life where wisdom led to a peaceful resolution?

2. In what ways does the account of Sheba's rebellion and its outcome serve as a warning against rebellion and disobedience? How can we apply this lesson in our relationship with authority figures?

3. How does the role of the wise woman in this passage inspire you to be a peacemaker in your own community or family? What practical steps can you take to promote peace?

4. Reflect on a time when you had to act courageously to stand for what is right. How did your faith influence your actions, and what was the outcome?

5. Considering the connections to other scriptures, how does the theme of wisdom in 2 Samuel 20:22 relate to the teachings of Jesus in the New Testament? How can you incorporate these teachings into your daily life?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Proverbs 14:1
This verse speaks of the wise woman building her house, which connects to the wise woman's actions in 2 Samuel 20:22, as she uses her wisdom to protect her city.

Ecclesiastes 9:13-18
These verses discuss the value of wisdom over strength, paralleling the wise woman's successful intervention in the conflict.

Matthew 5:9
Jesus' teaching on peacemakers being blessed can be related to the woman's role in bringing peace to her city.