2 Samuel 20:3

When David returned to his palace in Jerusalem, he took the ten concubines he had left to care for the palace, and he placed them in a house under guard. He provided for them, but he no longer slept with them. They were confined until the day of their death, living as widows.

Study Bible

When David returned to his palace in Jerusalem
This phrase marks a significant moment in King David's life, as he returns to his royal residence after the rebellion of Absalom. The Hebrew word for "returned" (שׁוּב, shuv) often implies a restoration or a turning back, symbolizing not just a physical return but a spiritual and political restoration of order. Jerusalem, the city of David, holds deep historical and theological significance as the center of Israel's worship and governance, representing God's chosen place for His name to dwell.

he took the ten concubines he had left to care for the palace
The mention of "ten concubines" reflects the cultural and historical practices of ancient Near Eastern monarchies, where kings often had multiple wives and concubines. These women were left behind to maintain the household, indicating their trusted status. The Hebrew term for concubine (פִּילֶגֶשׁ, pilegesh) denotes a secondary wife, often for political alliances or household management. This situation underscores the vulnerability and complex roles of women in biblical narratives.

and placed them in seclusion
David's decision to seclude the concubines is a response to Absalom's public defilement of them, as recorded earlier in 2 Samuel 16:22. The Hebrew root for "seclusion" (שָׁמַר, shamar) can mean to guard or keep, suggesting both protection and restriction. This act reflects David's attempt to restore their dignity and protect them from further shame, yet it also highlights the limitations placed on their lives due to the actions of others.

He provided for them
Despite their seclusion, David ensures that the concubines are cared for, demonstrating his responsibility and provision as king. The Hebrew verb for "provided" (כּוּן, kun) implies preparation and establishment, indicating that David took deliberate steps to ensure their well-being. This provision reflects a measure of justice and mercy, acknowledging their plight and offering them sustenance.

but he had no relations with them
David's abstention from relations with the concubines is a significant moral and ethical decision. The Hebrew phrase here indicates a conscious choice to refrain from intimacy, respecting their altered status and the violation they suffered. This action can be seen as an acknowledgment of their changed circumstances and a form of penance for the consequences of his own past sins.

They were confined until the day of their death, living as widows
The confinement of the concubines until their death, living "as widows," is a poignant conclusion to their story. The Hebrew word for "widows" (אַלְמָנָה, almanah) typically refers to women who have lost their husbands, yet here it metaphorically describes their isolated existence. This reflects the tragic reality of their lives, caught in the aftermath of political turmoil and personal betrayal. It serves as a somber reminder of the far-reaching impact of sin and the need for compassion and justice in leadership.

Persons / Places / Events

1. David
The King of Israel, returning to his palace in Jerusalem after quelling the rebellion led by Sheba.

2. Concubines
Ten women left by David to care for the palace during Absalom's rebellion. They were later confined and lived as widows.

3. Jerusalem
The capital city of Israel and the location of David's palace.

4. Absalom's Rebellion
A significant event where David's son, Absalom, attempted to overthrow his father, leading to a temporary displacement of David from Jerusalem.

5. Sheba's Rebellion
A subsequent rebellion against David, led by Sheba, which David had just quelled before returning to Jerusalem.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Sin
David's actions towards his concubines reflect the long-lasting consequences of sin, both personal and communal. The rebellion of Absalom and the subsequent treatment of the concubines are direct results of David's earlier sins with Bathsheba and Uriah.

The Sanctity of Marriage
The situation with the concubines highlights the deviation from God's design for marriage. It serves as a reminder of the importance of upholding the sanctity and exclusivity of the marital relationship.

Compassion and Provision
Despite the confinement, David ensured the concubines were provided for. This act can be seen as a form of compassion, albeit within a flawed system, reminding us of our responsibility to care for those affected by our actions.

The Impact of Leadership Decisions
David's decision to leave the concubines behind and his subsequent actions upon returning demonstrate the far-reaching impact of leadership decisions. Leaders must consider the moral and ethical implications of their choices.

Restoration and Repentance
While the passage does not explicitly mention repentance, it invites reflection on the need for restoration and repentance in the aftermath of sin and brokenness.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the treatment of the concubines reflect the broader consequences of David's earlier sins, and what can we learn about the ripple effects of our actions?

2. In what ways does this passage challenge us to uphold the sanctity of marriage in our own lives and communities?

3. How can we demonstrate compassion and provision for those who are affected by the consequences of sin, whether our own or others'?

4. What lessons can we learn from David's leadership decisions, and how can we apply these lessons to our roles as leaders in various capacities?

5. How does this passage encourage us to seek restoration and repentance in areas of our lives where we have experienced brokenness or have caused harm?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Samuel 16:21-22
This passage provides context for why David's concubines were confined. Absalom had publicly taken them as a demonstration of his claim to the throne.

Genesis 2:24
Highlights the sanctity of marriage, contrasting with the treatment of concubines in David's time.

1 Kings 2:13-25
Solomon's dealing with Adonijah reflects the political implications of relationships with royal concubines.

Matthew 19:8
Jesus speaks about the hardness of hearts leading to deviations from God's original design for marriage, which can be related to the treatment of concubines.