2 Samuel 3:3
his second was Chileab, by Abigail the widow of Nabal of Carmel; his third was Absalom, the son of Maacah daughter of King Talmai of Geshur;
his second was Chileab
The name "Chileab" is intriguing as it appears only here in the Bible. In Hebrew, it is thought to mean "like his father," which may suggest a close resemblance or a strong paternal bond. This name is significant as it reflects the importance of lineage and heritage in ancient Israelite culture. The emphasis on the second son highlights the continuation of David's line, which is crucial in the unfolding narrative of Israel's monarchy.

by Abigail the widow of Nabal of Carmel
Abigail is a notable figure in the biblical narrative, known for her wisdom and beauty. Her previous marriage to Nabal, a wealthy but foolish man, ended with his death, after which she became one of David's wives. The mention of "Carmel" situates this account geographically, as Carmel was a region known for its fertility and beauty. Abigail's transition from widowhood to becoming the mother of one of David's sons underscores themes of redemption and divine providence.

the third was Absalom
Absalom is a central figure in the narrative of David's reign, known for his striking appearance and tragic rebellion against his father. His name, meaning "father of peace" in Hebrew, is ironic given his later actions. Absalom's account is a poignant reminder of the complexities of familial relationships and the consequences of sin and ambition.

the son of Maacah
Maacah was a princess, the daughter of Talmai, king of Geshur. Her marriage to David likely served as a political alliance, a common practice in ancient times to secure peace and strengthen ties between nations. This highlights the political dimensions of David's reign and the strategic marriages that were part of his consolidation of power.

the daughter of Talmai king of Geshur
Geshur was a small Aramean kingdom located northeast of the Sea of Galilee. The mention of Talmai, the king, provides historical context, indicating the interconnectedness of the surrounding nations with Israel. This relationship would later play a role in Absalom's story, as he sought refuge in Geshur after killing his brother Amnon. The inclusion of these details emphasizes the broader geopolitical landscape in which the biblical narrative unfolds.

Persons / Places / Events
1. Chileab
The second son of David, born to Abigail. His name means "like his father," and he is also known as Daniel in 1 Chronicles 3:1. Little is known about him, and he does not play a significant role in the biblical account.

2. Abigail
The widow of Nabal, who became one of David's wives. She is noted for her wisdom and beauty, as well as her role in preventing David from taking vengeance on Nabal.

3. Absalom
The third son of David, known for his handsome appearance and later rebellion against his father. His account is a significant part of the account in 2 Samuel.

4. Maacah
The daughter of Talmai, king of Geshur, and mother of Absalom. Her marriage to David likely had political implications, strengthening alliances.

5. Talmai, King of Geshur
A regional king whose daughter, Maacah, married David. Geshur was a small Aramean kingdom northeast of the Sea of Galilee.
Teaching Points
The Importance of Family Dynamics
The relationships and events surrounding David's sons highlight the complexities of family life and the potential for both harmony and conflict. Understanding these dynamics can help us navigate our own family relationships with wisdom and grace.

Consequences of Political Alliances
David's marriage to Maacah, a political alliance, had long-term implications for his family and kingdom. This reminds us to consider the broader impact of our decisions and relationships.

The Role of Women in Biblical Narratives
Abigail's account demonstrates the significant influence women can have through wisdom and discernment. Her actions had a lasting impact on David's life and legacy.

The Dangers of Ambition and Rebellion
Absalom's account serves as a cautionary tale about the destructive nature of unchecked ambition and rebellion against God-given authority.
Bible Study Questions
1. How do the family dynamics in David's household reflect the challenges we face in our own families today?

2. What can we learn from Abigail's character and actions that can be applied to our own lives, particularly in conflict resolution?

3. How do political alliances and relationships impact our personal and spiritual lives, and what biblical principles can guide us in these areas?

4. In what ways does Absalom's rebellion illustrate the consequences of failing to submit to God's authority, and how can we guard against similar attitudes in our own hearts?

5. How does the account of David's sons encourage us to seek God's wisdom in parenting and leadership within our families and communities?
Connections to Other Scriptures
1 Chronicles 3:1
Provides a parallel account of David's sons, listing Chileab as Daniel, which highlights the different names used in biblical genealogies.

1 Samuel 25
Details the account of Abigail and Nabal, providing context for her marriage to David and the birth of Chileab.

2 Samuel 13-18
Chronicles the life and rebellion of Absalom, offering insight into the consequences of familial discord and ambition.
The House of DavidB. Dale 2 Samuel 3:1-5
A Long WarC. M. Fleury, A. M.2 Samuel 3:1-39
Perpetual WarJ. Irons.2 Samuel 3:1-39
Progress and Termination of the Civil WarW. G. Blaikie, M. A.2 Samuel 3:1-39
People
Abigail, Abishai, Abital, Abner, Absalom, Adonijah, Ahinoam, Aiah, Amnon, Asahel, Benjamin, Benjamites, Chileab, Dan, David, Eglah, Gibeon, Haggith, Ishbosheth, Ithream, Jezreel, Jezreelitess, Jizreelitess, Joab, Laish, Maacah, Maachah, Michal, Nabal, Ner, Paltiel, Phaltiel, Rizpah, Saul, Shephatiah, Talmai, Zeruiah
Places
Bahurim, Beersheba, Bethlehem, Carmel, Dan, Geshur, Gibeon, Hebron
Topics
Abigail, Ab'igail, Absalom, Ab'salom, Carmel, Carmelite, Chileab, Chil'e-ab, Daughter, Geshur, Maacah, Ma'acah, Maachah, Nabal, Talmai, Third, Widow, Wife
Dictionary of Bible Themes
2 Samuel 3:1-5

     5732   polygamy

Library
The King --Continued.
The years thus well begun are, in the historical books, characterized mainly by three events, namely, the bringing up of the ark to the newly won city of David, Nathan's prophecy of the perpetual dominion of his house, and his victories over the surrounding nations. These three hinges of the narrative are all abundantly illustrated in the psalms. As to the first, we have relics of the joyful ceremonial connected with it in two psalms, the fifteenth and twenty-fourth, which are singularly alike not
Alexander Maclaren—The Life of David

The King.
We have now to turn and see the sudden change of fortune which lifted the exile to a throne. The heavy cloud which had brooded so long over the doomed king broke in lightning crash on the disastrous field of Gilboa. Where is there a sadder and more solemn story of the fate of a soul which makes shipwreck "of faith and of a good conscience," than that awful page which tells how, godless, wretched, mad with despair and measureless pride, he flung himself on his bloody sword, and died a suicide's death,
Alexander Maclaren—The Life of David

Of a Private Fast.
That we may rightly perform a private fast, four things are to be observed:--First, The author; Secondly, The time and occasion; Thirdly, The manner; Fourthly, The ends of private fasting. 1. Of the Author. The first that ordained fasting was God himself in paradise; and it was the first law that God made, in commanding Adam to abstain from eating the forbidden fruit. God would not pronounce nor write his law without fasting (Lev. xxiii), and in his law commands all his people to fast. So does our
Lewis Bayly—The Practice of Piety

A Believer's Privilege at Death
'For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.' Phil 1:1I. Hope is a Christian's anchor, which he casts within the veil. Rejoicing in hope.' Rom 12:12. A Christian's hope is not in this life, but he hash hope in his death.' Prov 14:42. The best of a saint's comfort begins when his life ends; but the wicked have all their heaven here. Woe unto you that are rich! for ye have received your consolation.' Luke 6:64. You may make your acquittance, and write Received in full payment.' Son, remember that
Thomas Watson—A Body of Divinity

The Morning of Good Friday.
The pale grey light had passed into that of early morning, when the Sanhedrists once more assembled in the Palace of Caiaphas. [5969] A comparison with the terms in which they who had formed the gathering of the previous night are described will convey the impression, that the number of those present was now increased, and that they who now came belonged to the wisest and most influential of the Council. It is not unreasonable to suppose, that some who would not take part in deliberations which were
Alfred Edersheim—The Life and Times of Jesus the Messiah

Growth in Grace
'But grow in grace.' 2 Pet 3:38. True grace is progressive, of a spreading and growing nature. It is with grace as with light; first, there is the crepusculum, or daybreak; then it shines brighter to the full meridian. A good Christian is like the crocodile. Quamdiu vivet crescit; he has never done growing. The saints are not only compared to stars for their light, but to trees for their growth. Isa 61:1, and Hos 14:4. A good Christian is not like Hezekiah's sun that went backwards, nor Joshua's
Thomas Watson—A Body of Divinity

Samuel
Alike from the literary and the historical point of view, the book[1] of Samuel stands midway between the book of Judges and the book of Kings. As we have already seen, the Deuteronomic book of Judges in all probability ran into Samuel and ended in ch. xii.; while the story of David, begun in Samuel, embraces the first two chapters of the first book of Kings. The book of Samuel is not very happily named, as much of it is devoted to Saul and the greater part to David; yet it is not altogether inappropriate,
John Edgar McFadyen—Introduction to the Old Testament

Links
2 Samuel 3:3 NIV
2 Samuel 3:3 NLT
2 Samuel 3:3 ESV
2 Samuel 3:3 NASB
2 Samuel 3:3 KJV

2 Samuel 3:3 Commentaries

Bible Hub
2 Samuel 3:2
Top of Page
Top of Page