2 Samuel 13:35

So Jonadab said to the king, "Look, the sons of the king have arrived! It is just as your servant said."

Study Bible

So Jonadab said to the king
Jonadab, the son of Shimeah, David's brother, is a key figure in this narrative. Known for his cunning nature, he previously advised Amnon on how to fulfill his sinful desire for Tamar (2 Samuel 13:3-5). His presence here highlights his close proximity to the royal family and his influence within the court. The king referred to is David, who is dealing with the aftermath of Amnon's death. This moment underscores the tension and tragedy within David's family, a consequence of his own moral failings and the fulfillment of Nathan's prophecy (2 Samuel 12:10-12).

“Look, the sons of the king have arrived!
The sons of the king refer to David's other sons, who were with Absalom at the time of Amnon's murder. Their arrival is significant as it confirms the news of Amnon's death, which Jonadab had already anticipated. This moment is a turning point, as it brings the reality of the fratricide into David's presence. The phrase also reflects the fulfillment of Jonadab's earlier assurance to David that not all the king's sons were killed, only Amnon (2 Samuel 13:33).

It is just as your servant said.”
Jonadab's words here emphasize his role as a trusted advisor, despite his earlier involvement in Amnon's sin. His statement serves to validate his previous counsel and to reassure David of the limited scope of the tragedy. This phrase also highlights the theme of prophecy and fulfillment, as Jonadab's earlier words come to pass. In a broader biblical context, it reflects the recurring motif of God's sovereignty and the unfolding of His plans, even through human actions and decisions.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jonadab
A nephew of King David, Jonadab is the son of David's brother Shimeah. He is described as a shrewd man and plays a significant role in the events surrounding the rape of Tamar and the subsequent murder of Amnon by Absalom.

2. King David
The reigning king of Israel, David is a central figure in this account. He is dealing with the aftermath of his son Amnon's actions and the resulting family turmoil.

3. The King’s Sons
Refers to the sons of King David, who are returning after the murder of Amnon by Absalom. Their arrival confirms Jonadab's earlier prediction to David.

4. Absalom
Another son of David, Absalom orchestrates the murder of his brother Amnon as revenge for the rape of their sister Tamar.

5. The Event
This verse occurs in the context of the aftermath of Amnon's murder. Jonadab reassures King David that his sons are safe, as he had predicted.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Sin
The events in 2 Samuel 13 highlight the destructive nature of sin within a family. Amnon's sin against Tamar leads to a cycle of violence and retribution. Believers are reminded to seek God's guidance to break cycles of sin and seek reconciliation.

The Role of Counsel
Jonadab's role as a counselor to David shows the impact of advice, whether good or bad. Christians are encouraged to seek godly counsel and discernment in their relationships and decisions.

God's Sovereignty Amidst Chaos
Despite the chaos in David's family, God's sovereign plan continues. Believers can trust that God is in control, even when circumstances seem dire.

The Importance of Justice and Mercy
The account challenges believers to consider the balance of justice and mercy. While Absalom seeks justice for Tamar, his methods are flawed. Christians are called to pursue justice in a way that honors God and reflects His mercy.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Jonadab's character and actions influence the events in 2 Samuel 13, and what can we learn about the impact of our counsel to others?

2. In what ways does the account of David's family in 2 Samuel 13 reflect the consequences of unchecked sin, and how can we apply this understanding to our own lives?

3. How does the theme of sibling rivalry in 2 Samuel 13 compare to other biblical accounts of sibling conflict, and what lessons can we draw from these comparisons?

4. What does 2 Samuel 13 teach us about the importance of seeking justice in a manner that aligns with God's character, and how can we apply this in our daily interactions?

5. How can we find comfort in God's sovereignty when faced with family or personal turmoil, as seen in the life of David and his sons?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 37
The account of Joseph and his brothers provides a parallel of sibling rivalry and deception, similar to the events in David's family.

Proverbs 12:5
This verse speaks to the intentions of the righteous versus the wicked, highlighting Jonadab's shrewdness and the moral complexities in David's court.

Psalm 55:12-14
David's lament over betrayal by a close friend can be seen as reflective of the betrayal and family strife he experiences in 2 Samuel 13.