2 Samuel 13:4

so he asked Amnon, "Why are you, the son of the king, so depressed morning after morning? Won't you tell me?" Amnon replied, "I am in love with Tamar, my brother Absalom's sister."

Study Bible

and he asked Amnon,
Jonadab, a cousin and friend of Amnon, initiates the conversation. This highlights the role of advisors and confidants in royal courts, often influencing decisions and actions. The presence of Jonadab, who is described as shrewd, sets the stage for the unfolding events, emphasizing the importance of counsel in biblical narratives.

“Why are you, the son of the king,
Amnon's status as the son of King David is significant. As the firstborn, he is the heir apparent, which adds weight to his actions and decisions. This phrase underscores the expectations and pressures faced by royal offspring, as well as the privileges and responsibilities that come with such a position.

so depressed morning after morning?
Amnon's persistent depression suggests a deep internal struggle. In biblical times, emotional states were often linked to spiritual or moral conditions. This ongoing sadness indicates a conflict that is not just personal but also moral, setting the stage for the moral and ethical dilemmas that follow.

Won’t you tell me?”
Jonadab's probing question reflects the importance of communication and transparency in relationships. It also foreshadows the manipulation and deceit that will occur, as Jonadab's inquiry is not merely out of concern but also a prelude to his involvement in Amnon's plans.

Amnon replied,
Amnon's response marks a turning point in the narrative. His willingness to confide in Jonadab reveals the trust he places in him, which will later have significant consequences. This moment of confession is pivotal, as it exposes the desires that drive the subsequent actions.

“I am in love with Tamar,
Amnon's declaration of love for Tamar is complex. In the biblical context, love often encompasses a range of emotions and intentions, from genuine affection to lustful desire. The use of "love" here is ironic, as it foreshadows the tragic events that result from Amnon's misguided and sinful desires.

my brother Absalom’s sister.”
This phrase highlights the familial relationships involved, emphasizing the incestuous nature of Amnon's desire. Tamar is not only Amnon's half-sister but also Absalom's full sister, which complicates the dynamics and heightens the tension. The mention of Absalom foreshadows his later actions and the ensuing family conflict, which will have far-reaching implications for David's household and the kingdom.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Amnon
The eldest son of King David, who becomes infatuated with his half-sister Tamar.

2. Tamar
The beautiful sister of Absalom and half-sister to Amnon, who becomes the object of Amnon's illicit desire.

3. Absalom
Tamar's full brother, who later avenges the wrong done to his sister.

4. Jonadab
A cousin to Amnon and a shrewd advisor, who questions Amnon about his distress and later gives him advice on how to act on his desires.

5. King David
The father of Amnon, Tamar, and Absalom, whose family is torn apart by these events.

Teaching Points

Guard Your Heart
Amnon's unchecked desires led to devastating consequences. We must guard our hearts and align our desires with God's will.

Choose Your Counsel Wisely
Jonadab's advice to Amnon was not godly. Seek counsel from those who are grounded in biblical truth.

Consequences of Sin
Amnon's actions led to a chain of tragic events. Sin often has far-reaching consequences beyond the immediate act.

Family Dynamics and Responsibility
David's family suffered due to his lack of intervention. As leaders and family members, we must address issues proactively and biblically.

Love vs. Lust
Amnon's feelings were not true love but lust. True love is selfless and seeks the best for others, as described in 1 Corinthians 13.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Amnon's infatuation with Tamar illustrate the dangers of unchecked desires? Reflect on James 1:14-15.

2. In what ways can we ensure that the advice we receive aligns with biblical principles? Consider Proverbs 27:6.

3. What are some practical steps we can take to guard our hearts against sinful desires? Relate this to Proverbs 4:23.

4. How can we as Christians address family issues in a way that honors God and promotes healing? Reflect on Ephesians 4:31-32.

5. How does the account of Amnon and Tamar challenge us to differentiate between love and lust in our relationships? Consider 1 Corinthians 13:4-7.

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 4:6-7
The account of Cain and Abel, where God questions Cain about his anger, parallels Jonadab questioning Amnon, highlighting the importance of addressing sinful desires before they lead to sin.

James 1:14-15
This passage discusses how desire leads to sin, which then leads to death, mirroring Amnon's progression from desire to sin.

Proverbs 27:6
This verse speaks about the wounds of a friend being faithful, contrasting with Jonadab's role as a deceptive advisor to Amnon.