2 Samuel 14:15

Now therefore, I have come to present this matter to my lord the king because the people have made me afraid. Your servant thought, 'I will speak to the king. Perhaps he will grant the request of his maidservant.

Study Bible

Now therefore, I have come to present this matter to my lord the king
This phrase is part of a speech by the wise woman of Tekoa, sent by Joab to King David. The context is a carefully crafted parable to persuade David to reconcile with his estranged son Absalom. The phrase reflects the formal approach and respect due to a king, highlighting the hierarchical structure of ancient Israelite society. The use of "my lord the king" underscores the authority and reverence associated with the monarchy, a central institution in Israel's history.

because the people have made me afraid
The woman claims fear of the people, which may reflect the societal pressures and potential unrest due to Absalom's banishment. This fear could symbolize the broader anxiety within the kingdom over unresolved familial and national issues. The phrase also illustrates the role of public opinion in royal decisions, a theme seen throughout the biblical narrative, where leaders often face the challenge of balancing divine command with popular sentiment.

Your servant thought, ‘I will speak to the king.
The term "Your servant" is a common expression of humility and submission in biblical texts, indicating the speaker's lower status and dependence on the king's favor. This approach is strategic, as it positions the woman as a petitioner seeking justice, a recurring motif in the Bible where individuals appeal to those in authority for intervention, reminiscent of Esther's approach to King Xerxes.

Perhaps he will grant the request of his maidservant.
The phrase "Perhaps he will grant" suggests hope and uncertainty, reflecting the unpredictable nature of royal decisions. The term "maidservant" further emphasizes humility and the social hierarchy. This plea for mercy and justice is a theme that resonates with other biblical narratives, such as the persistent widow in Luke 18, illustrating the power of persistent and humble petitioning before those in authority.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joab
The commander of King David's army who orchestrates the plan to reconcile David with his son Absalom by using a wise woman from Tekoa.

2. The Wise Woman of Tekoa
A woman chosen by Joab to present a parable to King David, aiming to convince him to bring Absalom back to Jerusalem.

3. King David
The ruler of Israel, who is dealing with the estrangement from his son Absalom after Absalom's murder of his brother Amnon.

4. Absalom
David's son, who is in exile after killing his brother Amnon in revenge for the rape of their sister Tamar.

5. Tekoa
A town in Judah, known for its wise inhabitants, from which the woman who speaks to David is brought.

Teaching Points

The Power of Intercession
The wise woman of Tekoa serves as an intercessor, demonstrating the importance of speaking up for reconciliation and peace. Believers are called to be peacemakers in their communities.

Wisdom in Approach
The woman's tactful and respectful approach to King David shows the value of wisdom and discernment in difficult conversations. Christians should seek God's wisdom in their interactions.

Courage in Advocacy
Despite her fear, the woman speaks to the king, showing courage in advocating for others. Believers are encouraged to overcome fear and stand up for justice and reconciliation.

The Role of Fear
The woman's fear of the people's reaction highlights how fear can motivate action. Christians should examine how fear influences their decisions and seek to act in faith.

Reconciliation and Forgiveness
The account underscores the importance of reconciliation within families and communities. Believers are reminded of the call to forgive and restore broken relationships.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the wise woman of Tekoa's approach to King David reflect the principles found in Proverbs 15:1, and how can we apply this in our own lives?

2. In what ways does the account of Absalom and David parallel the Parable of the Prodigal Son, and what lessons can we draw about forgiveness and reconciliation?

3. What role does fear play in the actions of the characters in 2 Samuel 14:15, and how can we ensure that our actions are guided by faith rather than fear?

4. How can we act as intercessors in our own communities, advocating for peace and reconciliation as the wise woman did?

5. Reflect on a time when you had to approach someone in authority with a difficult request. What did you learn from that experience, and how might this passage inform your approach in the future?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Samuel 13
Provides the background of Absalom's estrangement from David, detailing the events leading to Amnon's murder and Absalom's subsequent flight.

Luke 15:11-32
The Parable of the Prodigal Son, which similarly deals with themes of estrangement and reconciliation within a family.

Proverbs 15:1
Highlights the power of a gentle answer, which can be related to the wise woman's approach to King David.