2 Samuel 14:6

And your maidservant had two sons who were fighting in the field with no one to separate them, and one struck the other and killed him.

Study Bible

And your maidservant had two sons
This phrase introduces the narrative of a woman who presents herself as a widow with two sons. In ancient Israel, the status of a widow was precarious, often leaving her vulnerable and dependent on her children for support. The mention of "two sons" is significant, as sons were seen as a source of security and continuation of the family line. This scenario echoes the story of Cain and Abel in Genesis 4, where sibling rivalry leads to tragic consequences.

who were fighting in the field
The setting of the field suggests a place away from the public eye, where disputes could escalate without intervention. Fields were common locations for work and could symbolize the everyday life of agrarian society. The conflict between the sons may reflect deeper familial or tribal tensions, reminiscent of other biblical stories where fields are sites of significant events, such as the reconciliation of Jacob and Esau in Genesis 33.

with no one to separate them
This phrase highlights the absence of a mediator or authority figure to intervene in the conflict. In biblical times, community leaders or elders often played roles in resolving disputes. The lack of intervention suggests a breakdown in social order or familial relationships, emphasizing the isolation and vulnerability of the widow's family.

and one struck the other and killed him
The act of fratricide directly parallels the story of Cain and Abel, underscoring themes of jealousy, anger, and the consequences of sin. This tragic outcome serves as a narrative device to elicit empathy and highlight the need for justice and mercy. It also foreshadows the broader themes of conflict and reconciliation in the life of David, as seen in his relationships with his own sons, such as Absalom and Amnon. The act of killing within a family reflects the destructive nature of sin and the need for divine intervention and grace.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Woman of Tekoa
A wise woman from Tekoa, instructed by Joab to present a parable to King David to persuade him to reconcile with his son Absalom.

2. Joab
David's military commander who orchestrates the plan to bring Absalom back to Jerusalem by using the woman of Tekoa to appeal to David's sense of justice and mercy.

3. King David
The King of Israel, who is estranged from his son Absalom after Absalom killed his brother Amnon.

4. Absalom
David's son, who is in exile after avenging his sister Tamar by killing Amnon.

5. Amnon
David's son, who was killed by Absalom for raping their sister Tamar.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Sin
The account illustrates how unchecked sin can lead to devastating consequences within families. It serves as a reminder to address sin early and seek reconciliation.

The Role of Intercession
Joab's use of the woman of Tekoa shows the power of intercession and wise counsel in resolving conflicts and restoring relationships.

Forgiveness and Reconciliation
David's eventual decision to bring Absalom back reflects the importance of forgiveness and the restoration of broken relationships, aligning with biblical teachings on mercy.

The Complexity of Justice
The account challenges us to consider the balance between justice and mercy, as David must navigate his roles as both king and father.

The Power of Storytelling
The woman of Tekoa's parable demonstrates how accounttelling can be a powerful tool to convey truth and provoke change in hearts and minds.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the conflict between the two sons in 2 Samuel 14:6 reflect the broader theme of sibling rivalry and its consequences in the Bible?

2. In what ways does the account of the woman of Tekoa illustrate the importance of wise counsel and intercession in resolving family conflicts?

3. How can we apply the principles of forgiveness and reconciliation from this passage to our own lives, especially in strained family relationships?

4. What lessons can we learn from King David's struggle to balance justice and mercy, and how can these lessons be applied in leadership roles today?

5. How does the use of a parable by the woman of Tekoa compare to Jesus' use of parables in the New Testament, and what does this teach us about the power of accounttelling in conveying spiritual truths?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 4:8
The account of Cain and Abel, where one brother kills another, parallels the account of fraternal conflict and the consequences of sin.

Matthew 18:21-22
Jesus' teaching on forgiveness, which can be related to David's need to forgive Absalom and restore their relationship.

Luke 15:11-32
The Parable of the Prodigal Son, which highlights themes of reconciliation and forgiveness between a father and son.