2 Samuel 14:8

"Go home," the king said to the woman, "and I will give orders on your behalf."

Study Bible

“Go home,”
In this passage, King David is speaking to a woman from Tekoa, who has been sent by Joab to present a parable to the king. The directive to "go home" suggests a temporary dismissal, indicating that the king needs time to consider her request. This reflects the cultural practice of deliberation in ancient Israel, where decisions, especially those involving justice, were not made hastily. The phrase also implies a level of assurance that the king is taking her plea seriously.

the king said to the woman,
The king here is David, who is known for his wisdom and justice, yet also for his personal failings. The woman is a wise figure, orchestrated by Joab to influence David's decision regarding Absalom. This interaction highlights the role of women in biblical narratives as instruments of divine or political intervention, similar to Abigail in 1 Samuel 25. The use of a parable by the woman is reminiscent of Nathan's approach to David in 2 Samuel 12, showing the power of storytelling in conveying truth.

“and I will give orders on your behalf.”
David's promise to give orders signifies his authority as king to enact justice and make decrees. This reflects the biblical theme of the king as a judge, responsible for maintaining justice and righteousness in the land, as seen in Deuteronomy 17:18-20. The phrase also foreshadows David's eventual decision to bring Absalom back to Jerusalem, illustrating the tension between justice and mercy. This tension is a recurring theme in David's reign and points to the ultimate fulfillment of perfect justice and mercy in Jesus Christ, the King of Kings.

Persons / Places / Events

1. King David
The reigning king of Israel, known for his heart after God, yet also for his personal and familial struggles.

2. The Woman of Tekoa
A wise woman from Tekoa, instructed by Joab to present a parable to King David to influence his decision regarding Absalom.

3. Joab
David's military commander, who orchestrates the woman's appeal to David to bring Absalom back to Jerusalem.

4. Absalom
David's son, who had fled to Geshur after killing his brother Amnon, and whose return to Jerusalem is the subject of the woman's plea.

5. Tekoa
A town in Judah, known for its wise inhabitants, including the prophet Amos.

Teaching Points

The Power of Parables
Parables can be a powerful tool to reveal truth and prompt reflection. Like Nathan's parable to David, the woman of Tekoa's account was designed to open David's eyes to his own situation.

Wisdom in Approach
The woman of Tekoa approached the king with wisdom and respect, demonstrating the importance of how we present our requests and concerns to those in authority.

God's Heart for Reconciliation
This passage reflects God's desire for reconciliation and restoration within families and communities, encouraging us to seek peace and forgiveness.

The Role of Intercessors
Joab and the woman of Tekoa acted as intercessors, showing the impact that advocates can have in bringing about change and reconciliation.

Leadership and Decision-Making
David's willingness to listen and consider the woman's plea highlights the importance of leaders being open to counsel and willing to act justly.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the use of a parable by the woman of Tekoa compare to Nathan's approach to David in 2 Samuel 12, and what can we learn from these methods?

2. In what ways does the account of Absalom's return parallel the parable of the Prodigal Son in Luke 15, and what does this teach us about forgiveness and reconciliation?

3. How can we apply the principle of approaching authority figures with wisdom and respect in our own lives, as demonstrated by the woman of Tekoa?

4. What role do intercessors play in our lives today, and how can we be effective advocates for others in need of reconciliation or justice?

5. How can leaders today ensure they are open to wise counsel and willing to make decisions that align with God's heart for justice and reconciliation?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Samuel 12
Nathan's parable to David, which similarly uses a account to reveal truth and prompt action, highlighting the power of parables in confronting sin and prompting repentance.

Luke 15
The parable of the Prodigal Son, which echoes themes of reconciliation and forgiveness within a family, similar to the situation with Absalom.

Proverbs 15:1
The wisdom of a gentle answer, as demonstrated by the woman's approach to David, which aligns with the biblical principle of using wisdom and gentleness to influence others.