2 Samuel 19:18

and crossed at the ford to carry over the king's household and to do what was good in his sight. When Shimei son of Gera crossed the Jordan, he fell down before the king

Study Bible

and crossed at the ford
The crossing at the ford refers to a shallow part of the Jordan River where people and animals could pass. This location is significant as it was a common crossing point, indicating a return to normalcy after the upheaval of Absalom's rebellion. The Jordan River often symbolizes transitions and new beginnings in the Bible, such as the Israelites entering the Promised Land (Joshua 3).

to carry over the king’s household
David's household included his family, servants, and loyal followers. This act of carrying them over signifies the restoration of David's reign and the re-establishment of his authority. It reflects the loyalty and support of those who remained faithful to him during Absalom's rebellion.

and to do what was good in his sight
This phrase indicates a willingness to serve and please the king, highlighting the loyalty and submission of David's followers. It reflects the biblical principle of serving leaders as unto the Lord (Colossians 3:23-24) and the importance of aligning actions with the will of God-appointed authority.

When Shimei son of Gera crossed the Jordan
Shimei, a member of the tribe of Benjamin, had previously cursed David during his flight from Absalom (2 Samuel 16:5-13). His crossing of the Jordan to meet David signifies a change in attitude, possibly motivated by fear or genuine repentance. This act is a fulfillment of the biblical theme of reconciliation and forgiveness.

he fell down before the king
Shimei's act of falling down before David is a gesture of submission and repentance. In ancient Near Eastern culture, prostration was a common way to show respect and seek mercy from a superior. This act parallels the biblical theme of humbling oneself before God and seeking forgiveness, as seen in passages like Psalm 51.

Persons / Places / Events

1. David
The King of Israel, returning to Jerusalem after Absalom's rebellion.

2. Shimei
Son of Gera, a Benjamite who previously cursed David but now seeks forgiveness.

3. Jordan River
The river that David and his household are crossing as they return to Jerusalem.

4. Absalom's Rebellion
The event that led to David's temporary exile from Jerusalem.

5. The King's Household
Refers to David's family and servants who are returning with him.

Teaching Points

Mercy Over Judgment
David's response to Shimei highlights the importance of showing mercy, even to those who have wronged us. This reflects God's own mercy towards us.

Repentance and Forgiveness
Shimei's act of falling before David symbolizes repentance. True repentance involves humility and a change of heart, which should be met with forgiveness.

Leadership and Grace
As a leader, David exemplifies grace and restraint. Leaders today can learn from his example to lead with compassion and understanding.

Restoration and Reconciliation
The crossing of the Jordan symbolizes a new beginning and restoration. In our lives, we should seek reconciliation and restoration in broken relationships.

Trust in God's Justice
David's decision to spare Shimei shows his trust in God's justice rather than taking matters into his own hands. We are called to trust God to right wrongs in His timing.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does David's response to Shimei challenge our natural inclinations towards those who have wronged us?

2. In what ways can we practice mercy in our daily interactions, following David's example?

3. How does Shimei's act of repentance before David mirror our need for repentance before God?

4. What can we learn from David's leadership style in terms of handling conflict and showing grace?

5. How can we apply the principle of trusting in God's justice in situations where we feel wronged or hurt?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Samuel 24
David's earlier encounter with Saul, where he shows mercy, parallels his response to Shimei.

Matthew 5:44
Jesus' teaching on loving enemies and praying for those who persecute you reflects David's merciful attitude.

Romans 12:19
Paul's instruction on leaving vengeance to God aligns with David's decision not to punish Shimei immediately.