2 Samuel 3:35

Then all the people came and urged David to eat something while it was still day, but David took an oath, saying, "May God punish me, and ever so severely, if I taste bread or anything else before the sun sets!"

Study Bible

Then all the people came and urged David to eat something while it was still day
In the context of 2 Samuel 3, David is mourning the death of Abner, the commander of Saul's army. The people urging David to eat reflects the cultural practice of providing food to those in mourning, as seen in Jeremiah 16:7. This act of communal support highlights the unity and respect the people had for David, recognizing his leadership and grief. The phrase "while it was still day" indicates the urgency and immediacy of their concern, as eating during daylight was customary.

but David took an oath, saying,
David's response by taking an oath demonstrates his deep sincerity and commitment to his mourning. Oaths were serious declarations in ancient Israel, often invoking God's name as a witness to one's promise, as seen in Numbers 30:2. This reflects David's integrity and his desire to honor Abner's memory fully.

“May God punish me, and ever so severely,
This phrase is a common form of oath in the Old Testament, emphasizing the seriousness of the vow. It reflects the belief in divine retribution for breaking an oath, as seen in Ruth 1:17. David's invocation of God's punishment underscores his earnestness and the gravity of his commitment to mourning.

if I taste bread or anything else before the sun sets!”
David's refusal to eat until sunset signifies his deep mourning and respect for Abner. Fasting was a common expression of grief and penitence in biblical times, as seen in 1 Samuel 31:13. The mention of "before the sun sets" aligns with the Jewish understanding of a day, which begins and ends at sunset, highlighting the completeness of his mourning period. This act of fasting can also be seen as a type of Christ, who fasted and showed deep compassion and empathy for others' suffering.

Persons / Places / Events

1. David
The anointed king of Israel, known for his deep relationship with God and his leadership qualities. In this passage, he is mourning the death of Abner.

2. Abner
The commander of Saul's army who had defected to David's side. His death was a significant event, causing political and personal turmoil.

3. The People
The Israelites who were present with David, urging him to eat. Their concern reflects the communal nature of mourning and support.

4. Hebron
The city where this event takes place, significant as a city of refuge and David's initial capital.

5. Mourning
The cultural and religious practice of expressing grief, which in this context, includes fasting as a sign of respect and sorrow.

Teaching Points

The Significance of Mourning
Mourning is a profound expression of loss and respect. David's refusal to eat demonstrates the depth of his grief and respect for Abner, showing us the importance of honoring those who have passed.

The Power of Oaths
David's oath before God underscores the seriousness with which we should approach our promises. It reminds us to be mindful of our words and commitments, especially those made before God.

Community Support in Grief
The people's urging for David to eat highlights the role of community in times of sorrow. It teaches us the importance of supporting one another through difficult times.

Fasting as a Spiritual Discipline
David's fast is an act of devotion and humility. This teaches us about the spiritual discipline of fasting as a way to draw closer to God and express earnestness in prayer and mourning.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does David's response to Abner's death reflect his character and leadership qualities?

2. In what ways can we apply the principle of making and keeping oaths in our daily lives, especially in our commitments to God?

3. How does the community's role in this passage inform our understanding of supporting others in times of grief?

4. What are some modern-day practices of mourning that align with biblical principles, and how can they be incorporated into our lives?

5. How can fasting be used as a spiritual discipline in our personal walk with God, and what are some practical ways to implement it?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Samuel 14:24
This passage describes Saul's oath of fasting, which parallels David's oath, highlighting the seriousness of vows made before God.

Matthew 6:16-18
Jesus teaches about fasting, emphasizing sincerity and the heart's condition, which connects to David's genuine mourning.

Psalm 35:13-14
David speaks of fasting as a form of humility and mourning, reflecting his consistent practice of seeking God in times of distress.