Topical Bible: Flattery: Woman of Tekoah

◄ Flattery: Woman of Tekoah ►

Topical Encyclopedia

The Woman of Tekoah is a notable figure in the Old Testament, specifically in the narrative found in 2 Samuel 14. Her account is intertwined with themes of wisdom, persuasion, and the use of flattery to achieve a desired outcome. The account of the Woman of Tekoah provides insight into the complexities of human interaction and the use of rhetoric in biblical times.

Biblical Context

The Woman of Tekoah appears during the reign of King David. Her account is set against the backdrop of familial strife and political intrigue following the murder of Amnon by his brother Absalom, as a result of Amnon's assault on their sister Tamar. Absalom flees to Geshur, and King David longs for reconciliation with his estranged son but is hesitant to act.

The Role of Joab

Joab, the commander of David's army and a shrewd political operator, perceives the king's inner turmoil and devises a plan to bring Absalom back to Jerusalem. Joab enlists the help of a wise woman from Tekoah, a town in Judah, to present a fabricated case to the king. Her role is to use her rhetorical skills to persuade David to reconcile with Absalom.

The Woman's Approach

The Woman of Tekoah approaches King David with a carefully crafted account, designed to evoke his empathy and prompt him to act. She presents herself as a widow with two sons, one of whom has killed the other. The remaining son is at risk of being executed by the avengers of blood, which would leave her without an heir and extinguish her husband's lineage.

In her plea, the woman employs flattery and appeals to the king's sense of justice and compassion. She begins by acknowledging David's wisdom and ability to discern right from wrong, saying, "My lord the king, may the guilt be on me and on my father’s house, and may the king and his throne be guiltless" (2 Samuel 14:9). Her words are designed to win the king's favor and to subtly guide him toward a decision that mirrors her fabricated scenario.

David's Response

King David, moved by the woman's account and her eloquent appeal, assures her of his protection for her remaining son. However, as the conversation unfolds, David discerns the hand of Joab in the woman's narrative. He confronts her, asking, "Is the hand of Joab with you in all this?" (2 Samuel 14:19). The woman admits that Joab orchestrated the encounter to influence the king's decision regarding Absalom.

Theological and Moral Implications

The account of the Woman of Tekoah raises questions about the use of flattery and manipulation in achieving one's goals. While her actions result in the return of Absalom, they also highlight the potential ethical dilemmas associated with deceit and persuasion. The narrative invites reflection on the balance between wisdom and integrity, and the ways in which leaders are influenced by those around them.

Conclusion

The Woman of Tekoah's account is a testament to the power of words and the art of persuasion in biblical history. Her encounter with King David serves as a reminder of the complexities of human motives and the enduring impact of rhetoric in shaping decisions and outcomes.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

2 Samuel 14:17,20
Then your handmaid said, The word of my lord the king shall now be comfortable: for as an angel of God, so is my lord the king to discern good and bad: therefore the LORD your God will be with you.
Torrey's Topical Textbook