<hi type="bold">20. what can David say more unto thee?--</hi>that is, my obligations are greater than I can express. <chapter eID="2Sam.7"/>

20. what can David say more unto thee?-- that is, my obligations are greater than I can express.


<title type="x-s2">CHAPTER 8</title>
 <reference osisRef="2Sam.8.1">2Sa 8:1</reference>, <reference osisRef="2Cor.8.2">2</reference>. David Subdues the Philistines, and Makes the Moabites Tributary.

<hi type="bold">1. David took Metheg-ammah out of the hand of the Philistines--</hi>that is, Gath and her suburban towns (<reference osisRef="1Chr.18.1">1Ch 18:1</reference>). That town had been "a bridle" by which the Philistines kept the people of Judah in check. David used it now as a barrier to repress that restless enemy.

CHAPTER 8 2Sa 8:1, 2. David Subdues the Philistines, and Makes the Moabites Tributary. 1. David took Metheg-ammah out of the hand of the Philistines-- that is, Gath and her suburban towns (1Ch 18:1). That town had been "a bridle" by which the Philistines kept the people of Judah in check. David used it now as a barrier to repress that restless enemy.


<hi type="bold">2. he smote Moab, and measured them with a line--</hi>This refers to a well-known practice of Eastern kings, to command their prisoners of war, particularly those who, notorious for the atrocity of their crimes or distinguished by the indomitable spirit of their resistance, had greatly incensed the victors, to lie down on the ground. Then a certain portion of them, which was determined by lot, but most commonly by a measuring-line, were put to death. Our version makes him put two-thirds to death, and spare one-third. The Septuagint and Vulgate make one-half. This war usage was not, perhaps, usually practised by the people of God; but Jewish writers assert that the cause of this particular severity against this people was their having massacred David's parents and family, whom he had, during his exile, committed to the king of Moab.

 <reference osisRef="2Sam.8.3-2Sam.8.14">2Sa 8:3-14</reference>. He Smites Hadadezer and the Syrians.

2. he smote Moab, and measured them with a line-- This refers to a well-known practice of Eastern kings, to command their prisoners of war, particularly those who, notorious for the atrocity of their crimes or distinguished by the indomitable spirit of their resistance, had greatly incensed the victors, to lie down on the ground. Then a certain portion of them, which was determined by lot, but most commonly by a measuring-line, were put to death. Our version makes him put two-thirds to death, and spare one-third. The Septuagint and Vulgate make one-half. This war usage was not, perhaps, usually practised by the people of God; but Jewish writers assert that the cause of this particular severity against this people was their having massacred David's parents and family, whom he had, during his exile, committed to the king of Moab. 2Sa 8:3-14. He Smites Hadadezer and the Syrians.


<hi type="bold">3. Zobah--</hi>(<reference osisRef="1Chr.18.3">1Ch 18:3</reference>). This kingdom was bounded on the east by the Euphrates, and it extended westward from that river, perhaps as far north as Aleppo. It was long the chief among the petty kingdoms of Syria, and its king bore the hereditary title of "Hadadezer" or "Hadarezer" ("Hadad," that is, "helped").

<hi type="bold">as he went to recover his border at the river Euphrates--</hi>in accordance with the promises God made to Israel that He would give them all the country as far as the Euphrates (<reference osisRef="Gen.15.18">Ge 15:18</reference>; <reference osisRef="Num.24.17">Nu 24:17</reference>). In the first campaign David signally defeated Hadadezer. Besides a great number of foot prisoners, he took from him an immense amount of booty in chariots and horses. Reserving only a small number of the latter, he hamstrung the rest. The horses were thus mutilated because they were forbidden to the Hebrews, both in war and agriculture. So it was of no use to keep them. Besides, their neighbors placed much dependence on cavalry, but having, for want of a native breed, to procure them by purchase, the greatest damage that could be done to such enemies was to render their horses unserviceable in war. (See also <reference osisRef="Gen.46.6">Ge 46:6</reference>; <reference osisRef="Josh.11.6">Jos 11:6</reference>, <reference osisRef="Josh.11.9">9</reference>). A king of Damascene-Syria came to Hadadezer's succor; but David routed those auxiliary forces also, took possession of their country, put garrisons into their fortified towns, and made them tributary.

3. Zobah-- (1Ch 18:3). This kingdom was bounded on the east by the Euphrates, and it extended westward from that river, perhaps as far north as Aleppo. It was long the chief among the petty kingdoms of Syria, and its king bore the hereditary title of "Hadadezer" or "Hadarezer" ("Hadad," that is, "helped"). as he went to recover his border at the river Euphrates-- in accordance with the promises God made to Israel that He would give them all the country as far as the Euphrates (Ge 15:18; Nu 24:17). In the first campaign David signally defeated Hadadezer. Besides a great number of foot prisoners, he took from him an immense amount of booty in chariots and horses. Reserving only a small number of the latter, he hamstrung the rest. The horses were thus mutilated because they were forbidden to the Hebrews, both in war and agriculture. So it was of no use to keep them. Besides, their neighbors placed much dependence on cavalry, but having, for want of a native breed, to procure them by purchase, the greatest damage that could be done to such enemies was to render their horses unserviceable in war. (See also Ge 46:6; Jos 11:6, 9). A king of Damascene-Syria came to Hadadezer's succor; but David routed those auxiliary forces also, took possession of their country, put garrisons into their fortified towns, and made them tributary.


<hi type="bold">9. Toi king of Hamath--</hi>Coele-Syria; northwards, it extended to the city Hamath on the Orontes, which was the capital of the country. The Syrian prince, being delivered from the dread of a dangerous neighbor, sent his son with valuable presents to David to congratulate him on his victories, and solicit his alliance and protection.

9. Toi king of Hamath-- Coele-Syria; northwards, it extended to the city Hamath on the Orontes, which was the capital of the country. The Syrian prince, being delivered from the dread of a dangerous neighbor, sent his son with valuable presents to David to congratulate him on his victories, and solicit his alliance and protection.


<hi type="bold">10. Joram--</hi>or Hadoram (<reference osisRef="1Chr.18.10">1Ch 18:10</reference>).

10. Joram-- or Hadoram (1Ch 18:10).


<hi type="bold">11. Which also king David did dedicate unto the Lord--</hi>Eastern princes have always been accustomed to hoard up vast quantities of gold. This is the first instance of a practice uniformly followed by David of reserving, after defraying expenses and bestowing suitable rewards upon his soldiers, the remainder of the spoil taken in war, to accumulate for the grand project of his life--the erection of a national temple at Jerusalem.

11. Which also king David did dedicate unto the Lord-- Eastern princes have always been accustomed to hoard up vast quantities of gold. This is the first instance of a practice uniformly followed by David of reserving, after defraying expenses and bestowing suitable rewards upon his soldiers, the remainder of the spoil taken in war, to accumulate for the grand project of his life--the erection of a national temple at Jerusalem.


<hi type="bold">13. David gat him a name when he returned from smiting of the Syrians--</hi>Instead of Syrians, the Septuagint version reads "Edomites," which is the true reading, as is evident from <reference osisRef="2Sam.8.14">2Sa 8:14</reference>. This conquest, made by the army of David, was due to the skilful generalship and gallantry of Abishai and Joab. (<reference osisRef="1Chr.18.12">1Ch 18:12</reference>; compare <reference osisRef="Ps.60.1">Psa 60:1</reference>, title.) The valley was the ravine of salt (the Ghor), adjoining the Salt Mountain, at the southwestern extremity of the Dead Sea, separating the ancient territories of Judah and Edom [Robinson].

 <reference osisRef="2Sam.8.15-2Sam.8.18">2Sa 8:15-18</reference>. His Reign.

13. David gat him a name when he returned from smiting of the Syrians-- Instead of Syrians, the Septuagint version reads "Edomites," which is the true reading, as is evident from 2Sa 8:14. This conquest, made by the army of David, was due to the skilful generalship and gallantry of Abishai and Joab. (1Ch 18:12; compare Psa 60:1, title.) The valley was the ravine of salt (the Ghor), adjoining the Salt Mountain, at the southwestern extremity of the Dead Sea, separating the ancient territories of Judah and Edom [Robinson]. 2Sa 8:15-18. His Reign.


<hi type="bold">15. David executed judgment and justice unto all his people--</hi>Though involved in foreign wars, he maintained an excellent system of government at home, the most eminent men of the age composing his cabinet of ministers.

15. David executed judgment and justice unto all his people-- Though involved in foreign wars, he maintained an excellent system of government at home, the most eminent men of the age composing his cabinet of ministers.


<hi type="bold">16. Joab ... was over the host--</hi>by virtue of a special promise (<reference osisRef="2Sam.5.8">2Sa 5:8</reference>).

<hi type="bold">recorder--</hi>historiographer or daily annalist, an office of great trust and importance in Eastern countries.

16. Joab... was over the host-- by virtue of a special promise (2Sa 5:8). recorder-- historiographer or daily annalist, an office of great trust and importance in Eastern countries.


<hi type="bold">17. Zadok ... and Ahimelech ... were the priests--</hi>On the massacre of the priests at Nob, [1Sa 22:19], Saul conferred the priesthood on Zadok, of the family of Eleazar (<reference osisRef="1Chr.6.50">1Ch 6:50</reference>), while David acknowledged Ahimelech, of Ithamar's family, who fled to him. The two high priests exercised their office under the respective princes to whom they were attached. But, on David's obtaining the kingdom over all Israel, they both retained their dignity; Ahimelech officiating at Jerusalem, and Zadok at Gibeon (<reference osisRef="1Chr.16.39">1Ch 16:39</reference>).

17. Zadok... and Ahimelech... were the priests-- On the massacre of the priests at Nob, [1Sa 22:19], Saul conferred the priesthood on Zadok, of the family of Eleazar (1Ch 6:50), while David acknowledged Ahimelech, of Ithamar's family, who fled to him. The two high priests exercised their office under the respective princes to whom they were attached. But, on David's obtaining the kingdom over all Israel, they both retained their dignity; Ahimelech officiating at Jerusalem, and Zadok at Gibeon (1Ch 16:39).


<hi type="bold">18. Cherethites--</hi>that is, Philistines (<reference osisRef="Zeph.2.5">Zep 2:5</reference>).

<hi type="bold">Pelethites--</hi>from Pelet (<reference osisRef="1Chr.12.3">1Ch 12:3</reference>). They were the valiant men who, having accompanied David during his exile among the Philistines, were made his bodyguard. <chapter eID="2Sam.8"/>

18. Cherethites-- that is, Philistines (Zep 2:5). Pelethites-- from Pelet (1Ch 12:3). They were the valiant men who, having accompanied David during his exile among the Philistines, were made his bodyguard.


<title type="x-s2">CHAPTER 9</title>
 <reference osisRef="2Sam.9.1-2Sam.9.12">2Sa 9:1-12</reference>. David Sends for Mephibosheth.

<hi type="bold">1-7. David said, Is there yet any that is left of the house of Saul--</hi>On inquiry, Saul's land steward was found, who gave information that there still survived Mephibosheth, a son of Jonathan who was five years old at his father's death, and whom David, then wandering in exile, had never seen. His lameness (<reference osisRef="2Sam.4.4">2Sa 4:4</reference>) had prevented him from taking any part in the public contests of the time. Besides, according to Oriental notions, the younger son of a crowned monarch has a preferable claim to the succession over the son of a mere heir-apparent; and hence his name was never heard of as the rival of his uncle Ish-bosheth. His insignificance had led to his being lost sight of, and it was only through Ziba that David learned of his existence, and the retired life he passed with one of the great families in trans-jordanic Canaan who remained attached to the fallen dynasty. Mephibosheth was invited to court, and a place at the royal table on public days was assigned him, as is still the custom with Eastern monarchs. Saul's family estate, which had fallen to David in right of his wife (<reference osisRef="Num.27.8">Nu 27:8</reference>), or been forfeited to the crown by Ish-bosheth's rebellion (<reference osisRef="2Sam.12.8">2Sa 12:8</reference>), was provided (<reference osisRef="2Sam.9.11">2Sa 9:11</reference>; also <reference osisRef="2Sam.19.28">2Sa 19:28</reference>), for enabling Mephibosheth to maintain an establishment suitable to his rank, and Ziba appointed steward to manage it, on the condition of receiving one-half of the produce in remuneration for his labor and expense, while the other moiety was to be paid as rent to the owner of the land (<reference osisRef="2Sam.19.29">2Sa 19:29</reference>).

CHAPTER 9 2Sa 9:1-12. David Sends for Mephibosheth. 1-7. David said, Is there yet any that is left of the house of Saul-- On inquiry, Saul's land steward was found, who gave information that there still survived Mephibosheth, a son of Jonathan who was five years old at his father's death, and whom David, then wandering in exile, had never seen. His lameness (2Sa 4:4) had prevented him from taking any part in the public contests of the time. Besides, according to Oriental notions, the younger son of a crowned monarch has a preferable claim to the succession over the son of a mere heir-apparent; and hence his name was never heard of as the rival of his uncle Ish-bosheth. His insignificance had led to his being lost sight of, and it was only through Ziba that David learned of his existence, and the retired life he passed with one of the great families in trans-jordanic Canaan who remained attached to the fallen dynasty. Mephibosheth was invited to court, and a place at the royal table on public days was assigned him, as is still the custom with Eastern monarchs. Saul's family estate, which had fallen to David in right of his wife (Nu 27:8), or been forfeited to the crown by Ish-bosheth's rebellion (2Sa 12:8), was provided (2Sa 9:11; also 2Sa 19:28), for enabling Mephibosheth to maintain an establishment suitable to his rank, and Ziba appointed steward to manage it, on the condition of receiving one-half of the produce in remuneration for his labor and expense, while the other moiety was to be paid as rent to the owner of the land (2Sa 19:29).


<hi type="bold">10. Ziba had fifteen sons and twenty servants--</hi>The mention of his sons and the slaves in his house was to show that Mephibosheth would be honored with an equipage "as one of the king's sons."

10. Ziba had fifteen sons and twenty servants-- The mention of his sons and the slaves in his house was to show that Mephibosheth would be honored with an equipage "as one of the king's sons."


<hi type="bold">12. Mephibosheth had a young son, whose name was Micah--</hi>Whether born before or after his residence in Jerusalem, cannot be ascertained. But through him the name and memory of the excellent Jonathan was preserved (see <reference osisRef="1Chr.8.34">1Ch 8:34</reference>, <reference osisRef="1Chr.8.35">35</reference>; <reference osisRef="1Chr.9.40">9:40</reference>, <reference osisRef="1Chr.9.41">41</reference>). <chapter eID="2Sam.9"/>

12. Mephibosheth had a young son, whose name was Micah-- Whether born before or after his residence in Jerusalem, cannot be ascertained. But through him the name and memory of the excellent Jonathan was preserved (see 1Ch 8:34, 35; 9:40, 41).


<title type="x-s2">CHAPTER 10</title>
 <reference osisRef="2Sam.10.1-2Sam.10.5">2Sa 10:1-5</reference>. David's Messengers, Sent to Comfort Hanun, Are Disgracefully Treated.

<hi type="bold">2. Then said David, I will show kindness unto Hanun the son of Nahash, as his father showed kindness unto me--</hi>It is probable that this was the Nahash against whom Saul waged war at Jabesh-gilead (<reference osisRef="1Sam.11.11">1Sa 11:11</reference>). David, on leaving Gath, where his life was exposed to danger, found an asylum with the king of Moab; and as Nahash, king of the Ammonites, was his nearest neighbor, it may be that during the feud between Saul and David, he, through enmity to the former, was kind and hospitable to David.

CHAPTER 10 2Sa 10:1-5. David's Messengers, Sent to Comfort Hanun, Are Disgracefully Treated. 2. Then said David, I will show kindness unto Hanun the son of Nahash, as his father showed kindness unto me-- It is probable that this was the Nahash against whom Saul waged war at Jabesh-gilead (1Sa 11:11). David, on leaving Gath, where his life was exposed to danger, found an asylum with the king of Moab; and as Nahash, king of the Ammonites, was his nearest neighbor, it may be that during the feud between Saul and David, he, through enmity to the former, was kind and hospitable to David.


<hi type="bold">3. the princes of the children of Ammon said unto Hanun--</hi>Their suspicion was not warranted either by any overt act or by any cherished design of David: it must have originated in their knowledge of the denunciations of God's law against them (<reference osisRef="Deut.23.3-Deut.23.6">De 23:3-6</reference>), and of David's policy in steadfastly adhering to it.

3. the princes of the children of Ammon said unto Hanun-- Their suspicion was not warranted either by any overt act or by any cherished design of David: it must have originated in their knowledge of the denunciations of God's law against them (De 23:3-6), and of David's policy in steadfastly adhering to it.


<hi type="bold">4. Hanun took David's servants, and shaved off the one half of their beards--</hi>From the long flowing dress of the Hebrews and other Orientals, the curtailment of their garments must have given them an aspect of gross indelicacy and ludicrousness. Besides, a knowledge of the extraordinary respect and value which has always been attached, and the gross insult that is implied in any indignity offered, to the beard in the East, will account for the shame which the deputies felt, and the determined spirit of revenge which burst out in all Israel on learning the outrage. Two instances are related in the modern history of Persia, of similar insults by kings of haughty and imperious temper, involving the nation in war; and we need not, therefore, be surprised that David vowed revenge for this wanton and public outrage.

4. Hanun took David's servants, and shaved off the one half of their beards-- From the long flowing dress of the Hebrews and other Orientals, the curtailment of their garments must have given them an aspect of gross indelicacy and ludicrousness. Besides, a knowledge of the extraordinary respect and value which has always been attached, and the gross insult that is implied in any indignity offered, to the beard in the East, will account for the shame which the deputies felt, and the determined spirit of revenge which burst out in all Israel on learning the outrage. Two instances are related in the modern history of Persia, of similar insults by kings of haughty and imperious temper, involving the nation in war; and we need not, therefore, be surprised that David vowed revenge for this wanton and public outrage.


<hi type="bold">5. Tarry at Jericho--</hi>or in the neighborhood, after crossing the fords of the Jordan.

 <reference osisRef="2Sam.10.6-2Sam.10.14">2Sa 10:6-14</reference>. The Ammonites Overcome.

5. Tarry at Jericho-- or in the neighborhood, after crossing the fords of the Jordan. 2Sa 10:6-14. The Ammonites Overcome.


<hi type="bold">6-14. when the children of Ammon saw that they stank before David--</hi>To chastise those insolent and inhospitable Ammonites, who had violated the common law of nations, David sent a large army under the command of Joab, while they, informed of the impending attack, made energetic preparations to repel it by engaging the services of an immense number of Syrian mercenaries.

<hi type="bold">Beth-rehob--</hi>the capital of the low-lying region between Lebanon and Anti-Lebanon.

<hi type="bold">Zoba--</hi>(see on <reference osisRef="2Sam.8.3">2Sa 8:3</reference>).

<hi type="bold">of king Maacah--</hi>His territories lay on the other side of Jordan, near Gilead (<reference osisRef="Deut.3.14">De 3:14</reference>).

<hi type="bold">Ish-tob--</hi>that is, "the men of Tob"--the place of Jephthah's marauding adventures (see also <reference osisRef="1Chr.19.6">1Ch 19:6</reference>; <reference osisRef="Ps.60.1">Psa 60:1</reference>, title). As the Israelite soldiers poured into the Ammonite territory, that people met them at the frontier town of Medeba (<reference osisRef="1Chr.19.7-1Chr.19.9">1Ch 19:7-9</reference>), the native troops covering the city, while the Syrian mercenaries lay at some distance encamped in the fields. In making the attack, Joab divided his forces into two separate detachments--the one of which, under the command of his brother, Abishai, was to concentrate its attack upon the city, while he himself marched against the overwhelming host of mercenary auxiliaries. It was a just and necessary war that had been forced on Israel, and they could hope for the blessing of God upon their arms. With great judgment the battle opened against the mercenaries, who could not stand against the furious onset of Joab, and not feeling the cause their own, consulted their safety by flight. The Ammonites, who had placed their chief dependence upon a foreign aid, then retreated to entrench themselves within the walls of the town.

6-14. when the children of Ammon saw that they stank before David-- To chastise those insolent and inhospitable Ammonites, who had violated the common law of nations, David sent a large army under the command of Joab, while they, informed of the impending attack, made energetic preparations to repel it by engaging the services of an immense number of Syrian mercenaries. Beth-rehob-- the capital of the low-lying region between Lebanon and Anti-Lebanon. Zoba-- (see on 2Sa 8:3). of king Maacah-- His territories lay on the other side of Jordan, near Gilead (De 3:14). Ish-tob-- that is, "the men of Tob"--the place of Jephthah's marauding adventures (see also 1Ch 19:6; Psa 60:1, title). As the Israelite soldiers poured into the Ammonite territory, that people met them at the frontier town of Medeba (1Ch 19:7-9), the native troops covering the city, while the Syrian mercenaries lay at some distance encamped in the fields. In making the attack, Joab divided his forces into two separate detachments--the one of which, under the command of his brother, Abishai, was to concentrate its attack upon the city, while he himself marched against the overwhelming host of mercenary auxiliaries. It was a just and necessary war that had been forced on Israel, and they could hope for the blessing of God upon their arms. With great judgment the battle opened against the mercenaries, who could not stand against the furious onset of Joab, and not feeling the cause their own, consulted their safety by flight. The Ammonites, who had placed their chief dependence upon a foreign aid, then retreated to entrench themselves within the walls of the town.


<hi type="bold">16. Hadarezer sent and brought out the Syrians that were beyond the river--</hi>This prince had enjoyed a breathing time after his defeat (<reference osisRef="2Sam.8.3">2Sa 8:3</reference>). But alarmed at the increasing power and greatness of David, as well as being an ally of the Ammonites, he levied a vast army not only in Syria, but in Mesopotamia, to invade the Hebrew kingdom. Shobach, his general, in pursuance of this design, had marched his troops as far as Kelam, a border town of eastern Manasseh, when David, crossing the Jordan by forced marches, suddenly surprised, defeated, and dispersed them. As a result of this great and decisive victory, all the petty kingdoms of Syria submitted and became his tributaries (see on <reference osisRef="1Chr.19.1">1Ch 19:1</reference>). <chapter eID="2Sam.10"/>

16. Hadarezer sent and brought out the Syrians that were beyond the river-- This prince had enjoyed a breathing time after his defeat (2Sa 8:3). But alarmed at the increasing power and greatness of David, as well as being an ally of the Ammonites, he levied a vast army not only in Syria, but in Mesopotamia, to invade the Hebrew kingdom. Shobach, his general, in pursuance of this design, had marched his troops as far as Kelam, a border town of eastern Manasseh, when David, crossing the Jordan by forced marches, suddenly surprised, defeated, and dispersed them. As a result of this great and decisive victory, all the petty kingdoms of Syria submitted and became his tributaries (see on 1Ch 19:1).


<title type="x-s2">CHAPTER 11</title>
 <reference osisRef="2Sam.11.1">2Sa 11:1</reference>. Joab Besieges Rabbah.

<hi type="bold">1. at the time when kings go forth to battle--</hi>The return of spring was the usual time of commencing military operations. This expedition took place the year following the war against the Syrians; and it was entered upon because the disaster of the former campaign having fallen chiefly upon the Syrian mercenaries, the Ammonites had not been punished for their insult to the ambassadors.

<hi type="bold">David sent Joab and his servants ... they destroyed the children of Ammon--</hi>The powerful army that Joab commanded ravaged the Ammonite country and committed great havoc both on the people and their property, until having reached the capital, they besieged Rabbah--Rabbah denotes a great city. This metropolis of the Ammonites was situated in the mountainous tract of Gilead, not far from the source of the Arnon. Extensive ruins are still found on its site.

 <reference osisRef="2Sam.11.2-2Sam.11.12">2Sa 11:2-12</reference>. David Commits Adultery with Bath-sheba.

CHAPTER 11 2Sa 11:1. Joab Besieges Rabbah. 1. at the time when kings go forth to battle-- The return of spring was the usual time of commencing military operations. This expedition took place the year following the war against the Syrians; and it was entered upon because the disaster of the former campaign having fallen chiefly upon the Syrian mercenaries, the Ammonites had not been punished for their insult to the ambassadors. David sent Joab and his servants... they destroyed the children of Ammon-- The powerful army that Joab commanded ravaged the Ammonite country and committed great havoc both on the people and their property, until having reached the capital, they besieged Rabbah--Rabbah denotes a great city. This metropolis of the Ammonites was situated in the mountainous tract of Gilead, not far from the source of the Arnon. Extensive ruins are still found on its site. 2Sa 11:2-12. David Commits Adultery with Bath-sheba.


<hi type="bold">2. it came to pass in an eveningtide, that David arose from off his bed--</hi>The Hebrews, like other Orientals, rose at daybreak, and always took a nap during the heat of the day. Afterwards they lounged in the cool of the evening on their flat-roofed terraces. It is probable that David had ascended to enjoy the open-air refreshment earlier than usual.

2. it came to pass in an eveningtide, that David arose from off his bed-- The Hebrews, like other Orientals, rose at daybreak, and always took a nap during the heat of the day. Afterwards they lounged in the cool of the evening on their flat-roofed terraces. It is probable that David had ascended to enjoy the open-air refreshment earlier than usual.


<hi type="bold">3. one said--</hi>literally, "he said to himself,"

<hi type="bold">Is not this Bath-sheba? &c.--</hi>She seems to have been a celebrated beauty, whose renown had already reached the ears of David, as happens in the East, from reports carried by the women from harem to harem.

<hi type="bold">Bath-sheba, the daughter of Eliam--</hi>or Ammiel (<reference osisRef="1Chr.3.5">1Ch 3:5</reference>), one of David's worthies (<reference osisRef="2Sam.23.34">2Sa 23:34</reference>), and son of Ahithophel.

3. one said-- literally, "he said to himself," Is not this Bath-sheba? &c.-- She seems to have been a celebrated beauty, whose renown had already reached the ears of David, as happens in the East, from reports carried by the women from harem to harem. Bath-sheba, the daughter of Eliam-- or Ammiel (1Ch 3:5), one of David's worthies (2Sa 23:34), and son of Ahithophel.


<hi type="bold">4. David sent messengers, and took her--</hi>The despotic kings of the East, when they take a fancy for a woman, send an officer to the house were she lives, who announces it to be the royal pleasure she should remove to the palace. An apartment is there assigned to her; and if she is made queen, the monarch orders the announcement to be made that he has made choice of her to be queen. Many instances in modern Oriental history show the ease and despatch with which such secondary marriages are contracted, and a new beauty added to the royal seraglio. But David had to make a promise, or rather an express stipulation, to Bath-sheba, before she complied with the royal will (<reference osisRef="1Kgs.1.13">1Ki 1:13</reference>, <reference osisRef="1Cor.15.17">15, 17</reference>, <reference osisRef="1Cor.15.28">28</reference>); for in addition to her transcendent beauty, she appears to have been a woman of superior talents and address in obtaining the object of her ambition; in her securing that her son should succeed on the throne; in her promptitude to give notice of her pregnancy; in her activity in defeating Adonijah's natural expectation of succeeding to the crown; in her dignity as the king's mother--in all this we see very strong indications of the ascendency she gained and maintained over David, who, perhaps, had ample leisure and opportunity to discover the punishment of this unhappy connection in more ways than one [Taylor, Calmet].

4. David sent messengers, and took her-- The despotic kings of the East, when they take a fancy for a woman, send an officer to the house were she lives, who announces it to be the royal pleasure she should remove to the palace. An apartment is there assigned to her; and if she is made queen, the monarch orders the announcement to be made that he has made choice of her to be queen. Many instances in modern Oriental history show the ease and despatch with which such secondary marriages are contracted, and a new beauty added to the royal seraglio. But David had to make a promise, or rather an express stipulation, to Bath-sheba, before she complied with the royal will (1Ki 1:13, 15, 17, 28); for in addition to her transcendent beauty, she appears to have been a woman of superior talents and address in obtaining the object of her ambition; in her securing that her son should succeed on the throne; in her promptitude to give notice of her pregnancy; in her activity in defeating Adonijah's natural expectation of succeeding to the crown; in her dignity as the king's mother--in all this we see very strong indications of the ascendency she gained and maintained over David, who, perhaps, had ample leisure and opportunity to discover the punishment of this unhappy connection in more ways than one [Taylor, Calmet].


<hi type="bold">5. the woman conceived, and sent and told David--</hi>Some immediate measures of concealing their sin were necessary, as well for the king's honor as for her safety, for death was the punishment of an adulteress (<reference osisRef="Lev.20.10">Le 20:10</reference>).

5. the woman conceived, and sent and told David-- Some immediate measures of concealing their sin were necessary, as well for the king's honor as for her safety, for death was the punishment of an adulteress (Le 20:10).


<hi type="bold">8. David said to Uriah, Go down to thy house--</hi>This sudden recall, the manner of the king, his frivolous questions (<reference osisRef="2Sam.11.7">2Sa 11:7</reference>), and his urgency for Uriah to sleep in his own house, probably awakened suspicions of the cause of this procedure.

<hi type="bold">there followed him a mess of meat from the king--</hi>A portion of meat from the royal table, sent to one's own house or lodgings, is one of the greatest compliments which an Eastern prince can pay.

8. David said to Uriah, Go down to thy house-- This sudden recall, the manner of the king, his frivolous questions (2Sa 11:7), and his urgency for Uriah to sleep in his own house, probably awakened suspicions of the cause of this procedure. there followed him a mess of meat from the king-- A portion of meat from the royal table, sent to one's own house or lodgings, is one of the greatest compliments which an Eastern prince can pay.


<hi type="bold">9. But Uriah slept at the door of the king's house--</hi>It is customary for servants to sleep in the porch or long gallery; and the guards of the Hebrew king did the same. Whatever his secret suspicions might have been, Uriah's refusal to indulge in the enjoyment of domestic pleasure, and his determination to sleep "at the door of the king's house," arose from a high and honorable sense of military duty and propriety (<reference osisRef="2Sam.11.11">2Sa 11:11</reference>). But, doubtless, the resolution of Uriah was overruled by that Providence which brings good out of evil, and which has recorded this sad episode for the warning of the church.

 <reference osisRef="2Sam.11.14-2Sam.11.27">2Sa 11:14-27</reference>. Uriah Slain.

9. But Uriah slept at the door of the king's house-- It is customary for servants to sleep in the porch or long gallery; and the guards of the Hebrew king did the same. Whatever his secret suspicions might have been, Uriah's refusal to indulge in the enjoyment of domestic pleasure, and his determination to sleep "at the door of the king's house," arose from a high and honorable sense of military duty and propriety (2Sa 11:11). But, doubtless, the resolution of Uriah was overruled by that Providence which brings good out of evil, and which has recorded this sad episode for the warning of the church. 2Sa 11:14-27. Uriah Slain.


<hi type="bold">14-15. David wrote a letter to Joab, and sent it by the hand of Uriah ... Set ye Uriah in the forefront of the hottest battle--</hi>The various arts and stratagems by which the king tried to cajole Uriah, till at last he resorted to the horrid crime of murder--the cold-blooded cruelty of despatching the letter by the hands of the gallant but much-wronged soldier himself, the enlistment of Joab to be a partaker of his sin, the heartless affectation of mourning, and the indecent haste of his marriage with Bath-sheba--have left an indelible stain upon the character of David, and exhibit a painfully humiliating proof of the awful lengths to which the best of men may go when they forfeit the restraining grace of God. <chapter eID="2Sam.11"/>

14-15. David wrote a letter to Joab, and sent it by the hand of Uriah... Set ye Uriah in the forefront of the hottest battle-- The various arts and stratagems by which the king tried to cajole Uriah, till at last he resorted to the horrid crime of murder--the cold-blooded cruelty of despatching the letter by the hands of the gallant but much-wronged soldier himself, the enlistment of Joab to be a partaker of his sin, the heartless affectation of mourning, and the indecent haste of his marriage with Bath-sheba--have left an indelible stain upon the character of David, and exhibit a painfully humiliating proof of the awful lengths to which the best of men may go when they forfeit the restraining grace of God.


<title type="x-s2">CHAPTER 12</title>
 <reference osisRef="2Sam.12.1-2Sam.12.6">2Sa 12:1-6</reference>. Nathan's Parable.

<hi type="bold">1. the Lord sent Nathan unto David--</hi>The use of parables is a favorite style of speaking among Oriental people, especially in the conveyance of unwelcome truth. This exquisitely pathetic parable was founded on a common custom of pastoral people who have pet lambs, which they bring up with their children, and which they address in terms of endearment. The atrocity of the real, however, far exceeded that of the fictitious offense.

CHAPTER 12 2Sa 12:1-6. Nathan's Parable. 1. the Lord sent Nathan unto David-- The use of parables is a favorite style of speaking among Oriental people, especially in the conveyance of unwelcome truth. This exquisitely pathetic parable was founded on a common custom of pastoral people who have pet lambs, which they bring up with their children, and which they address in terms of endearment. The atrocity of the real, however, far exceeded that of the fictitious offense.


<hi type="bold">5. the man that hath done this thing shall surely die--</hi>This punishment was more severe than the case deserved, or than was warranted by the divine statute (<reference osisRef="Exod.22.1">Ex 22:1</reference>). The sympathies of the king had been deeply enlisted, his indignation aroused, but his conscience was still asleep; and at the time when he was most fatally indulgent to his own sins, he was most ready to condemn the delinquencies and errors of others.

 <reference osisRef="2Sam.12.7-2Sam.12.23">2Sa 12:7-23</reference>. He Applies It to David, Who Confesses His Sin, and Is Pardoned.

5. the man that hath done this thing shall surely die-- This punishment was more severe than the case deserved, or than was warranted by the divine statute (Ex 22:1). The sympathies of the king had been deeply enlisted, his indignation aroused, but his conscience was still asleep; and at the time when he was most fatally indulgent to his own sins, he was most ready to condemn the delinquencies and errors of others. 2Sa 12:7-23. He Applies It to David, Who Confesses His Sin, and Is Pardoned.


<hi type="bold">7. Nathan said to David, Thou art the man--</hi>These awful words pierced his heart, aroused his conscience, and brought him to his knees. The sincerity and depth of his penitent sorrow are evinced by the Psalms he composed (Psa 32:1-11; 51:1-19; 103:1-22). He was pardoned, so far as related to the restoration of the divine favor. But as from his high character for piety, and his eminent rank in society, his deplorable fall was calculated to do great injury to the cause of religion, it was necessary that God should testify His abhorrence of sin by leaving even His own servant to reap the bitter temporal fruits. David was not himself doomed, according to his own view of what justice demanded (<reference osisRef="2Sam.12.5">2Sa 12:5</reference>); but he had to suffer a quadruple expiation in the successive deaths of four sons, besides a lengthened train of other evils.

7. Nathan said to David, Thou art the man-- These awful words pierced his heart, aroused his conscience, and brought him to his knees. The sincerity and depth of his penitent sorrow are evinced by the Psalms he composed (Psa 32:1-11; 51:1-19; 103:1-22). He was pardoned, so far as related to the restoration of the divine favor. But as from his high character for piety, and his eminent rank in society, his deplorable fall was calculated to do great injury to the cause of religion, it was necessary that God should testify His abhorrence of sin by leaving even His own servant to reap the bitter temporal fruits. David was not himself doomed, according to his own view of what justice demanded (2Sa 12:5); but he had to suffer a quadruple expiation in the successive deaths of four sons, besides a lengthened train of other evils.


<hi type="bold">8. I gave thee thy master's house, and thy master's wives--</hi>The phraseology means nothing more than that God in His providence had given David, as king of Israel, everything that was Saul's. The history furnishes conclusive evidence that he never actually married any of the wives of Saul. But the harem of the preceding king belongs, according to Oriental notions, as a part of the regalia to his successor.

8. I gave thee thy master's house, and thy master's wives-- The phraseology means nothing more than that God in His providence had given David, as king of Israel, everything that was Saul's. The history furnishes conclusive evidence that he never actually married any of the wives of Saul. But the harem of the preceding king belongs, according to Oriental notions, as a part of the regalia to his successor.


<hi type="bold">11. I will raise up evil against thee out of thine own house, &c.--</hi>The prophet speaks of God threatening to do what He only permitted to be done. The fact is, that David's loss of character by the discovery of his crimes, tended, in the natural course of things, to diminish the respect of his family, to weaken the authority of his government, and to encourage the prevalence of many disorders throughout his kingdom.

11. I will raise up evil against thee out of thine own house, &c.-- The prophet speaks of God threatening to do what He only permitted to be done. The fact is, that David's loss of character by the discovery of his crimes, tended, in the natural course of things, to diminish the respect of his family, to weaken the authority of his government, and to encourage the prevalence of many disorders throughout his kingdom.


<hi type="bold">15-23. the Lord struck the child ... and it was very sick--</hi>The first visible chastisement inflicted on David appeared on the person of that child which was the evidence and monument of his guilt. His domestics were surprised at his conduct, and in explanation of its singularity, it is necessary to remark that the custom in the East is to leave the nearest relative of a deceased person to the full and undisturbed indulgence of his grief, till on the third or fourth day at farthest (<reference osisRef="John.11.17">Joh 11:17</reference>). Then the other relatives and friends visit him, invite him to eat, lead him to a bath, and bring him a change of dress, which is necessary from his having sat or lain on the ground. The surprise of David's servants, then, who had seen his bitter anguish while the child was sick, arose apparently from this, that when he found it was dead, he who had so deeply lamented arose of himself from the earth, without waiting for their coming to him, immediately bathed and anointed himself, instead of appearing as a mourner, and after worshiping God with solemnity, returned to his wonted repast, without any interposition of others.

 <reference osisRef="2Sam.12.24">2Sa 12:24</reference>, <reference osisRef="2Sam.12.25">25</reference>. Solomon Is Born.

15-23. the Lord struck the child... and it was very sick-- The first visible chastisement inflicted on David appeared on the person of that child which was the evidence and monument of his guilt. His domestics were surprised at his conduct, and in explanation of its singularity, it is necessary to remark that the custom in the East is to leave the nearest relative of a deceased person to the full and undisturbed indulgence of his grief, till on the third or fourth day at farthest (Joh 11:17). Then the other relatives and friends visit him, invite him to eat, lead him to a bath, and bring him a change of dress, which is necessary from his having sat or lain on the ground. The surprise of David's servants, then, who had seen his bitter anguish while the child was sick, arose apparently from this, that when he found it was dead, he who had so deeply lamented arose of himself from the earth, without waiting for their coming to him, immediately bathed and anointed himself, instead of appearing as a mourner, and after worshiping God with solemnity, returned to his wonted repast, without any interposition of others. 2Sa 12:24, 25. Solomon Is Born.


<hi type="bold">24-25. Bath-sheba ... bare a son, and he called his name Solomon--</hi>that is, "peaceable." But Nathan gave him the name of Jedediah, by command of God, or perhaps only as an expression of God's love. This love and the noble gifts with which he was endowed, considering the criminality of the marriage from which he sprang, is a remarkable instance of divine goodness and grace.

 <reference osisRef="2Sam.12.26-2Sam.12.31">2Sa 12:26-31</reference>. Rabbah Is Taken.

24-25. Bath-sheba... bare a son, and he called his name Solomon-- that is, "peaceable." But Nathan gave him the name of Jedediah, by command of God, or perhaps only as an expression of God's love. This love and the noble gifts with which he was endowed, considering the criminality of the marriage from which he sprang, is a remarkable instance of divine goodness and grace. 2Sa 12:26-31. Rabbah Is Taken.


<hi type="bold">26. Joab fought against Rabbah--</hi>The time during which this siege lasted, since the intercourse with Bath-sheba, and the birth of at least one child, if not two, occurred during the progress of it, probably extended over two years.

26. Joab fought against Rabbah-- The time during which this siege lasted, since the intercourse with Bath-sheba, and the birth of at least one child, if not two, occurred during the progress of it, probably extended over two years.


<hi type="bold">27. the city of waters--</hi>Rabbah, like Aroer, was divided into two parts--one the lower town, insulated by the winding course of the Jabbok, which flowed almost round it, and the upper and stronger town, called the royal city. "The first was taken by Joab, but the honor of capturing so strongly a fortified place as the other was an honor reserved for the king himself."

27. the city of waters-- Rabbah, like Aroer, was divided into two parts--one the lower town, insulated by the winding course of the Jabbok, which flowed almost round it, and the upper and stronger town, called the royal city. "The first was taken by Joab, but the honor of capturing so strongly a fortified place as the other was an honor reserved for the king himself."


<hi type="bold">28. encamp against the city, and take it--</hi>It has always been characteristic of Oriental despots to monopolize military honors; and as the ancient world knew nothing of the modern refinement of kings gaining victories by their generals, so Joab sent for David to command the final assault in person. A large force was levied for the purpose. David without much difficulty captured the royal city and obtained possession of its immense wealth.

<hi type="bold">lest I take the city, and it be called after my name--</hi>The circumstance of a city receiving a new name after some great person, as Alexandria, Constantinople, Hyderabad, is of frequent occurrence in the ancient and modern history of the East.

28. encamp against the city, and take it-- It has always been characteristic of Oriental despots to monopolize military honors; and as the ancient world knew nothing of the modern refinement of kings gaining victories by their generals, so Joab sent for David to command the final assault in person. A large force was levied for the purpose. David without much difficulty captured the royal city and obtained possession of its immense wealth. lest I take the city, and it be called after my name-- The circumstance of a city receiving a new name after some great person, as Alexandria, Constantinople, Hyderabad, is of frequent occurrence in the ancient and modern history of the East.


<hi type="bold">30. he took their king's crown from off his head--</hi>While the treasures of the city were given as plunder to his soldiers, David reserved to himself the crown, which was of rarest value. Its great weight makes it probable that it was like many ancient crowns, not worn, but suspended over the head, or fixed on a canopy on the top of the throne.

<hi type="bold">the precious stones--</hi>Hebrew, "stone"; was a round ball composed of pearls and other jewels, which was in the crown, and probably taken out of it to be inserted in David's own crown.

30. he took their king's crown from off his head-- While the treasures of the city were given as plunder to his soldiers, David reserved to himself the crown, which was of rarest value. Its great weight makes it probable that it was like many ancient crowns, not worn, but suspended over the head, or fixed on a canopy on the top of the throne. the precious stones-- Hebrew, "stone"; was a round ball composed of pearls and other jewels, which was in the crown, and probably taken out of it to be inserted in David's own crown.


<hi type="bold">31. he brought forth the people ... and put them under saws, &c.--</hi>This excessive severity and employment of tortures, which the Hebrews on no other occasion are recorded to have practised, was an act of retributive justice on a people who were infamous for their cruelties (<reference osisRef="1Sam.11.2">1Sa 11:2</reference>; <reference osisRef="Amos.1.13">Am 1:13</reference>). <chapter eID="2Sam.12"/>

31. he brought forth the people... and put them under saws, &c.-- This excessive severity and employment of tortures, which the Hebrews on no other occasion are recorded to have practised, was an act of retributive justice on a people who were infamous for their cruelties (1Sa 11:2; Am 1:13).


<title type="x-s2">CHAPTER 13</title>
 <reference osisRef="2Sam.13.1-2Sam.13.5">2Sa 13:1-5</reference>. Amnon Loves Tamar.

<hi type="bold">1. Tamar--</hi>daughter of David by Maachah (<reference osisRef="2Sam.3.3">2Sa 3:3</reference>).

CHAPTER 13 2Sa 13:1-5. Amnon Loves Tamar. 1. Tamar-- daughter of David by Maachah (2Sa 3:3).


<hi type="bold">2. for she was a virgin--</hi>Unmarried daughters were kept in close seclusion from the company of men; no strangers, nor even their relatives of the other sex, being permitted to see them without the presence of witnesses. Of course, Amnon must have seen Tamar, for he had conceived a violent passion for her, which, though forbidden by the law (<reference osisRef="Lev.18.11">Le 18:11</reference>), yet with the sanction of Abraham's example (<reference osisRef="Gen.20.12">Ge 20:12</reference>), and the common practice in neighboring countries for princes to marry their half sisters, he seems not to have considered an improper connection. But he had no means of making it known to her, and the pain of that disappointment preying upon his mind produced a visible change in his appearance and health.

2. for she was a virgin-- Unmarried daughters were kept in close seclusion from the company of men; no strangers, nor even their relatives of the other sex, being permitted to see them without the presence of witnesses. Of course, Amnon must have seen Tamar, for he had conceived a violent passion for her, which, though forbidden by the law (Le 18:11), yet with the sanction of Abraham's example (Ge 20:12), and the common practice in neighboring countries for princes to marry their half sisters, he seems not to have considered an improper connection. But he had no means of making it known to her, and the pain of that disappointment preying upon his mind produced a visible change in his appearance and health.


<hi type="bold">3. Jonadab, the son of Shimeah--</hi>or Shammah (<reference osisRef="1Sam.16.9">1Sa 16:9</reference>). By the counsel and contrivance of this scheming cousin a plan was devised for obtaining an unrestricted interview with the object of his attachment.

3. Jonadab, the son of Shimeah-- or Shammah (1Sa 16:9). By the counsel and contrivance of this scheming cousin a plan was devised for obtaining an unrestricted interview with the object of his attachment.


<hi type="bold">4. my brother Absalom's sister--</hi>In Eastern countries, where polygamy prevails, the girls are considered to be under the special care and protection of their uterine brother, who is the guardian of their interests and their honor, even more than their father himself (see on <reference osisRef="Gen.34.6-Gen.34.25">Ge 34:6-25</reference>).

 <reference osisRef="2Sam.13.6-2Sam.13.27">2Sa 13:6-27</reference>. He Defiles Her.

4. my brother Absalom's sister-- In Eastern countries, where polygamy prevails, the girls are considered to be under the special care and protection of their uterine brother, who is the guardian of their interests and their honor, even more than their father himself (see on Ge 34:6-25). 2Sa 13:6-27. He Defiles Her.


<hi type="bold">6-8. Amnon lay down, and made himself sick--</hi>The Orientals are great adepts in feigning sickness, whenever they have any object to accomplish.

<hi type="bold">let Tamar my sister come and make me a couple of cakes--</hi>To the king Amnon spoke of Tamar as "his sister," a term artfully designed to hoodwink his father; and the request appeared so natural, the delicate appetite of a sick man requiring to be humored, that the king promised to send her. The cakes seem to have been a kind of fancy bread, in the preparation of which Oriental ladies take great delight. Tamar, flattered by the invitation, lost no time in rendering the required service in the house of her sick brother.

6-8. Amnon lay down, and made himself sick-- The Orientals are great adepts in feigning sickness, whenever they have any object to accomplish. let Tamar my sister come and make me a couple of cakes-- To the king Amnon spoke of Tamar as "his sister," a term artfully designed to hoodwink his father; and the request appeared so natural, the delicate appetite of a sick man requiring to be humored, that the king promised to send her. The cakes seem to have been a kind of fancy bread, in the preparation of which Oriental ladies take great delight. Tamar, flattered by the invitation, lost no time in rendering the required service in the house of her sick brother.


<hi type="bold">12-14. do not force me--</hi>The remonstrances and arguments of Tamar were so affecting and so strong, that had not Amnon been violently goaded on by the lustful passion of which he had become the slave, they must have prevailed with him to desist from his infamous purpose. In bidding him, however, "speak to the king, for he will not withhold me from thee," it is probable that she urged this as her last resource, saying anything she thought would please him, in order to escape for the present out of his hands.

12-14. do not force me-- The remonstrances and arguments of Tamar were so affecting and so strong, that had not Amnon been violently goaded on by the lustful passion of which he had become the slave, they must have prevailed with him to desist from his infamous purpose. In bidding him, however, "speak to the king, for he will not withhold me from thee," it is probable that she urged this as her last resource, saying anything she thought would please him, in order to escape for the present out of his hands.


<hi type="bold">15. Then Amnon hated her exceedingly--</hi>It is not unusual for persons instigated by violent and irregular passions to go from one extreme to another. In Amnon's case the sudden revulsion is easily accounted for; the atrocity of his conduct, with all the feelings of shame, remorse, and dread of exposure and punishment, now burst upon his mind, rendering the presence of Tamar intolerably painful to him.

15. Then Amnon hated her exceedingly-- It is not unusual for persons instigated by violent and irregular passions to go from one extreme to another. In Amnon's case the sudden revulsion is easily accounted for; the atrocity of his conduct, with all the feelings of shame, remorse, and dread of exposure and punishment, now burst upon his mind, rendering the presence of Tamar intolerably painful to him.


<hi type="bold">17. bolt the door after her--</hi>The street door of houses in the East is always kept barred--the bolts being of wood. In the great mansions, where a porter stands at the outside, this precaution is dispensed with; and the circumstance, therefore, of a prince giving an order so unusual shows the vehement perturbation of Ammon's mind.

17. bolt the door after her-- The street door of houses in the East is always kept barred--the bolts being of wood. In the great mansions, where a porter stands at the outside, this precaution is dispensed with; and the circumstance, therefore, of a prince giving an order so unusual shows the vehement perturbation of Ammon's mind.


<hi type="bold">18. garment of divers colours--</hi>As embroidery in ancient times was the occupation or pastime of ladies of the highest rank, the possession of these parti-colored garments was a mark of distinction; they were worn exclusively by young women of royal condition. Since the art of manufacturing cloth stuffs has made so great progress, dresses of this variegated description are now more common in the East.

18. garment of divers colours-- As embroidery in ancient times was the occupation or pastime of ladies of the highest rank, the possession of these parti-colored garments was a mark of distinction; they were worn exclusively by young women of royal condition. Since the art of manufacturing cloth stuffs has made so great progress, dresses of this variegated description are now more common in the East.


<hi type="bold">19-20. Tamar put ashes on her head, and rent her garment of divers colours ... laid her hand on her head, and went on crying--</hi>that is, sobbing. Oriental manners would probably see nothing beyond a strong sense of the injury she had sustained, if Tamar actually rent her garments. But, as her veil is not mentioned, it is probable that Amnon had turned her out of doors without it, and she raised her hand with the design to conceal her face. By these signs, especially the rending of her distinguishing robe, Absalom at once conjectured what had taken place. Recommending her to be silent about it and not publish her own and her family's dishonor, he gave no inkling of his angry feelings to Amnon. But all the while he was in secret "nursing his wrath to keep it warm," and only "biding his time" to avenge his sister's wrongs, and by the removal of the heir-apparent perhaps further also his ambitious designs.

19-20. Tamar put ashes on her head, and rent her garment of divers colours... laid her hand on her head, and went on crying-- that is, sobbing. Oriental manners would probably see nothing beyond a strong sense of the injury she had sustained, if Tamar actually rent her garments. But, as her veil is not mentioned, it is probable that Amnon had turned her out of doors without it, and she raised her hand with the design to conceal her face. By these signs, especially the rending of her distinguishing robe, Absalom at once conjectured what had taken place. Recommending her to be silent about it and not publish her own and her family's dishonor, he gave no inkling of his angry feelings to Amnon. But all the while he was in secret "nursing his wrath to keep it warm," and only "biding his time" to avenge his sister's wrongs, and by the removal of the heir-apparent perhaps further also his ambitious designs.


<hi type="bold">23-27. Absalom had sheep-shearers in Baal-hazor, which is beside Ephraim--</hi>A sheep-shearing feast is a grand occasion in the East. Absalom proposed to give such an entertainment at his estate in Baal-hazor, about eight miles northeast of Jerusalem near a town called Ephraim (<reference osisRef="Josh.11.10">Jos 11:10</reference>). He first invited the king and his court; but the king declining, on account of the heavy expense to which the reception of royalty would subject him [2Sa 13:25], Absalom then limited the invitation to the king's sons [2Sa 13:26], which David the more readily agreed to, in the hope that it might tend to the promotion of brotherly harmony and union.

 <reference osisRef="2Sam.13.28-2Sam.13.36">2Sa 13:28-36</reference>. Amnon Is Slain.

23-27. Absalom had sheep-shearers in Baal-hazor, which is beside Ephraim-- A sheep-shearing feast is a grand occasion in the East. Absalom proposed to give such an entertainment at his estate in Baal-hazor, about eight miles northeast of Jerusalem near a town called Ephraim (Jos 11:10). He first invited the king and his court; but the king declining, on account of the heavy expense to which the reception of royalty would subject him [2Sa 13:25], Absalom then limited the invitation to the king's sons [2Sa 13:26], which David the more readily agreed to, in the hope that it might tend to the promotion of brotherly harmony and union. 2Sa 13:28-36. Amnon Is Slain.


<hi type="bold">28. Absalom had commanded his servants, saying ... when Amnon's heart is merry with wine ... kill him, fear not--</hi>On a preconcerted signal from their master, the servants, rushing upon Amnon, slew him at the table, while the rest of the brothers, horror-struck, and apprehending a general massacre, fled in affrighted haste to Jerusalem.

28. Absalom had commanded his servants, saying... when Amnon's heart is merry with wine... kill him, fear not-- On a preconcerted signal from their master, the servants, rushing upon Amnon, slew him at the table, while the rest of the brothers, horror-struck, and apprehending a general massacre, fled in affrighted haste to Jerusalem.


<hi type="bold">29. every man gat him up upon his mule--</hi>This had become the favorite equipage of the great. King David himself had a state mule (<reference osisRef="1Kgs.1.33">1Ki 1:33</reference>). The Syrian mules are, in activity, strength, and capabilities, still far superior to ours.

29. every man gat him up upon his mule-- This had become the favorite equipage of the great. King David himself had a state mule (1Ki 1:33). The Syrian mules are, in activity, strength, and capabilities, still far superior to ours.


<hi type="bold">30-31. tidings came to David, saying, Absalom hath slain all the king's sons--</hi>It was natural that in the consternation and tumult caused by so atrocious a deed, an exaggerated report should reach the court, which was at once plunged into the depths of grief and despair. But the information of Jonadab, who seems to have been aware of the plan, and the arrival of the other princes, made known the real extent of the catastrophe.

 <reference osisRef="2Sam.13.37-2Sam.13.39">2Sa 13:37-39</reference>. Absalom Flees to Talmai.

30-31. tidings came to David, saying, Absalom hath slain all the king's sons-- It was natural that in the consternation and tumult caused by so atrocious a deed, an exaggerated report should reach the court, which was at once plunged into the depths of grief and despair. But the information of Jonadab, who seems to have been aware of the plan, and the arrival of the other princes, made known the real extent of the catastrophe. 2Sa 13:37-39. Absalom Flees to Talmai.


<hi type="bold">37. Absalom fled, and went to Talmai--</hi>The law as to premeditated murder (<reference osisRef="Num.35.21">Nu 35:21</reference>) gave him no hope of remaining with impunity in his own country. The cities of refuge could afford him no sanctuary, and he was compelled to leave the kingdom, taking refuge at the court of Geshur, with his maternal grandfather, who would, doubtless, approve of his conduct. <chapter eID="2Sam.13"/>

37. Absalom fled, and went to Talmai-- The law as to premeditated murder (Nu 35:21) gave him no hope of remaining with impunity in his own country. The cities of refuge could afford him no sanctuary, and he was compelled to leave the kingdom, taking refuge at the court of Geshur, with his maternal grandfather, who would, doubtless, approve of his conduct.


<title type="x-s2">CHAPTER 14</title>
 <reference osisRef="2Sam.14.1-2Sam.14.21">2Sa 14:1-21</reference>. Joab Instructs a Woman of Tekoah.

<hi type="bold">2-21. And Joab sent to Tekoah, and fetched thence a wise woman--</hi>The king was strongly attached to Absalom; and having now got over his sorrow for the violent death of Amnon, he was desirous of again enjoying the society of his favorite son, who had now been three long years absent. But a dread of public opinion and a regard to the public interests made him hesitate about recalling or pardoning his guilty son; and Joab, whose discerning mind perceived this struggle between parental affection and royal duty, devised a plan for relieving the scruples, and, at the same time, gratifying the wishes, of his master. Having procured a countrywoman of superior intelligence and address, he directed her to seek an audience of the king, and by soliciting his royal interposition in the settlement of a domestic grievance, convinced him that the life of a murderer might in some cases be saved. Tekoah was about twelve miles south of Jerusalem, and six south of Beth-lehem; and the design of bringing a woman from such a distance was to prevent either the petitioner being known, or the truth of her story easily investigated. Her speech was in the form of a parable--the circumstances--the language--the manner--well suited to the occasion, represented a case as like David's as it was policy to make it, so as not to be prematurely discovered. Having got the king pledged, she avowed it to be her design to satisfy the royal conscience, that in pardoning Absalom he was doing nothing more than he would have done in the case of a stranger, where there could be no imputation of partiality. The device succeeded; David traced its origin to Joab; and, secretly pleased at obtaining the judgment of that rough, but generally sound-thinking soldier, he commissioned him to repair to Geshur and bring home his exiled son.

CHAPTER 14 2Sa 14:1-21. Joab Instructs a Woman of Tekoah. 2-21. And Joab sent to Tekoah, and fetched thence a wise woman-- The king was strongly attached to Absalom; and having now got over his sorrow for the violent death of Amnon, he was desirous of again enjoying the society of his favorite son, who had now been three long years absent. But a dread of public opinion and a regard to the public interests made him hesitate about recalling or pardoning his guilty son; and Joab, whose discerning mind perceived this struggle between parental affection and royal duty, devised a plan for relieving the scruples, and, at the same time, gratifying the wishes, of his master. Having procured a countrywoman of superior intelligence and address, he directed her to seek an audience of the king, and by soliciting his royal interposition in the settlement of a domestic grievance, convinced him that the life of a murderer might in some cases be saved. Tekoah was about twelve miles south of Jerusalem, and six south of Beth-lehem; and the design of bringing a woman from such a distance was to prevent either the petitioner being known, or the truth of her story easily investigated. Her speech was in the form of a parable--the circumstances--the language--the manner--well suited to the occasion, represented a case as like David's as it was policy to make it, so as not to be prematurely discovered. Having got the king pledged, she avowed it to be her design to satisfy the royal conscience, that in pardoning Absalom he was doing nothing more than he would have done in the case of a stranger, where there could be no imputation of partiality. The device succeeded; David traced its origin to Joab; and, secretly pleased at obtaining the judgment of that rough, but generally sound-thinking soldier, he commissioned him to repair to Geshur and bring home his exiled son.


<hi type="bold">22. To-day thy servant knoweth that I have found grace in thy sight--</hi>Joab betrayed not a little selfishness amid his professions of joy at this act of grace to Absalom, and flattered himself that he now brought both father and son under lasting obligations. In considering this act of David, many extenuating circumstances may be urged in favor of it; the provocation given to Absalom; his being now in a country where justice could not overtake him; the risk of his imbibing a love for heathen principles and worship; the safety and interests of the Hebrew kingdom; together with the strong predilection of the Hebrew people for Absalom, as represented by the stratagem of Joab--these considerations form a plausible apology for David's grant of pardon to his bloodstained son. But, in granting this pardon, he was acting in the character of an Oriental despot rather than a constitutional king of Israel. The feelings of the father triumphed over the duty of the king, who, as the supreme magistrate, was bound to execute impartial justice on every murderer, by the express law of God (<reference osisRef="Gen.9.6">Ge 9:6</reference>; <reference osisRef="Num.35.30">Nu 35:30</reference>, <reference osisRef="Num.35.31">31</reference>), which he had no power to dispense with (<reference osisRef="Deut.18.18">De 18:18</reference>; <reference osisRef="Josh.1.8">Jos 1:8</reference>; <reference osisRef="1Sam.10.25">1Sa 10:25</reference>).

22. To-day thy servant knoweth that I have found grace in thy sight-- Joab betrayed not a little selfishness amid his professions of joy at this act of grace to Absalom, and flattered himself that he now brought both father and son under lasting obligations. In considering this act of David, many extenuating circumstances may be urged in favor of it; the provocation given to Absalom; his being now in a country where justice could not overtake him; the risk of his imbibing a love for heathen principles and worship; the safety and interests of the Hebrew kingdom; together with the strong predilection of the Hebrew people for Absalom, as represented by the stratagem of Joab--these considerations form a plausible apology for David's grant of pardon to his bloodstained son. But, in granting this pardon, he was acting in the character of an Oriental despot rather than a constitutional king of Israel. The feelings of the father triumphed over the duty of the king, who, as the supreme magistrate, was bound to execute impartial justice on every murderer, by the express law of God (Ge 9:6; Nu 35:30, 31), which he had no power to dispense with (De 18:18; Jos 1:8; 1Sa 10:25).


<hi type="bold">25-26. But in all Israel there was none to be so much praised as Absalom for his beauty--</hi>This extraordinary popularity arose not only from his high spirit and courtly manners, but from his uncommonly handsome appearance. One distinguishing feature, seemingly an object of great admiration, was a profusion of beautiful hair. Its extraordinary luxuriance compelled him to cut it "at every year's end;" lit., "at times," "from time to time," when it was found to weigh two hundred shekels--equal to one hundred twelve ounces troy; but as "the weight was after the king's shekel," which was less than the common shekel, the rate has been reduced as low as three pounds, two ounces [Bochart], and even less by others.

25-26. But in all Israel there was none to be so much praised as Absalom for his beauty-- This extraordinary popularity arose not only from his high spirit and courtly manners, but from his uncommonly handsome appearance. One distinguishing feature, seemingly an object of great admiration, was a profusion of beautiful hair. Its extraordinary luxuriance compelled him to cut it "at every year's end;" lit., "at times," "from time to time," when it was found to weigh two hundred shekels--equal to one hundred twelve ounces troy; but as "the weight was after the king's shekel," which was less than the common shekel, the rate has been reduced as low as three pounds, two ounces [Bochart], and even less by others.


<hi type="bold">28. So Absalom dwelt two full years in Jerusalem, and saw not the king's face--</hi>Whatever error David committed in authorizing the recall of Absalom, he displayed great prudence and command over his feelings afterwards--for his son was not admitted into his father's presence but was confined to his own house and the society of his own family. This slight severity was designed to bring him to sincere repentance, on perceiving that his father had not fully pardoned him, as well as to convince the people of David's abhorrence of his crime. Not being allowed to appear at court, or to adopt any state, the courtiers kept aloof; even his cousin did not deem it prudent to go into his society. For two full years his liberty was more restricted, and his life more apart from his countrymen while living in Jerusalem, than in Geshur; and he might have continued in this disgrace longer, had he not, by a violent expedient, determined (<reference osisRef="2Sam.14.30">2Sa 14:30</reference>) to force his case on the attention of Joab, through whose kind and powerful influence a full reconciliation was effected between him and his father. <chapter eID="2Sam.14"/>

28. So Absalom dwelt two full years in Jerusalem, and saw not the king's face-- Whatever error David committed in authorizing the recall of Absalom, he displayed great prudence and command over his feelings afterwards--for his son was not admitted into his father's presence but was confined to his own house and the society of his own family. This slight severity was designed to bring him to sincere repentance, on perceiving that his father had not fully pardoned him, as well as to convince the people of David's abhorrence of his crime. Not being allowed to appear at court, or to adopt any state, the courtiers kept aloof; even his cousin did not deem it prudent to go into his society. For two full years his liberty was more restricted, and his life more apart from his countrymen while living in Jerusalem, than in Geshur; and he might have continued in this disgrace longer, had he not, by a violent expedient, determined (2Sa 14:30) to force his case on the attention of Joab, through whose kind and powerful influence a full reconciliation was effected between him and his father.


<title type="x-s2">CHAPTER 15</title>
 <reference osisRef="2Sam.15.1-2Sam.15.9">2Sa 15:1-9</reference>. Absalom Steals the Hearts of Israel.

<hi type="bold">1. Absalom prepared him chariots and horses, and fifty men to run before him--</hi>This was assuming the state and equipage of a prince. The royal guards, called runners, avant couriers, amounted to fifty (<reference osisRef="1Kgs.1.5">1Ki 1:5</reference>). The chariot, as the Hebrew indicates, was of a magnificent style; and the horses, a novelty among the Hebrew people, only introduced in that age as an appendage of royalty (<reference osisRef="Ps.32.9">Psa 32:9</reference>; <reference osisRef="Ps.66.12">66:12</reference>), formed a splendid retinue, which would make him "the observed of all observers."

CHAPTER 15 2Sa 15:1-9. Absalom Steals the Hearts of Israel. 1. Absalom prepared him chariots and horses, and fifty men to run before him-- This was assuming the state and equipage of a prince. The royal guards, called runners, avant couriers, amounted to fifty (1Ki 1:5). The chariot, as the Hebrew indicates, was of a magnificent style; and the horses, a novelty among the Hebrew people, only introduced in that age as an appendage of royalty (Psa 32:9; 66:12), formed a splendid retinue, which would make him "the observed of all observers."


<hi type="bold">2-6. Absalom rose up early, and stood beside the way of the gate--</hi>Public business in the East is always transacted early in the morning--the kings sitting an hour or more to hear causes or receive petitions, in a court held anciently, and in many places still, in the open air at the city gateway; so that, as those whose circumstances led them to wait on King David required to be in attendance on his morning levees, Absalom had to rise up early and stand beside the way of the gate. Through the growing infirmities of age, or the occupation of his government with foreign wars, many private causes had long lain undecided, and a deep feeling of discontent prevailed among the people. This dissatisfaction was artfully fomented by Absalom, who addressed himself to the various suitors; and after briefly hearing their tale, he gratified everyone with a favorable opinion of his case. Studiously concealing his ambitious designs, he expressed a wish to be invested with official power, only that he might accelerate the course of justice and advance the public interests. His professions had an air of extraordinary generosity and disinterestedness, which, together with his fawning arts in lavishing civilities on all, made him a popular favorite. Thus, by forcing a contrast between his own display of public spirit and the dilatory proceedings of the court, he created a growing disgust with his father's government, as weak, careless, or corrupt, and seduced the affections of the multitude, who neither penetrated the motive nor foresaw the tendency of his conduct.

2-6. Absalom rose up early, and stood beside the way of the gate-- Public business in the East is always transacted early in the morning--the kings sitting an hour or more to hear causes or receive petitions, in a court held anciently, and in many places still, in the open air at the city gateway; so that, as those whose circumstances led them to wait on King David required to be in attendance on his morning levees, Absalom had to rise up early and stand beside the way of the gate. Through the growing infirmities of age, or the occupation of his government with foreign wars, many private causes had long lain undecided, and a deep feeling of discontent prevailed among the people. This dissatisfaction was artfully fomented by Absalom, who addressed himself to the various suitors; and after briefly hearing their tale, he gratified everyone with a favorable opinion of his case. Studiously concealing his ambitious designs, he expressed a wish to be invested with official power, only that he might accelerate the course of justice and advance the public interests. His professions had an air of extraordinary generosity and disinterestedness, which, together with his fawning arts in lavishing civilities on all, made him a popular favorite. Thus, by forcing a contrast between his own display of public spirit and the dilatory proceedings of the court, he created a growing disgust with his father's government, as weak, careless, or corrupt, and seduced the affections of the multitude, who neither penetrated the motive nor foresaw the tendency of his conduct.


<hi type="bold">7-9. after forty years--</hi>It is generally admitted that an error has here crept into the text, and that instead of "forty," we should read with the Syriac and Arabic versions, and Josephus, "four years"--that is, after Absalom's return to Jerusalem, and his beginning to practice the base arts of gaining popularity.

<hi type="bold">my vow, which I have vowed unto the Lord--</hi>during his exile in Geshur. The purport of it was, that whenever God's providence should pave the way for his re-establishment in Jerusalem, he would offer a sacrifice of thanksgiving. Hebron was the spot selected for the performance of this vow, ostensibly as being his native place (<reference osisRef="2Sam.3.3">2Sa 3:3</reference>), and a famous high place, where sacrifices were frequently offered before the temple was built; but really as being in many respects the most suitable for the commencement of his rebellious enterprise. David, who always encouraged piety and desired to see religious engagements punctually performed, gave his consent and his blessing.

 <reference osisRef="2Sam.15.10-2Sam.15.12">2Sa 15:10-12</reference>. He Forms a Conspiracy.

7-9. after forty years-- It is generally admitted that an error has here crept into the text, and that instead of "forty," we should read with the Syriac and Arabic versions, and Josephus, "four years"--that is, after Absalom's return to Jerusalem, and his beginning to practice the base arts of gaining popularity. my vow, which I have vowed unto the Lord-- during his exile in Geshur. The purport of it was, that whenever God's providence should pave the way for his re-establishment in Jerusalem, he would offer a sacrifice of thanksgiving. Hebron was the spot selected for the performance of this vow, ostensibly as being his native place (2Sa 3:3), and a famous high place, where sacrifices were frequently offered before the temple was built; but really as being in many respects the most suitable for the commencement of his rebellious enterprise. David, who always encouraged piety and desired to see religious engagements punctually performed, gave his consent and his blessing. 2Sa 15:10-12. He Forms a Conspiracy.


<hi type="bold">10. Absalom sent spies throughout all the tribes of Israel--</hi>These emissaries were to sound the inclination of the people, to further the interests of Absalom, and exhort all the adherents of his party to be in readiness to join his standard as soon as they should hear that he had been proclaimed king. As the summons was to be made by the sound of trumpets, it is probable that care had been taken to have trumpeters stationed on the heights, and at convenient stations--a mode of announcement that would soon spread the news over all the country of his inauguration to the throne.

10. Absalom sent spies throughout all the tribes of Israel-- These emissaries were to sound the inclination of the people, to further the interests of Absalom, and exhort all the adherents of his party to be in readiness to join his standard as soon as they should hear that he had been proclaimed king. As the summons was to be made by the sound of trumpets, it is probable that care had been taken to have trumpeters stationed on the heights, and at convenient stations--a mode of announcement that would soon spread the news over all the country of his inauguration to the throne.


<hi type="bold">11. with Absalom went two hundred men ... that were called--</hi>From their quality, reputation, and high standing, such as would create the impression that the king patronized the movement and, being aged and infirm, was willing to adopt his oldest and noblest son to divide with him the cares and honors of government.

11. with Absalom went two hundred men... that were called-- From their quality, reputation, and high standing, such as would create the impression that the king patronized the movement and, being aged and infirm, was willing to adopt his oldest and noblest son to divide with him the cares and honors of government.


<hi type="bold">12. Absalom sent for Ahithophel--</hi>who he knew was ready to join the revolt, through disgust and revenge, as Jewish writers assert, at David's conduct towards Bath-sheba, who was his granddaughter.

<hi type="bold">Giloh--</hi>near Hebron.

<hi type="bold">the conspiracy was strong--</hi>The rapid accession of one place after another in all parts of the kingdom to the party of the insurgents, shows that deep and general dissatisfaction existed at this time against the person and government of David. The remnant of Saul's partisans, the unhappy affair of Bath-sheba, the overbearing insolence and crimes of Joab, negligence and obstruction in the administration of justice--these were some of the principal causes that contributed to the success of this widespread insurrection.

 <reference osisRef="2Sam.15.13-2Sam.15.37">2Sa 15:13-37</reference>. David Flees from Jerusalem.

12. Absalom sent for Ahithophel-- who he knew was ready to join the revolt, through disgust and revenge, as Jewish writers assert, at David's conduct towards Bath-sheba, who was his granddaughter. Giloh-- near Hebron. the conspiracy was strong-- The rapid accession of one place after another in all parts of the kingdom to the party of the insurgents, shows that deep and general dissatisfaction existed at this time against the person and government of David. The remnant of Saul's partisans, the unhappy affair of Bath-sheba, the overbearing insolence and crimes of Joab, negligence and obstruction in the administration of justice--these were some of the principal causes that contributed to the success of this widespread insurrection. 2Sa 15:13-37. David Flees from Jerusalem.


<hi type="bold">14. David said ... Arise, and let us flee--</hi>David, anxious for the preservation of the city which he had beautified, and hopeful of a greater support throughout the country, wisely resolved on leaving Jerusalem.

14. David said... Arise, and let us flee-- David, anxious for the preservation of the city which he had beautified, and hopeful of a greater support throughout the country, wisely resolved on leaving Jerusalem.


<hi type="bold">18-20. all the Gittites, six hundred men--</hi>These were a body of foreign guards, natives of Gath, whom David, when in the country of the Philistines, had enlisted in his service, and kept around his person. Addressing their commander, Ittai, he made a searching trial of their fidelity in bidding them (<reference osisRef="2Sam.15.19">2Sa 15:19</reference>) abide with the new king.

18-20. all the Gittites, six hundred men-- These were a body of foreign guards, natives of Gath, whom David, when in the country of the Philistines, had enlisted in his service, and kept around his person. Addressing their commander, Ittai, he made a searching trial of their fidelity in bidding them (2Sa 15:19) abide with the new king.


<hi type="bold">23. the brook Kidron--</hi>a winter torrent that flows through the valley between the city and the eastern side of the Mount of Olives.

23. the brook Kidron-- a winter torrent that flows through the valley between the city and the eastern side of the Mount of Olives.


<hi type="bold">24-25. Zadok also, and all the Levites ..., bearing the ark--</hi>Knowing the strong religious feelings of the aged king, they brought it to accompany him in his distress. But as he could not doubt that both the ark and their sacred office would exempt them from the attacks of the rebels, he sent them back with it--not only that they might not be exposed to the perils of uncertain wandering, for he seems to place more confidence in the symbol of the divine presence than in God Himself--but that, by remaining in Jerusalem, they might render him greater service by watching the enemy's movements.

24-25. Zadok also, and all the Levites..., bearing the ark-- Knowing the strong religious feelings of the aged king, they brought it to accompany him in his distress. But as he could not doubt that both the ark and their sacred office would exempt them from the attacks of the rebels, he sent them back with it--not only that they might not be exposed to the perils of uncertain wandering, for he seems to place more confidence in the symbol of the divine presence than in God Himself--but that, by remaining in Jerusalem, they might render him greater service by watching the enemy's movements.


<hi type="bold">30. David went up by the ascent of mount Olivet--</hi>The same pathway over that mount has been followed ever since that memorable day.

<hi type="bold">had his head covered--</hi>with a mourning wrapper. The humility and resignation of David marked strongly his sanctified spirit, induced by contrition for his transgressions. He had fallen, but it was the fall of the upright; and he rose again, submitting himself meekly in the meantime to the will of God [Chalmers].

30. David went up by the ascent of mount Olivet-- The same pathway over that mount has been followed ever since that memorable day. had his head covered-- with a mourning wrapper. The humility and resignation of David marked strongly his sanctified spirit, induced by contrition for his transgressions. He had fallen, but it was the fall of the upright; and he rose again, submitting himself meekly in the meantime to the will of God [Chalmers].


<hi type="bold">31. David said, Turn, O Lord, ... the counsel of Ahithophel--</hi>this senator being the mainstay of the conspiracy.

31. David said, Turn, O Lord,... the counsel of Ahithophel-- this senator being the mainstay of the conspiracy.


<hi type="bold">32. when David was come to the top of the mount, where he worshipped--</hi>looking towards Jerusalem, where were the ark and tabernacle.

<hi type="bold">Hushai the Archite--</hi>A native of Archi, on the frontiers of Benjamin and Ephraim (<reference osisRef="Josh.16.2">Jos 16:2</reference>). Comparing the prayer against Ahithophel with the counsel to Hushai, we see how strongly a spirit of fervent piety was combined in his character with the devices of an active and far-seeing policy. <chapter eID="2Sam.15"/>

32. when David was come to the top of the mount, where he worshipped-- looking towards Jerusalem, where were the ark and tabernacle. Hushai the Archite-- A native of Archi, on the frontiers of Benjamin and Ephraim (Jos 16:2). Comparing the prayer against Ahithophel with the counsel to Hushai, we see how strongly a spirit of fervent piety was combined in his character with the devices of an active and far-seeing policy.


<title type="x-s2">CHAPTER 16</title>
 <reference osisRef="2Sam.16.1-2Sam.16.4">2Sa 16:1-4</reference>. Ziba, by False Suggestions, Claims His Master's Inheritance.

<hi type="bold">1. Ziba the servant of Mephibosheth met him--</hi>This crafty man, anticipating the certain failure of Absalom's conspiracy, took steps to prepare for his future advancement on the restoration of the king.

<hi type="bold">a bottle of wine--</hi>a large goatskin vessel. Its size made the supply of wine proportioned to the rest of his present.

CHAPTER 16 2Sa 16:1-4. Ziba, by False Suggestions, Claims His Master's Inheritance. 1. Ziba the servant of Mephibosheth met him-- This crafty man, anticipating the certain failure of Absalom's conspiracy, took steps to prepare for his future advancement on the restoration of the king. a bottle of wine-- a large goatskin vessel. Its size made the supply of wine proportioned to the rest of his present.


<hi type="bold">2. The asses be for the king's household to ride on--</hi>The royal fugitives were moving on foot, not from inability to procure conveyances, but as being suitable to their present state of humiliation and penitence.

2. The asses be for the king's household to ride on-- The royal fugitives were moving on foot, not from inability to procure conveyances, but as being suitable to their present state of humiliation and penitence.


<hi type="bold">3. To-day shall the house of Israel restore me the kingdom of my father--</hi>Such a hope might not unnaturally arise at this period of civil distraction, that the family of David would destroy themselves by their mutual broils, and the people reinstate the old dynasty. There was an air of plausibility in Ziba's story. Many, on whom the king had conferred favors, were now deserting him. No wonder, therefore, that in the excitement of momentary feeling, believing, on the report of a slanderer, Mephibosheth to be among the number, he pronounced a rash and unrighteous judgment by which a great injury was inflicted on the character and interests of a devoted friend.

 <reference osisRef="2Sam.16.5-2Sam.16.19">2Sa 16:5-19</reference>. Shimei Curses David.

3. To-day shall the house of Israel restore me the kingdom of my father-- Such a hope might not unnaturally arise at this period of civil distraction, that the family of David would destroy themselves by their mutual broils, and the people reinstate the old dynasty. There was an air of plausibility in Ziba's story. Many, on whom the king had conferred favors, were now deserting him. No wonder, therefore, that in the excitement of momentary feeling, believing, on the report of a slanderer, Mephibosheth to be among the number, he pronounced a rash and unrighteous judgment by which a great injury was inflicted on the character and interests of a devoted friend. 2Sa 16:5-19. Shimei Curses David.


<hi type="bold">5-12. when king David came to Bahurim--</hi>a city of Benjamin (<reference osisRef="2Sam.3.16">2Sa 3:16</reference>; <reference osisRef="2Sam.19.16">19:16</reference>). It is, however, only the confines of the district that are here meant.

<hi type="bold">Shimei, ... a man of the family of Saul--</hi>The misfortune of his family, and the occupation by David of what they considered their rightful possessions, afforded a natural, if not a justifiable cause for this ebullition of rude insults and violence. He upbraided David as an ambitious usurper, and charged him, as one whose misdeeds had recoiled upon his own head, to surrender a throne to which he was not entitled. His language was that of a man incensed by the wrongs that he conceived had been done to his house. David was guiltless of the crime of which Shimei accused him; but his conscience reminded him of other flagrant iniquities; and he, therefore, regarded the cursing of this man as a chastisement from heaven. His answer to Abishai's proposal evinced the spirit of deep and humble resignation--the spirit of a man who watched the course of Providence, and acknowledged Shimei as the instrument of God's chastening hand. One thing is remarkable, that he acted more independently of the sons of Zeruiah in this season of great distress than he could often muster courage to do in the days of his prosperity and power.

5-12. when king David came to Bahurim-- a city of Benjamin (2Sa 3:16; 19:16). It is, however, only the confines of the district that are here meant. Shimei,... a man of the family of Saul-- The misfortune of his family, and the occupation by David of what they considered their rightful possessions, afforded a natural, if not a justifiable cause for this ebullition of rude insults and violence. He upbraided David as an ambitious usurper, and charged him, as one whose misdeeds had recoiled upon his own head, to surrender a throne to which he was not entitled. His language was that of a man incensed by the wrongs that he conceived had been done to his house. David was guiltless of the crime of which Shimei accused him; but his conscience reminded him of other flagrant iniquities; and he, therefore, regarded the cursing of this man as a chastisement from heaven. His answer to Abishai's proposal evinced the spirit of deep and humble resignation--the spirit of a man who watched the course of Providence, and acknowledged Shimei as the instrument of God's chastening hand. One thing is remarkable, that he acted more independently of the sons of Zeruiah in this season of great distress than he could often muster courage to do in the days of his prosperity and power.


<hi type="bold">13. went along on the hill's side over against him--</hi>as he descended the rough road on the eastern side of the Mount of Olives, "went along on the hill's side"--literally, "the rib of the hill."

<hi type="bold">threw stones at him--</hi>as a mark of contempt and insult.

<hi type="bold">cast dust--</hi>As if to add insult to injury, clouds of dust were thrown by this disloyal subject in the path of his unfortunate sovereign.

13. went along on the hill's side over against him-- as he descended the rough road on the eastern side of the Mount of Olives, "went along on the hill's side"--literally, "the rib of the hill." threw stones at him-- as a mark of contempt and insult. cast dust-- As if to add insult to injury, clouds of dust were thrown by this disloyal subject in the path of his unfortunate sovereign.


<hi type="bold">14. refreshed themselves there--</hi>that is, in the city of Bahurim.

14. refreshed themselves there-- that is, in the city of Bahurim.


<hi type="bold">15-19. Hushai said unto Absalom, God save the king--</hi>Hushai's devotion to David was so well-known, that his presence in the camp of the conspirators excited great surprise. Professing, however, with great address, to consider it his duty to support the cause which the course of Providence and the national will had seemingly decreed should triumph, and urging his friendship for the father as a ground of confidence in his fidelity to the son, he persuaded Absalom of his sincerity, and was admitted among the councillors of the new king.

 <reference osisRef="2Sam.16.20-2Sam.16.23">2Sa 16:20-23</reference>. Ahithophel's Counsel.

15-19. Hushai said unto Absalom, God save the king-- Hushai's devotion to David was so well-known, that his presence in the camp of the conspirators excited great surprise. Professing, however, with great address, to consider it his duty to support the cause which the course of Providence and the national will had seemingly decreed should triumph, and urging his friendship for the father as a ground of confidence in his fidelity to the son, he persuaded Absalom of his sincerity, and was admitted among the councillors of the new king. 2Sa 16:20-23. Ahithophel's Counsel.


<hi type="bold">20. Give counsel among you what we shall do--</hi>This is the first cabinet council on record, although the deference paid to Ahithophel gave him the entire direction of the proceedings.

20. Give counsel among you what we shall do-- This is the first cabinet council on record, although the deference paid to Ahithophel gave him the entire direction of the proceedings.


<hi type="bold">21. Ahithophel said unto Absalom--</hi>This councillor saw that now the die was cast; half measures would be inexpedient. To cut off all possibility of reconciliation between the king and his rebellious son, he gave this atrocious advice regarding the treatment of the royal women who had been left in charge of the palace. Women, being held sacred, are generally left inviolate in the casualties of war. The history of the East affords only one parallel to this infamous outrage of Absalom. <chapter eID="2Sam.16"/>

21. Ahithophel said unto Absalom-- This councillor saw that now the die was cast; half measures would be inexpedient. To cut off all possibility of reconciliation between the king and his rebellious son, he gave this atrocious advice regarding the treatment of the royal women who had been left in charge of the palace. Women, being held sacred, are generally left inviolate in the casualties of war. The history of the East affords only one parallel to this infamous outrage of Absalom.