2 Samuel 13:17 – “He called his personal servant and said, ‘Get this woman out of here and bolt the door after her.’”
Extended Explanation
In this verse, Amnon, having already violated Tamar, now shows further cruelty by ordering his servant to throw her out. His harsh words, referring to her as “this woman” instead of by her name, dehumanize Tamar and demonstrate his complete rejection of her. Amnon’s command to bolt the door behind her adds to the insult, ensuring that Tamar is not only physically removed but also symbolically locked out, abandoned without any hope of reconciliation or dignity. His actions reflect a heart that has become entirely self-centered and hardened by sin, showing no remorse for the damage he has caused.
Historical Context
In ancient Israel, a woman who had been violated faced not only personal trauma but also public shame. Tamar, as the daughter of King David, had a high social standing, but after this event, her status would be diminished because of the assault. The fact that Amnon throws her out so callously reflects the disregard for her honor and the deep shame he forces her to carry alone. In that culture, being abandoned in such a way would have left Tamar not only emotionally devastated but also socially ostracized, with her future prospects of marriage or normal life severely damaged.
Theological Implications
This verse exposes the extent of Amnon’s sin and the hardness of his heart. His treatment of Tamar shows a complete lack of responsibility and care for her as a person, which stands in direct opposition to God’s call to treat others with respect and dignity. Theologically, this reflects the nature of sin—when a person is consumed by selfish desires, they often dehumanize others and refuse to acknowledge the harm they’ve done. Amnon’s rejection of Tamar after using her is a stark reminder of how sin distorts relationships and leads to further pain and brokenness. God’s design for human relationships is built on love, mutual respect, and care, all of which Amnon violates.
Literary Analysis
The language of this verse is cold and abrupt. Amnon’s command to his servant, “Get this woman out of here,” is impersonal and dismissive, emphasizing his lack of regard for Tamar’s humanity. The act of bolting the door behind her symbolizes the finality of his rejection, shutting her out of his life and ensuring that she carries the burden of shame alone. This act of casting her out not only deepens the emotional trauma but also adds a layer of public humiliation, as Tamar is now forced to leave in disgrace.
Biblical Cross-References
- Deuteronomy 22:28-29: This law required a man who violated a woman to take responsibility for his actions, including marriage and compensation, reflecting how Amnon’s behavior goes against the biblical mandate to protect and care for those wronged.
- Isaiah 61:1: “The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is on me… to bind up the brokenhearted.” In contrast to Amnon’s rejection, God’s heart is for healing and restoration of the brokenhearted, like Tamar.
- Proverbs 18:19: “A brother wronged is more unyielding than a fortified city.” This verse highlights the lasting impact of betrayal, particularly in family relationships, as seen between Amnon and Tamar.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, this verse serves as a reminder of the importance of taking responsibility for one’s actions and treating others with dignity, even in difficult situations. Amnon’s cruelty toward Tamar after assaulting her highlights the dangers of unchecked selfishness and how sin can lead to further mistreatment of others. Christians are called to be compassionate, to listen to the cries of those who are hurting, and to take responsibility for making things right when they have caused harm. This verse challenges believers to reflect on how they treat others, especially those who are vulnerable.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is completely opposite to Amnon’s rejection and cruelty. While Amnon cast Tamar out, God never abandons or rejects those who are hurting. God’s love is one of restoration and healing for the brokenhearted. He calls His people to protect the vulnerable and to show compassion to those who have been mistreated. God’s heart is for justice, and He desires that His people reflect His love by caring for others, especially those who have been wronged or rejected. Where Amnon turned his back on Tamar, God draws near to those who have been cast out.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus Christ embodies the complete opposite of Amnon’s selfishness and rejection. Throughout His ministry, Jesus consistently welcomed and restored those who had been marginalized, mistreated, or cast out by society. In John 6:37, Jesus says, “Whoever comes to me I will never drive away.” While Amnon bolted the door on Tamar, Jesus opens the door to all who seek Him, offering love, grace, and healing. Jesus’ life and teachings reflect God’s heart for reconciliation and restoration, especially for those who have been harmed or abandoned by others. Through Christ, there is hope for healing and new life.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How can we ensure that we treat others with dignity and respect, even when it may be difficult or inconvenient?
- In what ways can we take responsibility for our actions and seek to make things right when we have caused harm?
- How does Jesus’ example of welcoming and restoring the marginalized challenge us to respond to those who have been hurt or cast out?
- What steps can we take to reflect God’s love and compassion in situations where others have been wronged or abandoned?