2 Samuel 20:3: “When David returned to his palace in Jerusalem, he took the ten concubines he had left to take care of the palace and put them in a house under guard. He provided for them, but had no sexual relations with them. They were kept in confinement till the day of their death, living as widows.”
Extended Explanation
This verse describes a painful moment in David’s return to his palace after quelling Absalom’s rebellion. During Absalom’s uprising, he took David’s concubines as part of his attempt to seize power and humiliate David publicly. Upon his return, David places these women in confinement, caring for them but no longer maintaining a marital relationship with them. Although they were not at fault, they bore the consequences of Absalom’s actions. This verse emphasizes the complexity of David’s personal and political life and the deep scars left by the rebellion.
Historical Context
In ancient Israel, concubines were women who lived with a man in a form of recognized relationship, though they did not have the full status of wives. They were often symbols of a king’s wealth and power. When Absalom rebelled, he seized David’s concubines in a public act of defiance, aiming to solidify his claim to the throne. By taking these women, Absalom sought to disgrace his father and show that David’s authority was broken. After the rebellion, David’s decision to confine these women was likely a result of the cultural and moral stigma attached to what had happened.
Theological Implications
This verse reveals the consequences of sin, not only for the sinner but for those who are innocent. While Absalom’s rebellion was a direct challenge to David’s rule, the concubines were caught in the middle of a struggle they didn’t initiate. It is a reminder that sin creates ripples that affect not only the one who commits it but also those around them. David’s care for the concubines, despite not continuing a relationship with them, shows his responsibility, yet also reflects the social and emotional consequences of the events.
Literary Analysis
The verse uses stark language to describe the fate of the concubines. They were “put… in a house under guard” and “kept in confinement till the day of their death.” These phrases paint a picture of isolation and tragedy. The words “living as widows” highlight their status—though they had not lost a husband in the traditional sense, they were cut off from the relational life they had known, living in a state of separation and loneliness.
Biblical Cross-References
- 2 Samuel 16:21-22: This is where Absalom publicly takes David’s concubines, fulfilling Ahithophel’s advice to assert his dominance.
- Genesis 3:16: The curse of sin brings pain and broken relationships, which we see played out in this story.
- Proverbs 6:32: “But a man who commits adultery has no sense; whoever does so destroys himself.” Absalom’s actions, though political, had a moral consequence for all involved.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
This verse teaches about the far-reaching effects of sin, even for those who are innocent. As Christians, we should recognize that our actions often impact others in ways we may not foresee. It also highlights the importance of taking responsibility for the care of those affected by our choices. Even though David no longer had a relationship with the concubines, he still provided for them, acknowledging their suffering and the impact of the rebellion.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
Despite the tragic circumstances of this verse, God’s care for the broken is reflected in David’s provision for the concubines. Although their lives were changed drastically, David’s care for them echoes God’s compassion for those who are caught in the fallout of others’ sins. God’s love extends to those who are hurt by circumstances beyond their control, offering comfort and provision even in difficult situations.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus, who came to restore what was broken, offers hope to those who, like the concubines, are affected by the sins of others. Just as David provided for the concubines, Jesus offers spiritual provision and healing to those impacted by the brokenness of this world. In John 10:10, Jesus says, “I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” Even in a situation of confinement and loss, Jesus brings the promise of restoration and fullness of life.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How do we see the impact of our choices affecting those around us, and how can we take responsibility in those situations?
- In what ways can we care for those who have been hurt by the actions of others, reflecting God’s compassion and provision?
- How does Jesus bring healing to situations where people are suffering from the effects of others’ sin?