2 Samuel 13:15 (KJV)

What does 2 Samuel 13:15 mean?

2 Samuel 13:15 describes how Amnon’s feelings for Tamar suddenly turned from intense love to even greater hatred after he had wronged her. The verse says that the hatred Amnon felt was stronger than the love he had once claimed, and he harshly told Tamar to leave.

In this scene, Amnon, a son of King David, has just mistreated his half-sister Tamar. After getting what he wanted, Amnon’s attitude shifts dramatically—he now despises Tamar and wants nothing more to do with her. The verse highlights the depth and suddenness of his emotional reversal, showing how selfish desire can quickly turn to rejection and cruelty.

The Hebrew behind 2 Samuel 13:15

• The word for “hated” is שָׂנֵא (śānē’), which means to deeply dislike or detest. The repetition of this word in the verse stresses how strong Amnon’s feelings have become.
• “Exceedingly” uses two Hebrew words: מְאֹד (me’od), meaning “very” or “greatly,” and גָּדוֹל (gadol), meaning “great” or “large.” Together, they emphasize just how intense Amnon’s hatred was—far beyond ordinary dislike.
• The word for “love” is אַהֲבָה (’ahavah), and “loved” is אָהַב (’ahav). These words point to the emotional attachment Amnon claimed to have, which is now completely overshadowed by his hatred.

Why 2 Samuel 13:15 matters

• This verse clears up any idea that Amnon’s earlier “love” for Tamar was genuine or lasting; it exposes his feelings as selfish and fleeting.
• The strong language and contrast between love and hatred highlight the destructive nature of Amnon’s actions and the emotional harm done to Tamar.
• The verse sets the stage for the tragic consequences that follow in the story, showing how personal sin can ripple out to affect families and communities.