2 Samuel 13:17 (KJV)

What does 2 Samuel 13:17 mean?

2 Samuel 13:17 describes how Amnon, after assaulting Tamar, commands his servant to throw her out of his room and lock the door behind her. The verse shows Amnon’s harsh and dismissive treatment of Tamar immediately after the crime.

Amnon is speaking to his personal servant, instructing him to remove Tamar from his presence and secure the door. This action follows a deeply troubling event where Amnon has just violated Tamar, his half-sister. The verse highlights Amnon’s sudden rejection and cruelty, emphasizing Tamar’s humiliation and the seriousness of what has happened.

The Hebrew behind 2 Samuel 13:17

• "Servant" (נַעַר, naʿar): This word often refers to a young man or attendant. Here, it shows that Amnon has someone under his authority who carries out his orders, even in this shameful situation.
• "Ministered" (שָׁרַת, sharat): This word means to serve or attend to someone. The use of this word underlines that the servant is acting on Amnon’s behalf, not his own initiative.
• "Put" (שָׁלַח, shalach): This verb means to send or drive out. It carries a strong sense of expulsion, not just asking someone to leave politely.
• "Bolt" (נָעַל, naʿal): This word means to shut or lock, especially with a bolt. Locking the door after Tamar is a deliberate act to seal her out and prevent her return, adding to her disgrace.

Why 2 Samuel 13:17 matters

• The verse makes clear the depth of Amnon’s betrayal and cruelty, not only in what he did to Tamar but in how he immediately casts her out and tries to erase her presence.
• The language used for "put out" and "bolt the door" stresses Tamar’s total rejection and isolation, which is important for understanding her deep shame and grief in the following verses.
• This moment is a turning point in the narrative, setting off a chain of events that will have serious consequences for Amnon, Tamar, and the royal family.