And Absalom came to the king, and said, Behold now, thy servant hath sheepshearers; let the king, I beseech thee, and his servants go with thy servant.
2 SAMUEL 13:24KJVWhat does 2 Samuel 13:24 mean?
2 Samuel 13:24 describes Absalom inviting his father, King David, and David’s servants to join him for a sheepshearing celebration. Absalom respectfully asks the king to come to this event, which was a traditional time of feasting and gathering.
In this verse, Absalom is speaking directly to King David. The occasion is the annual sheepshearing, a significant event in ancient Israel that often involved festivities. Absalom’s invitation seems polite and formal, but in the wider story, this request is part of a larger plan Absalom has in mind, which will unfold in the following verses.
The Hebrew behind 2 Samuel 13:24
- עֶבֶד (ʿeved, transliterated as "servant"): This word appears several times in the verse, both as Absalom referring to himself and to David’s attendants. It highlights the respectful and formal tone Absalom uses, even though he is the king’s son.
- גֹּזֵז (gozez, transliterated as "sheepshearers"): This word refers to those who shear sheep, marking a time of agricultural importance and celebration. The mention of sheepshearers signals that this is not just a casual invitation but a significant social event.
Why 2 Samuel 13:24 matters
- The verse shows Absalom’s outward respect and proper approach to King David, which contrasts with his hidden intentions revealed later in the chapter.
- Understanding the cultural importance of sheepshearing helps explain why such an invitation would be extended to the king and his court, making it more than just a family gathering.
- This verse sets the stage for the dramatic events that follow, giving insight into Absalom’s character and the careful planning behind his actions.