And it came to pass, while they were in the way, that tidings came to David, saying, Absalom hath slain all the king's sons, and there is not one of them left.
2 SAMUEL 13:30KJVWhat does 2 Samuel 13:30 mean?
2 Samuel 13:30 describes how, while David’s sons were traveling, a report reached King David saying that Absalom had killed all of the king’s sons and that none of them were left alive. The verse captures the moment when David receives shocking and devastating news about his family.
The verse takes place after Absalom’s revenge against his brother Amnon for the assault of their sister Tamar. The “tidings” or report that comes to David is exaggerated and incorrect—Absalom has not killed all the king’s sons, but only Amnon. This moment shows the confusion and fear that spread quickly after a violent event in the royal family.
The Hebrew behind 2 Samuel 13:30
- “tidings” (שְׁמוּעָה, shemu‘ah): This word means “report” or “news.” In this context, it highlights how rumors or incomplete information can spread quickly and cause panic.
- “slain” (נָכָה, nakhah): This word means “to strike” or “to kill.” Here, it is used to describe the supposed killing of all the king’s sons, emphasizing the seriousness of the report David receives.
- “left” (יָתַר, yathar): This word means “to remain” or “to be left over.” The report claims that not a single son is left, stressing the totality of the supposed disaster.
Why 2 Samuel 13:30 matters
- This verse shows how misinformation or rumors can quickly escalate a crisis, especially in a tense family or political situation.
- The verse sets up the emotional impact on David and prepares the reader for the clarification that follows, where the truth is revealed.
- It connects to the larger story of Absalom’s rebellion and the ongoing consequences of violence and broken trust within David’s family.