2 Samuel 13:35 (KJV)

What does 2 Samuel 13:35 mean?

2 Samuel 13:35 shows Jonadab telling King David that the king’s sons are arriving, just as Jonadab had predicted. This confirms Jonadab’s earlier words and reassures David that the sons are returning after the violent events involving Absalom and Amnon.

Jonadab, who is a relative and adviser to David, speaks directly to the king during a tense moment following Absalom’s revenge against Amnon. The verse captures Jonadab’s attempt to calm David by pointing out that his sons are coming back, matching what Jonadab had already told him about the situation.

The Hebrew behind 2 Samuel 13:35

• יֹנָדָב (Yonadav, “Jonadab”): This name identifies the speaker, who plays a key role as an adviser and informant in this chapter.
• מֶלֶךְ (melekh, “king”): Used twice here, this word emphasizes David’s position and the gravity of the news being delivered to him.
• בֵּן (ben, “son”): The plural form refers to David’s sons, highlighting the family focus of the crisis.
• עֶבֶד (eved, “servant”): Jonadab refers to himself as the king’s servant, a common way to show respect and humility before the king.

Why 2 Samuel 13:35 matters

• This verse clarifies that Jonadab’s earlier explanation to David was accurate, which helps restore some order after the confusion and panic caused by the news of Amnon’s death.
• The verse highlights Jonadab’s influence and his role as a communicator between the king and the events unfolding among David’s sons.
• It connects to the larger story of family conflict and tragedy in David’s household, showing how information and reassurance were managed in a moment of crisis.