2 Samuel 14:10 (KJV)

What does 2 Samuel 14:10 mean?

2 Samuel 14:10 shows King David telling a woman that if anyone threatens or accuses her, she should bring that person to him, and he will make sure no harm comes to her. The king is promising his personal protection and authority to resolve her problem.

In this scene, King David is speaking to a woman from Tekoa, who has come to him with a plea (as part of a plan arranged by Joab, David’s commander). The woman claims she is being threatened, and David reassures her by saying he will intervene if anyone bothers her again. This verse highlights the king’s role as a protector and judge for his people.

The Hebrew behind 2 Samuel 14:10

• king (מֶלֶךְ, melekh): This word emphasizes David’s authority and responsibility to act as the highest judge and protector in Israel.
• said (אָמַר, amar): This is the common Hebrew word for "said," marking David’s direct speech and personal involvement.
• bring (בּוֹא, bo): David tells the woman to "bring" the accuser to him, showing he is willing to get personally involved in her case.
• touch (נָגַע, naga): This word means "to touch" or "to strike," and here it carries the sense of causing harm or trouble. David is assuring the woman that no one will harm her if she comes to him.
• more (יָסַף, yasaf): This word means "to add" or "to continue." David is promising that the harassment or threat will not continue any further.

Why 2 Samuel 14:10 matters

• This verse shows the king’s willingness to use his authority to protect a vulnerable person, reflecting the ideal role of a biblical king as a defender of justice.
• The promise that "he shall not touch thee any more" underscores David’s commitment to stopping ongoing harm, not just addressing a single incident.
• In the wider story, this reassurance sets up the next steps in Joab’s plan to persuade David to bring his son Absalom back, showing how appeals to justice and mercy are woven into the narrative.