2 Samuel 14:15 (KJV)

What does 2 Samuel 14:15 mean?

2 Samuel 14:15 shows a woman explaining to King David that she has come to speak with him because she was afraid of what the people might do or say, and she hopes the king will listen to her request. She presents herself as a servant, appealing to David’s authority and mercy in hopes he will grant her plea.

In this verse, the woman from Tekoa is speaking to King David as part of a plan arranged by Joab, David’s commander. She claims that the people (likely her neighbors or community) have frightened her, prompting her to come directly to the king for help. Her words are carefully chosen to show humility and dependence on David’s judgment, setting the stage for her request.

The Hebrew behind 2 Samuel 14:15

• "People" (עָם, ʿam): This word refers to the community or group that has caused the woman to be afraid. It highlights that her fear is not just personal but comes from social pressure or threat.
• "Afraid" (יָרֵא, yare’): This word often means to fear or be in awe, but here it clearly means she is frightened by what others might do, giving urgency to her appeal.
• "Handmaid" (שִׁפְחָה, shiphchah): The woman uses this term for herself, emphasizing her low status and dependence on the king’s favor, which is a common way to show respect and humility in royal settings.

Why 2 Samuel 14:15 matters

• This verse helps explain the woman’s motivation for approaching David, showing that her request is driven by fear and not just personal ambition.
• The verse highlights the social dynamics at play, where community pressure can drive individuals to seek help from those in authority.
• Understanding this verse clarifies the larger story, where Joab uses the woman’s plea as a way to influence David’s thinking about his own son Absalom.