Question 1

What does 2 Samuel 14:20 mean?

Accepted Answer

2 Samuel 14:20 explains that Joab arranged for the woman to speak to King David in a certain way, and the woman now praises David’s wisdom, saying he is as wise as an angel of God and knows everything happening in the land. The verse highlights both Joab’s involvement in the plan and David’s reputation for discernment. The speaker is the wise woman from Tekoa, addressing King David after he sees through her story. Joab, David’s military commander, had sent her to present a made-up case to help David reconsider his banished son Absalom. The woman admits Joab orchestrated her speech and flatters David’s ability to see through the ruse, emphasizing his wisdom and awareness.

Question 2

The Hebrew behind 2 Samuel 14:20

Accepted Answer

"Form" (פָּנִים, panim): This word often means "face" or "appearance," but here it refers to the manner or style of the woman’s speech, pointing to the carefully crafted approach Joab designed. "Wise" (חָכָם, chakam) and "wisdom" (חָכְמָה, chokhmah): These words highlight David’s reputation for discernment and insight, not just intelligence but practical judgment in complex situations. "Angel" (מַלְאָךְ, mal’akh) and "God" (אֱלֹהִים, Elohim): The comparison to an “angel of God” suggests a superhuman level of perception, showing the high regard people had for David’s ability to understand hidden matters. "Know" (יָדַע, yada): This word means to know or perceive, emphasizing David’s ability to see through appearances and understand what is really happening.

Question 3

Why 2 Samuel 14:20 matters

Accepted Answer

This verse clarifies that the woman’s story was not spontaneous but orchestrated by Joab, revealing the lengths Joab would go to influence David’s decisions. The verse underscores David’s reputation for wisdom and discernment, which is a recurring theme in his life and reign. By connecting David’s wisdom to that of an “angel of God,” the verse sets up the expectation that he will act with insight and fairness, which is important for understanding his response to Absalom’s situation.

2 Samuel 14:20 (KJV)