2 Samuel 15:3 (KJV)

What does 2 Samuel 15:3 mean?

2 Samuel 15:3 describes how Absalom tells a person coming to the king for judgment that their case is good and right, but claims that there is no one appointed by the king to listen to them. Absalom is suggesting that the king is not providing justice, setting himself up as someone who cares more about the people's concerns.

Absalom is speaking to Israelites who have come to Jerusalem to have their disputes settled by King David. By saying this, Absalom is trying to win the people's loyalty by making them feel neglected by David and hinting that he would do better. This verse shows the beginning of Absalom’s strategy to undermine his father’s authority and gain support for his own rebellion.

The Hebrew behind 2 Samuel 15:3

• "matters" (דָּבָר, davar): This word means "word," "matter," or "case." Here, it refers to the legal cases or disputes people brought to the king for judgment. Absalom is focusing on the personal concerns of each person.
• "good" (טוֹב, tov): This word means "good" or "pleasing." Absalom flatters the people by telling them their case is good, making them feel validated.
• "right" (נָכוֹן, nakhon): This word means "right," "just," or "proper." Absalom is not just saying their case is good, but also that it is just—again, appealing to their sense of fairness.
• "king" (מֶלֶךְ, melekh): The use of this word highlights that Absalom is pointing to the king’s (David’s) responsibility, subtly criticizing his leadership.
• "hear" (שָׁמַע, shama): This word means "to hear" or "to listen." Absalom claims there is no one to listen, suggesting a lack of justice or attention from the king.

Why 2 Samuel 15:3 matters

• This verse shows how Absalom uses flattery and manipulation to turn the people’s hearts away from David, which is key to understanding the coming rebellion.
• The verse highlights a gap between the king and his people, whether real or exaggerated by Absalom, which he uses to his advantage.
• It helps explain why many Israelites were later willing to support Absalom against David, since he made them feel heard and valued.