2 Samuel 15:36 (KJV)

What does 2 Samuel 15:36 mean?

2 Samuel 15:36 explains that Ahimaaz, the son of Zadok, and Jonathan, the son of Abiathar, will act as messengers to bring information to David. David is instructing his allies to use these two young men to send him news about what they hear in Jerusalem.

In this verse, David is speaking to his loyal priests, Zadok and Abiathar, as he flees from his son Absalom’s rebellion. David is setting up a way to receive updates about Absalom’s plans by having the priests’ sons serve as runners. This arrangement is part of David’s careful efforts to stay informed and respond wisely during a dangerous time.

The Hebrew behind 2 Samuel 15:36

• "Two" (שְׁנֵי, sheney): This word emphasizes that both sons—one from each priestly family—are involved, showing cooperation and trust between Zadok and Abiathar.
• "Sons" (בֵּן, ben): The use of this word highlights the family connection and the personal risk these young men are taking for David’s sake.
• "Send" (שָׁלַח, shalach): This verb means to send or dispatch, and here it carries the sense of intentionally sending someone on an important mission.
• "Thing" (דָּבָר, davar): This word can mean "word," "matter," or "message," so David is asking for any information or report that can be heard.
• "Hear" (שָׁמַע, shama): This verb means to listen or hear, stressing that the priests should pass along everything they learn.

Why 2 Samuel 15:36 matters

• This verse clarifies how David set up a secret communication network during Absalom’s rebellion, showing his wisdom and reliance on trusted people.
• The mention of both priests’ sons working together highlights unity among David’s supporters, even in a time of crisis.
• Understanding this arrangement helps make sense of later events in the story, where these young men play a key role in delivering messages that affect David’s safety and decisions.