2 Samuel 16:6 (KJV)

What does 2 Samuel 16:6 mean?

2 Samuel 16:6 describes how a man threw stones at King David, his servants, and all the people and mighty warriors who were with David, as they walked along the road. The verse shows that David was not alone—his loyal followers were on both sides of him as he faced this public humiliation.

The setting is during David’s flight from Jerusalem after his son Absalom’s rebellion. The man throwing stones is Shimei, a member of Saul’s family, who is openly showing his anger and disrespect toward David. This act of throwing stones was a serious insult and a physical threat, especially since it was directed not just at David but at all those loyal to him.

The Hebrew behind 2 Samuel 16:6

• "cast" (יָרָה, yarah): This word means to throw or hurl, often with force or intent to harm. It shows that Shimei’s actions were deliberate and aggressive, not just symbolic.
• "stones" (אֶבֶן, ’even): Stones were common weapons for both attack and insult in ancient times. The use of stones here highlights both the danger and the contempt Shimei showed.
• "men" (גִּבּוֹר, gibbor): This word refers to mighty or valiant men, often warriors. The verse points out that even David’s strongest defenders were present, yet Shimei still dared to attack and insult them all.

Why 2 Samuel 16:6 matters

• The verse highlights the depth of David’s humiliation—he is not just being insulted, but physically attacked in front of his most loyal and powerful supporters.
• It shows the boldness (or desperation) of Shimei, who is willing to risk angering not just David but his mighty men, suggesting how deeply some people resented David at this moment.
• This scene sets the tone for the surrounding passage, emphasizing David’s vulnerability and the public nature of his suffering during Absalom’s rebellion.