Old Testament
2 Samuel 13:25
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
The king replied, "No, my son. If we all come, we'll be too much of a burden on you." Absalom kept pressing him, but David still wouldn't go — though he did give him his blessing.
Compare translations
And the king said to Absalom, Nay, my son, let us not all now go, lest we be chargeable unto thee. And he pressed him: howbeit he would not go, but blessed him.
What 2 Samuel 13:25 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this moment, King David is faced with a request from his son Absalom to attend a gathering. David, however, feels that bringing the whole family would be too much for Absalom to handle. Despite Absalom's insistence, David stands firm in his decision not to go. He understands the weight of the situation and wants to spare his son from any added pressure. This interaction highlights the complexities of family dynamics and the protective nature of a parent. David's refusal is not just about logistics; it reflects his concern for Absalom's well-being. Even though he declines the invitation, David still offers his blessing, showing that he supports his son in spirit. This moment captures the balance between love and responsibility, illustrating how sometimes saying no is the best way to care for someone you love. It reminds us that our choices can impact those we care about, and sometimes, less is more in relationships. David's wisdom in this situation serves as a lesson in understanding our limits and the importance of thoughtful decisions.
How to apply 2 Samuel 13:25 to your life
Consider the relationships in your life where you might need to set boundaries. Saying no can be difficult, but it can also be a way to show care and support. Reflect on how your decisions affect those around you and strive for balance in your relationships. Remember, sometimes less is more when it comes to family gatherings or commitments. Prioritize quality over quantity in your connections with others, ensuring everyone feels valued.
Curated for this public verse page. 2 Samuel Summary
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from David's story: Trouble in David's House (2 Samuel 13:1–39)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
David
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724987). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Hebron, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Hebron
Where Abraham lived and buried Sarah, and where David was first made king.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about 2 Samuel 13:25
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying 2 Samuel 13:25
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of 2 Samuel
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Samuel, Nathan, and Gad
- Written
- Around 930 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- The Israelites of the early monarchy
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does 2 Samuel 13:25 mean?
In 2 Samuel 13:25, King David declines his son Absalom's invitation to a gathering, believing that bringing the whole family would burden Absalom. This reflects David's protective nature and concern for his son's well-being.
What is the meaning of 'we'll be too much of a burden on you' in 2 Samuel 13:25?
This phrase indicates David's awareness of the potential stress and responsibility that comes with hosting a large family gathering. He wants to spare Absalom from the pressure of accommodating everyone.
Why did David refuse to go with Absalom in 2 Samuel 13:25?
David refused to go with Absalom because he felt that bringing the entire family would be too much for Absalom to handle. His decision reflects a desire to protect his son from added pressure.
What lesson can we learn from 2 Samuel 13:25?
The lesson from this verse is about the importance of setting boundaries in relationships. Sometimes saying no is a way to show care and support, emphasizing that quality interactions are more valuable than quantity.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.