Old Testament
2 Samuel 13:39
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
King David's soul longed to go to Absalom, for he was comforted concerning Amnon, seeing he was dead.
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And the soul of king David longed to go forth unto Absalom: for he was comforted concerning Amnon, seeing he was dead.
What 2 Samuel 13:39 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we see King David's deep emotional struggle. He is grieving the loss of his son Amnon, who has died, but at the same time, he feels a longing to reconnect with his other son, Absalom. David's heart is torn between sorrow and a desire for family reconciliation. The death of Amnon has brought a sense of relief regarding the conflict that existed, yet it also highlights the pain of losing a child. David's longing for Absalom indicates a hope for healing and restoration in their relationship. This moment captures the complexity of parental love, where joy and sorrow coexist. It reminds us that even in our darkest times, the desire for connection and healing remains strong. David's situation reflects the universal human experience of loss and the longing for family bonds, making it relatable to anyone who has faced similar struggles in their own lives. His story encourages us to seek reconciliation and understanding, even amidst pain and grief, as we navigate our relationships.
How to apply 2 Samuel 13:39 to your life
When faced with loss, it's important to acknowledge our feelings and seek connection with loved ones. Like David, we can find comfort in reaching out to those we care about. This can help heal wounds and strengthen relationships, even in difficult times. Don't hesitate to express your emotions and desires for reconciliation with family members or friends who matter to you. It can lead to healing and understanding in your life.
Curated for this public verse page. 2 Samuel Summary
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Illustrated scene from David's story: Trouble in David's House (2 Samuel 13:1–39)
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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.
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Hebron
Where Abraham lived and buried Sarah, and where David was first made king.
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Keep studying 2 Samuel 13:39
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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 13:39 mean?
2 Samuel 13:39 reflects King David's emotional turmoil after the death of his son Amnon. While he grieves Amnon's loss, he also feels a strong desire to reconnect with his other son, Absalom, indicating a hope for healing in their strained relationship.
What is the meaning of longing in 2 Samuel 13:39?
In 2 Samuel 13:39, 'longing' signifies King David's deep emotional desire to reunite with Absalom. This longing highlights the complexity of his feelings, combining grief for Amnon with a yearning for family reconciliation.
How does 2 Samuel 13:39 relate to family relationships?
2 Samuel 13:39 emphasizes the importance of family connections, even in times of loss. David's longing for Absalom after Amnon's death shows that despite grief, the desire for reconciliation and healing within families remains strong.
What themes are present in 2 Samuel 13:39?
The themes present in 2 Samuel 13:39 include grief, family, reconciliation, longing, and loss. This verse captures the emotional struggle of a parent dealing with the death of a child while seeking to restore family bonds.
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