Old Testament

2 Samuel 14:16

Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.

ClearClear Bible Translation

"I believed the king would listen and rescue me from the man who wants to cut off both me and my son from God's inheritance."

Compare translations
KJVKing James Version

For the king will hear, to deliver his handmaid out of the hand of the man that would destroy me and my son together out of the inheritance of God.

What 2 Samuel 14:16 means

Plain-English insight for readers

In this verse, a woman is expressing her hope that the king will hear her plea for help. She feels threatened by a man who wants to take away her and her son's rightful place in their community and before God. The woman believes that the king has the power to intervene and save them from this dire situation. Her faith in the king's ability to listen and act is strong, as she sees him as a protector. This moment highlights the importance of seeking help from those in authority when facing overwhelming challenges. It also reflects the deep connection between a mother and her child, emphasizing the lengths to which she will go to ensure their safety and future. The mention of God's inheritance signifies the spiritual and communal aspects of their lives, showing that their identity is tied to their place in society and before God. This verse encourages us to reach out for help when we need it and to trust that there are people who can support us in our struggles, just as the king could for this woman.

How to apply 2 Samuel 14:16 to your life

When facing difficult situations, remember that it's okay to ask for help. Just like the woman in this verse, we can find strength in reaching out to those who can support us. Trust that there are people willing to listen and help us navigate our challenges. Your voice matters, and seeking assistance can lead to positive change in your life. Don't hesitate to share your struggles with others who care about you and your well-being.

Curated for this public verse page. 2 Samuel Summary

Explore more of the Bible

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.

A painting of the king setting the royal crown on the head of Esther as she kneels before his throne, while the court looks on

Illustrated scene from Esther's story: Esther Becomes Queen (Esther 2:1–18)

Meet the people of the Bible

Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.

Esther

Rows of uncovered stone walls on the mound at Tel Shiloh, with no modern buildings in view.

Photo: Deror Avi, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 4.0. Source. Location: Tel Shiloh archaeological site, West Bank. 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.

Shiloh

Where Israel set up the tabernacle, and where God called the boy Samuel.

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 Plans

Ask AI about 2 Samuel 14:16

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 14:16

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 14:16 mean?

In 2 Samuel 14:16, a woman expresses her hope that the king will listen to her plea for help against a man threatening her and her son's place in society and before God. She believes the king has the power to protect them from this danger.

What is the meaning of 'God's inheritance' in 2 Samuel 14:16?

'God's inheritance' in this verse refers to the rightful place and blessings that the woman and her son have within their community and their relationship with God. It signifies their identity and security in both spiritual and social contexts.

How does 2 Samuel 14:16 relate to seeking help?

2 Samuel 14:16 illustrates the importance of reaching out for help when in distress. The woman's trust in the king's ability to intervene shows that asking for support can lead to positive outcomes in difficult situations.

What themes are present in 2 Samuel 14:16?

The themes in 2 Samuel 14:16 include hope, protection, motherhood, faith, and community. These themes reflect the woman's reliance on the king for safety and the deep bond she shares with her child.

Daily Verse — straight to your inbox

A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.