Old Testament
2 Samuel 14:26
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
He would cut his hair once a year because it grew so heavy. When he cut it, the hair weighed two hundred shekels by the royal standard.
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And when he polled his head, (for it was at every year’s end that he polled it: because the hair was heavy on him, therefore he polled it:) he weighed the hair of his head at two hundred shekels after the king’s weight.
What 2 Samuel 14:26 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, we learn about a king who had a unique grooming habit. He would cut his hair once a year because it became so heavy. This annual haircut was not just a personal choice; it was a necessity due to the weight of his hair. When he finally cut it, the hair weighed an impressive two hundred shekels, which is a significant amount. This detail highlights the king's status and the care he took in maintaining his appearance. It also reflects the cultural importance of hair in that time, symbolizing strength and beauty. The weight of his hair serves as a metaphor for the burdens we carry in life, reminding us that sometimes we need to let go of what weighs us down. Just as the king had to cut his hair, we too must find ways to lighten our loads and focus on what truly matters in our lives. This passage encourages us to reflect on our own burdens and consider how we can manage them effectively, leading to a more balanced life. It’s a reminder to prioritize self-care.
How to apply 2 Samuel 14:26 to your life
Consider what weighs you down in your life. Just as the king had to cut his hair, think about what you can let go of to feel lighter. Make time for self-care and prioritize your well-being. Reflect on your burdens and find ways to manage them effectively. Embrace change for a healthier life balance.
Curated for this public verse page. 2 Samuel Summary
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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 14:26 say about the king's hair?
2 Samuel 14:26 describes a king who cut his hair once a year due to its heaviness. When he cut it, the hair weighed two hundred shekels, indicating the significant length and weight of his hair. This detail emphasizes the king's status and the cultural importance of hair during that time.
Why did the king cut his hair annually?
The king cut his hair annually because it became too heavy for him to manage. This grooming habit was not merely aesthetic; it was a practical necessity. The weight of his hair symbolizes the burdens we carry in life, suggesting that sometimes we need to let go of what weighs us down.
What can we learn from the king's hair in this verse?
From the king's hair in 2 Samuel 14:26, we learn about the importance of self-care and managing burdens. Just as the king had to cut his hair to relieve its weight, we too should identify and let go of things that weigh us down in our lives, promoting a healthier balance.
How does this verse relate to self-care?
This verse relates to self-care by highlighting the necessity of addressing what burdens us. The king's annual haircut serves as a metaphor for the importance of self-reflection and making time for our well-being. It encourages us to prioritize our mental and emotional health by letting go of unnecessary weight.
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