Old Testament
2 Samuel 14:6
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this story, a woman speaks to King David about a tragic event involving her two sons.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Samuel, Nathan, and Gad
- Written
- Around 930 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- The Israelites of the early monarchy
Your servant had two sons, and they got into a fight out in the field. There was nobody around to break it up, and one of them struck the other and killed him.
And thy handmaid had two sons, and they two strove together in the field, and there was none to part them, but the one smote the other, and slew him.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this story, a woman speaks to King David about a tragic event involving her two sons. They were out in a field when they got into a serious fight. Unfortunately, there was no one around to stop them. In the heat of the moment, one son struck the other, resulting in his death. This incident highlights the dangers of unresolved conflict and the consequences that can arise when emotions run high. The woman uses this story to appeal to the king for justice and mercy, hoping to find a resolution for her family. It serves as a reminder of how quickly situations can escalate and the importance of seeking help before things get out of hand. The story emphasizes the need for intervention and understanding in conflicts, showing that without guidance, relationships can suffer devastating outcomes. It also reflects the deep love a mother has for her children, as she seeks to protect and restore her family amidst tragedy. This narrative invites us to consider how we handle disputes in our own lives.
Related Bible verses
How to apply 2 Samuel 14:6 to your life
When conflicts arise, it's crucial to address them before they escalate. Seek help from others to mediate and find solutions. Remember that unresolved issues can lead to serious consequences, affecting relationships and families. Approach disputes with understanding and compassion to foster healing and resolution. Take time to listen and communicate openly with those involved in conflicts to prevent harm and promote peace. “
Curated for this public verse page. 2 Samuel Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does 2 Samuel 14:6 mean?
2 Samuel 14:6 tells the story of a woman who approaches King David to discuss a tragic incident where her two sons fought in a field, leading to one son killing the other. This verse illustrates the dangers of unresolved conflict and the serious consequences that can arise from emotional disputes.
What is the meaning of conflict in 2 Samuel 14:6?
In 2 Samuel 14:6, conflict refers to the physical fight between the two sons that escalated without any intervention. It highlights how quickly disagreements can turn violent and the importance of addressing conflicts before they lead to tragic outcomes.
How does 2 Samuel 14:6 relate to family dynamics?
2 Samuel 14:6 reflects the complexities of family relationships, showing how conflicts can arise between siblings and lead to devastating consequences. It underscores the importance of communication and intervention in maintaining family harmony.
What lessons can we learn from 2 Samuel 14:6?
From 2 Samuel 14:6, we learn the importance of addressing conflicts early to prevent escalation. It also teaches the value of seeking help from others to mediate disputes and the need for compassion in resolving family issues.

The Book of 2 Samuel
2 Samuel 1: David Mourns Saul and Jonathan
The book of 2 Samuel opens with David at Ziklag, having just returned from his victory over the Amalekites. An Amalekite man arrives from Saul's camp with his clothes torn and dust on his head, bringing news of the battle at Mount Gilboa. He tells David that the Israelites have been defeated and that Saul and his son Jonathan are dead. To prove his story, he presents David with the crown and bracelet from Saul's arm. The man claims that he came upon the wounded Saul, who asked to be killed, and that he mercifully ended the king's life. He likely expects a reward for this news and for his role in the king's death.
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