Old Testament
2 Samuel 15:23
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
The whole countryside wept loudly as all the people crossed over. The king himself crossed the Kidron Brook, and everyone headed toward the wilderness.
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And all the country wept with a loud voice, and all the people passed over: the king also himself passed over the brook Kidron, and all the people passed over, toward the way of the wilderness.
What 2 Samuel 15:23 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this moment, the entire countryside was filled with sorrow as people openly wept. They were crossing over to safety, leaving behind their homes and familiar places. The king, too, felt the weight of the situation as he crossed the Kidron Brook, a symbol of his own exile. Everyone was heading toward the wilderness, a place of uncertainty and hardship. This scene captures the deep emotional turmoil of a community facing loss and change. It reflects the pain of separation and the struggle to find hope in difficult times. The king's journey into the wilderness signifies not just physical movement but also a spiritual and emotional journey. It reminds us that even leaders experience grief and must navigate their own challenges. In the face of adversity, the collective sorrow of the people highlights the importance of community support during tough times. Together, they faced the unknown, united in their shared experience of loss and resilience, seeking a new beginning.
How to apply 2 Samuel 15:23 to your life
When facing difficult times, remember that it's okay to express your emotions. Seek support from those around you, as shared experiences can strengthen bonds. Embrace the journey ahead, even if it feels uncertain, and trust that new beginnings can emerge from hardship. Together, we can find hope in the wilderness of life’s challenges.
Curated for this public verse page. 2 Samuel Summary
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Illustrated scene from David's story: Absalom's Rebellion (2 Samuel 15:1–37)
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David
Photo: Zeev Stein / PikiWiki Israel, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.5. Source. Location: Tel Beer Sheva National Park, Israel. Resized for the web.
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Beersheba
Where Abraham and Isaac dug wells and worshiped the LORD, at the southern edge of the land.
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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 15:23 mean?
2 Samuel 15:23 describes a moment of deep sorrow as the people and the king leave their homes, crossing the Kidron Brook toward the wilderness. This verse highlights the emotional turmoil of exile and the collective grief of a community facing loss.
What is the significance of the Kidron Brook in 2 Samuel 15:23?
The Kidron Brook serves as a physical boundary that the king and his people must cross during their exile. It symbolizes a transition from safety to uncertainty, marking a pivotal moment in their journey.
What themes are present in 2 Samuel 15:23?
Key themes in 2 Samuel 15:23 include grief, community support, exile, and resilience. The verse illustrates the emotional struggles of the people and the importance of unity during challenging times.
How can I apply the message of 2 Samuel 15:23 to my life?
You can apply the message by acknowledging your emotions during tough times and seeking support from your community. Embrace the journey ahead, even if it's uncertain, and remember that shared experiences can help you find hope and resilience.
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