Old Testament
2 Samuel 20:3
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
When David returned to his palace in Jerusalem, he took the ten concubines he had left behind to manage the household and put them under guard.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Samuel, Nathan, and Gad
- Written
- Around 930 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- The Israelites of the early monarchy
When David arrived at his palace in Jerusalem, he took the 10 concubines he had left behind to look after the house and placed them under guard. He provided for their needs but never slept with them again. They were confined there until the day they died, living in widowhood.
And David came to his house at Jerusalem; and the king took the ten women his concubines, whom he had left to keep the house, and put them in ward, and fed them, but went not in unto them. So they were shut up unto the day of their death, living in widowhood.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
When David returned to his palace in Jerusalem, he took the ten concubines he had left behind to manage the household and put them under guard. Although he made sure they were provided for, he never had any intimate relations with them again. This meant they lived in a state of confinement, essentially as widows, until they passed away. Their lives were marked by a loss of freedom and companionship, reflecting the consequences of David's earlier choices. This situation highlights the complexities of relationships and the impact of power dynamics. David's actions show a sense of responsibility, but also a deep sense of loss for these women, who were left without the love and support they deserved. Their story serves as a reminder of the importance of treating others with dignity and respect, regardless of circumstances. It illustrates how decisions can lead to long-lasting effects on people's lives, emphasizing the need for compassion and understanding in our interactions.
Related Bible verses
How to apply 2 Samuel 20:3 to your life
Consider how your actions affect others, especially those who may be vulnerable. Strive to treat everyone with dignity and respect, recognizing their humanity. Reflect on the importance of compassion in your relationships and the long-term impact of your choices on others' lives. Make a conscious effort to support those around you in meaningful ways. Be aware of the power you hold in your interactions and use it wisely to uplift others.
Curated for this public verse page. 2 Samuel Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What happened to David's concubines in 2 Samuel 20:3?
In 2 Samuel 20:3, after David returned to Jerusalem, he took the ten concubines he had left behind to manage his household and placed them under guard. Although he provided for their needs, he never had intimate relations with them again. This left them in a state of confinement, living as widows until their deaths, highlighting the consequences of David's earlier actions and the complexities of his relationships.
Why did David put his concubines under guard?
David put his concubines under guard as a measure of protection and to maintain control over them after the turmoil in his kingdom. This action reflects the power dynamics at play, as he was responsible for their safety but also limited their freedom. Their confinement symbolizes the loss of agency they experienced due to the circumstances surrounding David's reign and personal choices.
What does living in widowhood mean for David's concubines?
Living in widowhood for David's concubines meant that they were deprived of companionship and intimacy, as David chose not to have relations with them again. This state of widowhood signifies a loss of status and emotional connection, leaving them isolated and dependent on David for their needs. It underscores the impact of David's decisions on their lives and the broader implications of power and responsibility.
What lessons can we learn from David's treatment of his concubines?
David's treatment of his concubines teaches us about the importance of compassion and responsibility in our relationships. It highlights how our choices can have lasting effects on others, especially those who may be vulnerable. We are reminded to treat everyone with dignity and respect, recognizing their humanity, and to be mindful of the power dynamics in our interactions, using our influence to uplift rather than confine.
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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