2 Samuel 13:21

ยถ But when king David heard of all these things, he was very wroth.

But when king {H4428} David {H1732} heard {H8085} of all these things {H1697}, he was very {H3966} wroth {H2734}.

When King David heard about all these things, he became very angry.

When King David heard all this, he was furious.

But when king David heard of all these things, he was very wroth.

Commentary

Context of 2 Samuel 13:21

This verse delivers a pivotal, yet tragically understated, reaction from King David following one of the most heinous acts within his own household: the rape of his daughter Tamar by his son Amnon. The preceding verses detail Amnon's manipulative scheme to violate his half-sister, Tamar's desperate pleas, and the brutal act itself (2 Samuel 13:1-19). Upon learning of this profound injustice and sin, David's immediate response is described as being "very wroth." This intense anger sets the stage for the escalating family dysfunction and tragic events that will unfold in David's kingdom, particularly involving Absalom's subsequent revenge and rebellion, which aligns with Nathan's prophecy regarding the sword never departing from David's house.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Parental Inaction and Its Consequences: While David's anger is stated, the text notably lacks any record of immediate punitive action or judicial process from him regarding Amnon's crime. This failure to administer justice or discipline his son had severe, long-lasting repercussions for his family and kingdom, highlighting the critical importance of responsible parental discipline and leadership.
  • The Destructive Nature of Sin: Amnon's lust and violence brought immense suffering to Tamar and ripped apart the fabric of David's family, demonstrating how unchecked sin can unleash a cascade of tragic events.
  • Justice Delayed and Denied: David's passive response to such a grave injustice is a significant theme. The absence of royal intervention ultimately fuels Absalom's simmering rage and desire for vengeance, leading to further bloodshed and rebellion (2 Samuel 13:22).

Linguistic Insight

The King James Version's "very wroth" translates the Hebrew phrase charah loh me'od (ื—ึธืจึธื” ืœื•ึน ืžึฐืึนื“). The verb charah (ื—ึธืจึธื”) literally means "to burn" or "to glow," often used to describe a fierce, burning anger. The addition of me'od (ืžึฐืึนื“), meaning "very" or "exceedingly," emphasizes the intensity of David's rage. It signifies a profound internal displeasure, not just mild annoyance, but a deep, consuming anger that likely stemmed from both the horror of the act and the shame it brought upon his royal family.

Practical Application and Reflection

King David's reaction in this verse serves as a cautionary tale for leaders, parents, and individuals alike. While anger at injustice is a righteous emotion, it must be followed by appropriate and decisive action. Unaddressed sin, especially within one's sphere of influence, can fester and lead to greater sorrow and destruction. This account underscores the importance of:

  • Taking Action Against Injustice: It's not enough to be angry; one must act responsibly to uphold justice and protect the vulnerable.
  • Exercising Discipline: Parents and leaders have a sacred duty to discipline and guide those under their care to prevent further harm and uphold moral standards.
  • Understanding Consequences: The story of David's family illustrates the far-reaching and devastating consequences that can arise from personal sin and the failure to address it promptly and righteously.
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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated โ€” the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Genesis 34:7

    And the sons of Jacob came out of the field when they heard [it]: and the men were grieved, and they were very wroth, because he had wrought folly in Israel in lying with Jacob's daughter; which thing ought not to be done.

  • 1 Samuel 2:29

    Wherefore kick ye at my sacrifice and at mine offering, which I have commanded [in my] habitation; and honourest thy sons above me, to make yourselves fat with the chiefest of all the offerings of Israel my people?

  • 1 Samuel 2:22

    Now Eli was very old, and heard all that his sons did unto all Israel; and how they lay with the women that assembled [at] the door of the tabernacle of the congregation.

  • 1 Samuel 2:25

    If one man sin against another, the judge shall judge him: but if a man sin against the LORD, who shall intreat for him? Notwithstanding they hearkened not unto the voice of their father, because the LORD would slay them.

  • 2 Samuel 12:10

    Now therefore the sword shall never depart from thine house; because thou hast despised me, and hast taken the wife of Uriah the Hittite to be thy wife.

  • 2 Samuel 3:28

    And afterward when David heard [it], he said, I and my kingdom [are] guiltless before the LORD for ever from the blood of Abner the son of Ner:

  • 2 Samuel 3:29

    Let it rest on the head of Joab, and on all his father's house; and let there not fail from the house of Joab one that hath an issue, or that is a leper, or that leaneth on a staff, or that falleth on the sword, or that lacketh bread.
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