TRV
Translation
King James Version
And Jonadab, the son of Shimeah David's brother, answered and said, Let not my lord suppose that they have slain all the young men the king's sons; for Amnon only is dead: for by the appointment of Absalom this hath been determined from the day that he forced his sister Tamar.
KJV (with Strong's)
And Jonadab H3122, the son H1121 of Shimeah H8093 David's H1732 brother H251, answered H6030 and said H559, Let not my lord H113 suppose H559 that they have slain H4191 all the young men H5288 the king's H4428 sons H1121; for Amnon H550 only is dead H4191: for by the appointment H6310 of Absalom H53 this hath been determined H7760 from the day H3117 that he forced H6031 his sister H269 Tamar H8559.
Complete Jewish Bible
But then Yonadav, the son of Shim'ah, David's brother, spoke up; he said, "My lord shouldn't think they have killed all the young men, the king's sons. Only Amnon is dead; for Avshalom has meant to do this ever since the day he raped his sister Tamar.
Berean Standard Bible
But Jonadab, the son of David’s brother Shimeah, spoke up: “My lord must not think they have killed all the sons of the king, for only Amnon is dead. In fact, Absalom has planned this since the day Amnon violated his sister Tamar.
American Standard Version
And Jonadab, the son of Shimeah, David’s brother, answered and said, Let not my lord suppose that they have killed all the young men the king’s sons; for Amnon only is dead: for by the appointment of Absalom this hath been determined from the day that he forced his sister Tamar.
World English Bible Messianic
Jonadab, the son of Shimeah, David’s brother, answered, “Don’t let my lord suppose that they have killed all the young men the king’s sons; for Amnon only is dead; for by the appointment of Absalom this has been determined from the day that he forced his sister Tamar.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And Ionadab the sonne of Shimeah Dauids brother answered and sayde, Let not my lord suppose that they haue slayne all the yong men the Kings sonnes: for Amnon onely is dead, because Absalom had reported so, since hee forced his sister Tamar.
Young's Literal Translation
And Jonadab son of Shimeah, David's brother, answereth and saith, `Let not my lord say, The whole of the young men, the sons of the king, they have put to death; for Amnon alone is dead, for by the command of Absalom it hath been appointed from the day of his humbling Tamar his sister;
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In the KJVVerse 8,350 of 31,102
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Commentary on 2 Samuel 13 verses 30–39
30 ¶ And it came to pass, while they were in the way, that tidings came to David, saying, Absalom hath slain all the king's sons, and there is not one of them left.
31 Then the king arose, and tare his garments, and lay on the earth; and all his servants stood by with their clothes rent.
32 And Jonadab, the son of Shimeah David's brother, answered and said, Let not my lord suppose that they have slain all the young men the king's sons; for Amnon only is dead: for by the appointment of Absalom this hath been determined from the day that he forced his sister Tamar.
33 Now therefore let not my lord the king take the thing to his heart, to think that all the king's sons are dead: for Amnon only is dead.
34 But Absalom fled. And the young man that kept the watch lifted up his eyes, and looked, and, behold, there came much people by the way of the hill side behind him.
35 And Jonadab said unto the king, Behold, the king's sons come: as thy servant said, so it is.
36 And it came to pass, as soon as he had made an end of speaking, that, behold, the king's sons came, and lifted up their voice and wept: and the king also and all his servants wept very sore.
37 But Absalom fled, and went to Talmai, the son of Ammihud, king of Geshur. And David mourned for his son every day.
38 So Absalom fled, and went to Geshur, and was there three years.
39 And the soul of king David longed to go forth unto Absalom: for he was comforted concerning Amnon, seeing he was dead.
Here is, I. The fright that David was put into by a false report brought to Jerusalem that Absalom had slain all the king's sons, Sa2 13:30. It is common for fame to make bad worse; and the first news of such a thing as this represents it as more dreadful than afterwards it proves. Let us not therefore be afraid of evil tidings, while they want confirmation, but, when we hear the worst, hope the best, at least hope better. However, this false news gave as much affliction to David, for the present, as if it had been true; he tore his garments, and lay on the earth, while as yet it was only a flying story, Sa2 13:31. It was well that David had grace; he had need enough of it, for he had strong passions.
II. The rectifying of the mistake in two ways: - 1. By the sly suggestions of Jonadab, David's nephew, who could tell him, Amnon only is dead, and not all the king's sons (Sa2 13:32, Sa2 13:33), and could tell him too that it was done by the appointment of Absalom, and designed from the day Amnon forced his sister Tamar. What a wicked man was he, if he knew all this or had any cause to suspect it, that he did not make David acquainted with it sooner, that means might be used to make up the quarrel, or at least that David might not throw Amnon into the mouth of danger by letting him go to Absalom's house. If we do not our utmost to prevent mischief, we make ourselves accessory to it. If we say, Behold, we knew it not; doth not he that pondereth the heart consider whether we did or no? See Pro 24:11, Pro 24:12. It is well if Jonadab was not as guilty of Amnon's death as he was of his sin; such friends do those prove who are hearkened to as counsellors to do wickedly: he that would not be so kind as to prevent Amnon's sin would not be so kind as to prevent his ruin, when, it should seem, he might have done both. 2. By the safe return of all the king's sons except Amnon. They and their attendants were speedily discovered by the watch (Sa2 13:34, Sa2 13:35), and soon arrived, to show themselves alive, but to bring the certain sad news that Absalom had murdered their brother Amnon. The grief David had been in for that which was not made him the better able to bear that which was, by giving him a sensible occasion, when he was undeceived, to thank God that all his sons were not dead: yet that Amnon was dead, and slain by his own brother is such a treacherous barbarous manner, was enough to put the king and court, the king and kingdom, into real mourning. Sorrow is never more reasonable than when there is sin in the case.
III. Absalom's flight from justice: Absalom immediately fled, Sa2 13:34. He was now as much afraid of the king's sons as they were of him; they fled from his malice, he from their justice. No part of the land of Israel could shelter him. The cities of refuge gave no protection to a wilful murderer. Though David had let Amnon's incest go unpunished, Absalom could not promise himself his pardon for this murder; so express was the law in this case, and so well known David's justice, and his dread of blood-guiltiness. He therefore made the best of his way to his mother's relations, and was entertained by his grandfather Talmai, king of Geshur (Sa2 13:37), and there he was protected three years (Sa2 13:38), David not demanding him, and Talmai not thinking himself obliged to send him back unless he were demanded.
IV. David's uneasiness for his absence. He mourned for Amnon a good while (Sa2 13:37), but, he being past recall, time wore off that grief: he was comforted concerning Amnon. It also wore off too much his detestation of Absalom's sin; instead of loathing him as a murderer, he longs to go forth to him, Sa2 13:39. At first he could not find in his heart to do justice on him; now he can almost find in his heart to take him into his favour again. This was David's infirmity. Something God saw in his heart that made a difference, else we should have thought that he, as much as Eli, honoured his sons more than God.
Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers verses 30–39. Public domain.
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SUMMARY
2 Samuel 13:32 unveils Jonadab's chillingly precise knowledge and the premeditated nature of Absalom's vengeance. Amidst the frantic reports reaching King David that all his sons have been slaughtered, Jonadab, David's astute nephew and the same cunning individual who previously advised Amnon, intervenes to correct the misinformation. He reveals that only Amnon is dead, and more significantly, that Absalom's act was not a spontaneous outburst but a meticulously planned execution, determined from the very day Amnon brutally violated Tamar. This verse starkly highlights the profound dysfunction within David's royal household and the tragic, escalating consequences of unaddressed sin and familial injustice.
CONTEXT
Literary Context: This verse is a pivotal moment in the unfolding tragedy of David's family, immediately following the news of Amnon's murder by Absalom. The preceding narrative meticulously details Amnon's heinous rape of his half-sister Tamar 2 Samuel 13:1-19, a profound act of sexual violence and familial dishonor. Absalom's subsequent two years of silent, seething anger and patient plotting are then chronicled, culminating in the elaborate sheep-shearing feast where he executes his long-planned revenge against Amnon 2 Samuel 13:20-29. As rumors of widespread slaughter reach King David, causing him immense distress, Jonadab's intervention in this verse provides a shocking moment of clarity. His precise revelation of Amnon's singular death and, more importantly, Absalom's two-year premeditation, exposes the depth of the familial brokenness. Jonadab's prior role as the manipulative advisor to Amnon 2 Samuel 13:3-5 adds a layer of dark irony and underscores his pervasive, often sinister, influence within the royal court.
Historical & Cultural Context: In ancient Israel, the concepts of familial honor, purity, and the protection of female relatives were paramount. The rape of Tamar was not merely a personal offense but a profound dishonor to David's royal house, particularly to her full brother Absalom. As the patriarch and king, David was expected to dispense swift and decisive justice for such a grievous crime. His failure to act decisively against Amnon, his firstborn and heir 2 Samuel 13:21, represented a significant lapse in his kingly and paternal duties, creating a vacuum that Absalom felt compelled to fill. Sheep-shearing feasts were significant agricultural and social events, often accompanied by feasting and merriment, making them ideal settings for both celebration and, in this case, a calculated act of vengeance, as the relaxed atmosphere would lower defenses. While Absalom's act of "blood vengeance" was outside the regulated legal framework of Israelite law, it resonated with cultural expectations of avenging deep wrongs, particularly when the formal justice system failed to act.
Key Themes: This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within 2 Samuel and the broader Deuteronomistic History. It vividly illustrates the destructive consequences of sin, particularly David's own prior moral failures with Bathsheba and Uriah 2 Samuel 11, which Nathan prophesied would bring "the sword" upon his house 2 Samuel 12:10. Amnon's heinous act of sexual violence, left unpunished by David, directly precipitates Absalom's calculated and cold-blooded vengeance, highlighting the principle that unaddressed injustice often festers into greater evil. The theme of familial breakdown and dysfunction is starkly portrayed, as the royal household is consumed by envy, lust, and violent retribution, tearing apart the very fabric of the family. Furthermore, Jonadab's shrewdness and apparent complicity in Absalom's long-hatched plan underscore the theme of cunning and manipulation within David's court, foreshadowing the deeper political machinations that will lead to Absalom's full-blown rebellion against his father 2 Samuel 15:1-12.
EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Key Word Analysis
Verse Breakdown
Literary Devices
The verse employs several potent literary devices that deepen its impact. Dramatic Irony is powerfully evident as King David and his court are plunged into a state of panic, believing all his sons have been slain, while the audience (and Jonadab) are privy to the precise, though still tragic, truth. Jonadab's revelation serves to resolve this dramatic tension by providing the correct, horrifying information. There is also a strong sense of Foreshadowing in Absalom's cold, calculated, and long-premeditated vengeance. His ruthless character, first revealed here, anticipates his later, equally cunning and violent rebellion against his father, David, in [2 Samuel 15 "2 Samuel 15 - Absalom's Rebellion"]. The narrative also uses Contrast between the initial exaggerated report of widespread slaughter and the precise reality of Amnon's singular death, highlighting Jonadab's unique and disturbing knowledge. Finally, Jonadab himself functions as a Foil to David, demonstrating a shrewdness and decisive insight that David often lacks in dealing with his family's internal affairs, particularly regarding the administration of justice.
THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse profoundly illustrates the devastating ripple effects of unaddressed sin and the tragic consequences of seeking justice through personal vengeance rather than through the proper channels. David's failure to administer justice for Tamar's rape, whether due to his own moral compromise or a desire to avoid conflict, created a vacuum that Absalom filled with his own brand of ruthless, premeditated retribution. This highlights a recurring biblical theme: while God is sovereign and just, human sin has real, painful consequences, often unfolding within families and communities. It underscores the truth that "the wages of sin is death" (Romans 6:23), not only spiritually but often in tangible, destructive ways within the created order. The narrative also implicitly questions the efficacy and morality of human vengeance; Absalom's act, while perhaps understandable from a human perspective, ultimately sets him on a path of further violence and rebellion that leads to his own demise. It serves as a stark reminder that true justice belongs to God, and human attempts to usurp this prerogative often lead to further brokenness.
REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The tragic events surrounding 2 Samuel 13:32 offer profound lessons for contemporary life. Firstly, the passage serves as a stark warning about the destructive power of unaddressed sin and injustice. When grievances are ignored or justice is delayed, bitterness can fester, leading to cycles of violence and retribution that tear apart families and communities. David's inaction after Tamar's rape created a breeding ground for Absalom's vengeful plot. This calls us to confront injustice, both personal and systemic, with courage and to seek righteous, timely resolution, understanding that true peace is built on a foundation of justice. Secondly, the narrative cautions against the allure of personal vengeance. While the desire for retribution in the face of profound wrong is a powerful human emotion, Absalom's path demonstrates that "getting even" often leads to further destruction, consuming the avenger as much as the victim and perpetuating cycles of harm. It reminds us that true healing and reconciliation come not from escalating violence but from a commitment to forgiveness, justice, and the restoration of relationships, even when difficult, trusting in God's ultimate justice. Finally, the story highlights the profound impact of leadership, both within families and broader society. David's failures as a father and king created a chaotic and violent environment, underscoring the vital importance of moral integrity, decisive action, and spiritual wisdom for those in positions of influence.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Why did David not punish Amnon immediately after the rape of Tamar?
Answer: The text states in 2 Samuel 13:21 that "when King David heard of all these things, he was very angry; but he did not punish his son Amnon." The Bible does not explicitly state David's precise reasons for inaction, but several factors are often suggested by commentators. David's own moral compromise (his sin with Bathsheba and Uriah in 2 Samuel 11) may have weakened his moral authority or made him hesitant to condemn his firstborn son, Amnon, for a sexual transgression. Additionally, Amnon was the heir apparent, and punishing him severely, potentially with death as prescribed by Mosaic Law for rape (Deuteronomy 22:25-27), could have caused significant political instability or a succession crisis. David's anger was evident, but his failure to act decisively created a vacuum that Absalom ultimately filled with his own violent retribution.
What was Jonadab's role and motive in this whole affair?
Answer: Jonadab is described as "a very subtil man" (2 Samuel 13:3). He was the one who initially advised Amnon on how to feign illness to lure Tamar to his chambers and rape her (2 Samuel 13:3-5). His motive appears to be one of manipulative cunning and perhaps a desire to be an influential insider in the royal court's machinations, enjoying the power that comes from knowing and shaping events. In 2 Samuel 13:32, his immediate and precise knowledge of Absalom's two-year plan suggests he was either a close confidant of Absalom or possessed a keen, cynical ability to discern the deep-seated intentions and resentments within the royal family. He acts as a detached realist, revealing the truth of the situation without apparent moral compunction, perhaps even relishing his role as the bearer of clarifying, albeit tragic, information.
CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The tragic narrative of 2 Samuel 13:32, steeped in sin, vengeance, and familial brokenness, finds its ultimate resolution and hope in Jesus Christ. The cycle of violence stemming from Amnon's sin and Absalom's vengeful response highlights humanity's desperate need for a perfect King and a perfect High Priest who can truly deal with sin and its devastating consequences. While Absalom sought to avenge Tamar's honor through bloodshed, his act ultimately led to more death and further division within David's house, demonstrating that human vengeance, no matter how seemingly justified, cannot bring true justice or lasting peace. Jesus, the true Son of David, enters this broken world not to exact vengeance but to offer reconciliation and redemption. He is the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world, bearing the full weight of humanity's sin—including acts of violence, injustice, and sexual perversion—on the cross. Through His perfect sacrifice, He perfectly fulfills the demands of divine justice, offering forgiveness and breaking the power of sin's destructive cycle (Romans 3:23-26). Unlike David, who failed to administer justice, or Absalom, who administered it imperfectly and destructively, Christ embodies perfect righteousness and boundless mercy. He calls His followers not to vengeance but to love their enemies and pray for those who persecute them (Matthew 5:44), offering a path to true healing and restoration that transcends the brokenness of human systems and the destructive nature of personal retribution. In Him, the promise of a kingdom of peace and righteousness, free from the curse of sin and the sword, is ultimately realized (Isaiah 9:6-7).