2 Samuel 13:32

KJV

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.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
2 Samuel 13:32 reveals Jonadab's chillingly precise knowledge amidst the chaos following Amnon's murder. As King David receives reports of all his sons being slain, Jonadab, David's nephew and the same cunning advisor who facilitated Amnon's crime, steps forward to clarify that only Amnon is dead. He further divulges that Absalom's act was not a spontaneous outburst but a meticulously planned vengeance, premeditated from the very day Amnon violated Tamar. This verse underscores the deep-seated dysfunction within David's household and the tragic unfolding of consequences stemming from unaddressed sin.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated at a critical juncture in the unfolding tragedy of David's family, immediately following the news of Amnon's murder by Absalom. The preceding narrative details Amnon's rape of his half-sister Tamar ([2 Samuel 13:1-19](/2_samuel/13-1 "2 Samuel 13:1-19 - Amnon's Rape of Tamar")), Absalom's quiet but seething anger and two years of patient plotting ([2 Samuel 13:20-23](/2_samuel/13-20 "2 Samuel 13:20-23 - Absalom's Silent Vengeance")), and the elaborate sheep-shearing feast where Absalom executes his revenge ([2 Samuel 13:24-29](/2_samuel/13-24 "2 Samuel 13:24-29 - Amnon's Murder at the Feast")). Rumors quickly reach King David that all his sons have been killed, leading to immense distress. Jonadab's intervention in [2 Samuel 13:32](/2_samuel/13-32 "2 Samuel 13:32 - Jonadab's Revelation") serves to correct this misinformation, providing a moment of shocking clarity and revealing the depth of Absalom's premeditation. His role as the one who previously advised Amnon ([2 Samuel 13:3-5](/2_samuel/13-3 "2 Samuel 13:3-5 - Jonadab's Cunning Advice")) adds a layer of dark irony and highlights his pervasive, manipulative influence within the royal family.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Israel, familial honor 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 house, particularly to her full brother Absalom. The patriarchal society expected the head of the household, David, to dispense justice. His failure to act decisively against Amnon ([2 Samuel 13:21](/2_samuel/13-21 "2 Samuel 13:21 - David's Inaction")) was a significant lapse in his kingly and paternal duty, 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. The concept of "blood vengeance" (go'el haddam) was a recognized, though regulated, practice in Israelite law, where a close relative was permitted to avenge the death of a family member, particularly in cases of murder. While Absalom's act was outside the legal framework, it resonated with cultural expectations of avenging deep wrongs.

* **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 sin with Bathsheba and Uriah ([2 Samuel 11](/2_samuel/11 "2 Samuel 11 - David's Sin with Bathsheba")), which Nathan prophesied would bring "the sword" upon his house ([2 Samuel 12:10](/2_samuel/12-10 "2 Samuel 12:10 - Nathan's Prophecy of the Sword")). 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 rebellion against his father ([2 Samuel 15:1-12](/2_samuel/15-1 "2 Samuel 15:1-12 - Absalom's Rebellion Begins")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Jonadab (Hebrew, _Yônādāb'_):** Meaning "Yahweh is willing" or "Yahweh is generous," this name stands in stark contrast to the character it describes. Jonadab is introduced as "a very subtil man" ([2 Samuel 13:3](/2_samuel/13-3 "2 Samuel 13:3 - Jonadab's Cunning")). His immediate and precise knowledge of Absalom's plan, including its long-standing determination, suggests a level of insight, if not direct complicity, that is deeply unsettling. He is not merely reporting facts but revealing an intimate awareness of the dark undercurrents within the royal family, hinting at his role as an orchestrator or at least a privileged confidant in these tragic events.
* **Determined (Hebrew, _sîm'_):** The KJV translates "by the appointment of Absalom this hath been determined." The Hebrew verb שִׂים (_sîm_) means "to set," "to place," "to appoint," or "to fix." In this context, it conveys a sense of deliberate, settled purpose and premeditation. It emphasizes that Absalom's act was not a sudden, emotional outburst but a cold, calculated decision, fixed in his mind from the moment of Tamar's violation. This highlights Absalom's ruthless and strategic character, revealing a dangerous resolve.
* **Forced (Hebrew, _‘innâ'_):** This word, used to describe Amnon's act against Tamar, comes from the Hebrew verb עִנָּה (_‘innâ_), meaning "to humble," "to afflict," "to violate," or "to oppress." It is a strong term indicating not merely sexual intercourse but a brutal act of subjugation and degradation. The use of this word underscores the severity of the injustice committed against Tamar, providing the moral impetus (from Absalom's perspective) for his long-planned vengeance.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And Jonadab, the son of Shimeah David's brother, answered and said,"**: This clause reintroduces Jonadab, emphasizing his familial connection to David (nephew) and thus his proximity to the royal court. His immediate response to the news of the supposed massacre signals his unique position as an insider, privy to information others are not. His "answering" implies he is correcting a false report or assumption.
* **"Let not my lord suppose [that] they have slain all the young men the king's sons; for Amnon only is dead:"**: Jonadab directly addresses David ("my lord"), reassuring him that the widespread rumor of all his sons being killed is false. He provides the critical, albeit tragic, clarification that only Amnon, the perpetrator of the initial crime, has been killed. This statement immediately narrows the scope of the tragedy but confirms the death of David's firstborn.
* **"for by the appointment of Absalom this hath been determined from the day that he forced his sister Tamar."**: This final clause is the most chilling and revelatory. Jonadab explains the precise nature and origin of Amnon's death: it was a deliberate, long-planned act by Absalom. The phrase "from the day that he forced his sister Tamar" explicitly links Amnon's murder to his earlier heinous crime, revealing Absalom's two years of silent, simmering rage and calculated resolve. This statement exposes the deep-seated nature of Absalom's vengeance and his ruthless determination.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several potent literary devices. **Dramatic Irony** is evident as David and his court are in a state of panic, believing all his sons are dead, while the audience (and Jonadab) knows the truth. Jonadab's revelation resolves this dramatic tension by providing the correct information. There is also a strong sense of **Foreshadowing** in Absalom's premeditated vengeance. His cold, calculated nature, revealed here, anticipates his later, equally cunning and ruthless rebellion against his father, David, in [2 Samuel 15](/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 decisiveness that David often lacks in dealing with his family's internal affairs, particularly regarding 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](/romans/6-23 "Romans 6:23 - The Wages of Sin is Death")), 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, as 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.

* [Numbers 32:23](/numbers/32-23 "Numbers 32:23 - Be Sure Your Sin Will Find You Out")
* [Proverbs 28:13](/proverbs/28-13 "Proverbs 28:13 - Confession and Forgiveness")
* [Romans 12:19](/romans/12-19 "Romans 12:19 - Vengeance is the Lord's")

### 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. 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. 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. 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 environment, underscoring the vital importance of moral integrity and decisive action for those in positions of influence.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **Where in my life or community might unaddressed grievances be festering, and what steps can I take to promote healthy resolution?**
* **How does the narrative of Absalom's vengeance challenge my own inclinations toward "getting even" when I feel wronged?**
* **What is the difference between seeking justice and pursuing personal revenge, and how can I ensure my actions align with God's principles of righteousness?**
* **In what ways does this story remind me of the importance of courageous and morally upright leadership in all spheres of life?**

### FAQ
**Why did David not punish Amnon immediately after the rape of Tamar?**

Answer: The text states in [2 Samuel 13:21](/2_samuel/13-21 "2 Samuel 13:21 - David's Anger and Inaction") 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 reasons for inaction, but several factors are often suggested: David's own moral compromise (his sin with Bathsheba and Uriah in [2 Samuel 11](/2_samuel/11 "2 Samuel 11 - David's Sin with Bathsheba")) may have weakened his moral authority or made him hesitant to condemn his firstborn son, Amnon. Additionally, Amnon was the heir apparent, and punishing him severely could have caused 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](/2_samuel/13-3 "2 Samuel 13:3 - Jonadab's Cunning")). 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](/2_samuel/13-3 "2 Samuel 13:3-5 - Jonadab's Cunning Advice")). His motive appears to be one of manipulative cunning and perhaps a desire to be an insider in the royal court's machinations. In [2 Samuel 13:32](/2_samuel/13-32 "2 Samuel 13:32 - Jonadab's Revelation"), his immediate and precise knowledge of Absalom's two-year plan suggests he was either a close confidant of Absalom or had a keen ability to discern the deep-seated intentions within the royal family. He acts as a cynical realist, revealing the truth of the situation without apparent moral compunction, perhaps even enjoying 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 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 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. He is the [Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"), bearing the full weight of humanity's sin, including acts of violence, injustice, and sexual perversion, on the cross. Through His sacrifice, He perfectly fulfills the demands of divine justice, offering forgiveness and breaking the power of sin's cycle ([Romans 3:23-26](/romans/3-23 "Romans 3:23-26 - All have sinned and are justified freely by grace")). Unlike David, who failed to administer justice, or Absalom, who administered it imperfectly and destructively, Christ embodies perfect righteousness and mercy. He calls His followers not to vengeance but to love their enemies and pray for those who persecute them ([Matthew 5:44](/matthew/5-44 "Matthew 5:44 - Love Your Enemies")), 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](/isaiah/9-6 "Isaiah 9:6-7 - For to us a child is born")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Psalms 7:14

Behold, he travaileth with iniquity, and hath conceived mischief, and brought forth falsehood.

Genesis 27:41

¶ And Esau hated Jacob because of the blessing wherewith his father blessed him: and Esau said in his heart, The days of mourning for my father are at hand; then will I slay my brother Jacob.

2 Samuel 13:3

But Amnon had a friend, whose name [was] Jonadab, the son of Shimeah David's brother: and Jonadab [was] a very subtil man.

1 Samuel 16:9

Then Jesse made Shammah to pass by. And he said, Neither hath the LORD chosen this.

Proverbs 24:11

¶ If thou forbear to deliver [them that are] drawn unto death, and [those that are] ready to be slain;

Proverbs 24:12

If thou sayest, Behold, we knew it not; doth not he that pondereth the heart consider [it]? and he that keepeth thy soul, doth [not] he know [it]? and shall [not] he render to [every] man according to his works?