2 Samuel 14:18

KJV

Then the king answered and said unto the woman, Hide not from me, I pray thee, the thing that I shall ask thee. And the woman said, Let my lord the king now speak.

KJV (with Strong's)

Then the king {H4428} answered {H6030} and said {H559} unto the woman {H802}, Hide {H3582} not from me, I pray thee, the thing {H1697} that I shall ask {H7592} thee. And the woman {H802} said {H559}, Let my lord {H113} the king {H4428} now speak {H1696}.

Complete Jewish Bible

The king then answered the woman: "I'm going to ask you a question, and please don't hide anything from me."The woman said, "Let my lord the king now speak."

Berean Standard Bible

Then the king said to the woman, “I am going to ask you something; do not conceal it from me!” “Let my lord the king speak,” she replied.

American Standard Version

Then the king answered and said unto the woman, Hide not from me, I pray thee, aught that I shall ask thee. And the woman said, Let my lord the king now speak.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
2 Samuel 14:18 marks a pivotal moment in the narrative of the wise woman of Tekoah, where King David, demonstrating keen discernment, begins to penetrate the carefully constructed facade of her story. Having listened to her elaborate tale of familial strife and the need for justice, David's response reveals his suspicion that her plea is not as innocent as it appears. He directly challenges her to reveal any hidden agenda, prompting her immediate submission and acknowledgment of his supreme authority, thus setting the stage for the unveiling of Joab's manipulative scheme to bring Absalom back from exile.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated at a critical juncture within 2 Samuel 14. Joab, David's commander, has orchestrated a plan to bring Absalom, David's exiled son, back to Jerusalem. Absalom had fled to Geshur after murdering his half-brother Amnon, who had raped their sister Tamar (see [2 Samuel 13:28-29](/2_samuel/13-28 "2 Samuel 13:28-29 - Amnon's Murder")). David, though longing for Absalom, had not initiated his return, leaving a delicate political and familial vacuum. Joab, sensing David's unresolved grief and the political tension, employs a "wise woman" from Tekoah to present a fabricated legal case that subtly mirrors David's own family predicament. The woman's lengthy and compelling narrative (see [2 Samuel 14:4-17](/2_samuel/14-4 "2 Samuel 14:4-17 - The Woman's Parable")) is designed to elicit a judgment from David that would implicitly justify Absalom's return. Verse 18 captures David's shrewd response, where he moves beyond the presented scenario to probe the deeper, hidden motives behind her visit, signaling his suspicion that she is acting on someone else's behalf.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The role of "wise women" in ancient Israelite society was significant; they often served as counselors, mediators, or even diviners, possessing a reputation for sagacity and rhetorical skill (e.g., [2 Samuel 20:16](/2_samuel/20-16 "2 Samuel 20:16 - The Wise Woman of Abel Beth Maacah")). Kings in the ancient Near East were expected to be supreme judges, embodying wisdom and dispensing justice. The concept of blood vengeance (go'el haddam) was a deeply ingrained cultural norm, where a relative was obligated to avenge the death of a family member. While the woman's story plays on this, it's a manipulation of the legal system. The political climate surrounding David's throne was often fraught with intrigue, especially concerning succession, and Joab's actions reflect the common practice of powerful figures (like military commanders) influencing royal decisions through indirect means.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes in 2 Samuel. **David's Discernment and Wisdom** is paramount; his ability to see through the woman's elaborate ruse demonstrates his sharp intellect and experience as a ruler, contrasting with earlier instances of his naiveté or indecision. The theme of **Truth versus Deception** is central, as the verse marks the moment David confronts the hidden agenda, demanding transparency. The woman's role highlights **Intercession and Mediation**, albeit a manipulative one, as she attempts to bridge the gap between David and Absalom, foreshadowing the eventual, albeit troubled, reconciliation. Finally, the exchange underscores **Kingly Authority**, as the woman's immediate submission to David's direct inquiry ("Let my lord the king now speak") affirms his supreme judicial and executive power, even when faced with a cunning plot. This moment sets the stage for the unfolding of David's complex relationship with Absalom, rooted in the tragic events of [2 Samuel 13](/2_samuel/13 "2 Samuel 13 - Amnon, Tamar, and Absalom").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Hide not (Hebrew, _kachad'_):** The Hebrew verb כַּחֵד (*kachad*) means "to conceal," "to keep secret," or "to hide." David's use of this strong imperative, "Hide not from me," is a direct command, indicating his profound suspicion that the woman is withholding crucial information or acting under someone else's direction. It is a demand for full disclosure, revealing that David has seen through the surface narrative and perceives a deeper, hidden agenda at play. This word choice underscores the king's acute discernment.
* **I pray thee (Hebrew, _na'_):** The particle נָא (*na*) is often translated as "please" or "I pray thee." While it softens the imperative "Hide not," making David's demand sound more like a polite request, it does not diminish the underlying authority of the king. Rather, it suggests a desire for cooperation and an invitation for the woman to confess willingly, rather than being forced to do so. It highlights David's nuanced approach to extracting the truth.
* **My lord the king (Hebrew, _adonai hammelek'_):** The phrase אֲדֹנִי הַמֶּלֶךְ (*adonai hammelek*) is a standard, highly respectful form of address for a monarch. The woman's immediate use of this title in her reply, "Let my lord the king now speak," signifies her complete submission to David's authority and her acknowledgment that he has seen through her ruse. It indicates her readiness to abandon the pretense and reveal the truth, recognizing that the king's wisdom has exposed her.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Then the king answered and said unto the woman,"**: This opening clause marks a significant shift in the dialogue. Up to this point, the woman has been presenting her elaborate, fabricated case. David's "answer" is not a simple response to her story but a penetrating counter-question that signals his suspicion and takes control of the conversation.
* **"Hide not from me, I pray thee, the thing that I shall ask thee."**: This is the crux of David's discernment. He does not directly accuse her but rather issues a command for transparency, revealing that he senses an ulterior motive or a hidden orchestrator behind her visit. His phrasing indicates that he is aware of a "thing" that she is concealing, and he intends to uncover it. This statement demonstrates David's wisdom and his ability to look beyond the surface of a carefully crafted narrative.
* **"And the woman said, Let my lord the king now speak."**: The woman's immediate and submissive reply confirms David's suspicion. Her willingness to abandon her pretense and invite David to speak his mind ("now speak") signifies her acknowledgment that her deception has been exposed. She recognizes David's superior wisdom and authority, indicating her readiness to confess the true nature of her mission and the identity of her sender.

#### Literary Devices
The passage employs several effective **Literary Devices**. **Foreshadowing** is prominent, as David's direct question, "Hide not from me," strongly hints that he has pierced the veil of the woman's elaborate story, foreshadowing the imminent revelation of Joab's involvement in the plot. There is a subtle **Irony** at play: the "wise woman," renowned for her cunning and persuasive rhetoric, is outmaneuvered by the king's superior wisdom and discernment. Her attempt to manipulate David with a parable ultimately leads to her own exposure. The entire exchange is a powerful example of **Dialogue**, which serves not only to advance the plot but also to reveal character and power dynamics. David's precise questioning and the woman's immediate submission highlight the king's authority and insight. Finally, the verse builds **Suspense**, as David's direct challenge creates anticipation for what he knows and what the woman will be forced to reveal, drawing the reader deeper into the unfolding drama.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This pivotal verse underscores the divine attribute of discernment, often granted to those in leadership, and the ultimate triumph of truth over deception. David's ability to see through the woman's intricate ruse reflects a wisdom that, while human, often finds its source in God, who "gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to those who have understanding" ([Daniel 2:21](/daniel/2-21 "Daniel 2:21 - God Gives Wisdom")). The demand for truth in this judicial context echoes a broader biblical principle that God desires honesty in the inner being and that hidden things will eventually be brought to light. This incident serves as a reminder that while human schemes and manipulations may temporarily obscure reality, God's sovereign hand often works to expose hidden motives and bring about His purposes, even through flawed human agents.

* [Proverbs 2:6](/proverbs/2-6 "Proverbs 2:6 - For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.")
* [Psalm 51:6](/psalms/51-6 "Psalm 51:6 - Behold, you delight in truth in the inward being, and you teach me wisdom in the secret heart.")
* [Luke 12:2](/luke/12-2 "Luke 12:2 - Nothing is covered that will not be revealed, or hidden that will not be known.")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The exchange in 2 Samuel 14:18 offers profound lessons for contemporary believers. In an age saturated with information, misinformation, and carefully crafted narratives, David's discernment serves as a powerful model. We are called to cultivate a similar spiritual wisdom, not to be easily swayed by persuasive arguments or emotional appeals, but to prayerfully seek the underlying truth in situations, relationships, and even public discourse. This requires critical thinking, a reliance on the Holy Spirit for guidance, and a commitment to God's Word as our ultimate standard of truth. Furthermore, the passage challenges us to be people of integrity, both in seeking truth from others and in our own communication. It reminds us that manipulation, even with seemingly good intentions, ultimately undermines trust and can lead to unintended consequences. Like David, leaders in all spheres—family, church, and community—must possess the courage to ask probing questions and demand transparency, fostering environments where honesty is valued and deception is exposed.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How can we cultivate discernment like David's in our daily lives, especially when faced with complex situations or conflicting information?**
* **When have you experienced a situation where you sensed a "hidden thing" or an ulterior motive, and how did you respond?**
* **In what ways does this passage challenge us to be people of integrity and transparency, both in our words and our actions?**
* **How might the principles of seeking truth and exposing deception apply to our engagement with media, social interactions, or even internal church dynamics?**

### FAQ
**Why did David immediately suspect the woman, even after her compelling story?**

Answer: David's suspicion likely stemmed from a combination of factors. As a seasoned king, he possessed extensive experience in dealing with human nature, political intrigue, and legal disputes. The woman's story, while cleverly constructed, might have felt too perfectly aligned with his own unresolved family issues concerning Absalom, raising a red flag. Furthermore, David, as an anointed king, often received divine insight and wisdom, enabling him to perceive beyond the surface. His question in [2 Samuel 14:18](/2_samuel/14-18 "2 Samuel 14:18 - David's Discernment") demonstrates his keen ability to discern a hidden agenda, leading him to directly confront the woman about her true purpose.

**What was Joab's ultimate goal in sending the woman to David?**

Answer: Joab's primary objective was to facilitate Absalom's return from exile without David having to directly initiate it. Absalom had fled after murdering Amnon ([2 Samuel 13:37-38](/2_samuel/13-37 "2 Samuel 13:37-38 - Absalom's Flight to Geshur")), and David, though grieving and longing for his son, had not taken steps to bring him back. Joab, understanding David's heart and the political implications of Absalom's continued absence, orchestrated this elaborate scheme. By having the woman present a hypothetical case that mirrored David's own predicament, Joab hoped to elicit a judgment from the king that would implicitly justify Absalom's return, thereby easing the tension and potentially restoring Absalom to a position of influence.

**How does this verse demonstrate David's wisdom as a king?**

Answer: This verse powerfully showcases David's wisdom and discernment. Instead of simply reacting to the emotional plea of the woman's fabricated story, David probes deeper. His direct command, "Hide not from me, I pray thee, the thing that I shall ask thee," reveals that he has seen through her carefully constructed ruse and suspects a hidden motive. This demonstrates his ability to look beyond superficial appearances, to identify manipulation, and to use his kingly authority to demand transparency and uncover the truth. It underscores his capacity for astute judgment, which was a vital quality for a ruler in ancient Israel.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The discerning wisdom displayed by King David in 2 Samuel 14:18, as he pierces through deception to demand truth, ultimately points to the perfect and infallible wisdom of Jesus Christ. While David's discernment was a human attribute, albeit divinely aided, Christ possessed inherent, divine knowledge, requiring no external prompting to see the hearts and motives of all people. He "knew all people and needed no one to bear witness about man, for he himself knew what was in man" ([John 2:24-25](/john/2-24 "John 2:24-25 - Jesus Knew All People")). Jesus is the embodiment of truth itself, declaring, "I am the way, and the truth, and the life" ([John 14:6](/john/14-6 "John 14:6 - Jesus, the Way, the Truth, and the Life")). The wise woman of Tekoah acted as a mediator, albeit a flawed and deceptive one, seeking to reconcile David with his son. This role finds its ultimate fulfillment in Christ, the one true Mediator between God and humanity, who perfectly bridges the chasm created by sin ([1 Timothy 2:5](/1_timothy/2-5 "1 Timothy 2:5 - One Mediator Between God and Man")). Through His sacrifice, Christ brings about genuine reconciliation, not through cunning schemes but through perfect righteousness, restoring us to a relationship with God ([2 Corinthians 5:18-19](/2_corinthians/5-18 "2 Corinthians 5:18-19 - God Reconciling the World to Himself")). David's pursuit of justice and his kingly authority foreshadow the righteous reign of Christ, the King of kings, who will judge with perfect truth and equity ([Revelation 19:16](/revelation/19-16 "Revelation 19:16 - King of Kings and Lord of Lords")).

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

Jeremiah 38:14

¶ Then Zedekiah the king sent, and took Jeremiah the prophet unto him into the third entry that [is] in the house of the LORD: and the king said unto Jeremiah, I will ask thee a thing; hide nothing from me.

Jeremiah 38:25

But if the princes hear that I have talked with thee, and they come unto thee, and say unto thee, Declare unto us now what thou hast said unto the king, hide it not from us, and we will not put thee to death; also what the king said unto thee:

1 Samuel 3:17

And he said, What [is] the thing that [the LORD] hath said unto thee? I pray thee hide [it] not from me: God do so to thee, and more also, if thou hide [any] thing from me of all the things that he said unto thee.

1 Samuel 3:18

And Samuel told him every whit, and hid nothing from him. And he said, It [is] the LORD: let him do what seemeth him good.