2 Samuel 15:14

KJV

And David said unto all his servants that [were] with him at Jerusalem, Arise, and let us flee; for we shall not [else] escape from Absalom: make speed to depart, lest he overtake us suddenly, and bring evil upon us, and smite the city with the edge of the sword.

KJV (with Strong's)

And David {H1732} said {H559} unto all his servants {H5650} that were with him at Jerusalem {H3389}, Arise {H6965}, and let us flee {H1272}; for we shall not else escape {H6413} from {H6440} Absalom {H53}: make speed {H4116} to depart {H3212}, lest he overtake {H5381} us suddenly {H4116}, and bring {H5080} evil {H7451} upon us, and smite {H5221} the city {H5892} with the edge {H6310} of the sword {H2719}.

Complete Jewish Bible

David said to all his servants with him in Yerushalayim, "Get up! We must flee! Otherwise none of us will escape from Avshalom. Hurry, and leave; or he will soon overtake us, attack us and put the city to the sword."

Berean Standard Bible

And David said to all the servants with him in Jerusalem, “Arise and let us flee, or we will not escape from Absalom! We must leave quickly, or he will soon overtake us, heap disaster on us, and put the city to the sword.”

American Standard Version

And David said unto all his servants that were with him at Jerusalem, Arise, and let us flee; for else none of us shall escape from Absalom: make speed to depart, lest he overtake us quickly, and bring down evil upon us, and smite the city with the edge of the sword.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
2 Samuel 15:14 records King David's urgent and pivotal command to his loyal retinue in Jerusalem: to immediately evacuate the city and flee from the rapidly advancing forces of his rebellious son, Absalom. This desperate directive was not an act of cowardice but a strategic and deeply compassionate decision aimed at averting a devastating civil war within the capital, which would inevitably lead to widespread bloodshed, the indiscriminate slaughter of its inhabitants, and the utter destruction of Jerusalem itself. David's profound concern for the lives of his people and the sanctity of the holy city superseded any personal pride or desire to defend his throne by force, powerfully highlighting his leadership in a moment of profound crisis, personal betrayal, and divine judgment.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse marks a critical turning point in the narrative of Absalom's rebellion, which forms the dramatic core of the latter half of the book of [2 Samuel](/2_samuel/1 "2 Samuel - The Reign of David"). Immediately preceding this command, Absalom has meticulously orchestrated a long-term conspiracy, subtly winning the hearts of the people and undermining David's authority over several years, as detailed in [2 Samuel 15:1-6](/2_samuel/15-1 "Absalom's Conspiracy and Theft of Hearts"). His coup culminates in a swift and unexpected move to Hebron, where he publicly declares himself king, gaining significant popular support (see [2 Samuel 15:7-12](/2_samuel/15-7 "Absalom Declared King in Hebron")). The dire news of Absalom's successful seizure of power and the widespread defection of the people reaches David in Jerusalem in [2 Samuel 15:13](/2_samuel/15-13 "News of Absalom's Rebellion Reaches David"). David's command in [2 Samuel 15:14](/2_samuel/15-14 "David's Urgent Command to Flee Jerusalem") is his immediate, crisis-driven response, setting in motion his flight from Jerusalem, the strategic return of the Ark of the Covenant, and the deployment of loyalists like Hushai to counter Absalom's plans. This forced exodus marks a significant downturn in David's reign, bringing to fruition the prophetic judgment pronounced by Nathan.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** David's reign, with Jerusalem as its established capital, was a period of national consolidation and prosperity, yet it was also marked by deep internal strife and the painful consequences of his personal sins. In ancient Near Eastern monarchies, the king's presence in the capital was paramount for maintaining stability, legitimacy, and the perception of divine favor. A king fleeing his capital was an extraordinary and profoundly humiliating event, signifying a catastrophic loss of control and a severe blow to his authority. Absalom's rebellion was not merely a political challenge but a deeply personal and familial betrayal, reflecting the turbulent and often violent nature of succession and power dynamics in that era. The phrase "smite the city with the edge of the sword" (KJV) or "put the city to the sword" (modern translations) is a common biblical idiom signifying total annihilation, often associated with the brutal realities of ancient warfare, where entire populations could be massacred if a city resisted capture. David's decision reflects a keen understanding of these brutal realities and a compassionate desire to spare his people from such an horrific fate, demonstrating a kingly responsibility that transcended his own immediate political survival.

* **Key Themes:** [2 Samuel 15:14](/2_samuel/15-14 "David's Urgent Command to Flee Jerusalem") powerfully illustrates several profound biblical themes. Firstly, it highlights **leadership in crisis**, demonstrating David's difficult but ultimately compassionate choice to prioritize the lives of his people and the preservation of Jerusalem over his own pride or the immediate defense of his throne. This decision reveals a shepherd's heart, echoing the divine concern for humanity. Secondly, it underscores the **consequences of sin**, particularly serving as a painful fulfillment of Nathan's prophecy in [2 Samuel 12:11](/2_samuel/12-11 "Nathan's Prophecy of Evil from David's Household"), where "evil" would indeed rise against David from within his own household. David's flight is a bitter fruit of his past transgressions, forcing him to confront the painful reality of divine judgment and the ripple effects of his actions. Thirdly, the verse subtly points to **divine sovereignty** even amidst human chaos and betrayal. While the situation appears disastrous and out of control, the unfolding narrative reveals God's continued working in David's life, ultimately leading to restoration, albeit through significant suffering and a period of profound vulnerability. Finally, the theme of **preservation of life** is paramount, as David's primary concern is to avoid the "smite the city with the edge of the sword," showcasing a deep, almost paternal, care for his flock.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Flee (Hebrew, _bârach'_):** This primitive root (H1272) denotes a rapid, urgent departure, often from danger or an enemy. It conveys a sense of desperation and necessity, indicating not merely a strategic withdrawal but an immediate escape from an overwhelming threat. David's command to "flee" underscores the immediate and overwhelming peril posed by Absalom, implying that remaining in Jerusalem would be suicidal for his loyalists and catastrophic for the city's inhabitants. The word suggests a sudden, swift movement to avoid capture or destruction.

* **Smite (Hebrew, _nâkâh'_):** This primitive root (H5221) means to strike, hit, or kill. When combined with "with the edge of the sword" (Hebrew, _peh-ḥereb'_), it forms a powerful and terrifying idiom signifying a complete and ruthless slaughter, a massacre without mercy. It evokes images of total destruction, leaving no survivors, and highlights the extreme violence David anticipates if Absalom's forces are forced to fight their way into the city. The word emphasizes the devastating, fatal impact of such an encounter.

* **Evil (Hebrew, _raʻ'_):** While "evil" (H7451) can denote moral wickedness, in this context, it primarily refers to calamity, disaster, harm, or misfortune. David fears that Absalom will "bring evil upon us," meaning he will inflict immense suffering, widespread destruction, and indiscriminate death upon David's household and the innocent inhabitants of Jerusalem. This "evil" is the direct, devastating consequence of Absalom's rebellion and the brutal violence it portends, encompassing physical harm, destruction, and profound distress.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And David said unto all his servants that [were] with him at Jerusalem, Arise, and let us flee;":** This opening clause establishes David's immediate, authoritative, and decisive response to the dire news of Absalom's successful coup. Addressing his loyal inner circle and those still with him in the capital, David demonstrates leadership in a moment of extreme peril. The imperative "Arise, and let us flee" conveys both the urgency and the communal nature of the impending flight, signaling a call to immediate, collective action without hesitation.

* **"for we shall not [else] escape from Absalom:":** This explanatory clause provides the compelling rationale for David's drastic command. It reveals the king's stark and pragmatic assessment of the situation: Absalom's forces are too strong, too swift, or too numerous to be resisted effectively within the confines of the city. Staying would mean certain capture, defeat, or annihilation for David and his loyalists. This is a sober acknowledgment of their vulnerability and the overwhelming nature of the immediate threat.

* **"make speed to depart, lest he overtake us suddenly, and bring evil upon us, and smite the city with the edge of the sword.":** This final clause intensifies the urgency of David's command and articulates the horrific consequences he seeks to avert. "Make speed to depart" reiterates the absolute necessity of haste. The fear of being "overtake[n] suddenly" speaks to Absalom's rapid advance and the element of strategic surprise he has achieved. The ultimate terror is that Absalom will "bring evil upon us" (calamity, death, and suffering) and "smite the city with the edge of the sword," signifying a merciless, total massacre of Jerusalem's inhabitants. This desperate warning vividly conveys David's profound concern for the lives of his people and the preservation of the holy city from utter devastation.

#### Literary Devices
The passage employs several potent literary devices to convey its dramatic intensity and the gravity of the situation. **Urgency** is palpable through David's rapid-fire, imperative commands: "Arise," "let us flee," and "make speed to depart." This creates a sense of immediate danger and the desperate need for swift action. The phrase "lest he overtake us suddenly" functions as **foreshadowing**, hinting at the destructive potential of Absalom's forces and the brutal violence that will indeed characterize parts of the rebellion. There is a clear **contrast** established between David's compassionate concern for the lives of his people and the city's preservation, and Absalom's ruthless ambition that threatens to bring "evil" and total destruction. Finally, the idiom "smite the city with the edge of the sword" functions as **hyperbole** to emphasize the extreme, devastating nature of the anticipated attack, painting a vivid and terrifying picture of utter annihilation and indiscriminate slaughter.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
2 Samuel 15:14 is deeply interwoven with the broader tapestry of biblical theology, particularly concerning divine judgment, the nature of godly leadership, and God's enduring covenant faithfulness even amidst human failure. David's desperate flight from Jerusalem, though a moment of profound personal humiliation and national crisis, is understood within the biblical narrative as a direct consequence of his grievous sin with Bathsheba and Uriah, serving as a painful fulfillment of Nathan's prophecy that "evil will rise against you from your own household" (see [2 Samuel 12:11](/2_samuel/12-11 "Nathan's Prophecy of Evil from David's Household")). Yet, even in this season of suffering and divine discipline, David's actions demonstrate a remarkable blend of pragmatic leadership and a continued, albeit tested, reliance on God. His decision to retreat to preserve life, rather than engage in a futile and destructive civil war, reflects a shepherd's heart that aligns with God's profound value for human life. This period of exile and vulnerability also serves to refine David's character, pushing him deeper into dependence on God, as evidenced by his many psalms written during this tumultuous time. This episode reminds us that God's justice is real, but so is His preserving grace, even for His flawed servants.
* [2 Samuel 12:11](/2_samuel/12-11 "Nathan's Prophecy of Evil from David's Household")
* [Psalm 3:1-2](/psalm/3-1 "Psalm 3 - David's Prayer in Flight from Absalom")
* [Psalm 46:1](/psalm/46-1 "God Our Refuge and Strength")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
David's desperate flight in [2 Samuel 15:14](/2_samuel/15-14 "David's Urgent Command to Flee Jerusalem") offers profound lessons for believers today, particularly regarding the nature of leadership, the painful consequences of sin, and the wisdom of strategic retreat. In a world that often equates strength with aggression, victory with confrontation, and success with unwavering forward momentum, David's decision to flee is a powerful counter-narrative. It teaches us that true wisdom, and often the most courageous act, can be knowing when to step back, to yield, or to retreat, not out of fear or cowardice, but out of a higher principle—the preservation of life, the prevention of greater harm, or the humble acceptance of divine discipline. This narrative reminds us that even those greatly favored by God are not exempt from the painful consequences of their actions, and spiritual maturity often involves humbly navigating seasons of difficulty, loss, and public humiliation. Furthermore, David's priority for the well-being of his people over his personal pride or position challenges us to consider whose interests we truly serve in our own spheres of influence, whether in family, church, or community.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **When is retreat a sign of wisdom and strength, rather than weakness or cowardice, in our personal or leadership contexts?**
* **How do we respond when facing the painful consequences of past actions, whether our own or those of others, particularly when those consequences feel unjust or overwhelming?**
* **What does it truly mean to prioritize the well-being and safety of others, even when it requires significant personal cost, sacrifice, or humiliation?**
* **How can we maintain trust in God's sovereignty and faithfulness when our lives are turned upside down by betrayal, crisis, or unforeseen, devastating circumstances?**

### FAQ

**Why did David choose to flee Jerusalem instead of defending it against Absalom?**

Answer: David's decision to flee was a multi-faceted choice driven by both strategic wisdom and compassionate concern. Firstly, it was a pragmatic strategic move to prevent a devastating civil war within the city walls. Absalom's support was widespread, and his advance was swift and unexpected; defending Jerusalem would have inevitably led to immense bloodshed, widespread destruction of the city, and a high probability of David's defeat and capture. Secondly, David's primary concern was for the lives of his loyal servants and the innocent inhabitants of Jerusalem. He explicitly states his fear that Absalom would "smite the city with the edge of the sword," indicating a merciless and indiscriminate slaughter. By fleeing, David aimed to spare the city and its people from this horrific fate. Lastly, it can also be seen as an act of humility and a recognition of divine judgment, as David accepted the painful consequences of his past sins as prophesied by Nathan in [2 Samuel 12:11](/2_samuel/12-11 "Nathan's Prophecy of Evil from David's Household").

**Was David's flight a sign of weakness or a demonstration of strong leadership?**

Answer: While on the surface it might appear as weakness or cowardice, David's flight was, in fact, a profound demonstration of strong, wise, and compassionate leadership. A weak or prideful leader might have stubbornly stayed to defend his pride and throne, regardless of the catastrophic cost to his people. David, however, prioritized the lives of his subjects and the preservation of Jerusalem over his own immediate position and reputation. His decision required immense humility to abandon his capital and face public humiliation. Furthermore, it was a strategic masterstroke that allowed him to regroup, assess the loyalty of his people, and ultimately orchestrate a counter-insurgency that would lead to his restoration. This act of "retreat" was a testament to his character as a shepherd-king, willing to endure personal suffering for the greater good of his flock, echoing the sentiment of [Psalm 46:1](/psalm/46-1 "God Our Refuge and Strength") that God is our refuge and strength, even when circumstances demand difficult choices.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
David's desperate flight from Jerusalem in [2 Samuel 15:14](/2_samuel/15-14 "David's Urgent Command to Flee Jerusalem"), driven by the bitter betrayal of his own son and the imminent threat of utter destruction, serves as a poignant, albeit imperfect, foreshadowing of the ultimate King, Jesus Christ. While David fled to save his people from physical destruction and to avoid a bloody civil war, Jesus, the true Son of David, did not flee from the "evil" that threatened humanity. Instead, He willingly entered Jerusalem, knowing full well it would lead to His betrayal, arrest, and death, not to escape suffering but to embrace it for the eternal salvation of His people. David's profound concern to prevent the city from being "smite[n] with the edge of the sword" finds its ultimate expression in Christ's own weeping over Jerusalem, lamenting its impending destruction due to its rejection of Him and His peace (see [Luke 19:41-44](/luke/19-41 "Jesus Weeps Over Jerusalem")). Unlike David, who temporarily lost his throne and was exiled from his capital, Jesus, though "exiled" from heavenly glory to take on human flesh, never relinquished His divine authority. He faced the ultimate "evil"—the power of sin and death—not by retreating, but by confronting and conquering it through His sacrificial death on the cross and glorious resurrection (see [Hebrews 2:14-15](/hebrews/2-14 "Jesus Destroys the Power of Death")). David's eventual return to Jerusalem and restoration to his throne prefigures Christ's triumphant return as the King of kings and Lord of lords, who will establish His eternal kingdom and reign in perfect justice and peace (see [Revelation 19:11-16](/revelation/19-11 "Christ's Triumphant Return")). Thus, David's flight, a moment of profound human weakness and divine judgment, ultimately points forward to the perfect strength, redemptive work, and sovereign reign of the Messiah.

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

2 Samuel 19:9

¶ And all the people were at strife throughout all the tribes of Israel, saying, The king saved us out of the hand of our enemies, and he delivered us out of the hand of the Philistines; and now he is fled out of the land for Absalom.

2 Samuel 12:11

Thus saith the LORD, Behold, I will raise up evil against thee out of thine own house, and I will take thy wives before thine eyes, and give [them] unto thy neighbour, and he shall lie with thy wives in the sight of this sun.

Psalms 55:3

Because of the voice of the enemy, because of the oppression of the wicked: for they cast iniquity upon me, and in wrath they hate me.

Psalms 55:11

Wickedness [is] in the midst thereof: deceit and guile depart not from her streets.

Ezekiel 46:18

Moreover the prince shall not take of the people's inheritance by oppression, to thrust them out of their possession; [but] he shall give his sons inheritance out of his own possession: that my people be not scattered every man from his possession.

Psalms 137:5

If I forget thee, O Jerusalem, let my right hand forget [her cunning].

Psalms 137:6

If I do not remember thee, let my tongue cleave to the roof of my mouth; if I prefer not Jerusalem above my chief joy.