2 Samuel 16:6

KJV

And he cast stones at David, and at all the servants of king David: and all the people and all the mighty men [were] on his right hand and on his left.

KJV (with Strong's)

And he cast {H5619} stones {H68} at David {H1732}, and at all the servants {H5650} of king {H4428} David {H1732}: and all the people {H5971} and all the mighty men {H1368} were on his right hand {H3225} and on his left {H8040}.

Complete Jewish Bible

and throwing stones at David and all King David's servants; even though all the people, including his bodyguard, surrounded him right and left.

Berean Standard Bible

He threw stones at David and at all the servants of the king, though the troops and all the mighty men were on David’s right and left.

American Standard Version

And he cast stones at David, and at all the servants of king David: and all the people and all the mighty men were on his right hand and on his left.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
2 Samuel 16:6 captures a moment of profound humiliation for King David during his desperate flight from Absalom's rebellion, as Shimei, a relative from Saul's house, audaciously curses and casts stones at him and his loyal entourage. This brazen act of defiance, committed despite David being surrounded by his formidable "mighty men," vividly underscores the depth of the king's distress and sets the stage for his remarkable display of humility and trust in divine sovereignty, choosing not to retaliate against his accuser.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is deeply embedded within the tumultuous narrative of Absalom's rebellion against his father, King David, a pivotal section spanning [2 Samuel 15](/2_samuel/15 "2 Samuel 15 - Absalom's Rebellion Begins") through [2 Samuel 20](/2_samuel/20 "2 Samuel 20 - The Aftermath of Absalom's Rebellion"). Immediately preceding it, [2 Samuel 16:5](/2_samuel/16-5 "2 Samuel 16:5 - Shimei Curses David") introduces Shimei, a Benjamite from Bahurim and a kinsman of Saul, who emerges to hurl curses at David. Verse 6 escalates this verbal assault into a physical act of aggression, with Shimei not only cursing but also casting stones and dirt. The subsequent verses, particularly [2 Samuel 16:9-12](/2_samuel/16-9 "2 Samuel 16:9-12 - David's Restraint and Trust in God"), reveal David's extraordinary response: he restrains his loyal general Abishai from retaliating, interpreting Shimei's actions as potentially permitted, or even ordained, by God as a form of divine discipline or testing. This sequence profoundly highlights David's spiritual maturity and his steadfast reliance on God amidst a profound personal and political crisis.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The historical backdrop is David's desperate flight from Jerusalem as his son Absalom's coup gains overwhelming momentum. David's journey through the Kidron Valley and towards the wilderness of Judah was a public spectacle of royal vulnerability and disgrace. Shimei, identified as a Benjamite and a member of Saul's clan, harbored deep-seated resentment against David. For many Benjamites, David's ascension to the throne represented the downfall of their tribal hero, King Saul, and the loss of their former prominence and influence. Casting stones and dirt was a potent and deeply insulting gesture in ancient Near Eastern culture, signifying utter contempt, public shaming, and a curse intended to defile. It was a physical manifestation of the verbal curses, designed to humiliate and dishonor. The presence of David's "mighty men" (Hebrew: *gibborim*), his elite warriors and personal guard, makes Shimei's brazen act even more astonishing, underscoring both his conviction and the depth of his bitterness, as well as David's deliberate choice not to use his overwhelming power.

* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within [2 Samuel](/2_samuel "2 Samuel - The Reign of King David"). Firstly, it underscores the theme of **Divine Sovereignty in Suffering**. David's response to Shimei's abuse, particularly his later statement in [2 Samuel 16:11](/2_samuel/16-11 "2 Samuel 16:11 - David's Acceptance of God's Will"), reveals his profound conviction that even this public humiliation might be permitted by God. This perspective transforms a personal affront into a divinely ordained trial, reflecting David's deep trust in God's overarching control, even in the midst of adversity. Secondly, the passage highlights **Humility and Restraint** in leadership. Despite being a powerful king surrounded by loyal and capable warriors, David chooses not to retaliate, demonstrating a remarkable self-control that contrasts sharply with the expected response of an ancient monarch. This restraint is not weakness but a conscious act of submission to what he perceives as God's will. Finally, the verse subtly touches upon the **Consequences of Sin and Divine Discipline**. While Shimei's actions are unjust, David's willingness to endure them can be seen in light of the prophetic judgment pronounced by Nathan in [2 Samuel 12:10-11](/2_samuel/12-10 "2 Samuel 12:10-11 - Nathan's Prophecy of Trouble in David's House"), where trouble would arise from within David's own house as a consequence of his sin with Bathsheba and Uriah. David's suffering, therefore, while not directly caused by Shimei, is understood by David as part of a larger divine process.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Cast (Hebrew, _çâqal'_):** The Hebrew verb `סָקַל` (*çâqal*) is a primitive root primarily meaning "to stone" or "to cast stones." It implies a deliberate and aggressive act of throwing stones, not merely a symbolic gesture. In this context, it denotes a physical assault, albeit perhaps from a distance, designed to inflict both physical harm and profound public humiliation. This word choice emphasizes the direct and hostile nature of Shimei's actions, going beyond mere verbal abuse.
* **Stones (Hebrew, _ʼeben'_):** The Hebrew noun `אֶבֶן` (*ʼeben*), though singular in its root form, refers to literal "stones" in the plural context of the verse. Beyond their physical reality, these stones serve as potent symbols of contempt, accusation, and the desire to inflict injury or even death. In ancient Israel, stoning was a method of capital punishment, so casting stones, even without lethal intent, carried a strong connotation of condemnation and a public declaration of one's perceived guilt and worthlessness.
* **Mighty men (Hebrew, _gibbôwr'_):** The Hebrew term `גִּבֹּר` (*gibbôwr*), though singular in its root form, refers collectively to David's elite warriors, his most skilled and loyal fighting force, in the plural context of the verse ("mighty men"). Their presence "on his right hand and on his left" highlights that David was not defenseless; he was surrounded by capable protectors ready to act on his command. This detail magnifies David's remarkable restraint and the sheer audacity of Shimei, who dared to insult and assault the king in front of his formidable guard.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And he cast stones at David":** This initial clause vividly describes Shimei's direct, physical act of aggression against the fleeing king. It was a public and deeply humiliating assault, intended to convey utter contempt and to physically harm or at least defile David. This act went beyond mere verbal cursing, escalating the insult into a tangible, provocative challenge to David's authority and dignity, a symbolic stoning.
* **"and at all the servants of king David":** Shimei's aggression was not limited to David alone but extended to his entire retinue. This broadened the scope of the insult, publicly shaming David's loyal followers and demonstrating Shimei's complete disregard for the king's authority and those associated with him. It was a comprehensive act of public degradation, designed to demoralize David's supporters and underscore his perceived downfall.
* **"and all the people and all the mighty men [were] on his right hand and on his left":** This final clause emphasizes David's apparent vulnerability despite being surrounded by his most loyal and capable protectors. The "people" (likely non-military followers and family) and the "mighty men" (elite warriors) were positioned to defend him. Their presence "on his right hand and on his left" signifies their close proximity, readiness to act, and the king's full escort. This detail highlights the extraordinary nature of David's decision to restrain his men, underscoring his profound humility and his trust in God's sovereign hand rather than human intervention or brute force.

#### Literary Devices
The narrative of 2 Samuel 16:6 employs several powerful literary devices to heighten its impact. **Irony** is profoundly present, as David, the powerful king of Israel, is subjected to public humiliation and physical assault by a seemingly insignificant individual, Shimei, while paradoxically surrounded by his formidable "mighty men" who could have easily silenced the assailant. This highlights David's chosen vulnerability and self-restraint. **Symbolism** is evident in the "stones" themselves, which are not merely physical objects but potent representations of Shimei's curses, contempt, and the deep-seated animosity of Saul's house towards David. The act of casting them is a symbolic stoning, a public declaration of condemnation and a wish for David's demise. Furthermore, the passage employs **Contrast**, juxtaposing Shimei's unrestrained insolence and aggressive defiance with David's remarkable and unexpected humility, patience, and self-control. This stark contrast serves to elevate David's character and underscore his spiritual depth in the face of extreme provocation. Finally, the scene contains elements of **Foreshadowing**, as David's patient endurance and refusal to retaliate here anticipate the ultimate suffering and non-retaliation of the Messiah, the true Son of David.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The scene in 2 Samuel 16:6 is a profound theological statement on suffering, divine sovereignty, and the appropriate human response to injustice. David's willingness to endure Shimei's curses and stone-throwing, despite having the power to crush him, reveals a deep spiritual maturity rooted in his understanding that God might be using this humiliation for a greater purpose. He perceives the human agent, Shimei, as merely an instrument in God's sovereign hand, perhaps as a form of divine discipline or a test of his faith. This perspective transforms a personal affront into an opportunity for spiritual growth and reliance on God's ultimate vindication. It teaches that true strength is often found not in immediate retaliation, but in patient endurance and trust in God's justice and timing. This episode provides a powerful biblical example of leaving vengeance to the Lord and responding to evil with a spirit of humility and faith, believing that God sees and will ultimately act.

* [Psalm 3:1-2](/psalms/3-1-2 "Psalm 3:1-2 - David's Prayer in Distress")
* [Romans 12:19](/romans/12-19 "Romans 12:19 - Vengeance Belongs to the Lord")
* [1 Peter 2:23](/1_peter/2-23 "1 Peter 2:23 - Christ's Example in Suffering Patiently")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The encounter between David and Shimei in 2 Samuel 16:6 offers profound lessons for believers navigating personal attacks, unjust criticism, and public humiliation. David's response, characterized by remarkable restraint and a deep trust in God's sovereignty, challenges us to reconsider our immediate reactions when faced with adversity. Rather than seeking immediate vindication or retaliation, David chose to endure, believing that God was at work even in the midst of his suffering. This calls us to cultivate a similar spirit of humility, recognizing that God can use even the most painful and unjust circumstances to refine our character, test our faith, and accomplish His purposes. It encourages us to look beyond the human agent of our suffering and discern the potential hand of God, trusting that He will ultimately bring justice and turn our trials into blessings. In a world quick to anger and retribution, David's example stands as a powerful testament to the transformative power of patient endurance and unwavering faith in God's ultimate control, reminding us that our ultimate vindication comes from God alone.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How do I typically respond when I feel unjustly attacked or publicly humiliated, and what does David's example teach me about a more godly response?**
* **In what ways can I cultivate a deeper trust in God's sovereignty, even when faced with circumstances that seem unfair or beyond my control?**
* **How might God be using difficult or humiliating experiences in my life to refine my character, teach me greater humility, or prepare me for future service?**

### FAQ
**Why didn't David's mighty men retaliate against Shimei, given the severity of the insult?**

Answer: David explicitly commanded his mighty men not to retaliate. In [2 Samuel 16:10](/2_samuel/16-10 "2 Samuel 16:10 - David Forbids Retaliation"), David tells Abishai, "Let him alone, and let him curse; for the Lord hath bidden him." David interpreted Shimei's actions not merely as a personal affront but as potentially permitted or even ordained by God. He saw it as part of a divine process, perhaps as a form of discipline or a test of his humility and faith. This remarkable spiritual perspective led him to choose patient endurance over immediate retribution, despite having the power to easily silence his accuser.

**What was Shimei's motivation for such a public and aggressive act against the king?**

Answer: Shimei was a Benjamite from the house of Saul, the former king whom David had replaced. He harbored deep-seated resentment and loyalty to Saul's dynasty. In [2 Samuel 16:8](/2_samuel/16-8 "2 Samuel 16:8 - Shimei's Accusation"), Shimei explicitly accuses David of being a "man of blood" and attributes David's current distress to divine retribution for the blood of Saul's house. He saw David's flight from Absalom as divine judgment and seized the opportunity to express his long-held bitterness, contempt, and allegiance to the fallen house of Saul, believing David's reign was justly coming to an end.

**Did Shimei face any long-term consequences for his actions against David?**

Answer: Initially, David spared Shimei's life when he later came to meet David and seek forgiveness upon David's return to Jerusalem ([2 Samuel 19:18-23](/2_samuel/19-18 "2 Samuel 19:18-23 - Shimei Seeks Forgiveness")). However, on his deathbed, David instructed his son Solomon to deal with Shimei, remembering his curse ([1 Kings 2:8-9](/1_kings/2-8 "1 Kings 2:8-9 - David's Charge to Solomon Regarding Shimei")). Solomon later confined Shimei to Jerusalem under threat of death if he left. When Shimei eventually broke this oath by leaving Jerusalem, Solomon had him executed, bringing David's charge to fulfillment and ensuring the security of his own reign ([1 Kings 2:42-46](/1_kings/2-42 "1 Kings 2:42-46 - Solomon Executes Shimei")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The humiliation of King David at the hands of Shimei, and David's patient endurance in the face of unjust curses and physical assault, powerfully foreshadows the ultimate suffering and non-retaliation of Jesus Christ, the true Son of David. While David, a sinful king, endured this trial as a potential consequence of his own past transgressions, Jesus, the perfect and sinless Lamb of God, willingly submitted to infinitely greater public humiliation, scorn, and physical abuse, not for His own sin, but for the sins of humanity. Just as David was surrounded by his mighty men yet chose not to retaliate, Jesus, who could have summoned legions of angels ([Matthew 26:53](/matthew/26-53 "Matthew 26:53 - Jesus Could Summon Angels")), allowed Himself to be spat upon, beaten, and mocked ([Matthew 27:27-30](/matthew/27-27 "Matthew 27:27-30 - Jesus Mocked by Soldiers")). He absorbed the curses meant for us, becoming a curse for us on the cross ([Galatians 3:13](/galatians/3-13 "Galatians 3:13 - Christ Redeems Us From the Curse")). His patient endurance, even to death on a cross, is the ultimate example of leaving vengeance to God and trusting in divine vindication ([1 Peter 2:21-23](/1_peter/2-21 "1 Peter 2:21-23 - Christ's Example of Suffering Patiently")). Thus, David's experience serves as a prophetic shadow, pointing to the perfect, redemptive suffering of the Messiah, who by His meekness and non-retaliation secured our salvation and demonstrated the ultimate triumph of humility, love, and divine justice.

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.