2 Samuel 18:25

KJV

And the watchman cried, and told the king. And the king said, If he [be] alone, [there is] tidings in his mouth. And he came apace, and drew near.

KJV (with Strong's)

And the watchman {H6822} cried {H7121}, and told {H5046} the king {H4428}. And the king {H4428} said {H559}, If he be alone, there is tidings {H1309} in his mouth {H6310}. And he came {H3212} apace {H1980}, and drew near {H7131}.

Complete Jewish Bible

The watchman cried out and told the king. The king said, "If he's alone, he has good news to tell."As he ran along and came close,

Berean Standard Bible

So he called out and told the king. “If he is alone,” the king replied, “he bears good news.” As the first runner drew near,

American Standard Version

And the watchman cried, and told the king. And the king said, If he be alone, there is tidings in his mouth. And he came apace, and drew near.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
2 Samuel 18:25 captures a moment of intense suspense as King David anxiously awaits news of the battle against his rebellious son, Absalom. The watchman's cry signals the approach of a lone runner, prompting David's astute observation that a single messenger indicates specific, urgent tidings. This verse vividly portrays the high stakes and deep emotional burden weighing on the king, setting the stage for the revelation of the battle's outcome and Absalom's fate.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated at the climax of Absalom's rebellion against his father, King David, specifically immediately following the decisive battle in the forest of Ephraim. David, against the advice of his generals but out of concern for his son, has remained at the city gate of Mahanaim, refusing to go out to battle. [2 Samuel 18:3](/2_samuel/18-3 "2 Samuel 18:3 - David's Men Insist He Stay Behind"). The preceding verse, [2 Samuel 18:24](/2_samuel/18-24 "2 Samuel 18:24 - David Waits at the Gate"), establishes the scene: David is waiting between the two gates, and a watchman is positioned on the roof of the gate to scan the horizon for messengers. The arrival of the first runner, as described in verse 25, marks the beginning of the end of this agonizing period of waiting, signaling that the outcome of the conflict is finally at hand.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Near Eastern cities, the city gate was not merely an entrance but a vital hub of activity, serving as a place for judicial proceedings, commerce, and public assembly. Kings and elders often sat there to administer justice and receive news. The role of the "watchman" (`tsopheh`) was crucial for security and communication, positioned on high vantage points to spot approaching armies, travelers, or messengers from afar. Communication in warfare relied heavily on human runners, whose speed and endurance were paramount for delivering vital intelligence. David's deduction about the lone runner reflects a keen understanding of these ancient communication protocols: a single, swift runner typically carried urgent, specific news, unlike a large group which might signify a general rout or a triumphant return.
* **Key Themes:** The verse profoundly contributes to several key themes within [2 Samuel chapter 18](/2_samuel/18 "2 Samuel 18 - The Battle and Absalom's Death") and the broader narrative of David's reign. **Anticipation and Suspense** are palpable, as the entire scene is built around the anxious wait for news that will determine the kingdom's future and Absalom's life. David's **Wisdom and Discernment** are highlighted by his immediate and accurate interpretation of the lone runner's significance. The tragic **Consequences of Sin and Rebellion** are foreshadowed, as the news the runner carries will ultimately reveal the devastating cost of Absalom's actions. Finally, David's **Suffering and Parental Grief** are implicitly present, as his primary concern is not merely the battle's outcome but the fate of his rebellious son, a theme that culminates in his lament in [2 Samuel 18:33](/2_samuel/18-33 "2 Samuel 18:33 - David's Lament for Absalom").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Watchman (Hebrew, _tsopheh'_):** This term refers to a sentinel or lookout, one who observes from a high place. In ancient cities, watchmen were indispensable for security, providing early warning of approaching dangers or the arrival of important persons. Their elevated position on the city wall or gate roof (as in [2 Samuel 18:24](/2_samuel/18-24 "2 Samuel 18:24 - David Waits at the Gate")) gave them a panoramic view, making them the first point of contact for incoming news. Their "cry" (Hebrew, _za'aq_) indicates an urgent, attention-grabbing announcement.
* **Alone (Hebrew, _levaddo'_):** This word emphasizes the singular nature of the approaching messenger. David's astute observation that the runner is "alone" is crucial. In ancient warfare, a large group of returning soldiers or messengers might signify a general victory or defeat. A single, swift runner, however, typically carried a specific, urgent, and often personal message, indicating that the news was focused and highly significant, not a general report of troop movements.
* **Tidings (Hebrew, _besorah'_):** This noun means "news" or "message." While its root (`basar`) can often denote "good news" (as in the root of the word "gospel" in later contexts), here it is used neutrally, simply referring to significant information. The nature of these "tidings"—whether good or bad regarding the battle and Absalom—is precisely what creates the intense suspense for David and the reader.
* **Apace (Hebrew, _meherah'_):** This adverb means "quickly," "speedily," or "with haste." It vividly describes the urgency and rapid movement of the messenger. The runner's speed underscores the pressing nature of the news he carries, further heightening the tension as he rapidly closes the distance to the anxious king.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And the watchman cried, and told the king":** This opening clause immediately breaks the silence of anticipation established in the preceding verse. The watchman, positioned on the roof for optimal visibility, spots the approaching figure and issues a "cry," a loud vocalization designed to alert those below. This initial announcement is the first tangible sign that the long wait for news is over, directly communicating the observation to the king.
* **"And the king said, If he [be] alone, [there is] tidings in his mouth":** David's response reveals his seasoned wisdom and experience as a military leader. He deduces from the solitary nature of the runner that the messenger carries a specific, focused report rather than a general update about the battle. This statement is a profound moment of discernment, indicating that David understands the gravity and particularity of the news that is about to arrive, even before its content is known.
* **"And he came apace, and drew near":** This clause describes the messenger's swift and determined approach. The phrase "came apace" (Hebrew, _meherah_) emphasizes the speed and urgency with which the runner is covering the ground. The steady drawing near of the messenger physically embodies the mounting suspense, as the distance between the anxious king and the bearer of fate-determining news rapidly diminishes.

#### Literary Devices
The primary literary device at play in 2 Samuel 18:25 is **Suspense**. The entire scene is meticulously crafted to build and maintain a high level of tension. The watchman's initial cry, David's shrewd deduction about the lone runner, and the description of the messenger's rapid approach all contribute to an atmosphere of anxious anticipation, leaving the reader (and David) on edge about the impending news. There is also an element of **Dramatic Irony**, as the reader is already aware of Absalom's death from earlier in the chapter ([2 Samuel 18:14-15](/2_samuel/18-14 "2 Samuel 18:14-15 - Absalom's Death")), while David remains ignorant, intensifying the pathos of his hopeful yet anxious wait. The repeated use of the conjunction "And" (`waw` conjunction in Hebrew) at the beginning of clauses creates a sense of sequential, unfolding action, building narrative momentum towards the inevitable revelation.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse, steeped in human anxiety and the anticipation of news, subtly points to the broader theological theme of divine sovereignty amidst human uncertainty. David waits for human messengers, but the outcome of the battle and the fate of Absalom were ultimately in God's hands, a reminder that even in moments of intense human drama, God's purposes are unfolding. The "tidings" David awaits are of life and death, reflecting the universal human experience of receiving news that profoundly impacts one's existence. This moment of waiting for a messenger with crucial tidings also serves as a poignant backdrop against which to consider the ultimate "tidings" that humanity truly needs.

* [Proverbs 25:25](/proverbs/25-25 "Proverbs 25:25 - Like cold water to a weary soul is good news from a distant land.")
* [Isaiah 52:7](/isaiah/52-7 "Isaiah 52:7 - How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him who brings good news...")
* [Romans 10:15](/romans/10-15 "Romans 10:15 - How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the good news!")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The scene in 2 Samuel 18:25 resonates deeply with the human experience of waiting for significant news, especially when the outcome is uncertain and carries profound personal implications. Like David, we often find ourselves in periods of intense anticipation, whether awaiting medical results, job offers, or resolutions to conflicts. This verse reminds us of the emotional weight of such moments and highlights the importance of discernment in processing information. David's ability to interpret the significance of the lone runner speaks to the wisdom gained through experience and careful observation. In our own lives, we are constantly bombarded with information; cultivating discernment helps us to filter the noise and focus on what truly matters, understanding the nature and implications of the "tidings" we receive. Ultimately, while David waited anxiously for human messengers, we are called to rest in the sovereignty of God, knowing that He is in control of all circumstances, and His timing is perfect, even when the news is difficult.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How do you typically respond when waiting for significant news, especially when the outcome is uncertain?**
* **In what ways can we cultivate discernment, like David, to understand the true nature and implications of the information we receive?**
* **How does the sovereignty of God comfort or challenge you when facing periods of intense waiting or anxiety?**

### FAQ

**Why was David waiting at the gate instead of fighting in the battle?**

Answer: David's men, particularly Joab, strongly urged him not to go into battle. They argued that his life was too valuable to the kingdom, and if he were killed, it would demoralize the army and lead to a complete collapse. They insisted that his presence at the gate would be more beneficial for their morale. Furthermore, David likely harbored a deep, conflicted love for Absalom and may have wished to avoid a direct confrontation with his son. This decision is detailed in [2 Samuel 18:3](/2_samuel/18-3 "2 Samuel 18:3 - David's Men Insist He Stay Behind").

**What is the significance of the watchman's role in this narrative?**

Answer: The watchman plays a crucial role as the initial point of contact for news from outside the city. Positioned on the highest point of the gate, he served as the city's eyes and ears, responsible for spotting approaching individuals or groups and alerting the authorities. His "cry" signifies the immediate and urgent nature of his observation, setting in motion the dramatic unfolding of the news that follows. Watchmen were vital for defense and communication in ancient urban centers, as seen in other biblical contexts like [Isaiah 21:6](/isaiah/21-6 "Isaiah 21:6 - The Watchman's Post").

**Why did David deduce "tidings" specifically from a single runner?**

Answer: David, as an experienced king and military commander, understood the conventions of ancient battlefield communication. A large group of runners or a returning army would signify a general outcome—either a rout or a decisive victory. However, a single, swift messenger typically carried a specific, urgent, and often highly significant report, perhaps concerning a key individual or a pivotal event. David's deduction highlights his sharp discernment and the gravity of the news he anticipated, knowing it would be focused and impactful.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The anxious wait of King David for "tidings" concerning his son's fate in 2 Samuel 18:25 offers a profound contrast and foreshadowing of the ultimate "good tidings" brought by Christ. David, a suffering king, waits for news of a rebellious son who sought his throne, ultimately receiving word of death. This human drama, filled with suspense and sorrow, points to a greater divine narrative. Jesus, the true King, did not wait for news of a battle from a distance; instead, He entered the fray, not to fight against rebels, but to suffer and die for them. He is the ultimate messenger, not merely bearing "tidings," but embodying the "good news" itself. The "tidings" of Absalom's death brought David immense grief, but the "good news" of Christ's death and resurrection brings eternal life and joy to all who believe ([Luke 2:10](/luke/2-10 "Luke 2:10 - Good News of Great Joy")). While David's heart broke for his rebellious son, Christ, as the suffering servant ([Isaiah 53](/isaiah/53 "Isaiah 53 - The Suffering Servant")), willingly laid down His life for a rebellious humanity, becoming the ultimate Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world ([John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God")). The "feet of him who brings good news" ([Isaiah 52:7](/isaiah/52-7 "Isaiah 52:7 - How Beautiful are the Feet")) find their ultimate fulfillment in Christ and those He sends to proclaim the gospel, transforming the anxious waiting for uncertain human news into the joyful reception of God's certain and saving grace ([Romans 10:15](/romans/10-15 "Romans 10:15 - Preaching the Gospel")).

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.