2 Samuel 19:16

KJV

¶ And Shimei the son of Gera, a Benjamite, which [was] of Bahurim, hasted and came down with the men of Judah to meet king David.

KJV (with Strong's)

And Shimei {H8096} the son {H1121} of Gera {H1617}, a Benjamite {H1145}, which was of Bahurim {H980}, hasted {H4116} and came down {H3381} with the men {H376} of Judah {H3063} to meet {H7125} king {H4428} David {H1732}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Shim'i the son of Gera, the Binyamini from Bachurim, hurried and came down with the men of Y'hudah to meet King David.

Berean Standard Bible

Then Shimei son of Gera, a Benjamite from Bahurim, hurried down with the men of Judah to meet King David,

American Standard Version

And Shimei the son of Gera, the Benjamite, who was of Bahurim, hasted and came down with the men of Judah to meet king David.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Second Samuel 19:16 introduces Shimei, a Benjamite from Bahurim, who urgently comes to meet King David upon his return to Jerusalem after the defeat of Absalom's rebellion. This swift action by Shimei, a known antagonist who had previously cursed David during his flight, signals a crucial moment of political maneuvering and the seeking of reconciliation, setting the stage for David's demonstration of mercy or justice as he reasserts his throne.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is strategically placed within the narrative of King David's return to power following Absalom's failed coup. Immediately preceding this, the nation of Israel, particularly the northern tribes, debates how to bring David back, while Judah, David's own tribe, takes the initiative to escort him across the Jordan ([2 Samuel 19:9-15](/2_samuel/19-9 "2 Samuel 19:9-15 - Israel Debates David's Return")). Shimei's sudden appearance here is a direct follow-up to his infamous act of cursing David and throwing stones at him as David fled Jerusalem during Absalom's rebellion ([2 Samuel 16:5-13](/2_samuel/16-5 "2 Samuel 16:5-13 - Shimei Curses David")). His haste in meeting David before he fully re-enters Jerusalem suggests an attempt to preempt any punitive action and secure a pardon, thereby setting the stage for a significant test of David's character and his approach to justice and mercy in his restored reign.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Shimei's identity as a "Benjamite, which was of Bahurim" is highly significant. Benjamin was the tribe of Saul, the first king of Israel, and many Benjamites harbored lingering resentment towards David for supplanting Saul's dynasty. Bahurim was a village likely located on the eastern slopes of the Mount of Olives, a strategic point on the road from Jerusalem to the Jordan Valley, and notably, the very place where Shimei had publicly cursed David. In ancient Near Eastern monarchies, open defiance and cursing of a king were treasonous acts punishable by death. With David's authority re-established, Shimei's life was forfeit. His desperate rush to meet David, especially "with the men of Judah," highlights the volatile political climate and the cultural imperative of public displays of submission and loyalty to the reigning monarch, often as a means of self-preservation.
* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes to several overarching themes in 2 Samuel. It underscores the theme of **shifting loyalties and political expediency**, as individuals like Shimei quickly adjust their allegiance based on who holds power, moving from open defiance to urgent submission. It also powerfully illustrates the theme of **the king's return and restoration**, marking a definitive end to the rebellion and the re-establishment of David's legitimate rule. Shimei's act, though perhaps self-serving, introduces the critical theme of **seeking forgiveness and reconciliation**, forcing David to confront the question of how he will govern—with vengeance or with grace—a question that resonates throughout the remainder of David's reign and even into Solomon's ([1 Kings 2:8-9](/1_kings/2-8 "1 Kings 2:8-9 - David's Charge Regarding Shimei")). Finally, it subtly points to **divine sovereignty** in David's restoration, demonstrating that despite profound betrayal and upheaval, God's covenant with David would ultimately prevail ([2 Samuel 7:12-16](/2_samuel/7-12 "2 Samuel 7:12-16 - God's Covenant with David")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **hasted (Hebrew, _mahar'_):** This verb conveys a strong sense of urgency, speed, or eagerness. In Shimei's context, it suggests a desperate, perhaps even frantic, movement. It is not merely a quick walk but a deliberate rush, indicating his recognition of the immediate danger he faced and his desire to be among the first to seek favor or pardon from the returning king. This haste underscores his opportunistic nature and the high stakes involved.
* **came down (Hebrew, _yarad'_):** While geographically indicating movement from a higher elevation (Bahurim) towards David's path (likely in the Jordan Valley or towards Gilgal), "came down" can also carry a symbolic connotation of humbling oneself or descending from a position of defiance. Shimei, who previously stood above David to curse him, now physically "comes down" to meet him, a posture of submission.
* **Benjamite (Hebrew, _bînymînî'_):** This tribal designation is crucial. Benjamin was the tribe of King Saul, and many within it remained loyal to Saul's house, viewing David as a usurper. Shimei's identity as a Benjamite from Bahurim directly links him to this historical tension and to his prior act of disloyalty, making his sudden appearance with the men of Judah all the more striking.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And Shimei the son of Gera, a Benjamite, which [was] of Bahurim":** This clause precisely identifies the individual. Shimei is not a random person but a specific figure with a known history of animosity towards David. His lineage ("son of Gera") and residence ("of Bahurim") serve to remind the reader of his previous, deeply offensive actions against David, thereby heightening the tension of this encounter.
* **"hasted and came down":** This phrase describes Shimei's immediate and urgent action. The combination of "hasted" (urgency) and "came down" (physical descent) paints a picture of a man driven by a pressing need, abandoning his former defiant posture to approach the king. His swiftness suggests a calculated move to be among the first to acknowledge David's restored authority.
* **"with the men of Judah":** This detail is highly significant. Shimei, a Benjamite (from Saul's tribe, historically antagonistic to David's house), strategically aligns himself with "the men of Judah," David's own tribe. This alliance is a clear attempt to demonstrate loyalty and perhaps to gain protection or legitimacy by associating himself with the very group now leading David's restoration. It highlights his political astuteness and self-preservation instincts.
* **"to meet king David":** This final phrase states the explicit purpose of Shimei's urgent journey. His goal is a direct confrontation or appeal to the newly re-empowered monarch, signifying his recognition of David's undisputed authority and his desperate plea for mercy or reconciliation.

#### Literary Devices
The verse effectively employs **Irony** and **Foreshadowing**. The **Irony** lies in Shimei's dramatic shift from being David's most vocal and venomous accuser and stone-thrower (2 Samuel 16) to now being among the first to "haste" to meet him, seemingly in submission. This stark contrast highlights Shimei's opportunistic and self-serving character, revealing the superficiality of his "repentance." Furthermore, this encounter serves as a crucial moment of **Foreshadowing**. David's initial oath to spare Shimei's life (2 Samuel 19:23) is later qualified by his dying charge to Solomon (1 Kings 2:8-9), indicating that Shimei's past actions were not truly forgotten and would eventually lead to his demise. This sets up a long-term narrative arc concerning justice, mercy, and the consequences of unaddressed sin. The verse also contributes to the **Characterization** of both Shimei (as a pragmatic survivor) and David (as a king capable of remarkable restraint and strategic thinking, even amidst personal affronts).

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Shimei's desperate rush to meet David, a man he had previously cursed and reviled, serves as a stark illustration of the human tendency towards self-preservation and political expediency when faced with shifting power dynamics. While his actions appear to be an appeal for forgiveness, the underlying motivation seems rooted in fear of retribution rather than genuine repentance. This narrative provides a profound opportunity to reflect on the nature of true repentance, which involves a change of heart and not merely a change of circumstance. David's initial response of mercy, though complex and ultimately nuanced by later events, foreshadows God's own willingness to extend grace to those who genuinely turn to Him, even when their past actions warrant judgment. It underscores the tension between divine justice and divine mercy, a central theme throughout biblical theology.

* [2 Samuel 16:5-13](/2_samuel/16-5 "Shimei Curses David") - The original act of defiance and cursing, providing essential context for Shimei's desperate plea.
* [1 Kings 2:8-9](/1_kings/2-8 "David's Charge to Solomon Regarding Shimei") - David's later instruction to Solomon regarding Shimei, revealing the long-term consequences of Shimei's actions and David's complex approach to justice.
* [Proverbs 28:13](/proverbs/28-13 "Confession and Mercy") - "Whoever conceals his transgressions will not prosper, but he who confesses and forsakes them will obtain mercy," offering a biblical principle against which Shimei's actions can be evaluated.

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Shimei's story in 2 Samuel 19:16 invites us to examine the complexities of human nature, particularly our responses to power, forgiveness, and the consequences of our actions. His "haste" to meet David, born out of self-preservation rather than genuine contrition, challenges us to discern the motives behind our own "repentance" or attempts at reconciliation. Are we genuinely seeking to make amends for wrongs committed, or are we merely trying to escape negative consequences? This narrative also prompts us to consider how we, as followers of Christ, respond when those who have wronged us seek reconciliation or favor. David, despite being deeply offended, initially chose restraint and mercy, demonstrating a kingly quality that points towards a higher standard of grace. While not all offenses can or should be immediately forgotten, the narrative encourages us to cultivate a heart willing to extend grace, even when the sincerity of the other party is questionable, trusting God with ultimate justice.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Shimei's "haste" challenge our understanding of genuine repentance versus self-preservation?**
* **In what ways do we, like Shimei, sometimes adjust our loyalties or behaviors based on convenience, fear, or changing power dynamics rather than steadfast conviction?**
* **What can David's initial response to Shimei teach us about extending grace and exercising wisdom, even to those who have deeply wronged us?**

### FAQ
**Why did Shimei "haste" to meet David, and what does this reveal about him?**

Answer: Shimei "hasted" (Hebrew: _mahar_) to meet David primarily out of an urgent desire for self-preservation and political expediency. As a Benjamite from Bahurim, he was a staunch supporter of Saul's house and had publicly cursed King David during his flight from Absalom's rebellion ([2 Samuel 16:5-13](/2_samuel/16-5 "2 Samuel 16:5-13 - Shimei Curses David")). With Absalom defeated and David's throne restored, Shimei knew his life was forfeit for his treasonous acts. His haste reveals his opportunistic nature and his recognition that David's authority was now absolute. He sought to be among the first to acknowledge David's return, hoping to preempt any punitive action and secure a pardon.

**What is the significance of Shimei being identified as a "Benjamite... of Bahurim"?**

Answer: This identification is crucial for understanding the historical and political context. Shimei being a "Benjamite" immediately links him to the tribe of King Saul, the previous monarch. Many Benjamites harbored resentment towards David for replacing Saul's dynasty, and Shimei was a prominent example of this lingering loyalty to the former royal house. "Bahurim" was the specific village where Shimei had cursed David and thrown stones at him ([2 Samuel 16:5](/2_samuel/16-5 "2 Samuel 16:5 - Shimei Curses David")). Therefore, his origin not only identifies his tribal allegiance but also directly connects him to his past act of open defiance against David, making his sudden appearance in submission all the more poignant and ironic.

**Why did Shimei come "with the men of Judah"?**

Answer: Shimei's decision to come "with the men of Judah" was a strategic and politically astute move. As a Benjamite, he belonged to a tribe often at odds with Judah, David's own tribe. By aligning himself with the men of Judah, who were leading the effort to bring David back to Jerusalem ([2 Samuel 19:11-15](/2_samuel/19-11 "2 Samuel 19:11-15 - Judah Takes the Lead")), Shimei was publicly demonstrating his allegiance to the dominant political faction and, by extension, to King David. This was an attempt to show his loyalty and integrate himself with David's supporters, hoping it would improve his chances of receiving mercy and avoiding punishment for his past treason.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Shimei's desperate rush to meet David, seeking pardon for his past transgressions, serves as a poignant, albeit imperfect, shadow of humanity's profound need to come to Christ for forgiveness. Just as Shimei's life was forfeit under the law of the land, so too are all humanity's lives forfeit under the righteous judgment of God due to sin ([Romans 3:23](/romans/3-23 "Romans 3:23 - All Have Sinned")). While Shimei's motive was largely self-preservation, the ultimate King, Jesus Christ, offers genuine and complete forgiveness, not based on our political maneuvering or desperate pleas, but on His perfect sacrifice ([Ephesians 2:8-9](/ephesians/2-8 "Ephesians 2:8-9 - Salvation by Grace Through Faith")). David's initial act of mercy towards Shimei, though later complicated, faintly echoes the boundless grace of God, who, while we were still His enemies, sent Christ to die for us ([Romans 5:8](/romans/5-8 "Romans 5:8 - God Demonstrates His Love")). Unlike Shimei, whose heart may not have been truly transformed, those who genuinely turn to Christ experience a new creation, where old things pass away and all things become new ([2 Corinthians 5:17](/2_corinthians/5-17 "2 Corinthians 5:17 - New Creation in Christ")). Ultimately, every knee will bow and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord ([Philippians 2:9-11](/philippians/2-9 "Philippians 2:9-11 - Every Knee Shall Bow")), but only those who come to Him in humble, genuine repentance, not merely out of fear, will find eternal life and true reconciliation with the King of kings.

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

1 Kings 2:8

And, behold, [thou hast] with thee Shimei the son of Gera, a Benjamite of Bahurim, which cursed me with a grievous curse in the day when I went to Mahanaim: but he came down to meet me at Jordan, and I sware to him by the LORD, saying, I will not put thee to death with the sword.

2 Samuel 16:5

¶ And when king David came to Bahurim, behold, thence came out a man of the family of the house of Saul, whose name [was] Shimei, the son of Gera: he came forth, and cursed still as he came.

2 Samuel 16:13

And as David and his men went by the way, Shimei went along on the hill's side over against him, and cursed as he went, and threw stones at him, and cast dust.

Job 2:4

And Satan answered the LORD, and said, Skin for skin, yea, all that a man hath will he give for his life.

1 Kings 2:36

And the king sent and called for Shimei, and said unto him, Build thee an house in Jerusalem, and dwell there, and go not forth thence any whither.

1 Kings 2:46

So the king commanded Benaiah the son of Jehoiada; which went out, and fell upon him, that he died. And the kingdom was established in the hand of Solomon.

Matthew 5:25

Agree with thine adversary quickly, whiles thou art in the way with him; lest at any time the adversary deliver thee to the judge, and the judge deliver thee to the officer, and thou be cast into prison.