2 Samuel 19:16

¶ 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.

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}.

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

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

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

2 Samuel 19:16 introduces us to Shimei, a key figure from the tribe of Benjamin, who makes a hasty appearance before King David following the suppression of Absalom's rebellion. This verse sets the stage for a significant moment of confrontation and potential reconciliation in David's return to power.

Context

To understand Shimei's actions in this verse, it's crucial to recall his previous encounter with King David. During David's desperate flight from Absalom's rebellion, Shimei, a relative of King Saul, had publicly cursed David and thrown stones at him, accusing him of being a man of blood (2 Samuel 16:5-13). This act demonstrated extreme disloyalty and disrespect towards the anointed king. Now, with Absalom defeated and David's throne secured, Shimei, identifying himself as a Benjamite from Bahurim, rushes to meet David. His haste suggests a recognition of David's restored authority and perhaps an urgent desire to seek pardon before any punitive action could be taken against him.

Key Themes

  • Shifting Loyalties and Political Expediency: Shimei's sudden appearance with the men of Judah, David's own tribe, highlights the volatile political climate and how individuals quickly adjust their allegiances based on who holds power. His immediate shift from open defiance to seeking an audience with the king illustrates a pragmatic, self-preserving motivation.
  • The King's Return and Restoration: This verse is part of the narrative detailing King David's triumphant return to Jerusalem after the traumatic rebellion. Shimei's act underscores the definitive end of Absalom's challenge and the re-establishment of David's reign.
  • Seeking Forgiveness and Reconciliation: While Shimei's motives might be mixed, his act of coming down to meet David is presented as an appeal for mercy. This interaction sets the stage for David's response, which will demonstrate his character—whether he chooses vengeance or extends grace (see 2 Samuel 19:23).

Linguistic Insights

The KJV uses the word "hasted" (from the Hebrew mahar, מָהַר), which conveys a sense of urgency, speed, or eagerness. In Shimei's case, it suggests a swift, perhaps desperate, movement to be among the first to greet the returning king, hoping to gain favor or avoid punishment. The phrase "came down" (Hebrew yarad, יָרַד) is a geographical descriptor, indicating movement from a higher elevation (Bahurim was likely elevated relative to David's path or the Jordan Valley) towards David's position, reinforcing the immediate and direct nature of his approach.

Practical Application

Shimei's story serves as a powerful reminder of how circumstances can humble us and prompt a change in behavior, even if the underlying motivation is self-interest rather than genuine repentance. It challenges us to consider our own responses when those who have wronged us seek reconciliation—whether we extend grace or hold onto grievances. Furthermore, it highlights the often-complex interplay between power, loyalty, and forgiveness in human relationships. Ultimately, this narrative points to the overarching theme of divine providence in restoring David, demonstrating that even amidst profound betrayal and political upheaval, God's plan for His anointed King would prevail, echoing the broader theme of God's covenant faithfulness.

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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.
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