2 Samuel 19:22

KJV

And David said, What have I to do with you, ye sons of Zeruiah, that ye should this day be adversaries unto me? shall there any man be put to death this day in Israel? for do not I know that I [am] this day king over Israel?

KJV (with Strong's)

And David {H1732} said {H559}, What have I to do with you, ye sons {H1121} of Zeruiah {H6870}, that ye should this day {H3117} be adversaries {H7854} unto me? shall there any man {H376} be put to death {H4191} this day {H3117} in Israel {H3478}? for do not I know {H3045} that I am this day {H3117} king {H4428} over Israel {H3478}?

Complete Jewish Bible

But David said, "What do I have in common with you, you sons of Tz'ruyah? Why have you become my adversaries today? Should anyone in Isra'el be put to death today? Don't I know that today I am king over Isra'el?"

Berean Standard Bible

And David replied, “Sons of Zeruiah, what have I to do with you, that you should be my adversaries today? Should any man be put to death in Israel today? Am I not indeed aware that today I am king over Israel?”

American Standard Version

And David said, What have I to do with you, ye sons of Zeruiah, that ye should this day be adversaries unto me? shall there any man be put to death this day in Israel? for do not I know that I am this day king over Israel?

Commentary

### SUMMARY
In 2 Samuel 19:22, King David, having just returned to Jerusalem and re-established his reign after Absalom's rebellion, sharply rebukes his nephews, the sons of Zeruiah, for their counsel to execute Shimei. David declares that the day of his restoration is one of clemency and reconciliation, not vengeance, asserting his supreme royal authority and setting a tone of grace for his reunited kingdom. This pivotal moment underscores David's unique blend of strength and mercy in leadership.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated at a critical juncture in David's life and reign, specifically in the immediate aftermath of Absalom's devastating rebellion. Chapters [2 Samuel 15](/2_samuel/15 "2 Samuel 15 - Absalom's Rebellion Begins") through [2 Samuel 18](/2_samuel/18 "2 Samuel 18 - David's Victory and Absalom's Death") detail the rebellion, David's flight from Jerusalem, and the tragic death of his son, Absalom. [2 Samuel 19](/2_samuel/19 "2 Samuel 19 - David's Return to Jerusalem") narrates David's return journey and the complex process of national reconciliation. Just prior to verse 22, Shimei, a Benjaminite who had cursed David during his flight (cf. [2 Samuel 16:5-13](/2_samuel/16-5 "2 Samuel 16:5-13 - Shimei Curses David")), prostrates himself before David, begging for mercy. Abishai, one of David's loyal but often ruthless commanders, immediately advocates for Shimei's execution, viewing him as a traitor. David's response in verse 22 is a powerful assertion of his royal prerogative, overriding Abishai's vengeful counsel and establishing a policy of grace for his restored kingdom.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The period of David's reign was one of consolidation and expansion for the Israelite monarchy, but also fraught with internal strife, as evidenced by Absalom's rebellion. Kings in the ancient Near East often marked their ascension or restoration to the throne with acts of clemency or amnesty, demonstrating their benevolence and securing loyalty. This practice served both practical and symbolic purposes, aiming to unify a fractured populace and project an image of a just and merciful ruler. The "sons of Zeruiah"—Joab and Abishai—were David's nephews and formidable military leaders, known for their fierce loyalty but also their independent and often violent actions, sometimes even defying David's direct orders (e.g., Joab's killing of Absalom in [2 Samuel 18:14](/2_samuel/18-14 "2 Samuel 18:14 - Joab Kills Absalom")). David's rebuke here highlights the ongoing tension between his vision for a unified, divinely-guided kingdom and the pragmatic, often brutal, realities of power politics and military command in his era.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several key themes woven throughout the book of Samuel. Firstly, it underscores the **nature of kingship** under God, emphasizing that true royal authority is not merely about wielding power but about exercising it with wisdom, mercy, and a view towards national unity. David's declaration that he "is this day king over Israel" is not just a statement of fact but a proclamation of his sovereign right to define the character of his reign. Secondly, the verse highlights the critical theme of **mercy versus vengeance**. David's choice to forgive Shimei, despite the severe personal insult, contrasts sharply with the prevailing cultural expectation of retribution and the counsel of his commanders. This act of clemency is a testament to David's character, reflecting a deeper understanding of justice and reconciliation that aligns with God's own character of abundant mercy (cf. [Psalm 103:8](/psalms/103-8 "Psalm 103:8 - The Lord is Merciful")). Finally, the passage speaks to the challenges of **leadership and internal conflict**, illustrating David's struggle to manage powerful subordinates whose loyalty sometimes manifested as overzealousness or ruthlessness, threatening his broader vision for the kingdom.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Sons of Zeruiah (Hebrew, _b'nei Tseruyah'_):** This recurring phrase refers to David's nephews, Joab, Abishai, and Asahel. While Asahel was killed early in David's career, Joab and Abishai remained prominent and often controversial figures. They were fiercely loyal to David, serving as his chief military commanders, yet they frequently acted with an independent and ruthless streak, sometimes against David's explicit wishes (e.g., Joab's murder of Abner in [2 Samuel 3:27](/2_samuel/3-27 "2 Samuel 3:27 - Joab Kills Abner") and Absalom in [2 Samuel 18:14](/2_samuel/18-14 "2 Samuel 18:14 - Joab Kills Absalom")). Here, their counsel for immediate execution of Shimei epitomizes their pragmatic, often vengeful, approach to securing David's power, which David rejects in favor of a more magnanimous policy.
* **Adversaries (Hebrew, שָׂטָן, _satan'_):** While this word can refer to the demonic entity, in this context, it simply means "accusers," "opponents," or "hindrances." David is not implying that his nephews are demonic, but rather that their counsel to execute Shimei is contrary to his will and the spirit of the day he intends to establish. Their suggestion to shed blood on a day meant for reconciliation and the re-establishment of peace is seen as an opposition to David's royal prerogative and his divinely-appointed role as a unifying king.
* **King (Hebrew, מֶלֶךְ, _melech'_):** This term is central to David's assertion of authority. By proclaiming, "for do not I know that I [am] this day king over Israel?", David is not merely stating his status but asserting his absolute sovereignty and the prerogative to decide matters of life and death, especially on a day of national restoration. It emphasizes that the power to grant mercy or exact punishment rests solely with him, and his decision is final, overriding the impulsive and vengeful suggestions of his subordinates.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And David said, What have I to do with you, ye sons of Zeruiah":** This is a strong idiomatic expression of rebuke and dismissal, indicating David's profound disagreement and impatience with the counsel offered by Abishai (and implicitly, Joab, who shared similar tendencies). It signifies that their desires and actions are fundamentally contrary to David's will and the spirit he intends to embody on this significant day of his return. It sets a clear boundary, separating his royal purpose from their impulsive, bloodthirsty suggestions.
* **"that ye should this day be adversaries unto me?":** David here clarifies *why* their counsel is problematic. By advocating for Shimei's execution, they are acting as "adversaries" or "opponents" to David's vision for his restored reign. Their desire for retribution clashes directly with David's intention to inaugurate his renewed kingship with an act of grace and national unity. Their counsel, though perhaps well-intentioned from their perspective of loyalty, is perceived as a hindrance to David's higher purpose.
* **"shall there any man be put to death this day in Israel?":** This is a powerful rhetorical question, designed to elicit a resounding "no." David is unilaterally declaring a day of amnesty and clemency. On the day of his triumphant return and the re-establishment of his rule, he decrees that no one will be executed for past offenses related to the rebellion. This act of mercy is intended to foster healing, reconciliation, and stability, rather than prolonging the cycle of violence and retribution that characterized the civil war.
* **"for do not I know that I [am] this day king over Israel?":** This second rhetorical question serves as the ultimate justification for David's decision and a firm assertion of his supreme authority. It underscores that David is fully aware of his royal prerogative and the power that comes with it. As king, he has the ultimate say in matters of life and death, and he chooses to exercise that power not through vengeance, but through mercy. This statement firmly re-establishes his undisputed sovereignty and wisdom in leadership, contrasting with the impulsive and limited perspective of his commanders.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several potent literary devices to convey David's authority and the significance of his decision. The most prominent is the use of **Rhetorical Questions**: "shall there any man be put to death this day in Israel?" and "for do not I know that I [am] this day king over Israel?". These questions are not posed to seek information but to make emphatic statements, underscoring David's absolute authority and his deliberate choice for clemency. The first question establishes a policy of grace, while the second asserts the royal prerogative behind that policy. The phrase "What have I to do with you" functions as a strong **Idiom of Dismissal or Rebuke**, clearly communicating David's profound disagreement and impatience with his nephews' counsel. Furthermore, the verse highlights a stark **Contrast** between David's magnanimous, unifying vision for his reign and the ruthless, vengeful pragmatism of the sons of Zeruiah. This contrast emphasizes David's unique character as a king who, despite his own flaws, often sought to embody divine mercy. Finally, David's concluding statement is a powerful **Assertion** of his undisputed sovereignty, leaving no room for argument or further debate from his subordinates.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
David's declaration in 2 Samuel 19:22 is a profound theological statement about the nature of true leadership and the exercise of power. By choosing clemency over retribution on the day of his restoration, David mirrors the divine character of mercy and grace. This act reflects a king who understands that his authority, though earthly, is derived from God, and therefore should be exercised in a manner that seeks reconciliation and healing, rather than perpetuating cycles of violence. It foreshadows a kingdom built on righteousness and peace, rather than mere force. David's decision to forgive Shimei, despite the severe personal insult, elevates the principle of national unity and divine benevolence above personal grievance, demonstrating a maturity in leadership that recognizes the long-term spiritual and social health of the kingdom.

* [Exodus 34:6-7](/exodus/34-6 "Exodus 34:6-7 - The Lord, a God Merciful and Gracious")
* [Psalm 103:8-14](/psalms/103-8 "Psalm 103:8-14 - God's Compassion and Forgiveness")
* [Proverbs 16:6](/proverbs/16-6 "Proverbs 16:6 - By steadfast love and faithfulness iniquity is atoned for")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
David's decision in 2 Samuel 19:22 offers timeless lessons for believers today, particularly concerning leadership, forgiveness, and the exercise of influence. We are often faced with opportunities to respond to personal slights or opposition with retribution, mirroring the "sons of Zeruiah" in our desire for immediate, decisive justice. However, David's choice to declare a "day of no death" illustrates that true strength and wisdom in leadership, whether in a family, workplace, or community, often lie in the capacity for mercy and reconciliation. It challenges us to consider whether our actions contribute to healing and unity or perpetuate division and bitterness. Just as David understood that his re-established kingship called for a new spirit of grace, so too are we called to embody the spirit of forgiveness, especially when we are in a position of power or advantage. This passage encourages us to rise above personal grievances, to seek the greater good of reconciliation, and to remember that grace can be a more powerful force for transformation than punishment, fostering an environment where new beginnings can flourish.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life are you tempted to act like the "sons of Zeruiah," seeking retribution rather than reconciliation?**
* **How does David's assertion of his kingship inform your understanding of exercising authority or influence with grace?**
* **Can you recall a time when choosing mercy over vengeance led to a more positive outcome than you anticipated?**
* **What practical steps can you take to foster an environment of forgiveness and unity in your relationships or community?**

### FAQ

**Why did David refer to his nephews as "adversaries" when they were loyal to him?**

Answer: David used the term "adversaries" (Hebrew: *satan*, meaning "opponent" or "accuser") not to imply disloyalty in a general sense, but to express that their specific counsel on this day was contrary to his will and purpose. While Joab and Abishai were fiercely loyal and effective military commanders, their approach was often ruthless and pragmatic, prioritizing immediate retribution over David's broader vision of reconciliation and national unity. On the day of his restoration, David intended to establish a tone of mercy and healing. Their suggestion to execute Shimei was seen as an opposition to this specific royal prerogative and the spirit of clemency David wished to embody. Thus, in this particular instance, their counsel made them "adversaries" to David's desired course of action.

**What is the significance of David saying, "shall there any man be put to death this day in Israel?"**

Answer: This rhetorical question signifies David's declaration of a general amnesty or clemency. Upon his return and the re-establishment of his kingship, David chose to inaugurate his reign with an act of grace rather than vengeance. In ancient Near Eastern cultures, it was common for kings to mark significant events like coronations or restorations with acts of mercy, freeing prisoners or pardoning offenses. David's declaration serves to heal the deep wounds of the civil war and unify the nation under his rule. It signals a new beginning, where past grievances related to the rebellion would not be met with capital punishment, thereby fostering stability and preventing further bloodshed among his people. It underscores his desire for peace and reconciliation over punitive justice.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
David's act of clemency in 2 Samuel 19:22, where he asserts his kingship by choosing mercy over vengeance, profoundly foreshadows the ultimate merciful King, Jesus Christ. David, though a flawed earthly monarch, here demonstrates a glimpse of divine kingship, choosing to establish his reign not through the execution of enemies but through an act of grace and reconciliation. This mirrors the very essence of Christ's kingdom. While earthly kings often consolidate power through force and retribution, Jesus, the true King of Israel and the world, established His reign through self-sacrificial love and forgiveness. He did not come to condemn the world but to save it ([John 3:17](/john/3-17 "John 3:17 - God Did Not Send His Son to Condemn the World")). On the cross, the ultimate act of reconciliation, He prayed for His persecutors, "Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do" ([Luke 23:34](/luke/23-34 "Luke 23:34 - Jesus Prays for His Persecutors")). Unlike the "sons of Zeruiah" who sought to punish, Jesus, by His divine authority, offers forgiveness and new life to all who repent, declaring a "day of salvation" that extends eternally ([2 Corinthians 6:2](/2_corinthians/6-2 "2 Corinthians 6:2 - The Day of Salvation")). His kingship is not marked by the death of His adversaries but by His own death to conquer sin and death, offering reconciliation to all who were once His enemies through their sin ([Romans 5:10](/romans/5-10 "Romans 5:10 - Reconciled to God Through Christ's Death")). David's decision was an earthly shadow of the heavenly reality, where the King of kings rules with perfect justice tempered by infinite mercy, ushering in an eternal kingdom of peace and grace.

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 Samuel 11:13

And Saul said, There shall not a man be put to death this day: for to day the LORD hath wrought salvation in Israel.

2 Samuel 16:10

And the king said, What have I to do with you, ye sons of Zeruiah? so let him curse, because the LORD hath said unto him, Curse David. Who shall then say, Wherefore hast thou done so?

2 Samuel 3:39

And I [am] this day weak, though anointed king; and these men the sons of Zeruiah [be] too hard for me: the LORD shall reward the doer of evil according to his wickedness.

Luke 9:54

And when his disciples James and John saw [this], they said, Lord, wilt thou that we command fire to come down from heaven, and consume them, even as Elias did?

Luke 9:56

For the Son of man is not come to destroy men's lives, but to save [them]. And they went to another village.

Isaiah 16:5

And in mercy shall the throne be established: and he shall sit upon it in truth in the tabernacle of David, judging, and seeking judgment, and hasting righteousness.

Matthew 8:29

And, behold, they cried out, saying, What have we to do with thee, Jesus, thou Son of God? art thou come hither to torment us before the time?