2 Samuel 15:36

Behold, [they have] there with them their two sons, Ahimaaz Zadok's [son], and Jonathan Abiathar's [son]; and by them ye shall send unto me every thing that ye can hear.

Behold, they have there with them their two {H8147} sons {H1121}, Ahimaaz {H290} Zadok's {H6659} son, and Jonathan {H3083} Abiathar's {H54} son; and by them {H3027} ye shall send {H7971} unto me every thing {H1697} that ye can hear {H8085}.

Their two sons, Achima'atz the son of Tzadok and Y'honatan the son of Evyatar, are there with them; through them send me everything you hear."

Indeed, their two sons, Ahimaaz son of Zadok and Jonathan son of Abiathar, are there with them. Send them to me with everything you hear.”

Behold, they have there with them their two sons, Ahimaaz, Zadok’s son, and Jonathan, Abiathar’s son; and by them ye shall send unto me everything that ye shall hear.

Commentary

2 Samuel 15:36 is a pivotal verse in the narrative of King David's flight from Absalom, highlighting David's strategic foresight and reliance on loyal allies during a time of intense personal and national crisis.

Context of 2 Samuel 15:36

This verse is set against the backdrop of Absalom's cunning rebellion against his father, King David. David has been forced to flee Jerusalem, a deeply humiliating and dangerous situation. As he leaves the city, he encounters his loyal priests, Zadok and Abiathar, who initially accompany him with the Ark of the Covenant. However, David instructs them to return to Jerusalem, not only to protect the Ark but also to serve as his eyes and ears within the capital (2 Samuel 15:27-29). Immediately preceding this verse, David has also sent Hushai the Archite, his trusted friend, back to Jerusalem to feign loyalty to Absalom and subtly undermine Absalom's counsel. Verse 36 specifically outlines the critical communication channel David establishes: the sons of the priests, Ahimaaz and Jonathan, will act as messengers, carrying vital intelligence from Jerusalem to David.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Strategic Intelligence: David demonstrates remarkable leadership and strategic thinking even in adversity. He doesn't merely flee; he actively sets up an intelligence network to gather information on Absalom's plans. This highlights the importance of knowledge and preparation in overcoming challenges.
  • Loyalty and Trust: The verse underscores the deep trust David places in Zadok, Abiathar, and their sons. In a time when many were abandoning him for Absalom, these individuals remained steadfast, forming the backbone of David's counter-strategy. Such loyalty is invaluable during times of crisis.
  • The Power of Communication: Effective and reliable communication is portrayed as essential for survival and strategic advantage. The plan to use Ahimaaz and Jonathan as discreet messengers emphasizes the need for secure and timely information flow. Indeed, these messengers play a crucial role later in relaying Absalom's counsel, which ultimately saves David's life.

Practical Application

The account in 2 Samuel 15:36 offers timeless lessons relevant to modern life:

  • Value Reliable Relationships: Just as David relied on trusted individuals, we too benefit from cultivating strong, loyal relationships. These networks of trust become invaluable resources during personal or professional challenges.
  • Proactive Planning in Adversity: David didn't succumb to despair; he proactively sought solutions and created a strategic plan. This encourages us to think ahead and strategize even when facing difficult circumstances, rather than simply reacting.
  • Importance of Information: In any endeavor, having accurate and timely information is crucial. This verse reminds us to seek understanding and gather necessary facts before making critical decisions, echoing biblical wisdom found in verses like Proverbs 11:14, which states, "Where no counsel is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counsellors there is safety."
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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • 2 Samuel 17:17 (5 votes)

    Now Jonathan and Ahimaaz stayed by Enrogel; for they might not be seen to come into the city: and a wench went and told them; and they went and told king David.

  • 2 Samuel 15:27 (4 votes)

    The king said also unto Zadok the priest, [Art not] thou a seer? return into the city in peace, and your two sons with you, Ahimaaz thy son, and Jonathan the son of Abiathar.

  • 2 Samuel 18:19 (2 votes)

    ¶ Then said Ahimaaz the son of Zadok, Let me now run, and bear the king tidings, how that the LORD hath avenged him of his enemies.

  • 2 Samuel 18:33 (2 votes)

    And the king was much moved, and went up to the chamber over the gate, and wept: and as he went, thus he said, O my son Absalom, my son, my son Absalom! would God I had died for thee, O Absalom, my son, my son!