2 Samuel 15:7

Arabic 2018 (الترجمة الكاثوليكيّة (اليسوعيّة))

وكانَ بَعدَ أَربعِ سَنَواتٍ أَنَّ أَبْشالومَ قالَ لِلمَلِك: «دَعْني أَمْضي فأَفي نَذْريَ الَّذي نَذَرتُه لِلرَّبِّ في حَبْرون،

What Does This Mean?

This verse from 2 Samuel tells us that after 40 years, Absalom asks King David to let him go to Hebron to fulfill a vow he made to the LORD. It highlights Absalom's request and his intention to honor his religious commitment.

Explained for Children

Imagine you promised to do something for someone special after waiting a really long time. Absalom is like that, he waited 40 years and now he's asking his dad, King David, if he can go to a special place called Hebron to keep a promise he made to God.

Historical Background

The Book of 2 Samuel was likely written by various authors, including prophets like Nathan and Gad, and possibly Jeremiah. It was written during or shortly after King David's reign, around the 10th century BCE. This verse describes events from a time when the kingdom of Israel was unified under David's rule, and it reflects the cultural practice of making and fulfilling vows to God.

Living It Out Today

Today, this verse reminds us of the importance of keeping our promises and fulfilling our commitments, even if it takes a long time. For instance, if you promised to help a friend move after a big project at work, remember to keep that promise once the time is right.

Topics

• promise
• commitment
• vow
• faithfulness
• kingdom of Israel
• David and his sons

Related Verses

• Genesis 28:20-22
• 1 Samuel 1:11
• Psalm 50:14
• Matthew 5:33-37
• James 5:12

Frequently Asked Questions

What vow did Absalom make?

The exact details of Absalom's vow are not specified in this verse, but it is clear that he made a vow to the LORD that he intended to fulfill in Hebron.

Why is Hebron significant in this verse?

Hebron was a significant city in ancient Israel, often associated with important religious and historical events. Absalom chose to fulfill his vow there, likely because of its spiritual significance.

How does this verse show Absalom's character?

This verse shows Absalom as someone who respects his commitments and is willing to wait a long time to fulfill them, suggesting a sense of duty and faithfulness.

What can we learn about David from this verse?

While not explicitly described, this verse implies that David allowed Absalom to fulfill his vow, indicating a level of trust and respect for his son's spiritual commitments.