2 Samuel 18:12
Arabic KEH Ketab El Hayat (كتاب الحياة)
فَأَجَابَ الرَّجُلُ: «وَلَوْ أَعْطَيْتَنِي أَلْفاً مِنَ الْفِضَّةِ لَمَا كُنْتُ أَمُدُّ يَدِي إِلَى ابْنِ الْمَلِكِ، لأَنَّ الْمِلَكَ أَوْصَاكَ عَلَى مَسْمَعٍ مِنَّا أَنْتَ وَأَبِيشَايَ وَإِتَّايَ قَائِلاً: لِيَحْرِصْ كُلُّ وَاحِدٍ مِنْكُمْ عَلَى حَيَاةِ أَبْشَالُومَ،
What Does This Mean?
A man tells Joab that he won't hurt Absalom, even for a large sum of money, because the king had specifically ordered Joab, Abishai, and Ittai not to touch the young man Absalom.
Explained for Children
Imagine if your dad told you and your friends not to hurt your brother, even if someone offered you a lot of candy. That's what this man is saying about Absalom. He's saying he won't hurt the king's son, Absalom, even if he was offered a lot of money, because the king said not to.
Historical Background
The book of 2 Samuel was written by the prophet Samuel, Nathan, and Gad during the time of King David. This verse is part of a narrative describing the conflict between King David and his son Absalom, reflecting the cultural and political tensions of the time.
Living It Out Today
In a modern context, this verse can be applied to a scenario where a person is faced with a temptation for financial gain that conflicts with a moral or ethical directive. For instance, an employee might be offered a bribe to betray their employer, but chooses to remain loyal because of a strong sense of duty or a previous directive.
Topics
loyaltyobediencemoralitykingdomconflict resolutionethics
Related Verses
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did the man refuse the bribe?
The man refused the bribe because he was loyal and obedient to the king's command not to touch Absalom, showing his commitment to following orders, even under pressure.
What does this verse teach about loyalty?
This verse illustrates the strength of loyalty, where a man values his loyalty to the king over a large sum of money, demonstrating that true loyalty can withstand temptation.
How does this verse apply to modern life?
In modern life, this verse can remind people of the importance of sticking to moral and ethical guidelines, even when there are significant personal benefits at stake.
What is the cultural significance of a thousand shekels?
A thousand shekels was a substantial amount of money in ancient times, signifying great wealth or a significant bribe. This amount emphasizes the man's strong sense of duty by refusing such a large sum.