2 Samuel 11:6

At this, David sent orders to Joab: "Send me Uriah the Hittite." So Joab sent him to David.

Study Bible

At this
This phrase indicates a pivotal moment in the narrative. The context is crucial here, as it follows David's sin with Bathsheba. The Hebrew root for "this" (זֶה, zeh) often points to a specific event or situation. In this case, it refers to the news of Bathsheba's pregnancy, which sets the stage for David's subsequent actions. This moment marks the beginning of a series of decisions that lead David further away from God's commandments, highlighting the consequences of sin and the importance of repentance.

David sent orders
The Hebrew word for "sent" (שָׁלַח, shalach) is frequently used in the Old Testament to denote the act of dispatching or commissioning. Here, it underscores David's authority as king but also his attempt to control the situation through human means rather than seeking divine guidance. This action reflects a turning point where David, a man after God's own heart, begins to rely on his own understanding, reminding us of the dangers of pride and self-reliance.

to Joab
Joab, the commander of David's army, is a significant figure in David's reign. His name in Hebrew (יוֹאָב, Yoav) means "Yahweh is father," yet his actions often contrast with this meaning. Joab's involvement in David's plan illustrates the complexity of human relationships and the moral dilemmas faced by those in power. Historically, Joab's loyalty to David is unquestionable, but his methods are often ruthless, serving as a cautionary tale about the ethical challenges of leadership.

Send me Uriah the Hittite
Uriah's designation as "the Hittite" (חוּרִי, Chitti) is significant, as it highlights his status as a foreigner and a convert to the faith of Israel. Despite his non-Israelite origin, Uriah's loyalty and integrity stand in stark contrast to David's actions. The Hittites were an ancient people known for their military prowess, and Uriah's inclusion in David's elite warriors (the "mighty men") speaks to his valor and dedication. This phrase foreshadows the tragic irony of Uriah's fate, as his righteousness inadvertently exposes David's sin.

So Joab sent him to David
This phrase completes the immediate action initiated by David. Joab's compliance with David's order reflects the hierarchical nature of ancient Near Eastern societies, where the king's word was law. The Hebrew verb for "sent" (שָׁלַח, shalach) is repeated, emphasizing the chain of command and the unfolding of David's plan. This moment serves as a reminder of the far-reaching impact of sin, as it involves others in its consequences and sets in motion events that lead to further moral decline.

Persons / Places / Events

1. David
The King of Israel, who is central to this account. At this point in the account, David is orchestrating a plan to cover up his sin with Bathsheba.

2. Joab
The commander of David's army. He is a key figure in executing David's orders, demonstrating his loyalty to the king, albeit in a morally complex situation.

3. Uriah the Hittite
A valiant warrior in David's army and the husband of Bathsheba. His integrity and loyalty contrast sharply with David's actions.

4. Jerusalem
The city where David resides and from where he sends for Uriah. It serves as the backdrop for the unfolding drama of David's sin and its consequences.

5. The War
The ongoing battle against the Ammonites, which Uriah is called back from. This war serves as the context for the events, highlighting the contrast between the battlefield and David's actions at home.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Sin
David's attempt to cover his sin with Bathsheba leads to further sin. This illustrates how sin can compound and lead to greater consequences.

Integrity vs. Deception
Uriah's integrity stands in stark contrast to David's deception. This challenges us to consider our own integrity in difficult situations.

The Role of Leadership
David's actions remind us of the responsibility leaders have to act righteously, as their actions can have widespread effects.

Repentance and Forgiveness
While David's actions were grievous, his later repentance (as seen in Psalm 51) shows the possibility of forgiveness and restoration with God.

God's Sovereignty and Justice
Despite human failings, God's justice prevails, as seen in the eventual exposure of David's sin and the consequences that follow.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does David's decision to send for Uriah reflect his state of mind and spiritual condition at this point in the account?

2. In what ways does Uriah's character challenge us to live with integrity, even when others around us may not?

3. How can we apply the lessons of leadership and responsibility from David's actions to our own roles, whether in family, work, or community?

4. Reflect on a time when you tried to cover up a mistake. What were the consequences, and how does this account encourage you to handle such situations differently?

5. How does the account of David and Uriah connect with Jesus' teachings on the heart and sin in the New Testament, and what practical steps can we take to guard our hearts?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Samuel 12
The subsequent chapter where Nathan confronts David, revealing the consequences of his actions and God's judgment.

Psalm 51
David's psalm of repentance, traditionally understood to be written after Nathan's confrontation, showing David's remorse and plea for forgiveness.

Matthew 5:27-28
Jesus' teaching on adultery, which underscores the seriousness of David's sin and the heart's role in sin.

James 1:14-15
This passage describes the process of temptation leading to sin, which parallels David's actions in this account.