Then the man's wife took a covering and spread it over the mouth of the well, scattering grain over it so nobody would know a thing. Then the man’s wife took a covering,In the context of 2 Samuel 17, this phrase highlights the quick thinking and resourcefulness of the woman involved. Women in biblical narratives often play crucial roles in God's plans, as seen with figures like Rahab and Jael. The use of a covering suggests a common household item, indicating the woman's ability to use available resources to protect David's messengers. 1Sa 19:13-14 Then Michal took a household idol and laid it in the bed… spread it over the mouth of the well, Wells were vital in ancient Israel for water supply and often served as community gathering places. Covering the well's mouth was a strategic move to conceal the messengers hiding inside. This action reflects the cultural importance of hospitality and protection of guests, a recurring theme in the Old Testament. Gen 29:2-3 He looked and saw a well in the field, and near it… and scattered grain over it Scattering grain was a clever tactic to disguise the well's true purpose. Grain was a staple in the diet of ancient Israelites, and its presence would not arouse suspicion. This act of deception parallels other biblical instances where God’s people use cunning to achieve His purposes, such as when David feigned madness before Achish. Rut 3:2-4 Now is not Boaz, with whose servant girls… so nobody would know a thing. This phrase underscores the secrecy and urgency of the situation. The need for discretion was paramount to protect the lives of David's allies and ensure the success of his mission. It reflects the broader biblical theme of God’s providence and protection over His chosen leaders, as seen in the preservation of Moses and the hiding of the spies in Jericho. Jos 2:4-6 But the woman had taken the two men and hidden them.… Persons / Places / Events 1. The WomanAn unnamed woman who plays a crucial role in protecting David's messengers. Her quick thinking and bravery are pivotal in the unfolding events. 2. The Well A physical location used as a hiding place for David's messengers. It symbolizes refuge and protection in a time of danger. 3. David's Messengers Jonathan and Ahimaaz, who were tasked with delivering critical information to King David. Their mission was vital for David's safety and strategy. 4. Absalom's Rebellion The broader context of this event is Absalom's rebellion against his father, King David. This rebellion creates a backdrop of tension and urgency. 5. Hushai's Counsel The strategic advice given by Hushai, David's friend, which is part of the larger account of espionage and counter-espionage during Absalom's rebellion. Teaching Points Courage in CrisisThe woman's actions demonstrate the importance of courage and quick thinking in times of crisis. Her bravery serves as an example for believers to act decisively when faced with challenges. God's Providential Protection The use of the well as a hiding place illustrates God's providence in providing protection and refuge. Believers can trust in God's provision and protection in their own lives. The Role of the Unnamed Often, significant contributions come from those who remain unnamed or unnoticed. This encourages believers to value every role within the body of Christ, recognizing that God uses all for His purposes. Wisdom and Resourcefulness The woman's resourcefulness in using a covering and grain to conceal the well teaches the value of wisdom and creativity in problem-solving. Bible Study Questions 1. How does the woman's action in 2 Samuel 17:19 reflect the theme of divine protection found throughout Scripture?2. In what ways can we see the providence of God in our own lives, similar to how the well served as a refuge for David's messengers? 3. Compare the actions of the woman in this passage with Rahab in Joshua 2. What similarities and differences can you find, and what do they teach us about faith and courage? 4. How can we apply the lesson of valuing the contributions of the "unnamed" or less visible members of our community or church? 5. Reflect on a time when you had to act quickly and wisely in a difficult situation. How can the example of the woman in 2 Samuel 17:19 inspire you to trust in God's guidance and provision? Connections to Other Scriptures Joshua 2The account of Rahab hiding the spies sent by Joshua. Both accounts involve women who use their resourcefulness to protect God's people, highlighting themes of courage and divine providence. Psalm 91 This psalm speaks of God's protection and refuge, which can be seen in the way the well serves as a hiding place for the messengers. Proverbs 31:10-31 The description of a virtuous woman, which can be related to the unnamed woman's actions in protecting the messengers, demonstrating wisdom and strength.
People Abiathar, Abigail, Absalom, Ahimaaz, Ahithophel, Amasa, Ammiel, Ammonites, Arkite, Barzillai, Dan, David, Hushai, Ithra, Jesse, Jether, Joab, Jonathan, Machir, Nahash, Shobi, Zadok, ZeruiahPlaces Bahurim, Beersheba, Dan, En-rogel, Gilead, Jerusalem, Jordan River, Lo-debar, Mahanaim, Rabbah, RogelimTopics Anything, Bruised, Corn, Cover, Covering, Crushed, Face, Grain, Groats, Ground, Hole, Mouth, Nothing, Opening, Scattered, Spread, Spreadeth, Strewed, Taketh, Thereon, Well'sDictionary of Bible Themes 2 Samuel 17:19Library "The King Kissed Barzillai. " 2 Sam. xix. 39And no wonder, for David could appreciate a real man when he saw him, and so does David's Lord. I.--LOYALTY IS PRECIOUS TO THE KING OF KINGS. In the days when the son of Jesse had but few friends, it was a precious thing to be treated in the style Barzillai and his neighbours entertained him (see 2 Sam. xvii. 27-29). They were rich farmers, and had land which brought forth with abundance, so were able to act with princely hospitality to the fugitive monarch. But plenty may live with avarice, and … Thomas Champness—Broken Bread The Nations of the South-East Barzillai Continued. David and Jonathan's Son Mr. John Bunyan's Dying Sayings. Letter xxxvi (Circa A. D. 1131) to the Same Hildebert, who had not yet Acknowledged the Lord Innocent as Pope. King of Kings and Lord of Lords Tiglath-Pileser iii. And the Organisation of the Assyrian Empire from 745 to 722 B. C. Samuel Links 2 Samuel 17:19 NIV2 Samuel 17:19 NLT 2 Samuel 17:19 ESV 2 Samuel 17:19 NASB 2 Samuel 17:19 KJV 2 Samuel 17:19 Commentaries Bible Hub |
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