2 Samuel 20:19

I am among the peaceable and faithful in Israel, but you are trying to destroy a city that is a mother in Israel. Why would you swallow up the LORD's inheritance?"

Study Bible

I am among the peaceable and faithful in Israel
This phrase is spoken by a wise woman from the city of Abel Beth Maacah. The term "peaceable" suggests a community that values harmony and seeks to avoid conflict, aligning with the biblical ideal of living in peace with others (Romans 12:18). "Faithful" indicates loyalty to God and His covenant, reflecting the importance of faithfulness in the life of Israel (Deuteronomy 7:9). The speaker identifies herself as part of a community that upholds these values, emphasizing the city's reputation for wisdom and counsel (2 Samuel 20:18).

but you are trying to destroy a city that is a mother in Israel
The city is described as "a mother in Israel," indicating its significance and possibly its role as a center of wisdom and counsel. This metaphor suggests nurturing and foundational qualities, similar to how Jerusalem is later described as a mother (Galatians 4:26). The destruction of such a city would be a significant loss to the nation, highlighting the gravity of Joab's actions. Historically, cities like Abel Beth Maacah were vital for their strategic locations and contributions to the cultural and spiritual life of Israel.

Why would you swallow up the LORD’s inheritance?”
The phrase "the LORD’s inheritance" refers to the people of Israel, whom God has chosen as His own (Deuteronomy 9:29). The rhetorical question challenges Joab's actions, implying that attacking the city would be an offense against God Himself. This reflects the biblical principle that God's people are His treasured possession (Exodus 19:5). The use of "swallow up" conveys a sense of complete destruction, warning against actions that would harm what God has established. This echoes the broader biblical theme of God's protection over His people and the land He has given them.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Wise Woman of Abel
A key figure in this passage, she is a wise and influential woman from the city of Abel Beth Maacah. She intervenes to prevent the destruction of her city by negotiating with Joab.

2. Joab
The commander of King David's army, tasked with quelling the rebellion led by Sheba. He is known for his military prowess and sometimes ruthless tactics.

3. Abel Beth Maacah
A city in northern Israel, described as a "mother in Israel," indicating its importance and possibly its role as a center of wisdom and counsel.

4. Sheba son of Bichri
A Benjamite who led a rebellion against King David, seeking to divide the kingdom. His rebellion is the reason for Joab's siege of Abel Beth Maacah.

5. The LORD’s Inheritance
Refers to the people of Israel, whom God has chosen as His own. The term underscores the sacredness of the nation and its cities.

Teaching Points

The Power of Wisdom and Peacemaking
The wise woman of Abel demonstrates the profound impact of wisdom and diplomacy. Her actions remind us that God values peacemakers and those who seek to resolve conflicts through understanding and negotiation.

The Importance of Community and Heritage
The reference to the city as a "mother in Israel" highlights the importance of community and heritage. We are called to protect and cherish the spiritual and communal legacies entrusted to us.

God’s Inheritance and Our Responsibility
The phrase "the LORD’s inheritance" reminds us of our responsibility to care for and preserve what God has given us, whether it be our families, communities, or spiritual gifts.

The Role of Women in God’s Plan
This passage, like others in the Bible, underscores the significant role women play in God’s plan. It challenges us to recognize and value the contributions of women in our faith communities.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the wise woman's approach to conflict resolution in 2 Samuel 20:19 inspire you to handle disputes in your own life?

2. In what ways can we, like the wise woman, act as peacemakers in our communities today?

3. Reflect on a time when you witnessed or experienced the power of wisdom in resolving a difficult situation. How did it impact the outcome?

4. How can we ensure that we are protecting and valuing the "inheritance" God has given us, both spiritually and communally?

5. What lessons can we learn from the roles of women like the wise woman of Abel and Abigail in the Bible, and how can we apply these lessons in our church and community life?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Proverbs 14:1
This verse speaks of the wisdom of a woman in building her house, which parallels the wise woman's actions in preserving her city.

Matthew 5:9
Jesus' teaching on peacemakers being blessed connects to the wise woman's role as a peacemaker, seeking to resolve conflict without bloodshed.

1 Samuel 25
The account of Abigail, another wise woman who intervenes to prevent bloodshed, showing a pattern of God using women to bring peace.