The term "bastard" in biblical context refers to a child born out of wedlock. In the narrative of King David and Bath-Sheba, this term is often associated with the first child born to them, a child conceived in an adulterous relationship. This account is found in the Second Book of Samuel, chapters 11 and 12.

Background and Context

King David, the second king of Israel, is described as a man after God's own heart (1 Samuel 13:14). However, his reign was not without sin and moral failure. The incident with Bath-Sheba marks a significant turning point in David's life and reign. Bath-Sheba was the wife of Uriah the Hittite, one of David's mighty warriors. While Uriah was away at battle, David saw Bath-Sheba bathing and was overcome with desire for her. He summoned her to the palace, and she became pregnant as a result of their encounter (2 Samuel 11:2-5).

The Child's Birth and Death

Upon learning of Bath-Sheba's pregnancy, David attempted to cover up the sin by recalling Uriah from the battlefield, hoping he would sleep with his wife and believe the child to be his own. However, Uriah, in loyalty to his fellow soldiers, refused to enjoy the comforts of home while they were at war. David then orchestrated Uriah's death by placing him in the front lines of battle, where he was killed (2 Samuel 11:6-17).

After Uriah's death, David took Bath-Sheba as his wife, and she bore him a son. However, the Lord was displeased with David's actions. The prophet Nathan confronted David, delivering a parable that revealed David's sin and pronounced God's judgment upon him. Nathan declared that the sword would never depart from David's house and that the child born to him and Bath-Sheba would die (2 Samuel 12:1-14).

The Child's Illness and Death

The child became ill shortly after birth, and David pleaded with God for the child's life. He fasted, prayed, and lay on the ground all night. Despite David's earnest prayers and repentance, the child died on the seventh day (2 Samuel 12:15-18). David's response to the child's death was one of acceptance; he washed, anointed himself, changed his clothes, and worshiped the Lord. When questioned by his servants, David explained, "While the child was alive, I fasted and wept, for I said, ‘Who knows? The LORD may be gracious to me and let the child live.’ But now that he is dead, why should I fast? Can I bring him back again? I will go to him, but he will not return to me" (2 Samuel 12:22-23).

Theological Implications

The account of David and Bath-Sheba's child serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of sin, even for those who are chosen and beloved by God. It underscores the seriousness with which God views sin, particularly sins of adultery and murder. The death of the child, though tragic, is a part of the divine judgment pronounced upon David's house. Yet, it also highlights God's mercy and forgiveness, as David's sincere repentance led to his restoration and the eventual birth of Solomon, who would succeed David as king and build the temple in Jerusalem (2 Samuel 12:24-25).

This narrative is a powerful testament to the complexities of human nature, the gravity of sin, and the boundless grace of God, who remains faithful to His covenant promises despite human failure.2 Samuel 11:2-5
And it came to pass in an evening, that David arose from off his bed, and walked on the roof of the king's house: and from the roof he saw a woman washing herself; and the woman was very beautiful to look on.
Nave's Topical Index

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Bastard: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com

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