Topical Encyclopedia Uriah the Hittite is a notable figure in the Old Testament, particularly in the narrative of King David's reign. His account is primarily found in 2 Samuel 11, where he is depicted as a man of remarkable integrity and self-discipline, qualities that align with the virtue of continence.Uriah was one of David's "mighty men," a group of elite warriors who were renowned for their bravery and loyalty (2 Samuel 23:39). Despite being a Hittite, Uriah had integrated into Israelite society and was committed to the service of the God of Israel and King David. His marriage to Bathsheba, a woman of great beauty, is central to the events that unfold in 2 Samuel 11. The narrative begins with King David remaining in Jerusalem while his army, under the command of Joab, besieges the Ammonite city of Rabbah. During this time, David sees Bathsheba bathing and, captivated by her beauty, summons her to the palace, leading to an adulterous encounter (2 Samuel 11:2-4). When Bathsheba later informs David that she is pregnant, David attempts to cover up the sin by recalling Uriah from the battlefield. David's plan is to have Uriah spend time with Bathsheba, so that the child might be presumed to be Uriah's. However, Uriah's sense of duty and continence prevents him from enjoying the comforts of home while his fellow soldiers are encamped in the open fields. Uriah states, "The ark and Israel and Judah dwell in tents, and my master Joab and the servants of my lord are camped in the open field. How could I go to my house to eat and drink and lie with my wife? As surely as you live and as your soul lives, I will not do such a thing!" (2 Samuel 11:11). This response highlights Uriah's steadfast commitment to his responsibilities and his refusal to indulge in personal pleasures while others are in battle. David's subsequent attempts to persuade Uriah to return home, including making him drunk, fail due to Uriah's unwavering discipline (2 Samuel 11:12-13). Ultimately, David resorts to a more sinister plan, instructing Joab to place Uriah at the forefront of the fiercest battle and then withdraw, ensuring Uriah's death (2 Samuel 11:14-15). Uriah's death is a tragic consequence of David's sin, and it serves as a catalyst for the prophet Nathan's rebuke and the subsequent turmoil in David's household. Uriah's account is a poignant example of continence, as he exemplifies self-control and fidelity to duty even in the face of personal sacrifice. His actions stand in stark contrast to David's moral failings at that moment, highlighting the virtues of integrity and discipline. Uriah's legacy is preserved in the biblical narrative as a testament to the strength of character and the importance of upholding one's commitments, regardless of the circumstances. Nave's Topical Index 2 Samuel 11:8-13And David said to Uriah, Go down to your house, and wash your feet. And Uriah departed out of the king's house, and there followed him a mess of meat from the king. Nave's Topical Index Library Letter Xlii. To Chilo, his Disciple. Index of Subjects. Letter cxxii. To Rusticus. Against Jovinianus. Resources Continence: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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