Topical Encyclopedia Lameness, a physical condition characterized by an inability to walk properly due to injury or disability, is mentioned in various contexts throughout the Bible. In the narrative of King David, lameness takes on a particular significance, especially in the account of his conquest of Jerusalem.The primary biblical reference to David's attitude towards lameness is found in 2 Samuel 5:6-8. When David and his men approached Jerusalem to capture it from the Jebusites, the inhabitants taunted him, saying, "You will not get in here; even the blind and the lame can ward you off." This taunt implied that David's forces were so weak that even those with disabilities could defend the city against them. In response, David's men captured the stronghold of Zion, which became the City of David. The passage continues with a statement that has been subject to various interpretations: "On that day David had said, 'Anyone who conquers the Jebusites must use the water shaft to reach those 'lame and blind' who are David’s enemies.' That is why they say, 'The blind and the lame will not enter the palace.'" (2 Samuel 5:8). This verse has been understood to reflect David's disdain for the Jebusites' taunt, rather than a literal hatred for individuals with disabilities. From a theological perspective, David's reaction can be seen as a response to the mockery and defiance of the Jebusites, rather than an expression of animosity towards the physically disabled. The phrase "the blind and the lame will not enter the palace" became a proverbial saying, possibly indicating that those who opposed David's rule, symbolized by the "blind and lame," would not have a place in his kingdom. It is important to note that David's actions elsewhere in Scripture demonstrate compassion and justice, including his treatment of Mephibosheth, the son of Jonathan, who was lame in both feet. David showed kindness to Mephibosheth for the sake of his covenant with Jonathan, restoring to him the land of Saul and allowing him to eat at the king's table (2 Samuel 9:1-13). In summary, while the account in 2 Samuel 5:6-8 highlights a moment where lameness is mentioned in a negative context, it is crucial to interpret this within the broader narrative of David's life and reign. The episode reflects the cultural and military dynamics of the time, rather than a personal vendetta against those with physical disabilities. Nave's Topical Index 2 Samuel 5:8And David said on that day, Whoever gets up to the gutter, and smites the Jebusites, and the lame and the blind that are hated of David's soul, he shall be chief and captain. Why they said, The blind and the lame shall not come into the house. Nave's Topical Index Library Meditations of the Blessed State of the Regenerate Man after Death ... The Wisdom of God On his Father'S Silence, Because of the Plague of Hail. The True Christian's Blessedness Come and Welcome to Jesus Christ; Resources What was in the shadow of Peter that healed people (Acts 5:15-16)? | GotQuestions.orgLameness: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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