Topical Encyclopedia Name Meaning: The name "Uriah" is of Hebrew origin, meaning "Yahweh is my light" or "flame of Yahweh."Biblical References: Uriah the Hittite is a notable figure in the Old Testament, primarily mentioned in the context of King David's reign. His account is found in 2 Samuel 11 and 12. Historical Context: Uriah was one of King 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 was fully integrated into Israelite society and served in the army of Israel, demonstrating the inclusivity of David's reign and the integration of foreign individuals who worshiped Yahweh. Narrative Account: Uriah's most significant biblical narrative involves his marriage to Bathsheba and the subsequent events that led to his death. While Uriah was away fighting the Ammonites, King David saw Bathsheba bathing and desired her. David summoned her, and she became pregnant (2 Samuel 11:2-5). In an attempt to conceal his sin, David called Uriah back from the battlefield, hoping he would sleep with Bathsheba and thus provide a cover for the pregnancy. However, Uriah, demonstrating his loyalty and integrity, refused to enjoy the comforts of home while his fellow soldiers were encamped in the open field. He said to David, "The ark and Israel and Judah dwell in tents, and my master Joab and the servants of my lord are camping 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). David's subsequent attempts to persuade Uriah to go home failed, leading the king to orchestrate Uriah's death. David sent a letter to Joab, the commander of the army, instructing him to place Uriah at the front of the fiercest battle and then withdraw from him so that he would be struck down and killed (2 Samuel 11:14-15). Joab followed these instructions, and Uriah was killed in battle (2 Samuel 11:16-17). Moral and Theological Implications: Uriah's account is a poignant example of loyalty, integrity, and the tragic consequences of sin. His unwavering commitment to his duties and his fellow soldiers stands in stark contrast to David's moral failure. The narrative highlights the gravity of sin and its ripple effects, impacting not only the sinner but also the innocent. The prophet Nathan later confronted David about his sin, using a parable to reveal the king's wrongdoing. David's actions displeased the Lord, and Nathan declared that the sword would never depart from David's house as a consequence of his sin (2 Samuel 12:7-10). Despite David's repentance, the child born to Bathsheba died, fulfilling Nathan's prophecy (2 Samuel 12:14-18). Legacy: Uriah's legacy is preserved in the biblical text as a testament to his character and as a somber reminder of the destructive power of sin. His inclusion among David's mighty men underscores his valor and the respect he commanded among his peers. Uriah's account serves as a moral lesson on the importance of integrity and the severe consequences of moral failings, even among those chosen by God for leadership. Concordance Uri'ah's (1 Occurrence)2 Samuel 12:15 Thesaurus Uri'ah's (1 Occurrence)Uri'ah's. Uriah's, Uri'ah's. Urias . Multi-Version Concordance Uri'ah's (1 Occurrence). 2 Samuel 12:15 And Nathan departed unto his house. ... /u/uri'ah's.htm - 6k Uriah's (2 Occurrences) Urias (1 Occurrence) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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