King James Version
What Does 2 Samuel 12:23 Mean?
“But now he is dead, wherefore should I fast? can I bring him back again? I shall go to him, but he shall not return to me.”
Context
21
Then said his servants unto him, What thing is this that thou hast done? thou didst fast and weep for the child, while it was alive; but when the child was dead, thou didst rise and eat bread.
22
And he said, While the child was yet alive, I fasted and wept: for I said, Who can tell whether GOD will be gracious to me, that the child may live?
23
But now he is dead, wherefore should I fast? can I bring him back again? I shall go to him, but he shall not return to me.
24
And David comforted Bathsheba his wife, and went in unto her, and lay with her: and she bare a son, and he called his name Solomon: and the LORD loved him.
25
And he sent by the hand of Nathan the prophet; and he called his name Jedidiah, because of the LORD. Jedidiah: that is, Beloved of the LORD
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(23) **I shall go to him.**—As far as the mere words themselves are concerned, this might be taken as the expression of a Stoic’s comfort, “I shall go to the dead, but the dead will not come to me;” but David, in his whole nature and belief, was as far as possible from being a Stoic, and these words in his mouth can scarcely be anything else than an expression of confidence in a life of consciousness beyond the grave, and of the future recognition of those loved on earth.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of 2 Samuel. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
2 Samuel 12:23 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to 2 Samuel 12:23
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge