King James Version
What Does 2 Samuel 13:31 Mean?
“Then the king arose, and tare his garments, and lay on the earth; and all his servants stood by with their clothes rent.”
Context
29
And the servants of Absalom did unto Amnon as Absalom had commanded. Then all the king's sons arose, and every man gat him up upon his mule, and fled. gat: Heb. rode
30
And it came to pass, while they were in the way, that tidings came to David, saying, Absalom hath slain all the king's sons, and there is not one of them left.
31
Then the king arose, and tare his garments, and lay on the earth; and all his servants stood by with their clothes rent.
32
And Jonadab, the son of Shimeah David's brother, answered and said, Let not my lord suppose that they have slain all the young men the king's sons; for Amnon only is dead: for by the appointment of Absalom this hath been determined from the day that he forced his sister Tamar. appointment: Heb. mouth determined: or, settled
33
Now therefore let not my lord the king take the thing to his heart, to think that all the king's sons are dead: for Amnon only is dead.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(31) **Tare his garments.**—Rather, *rent his clothes, *the words being the same as in the last clause of the verse.
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 13:31 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 13:31
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge