King James Version
What Does 2 Samuel 22:26 Mean?
“With the merciful thou wilt shew thyself merciful, and with the upright man thou wilt shew thyself upright.”
Context
24
I was also upright before him, and have kept myself from mine iniquity. before: Heb. to
25
Therefore the LORD hath recompensed me according to my righteousness; according to my cleanness in his eye sight . in: Heb. before his eyes
26
With the merciful thou wilt shew thyself merciful, and with the upright man thou wilt shew thyself upright.
27
With the pure thou wilt shew thyself pure; and with the froward thou wilt shew thyself unsavoury. shew thyself unsavoury: or, wrestle
28
And the afflicted people thou wilt save: but thine eyes are upon the haughty, that thou mayest bring them down.
Commentary
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary**19-20. Tamar put ashes on her head, and rent her garment of divers colours ... laid her hand on her head, and went on crying--**that is, sobbing. Oriental manners would probably see nothing beyond a strong sense of the injury she had sustained, if Tamar actually rent her garments. But, as her veil is not mentioned, it is probable that Amnon had turned her out of doors without it, and she raised her hand with the design to conceal her face. By these signs, especially the rending of her distinguishing robe, Absalom at once conjectured what had taken place. Recommending her to be silent about it and not publish her own and her family's dishonor, he gave no inkling of his angry feelings to Amnon. But all the while he was in secret "nursing his wrath to keep it warm," and only "biding his time" to avenge his sister's wrongs, and by the removal of the heir-apparent perhaps further also his ambitious designs.
Robert Jamieson, A.R. Fausset, David Brown. 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 22:26 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 22:26
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge