2 Samuel 12:3
But the poor man had nothing, save one little ewe lamb, which he had bought and nourished up: and it grew up together with him, and with his children; it did eat of his own meat, and drank of his own cup, and lay in his bosom, and was unto him as a daughter.
2 Samuel 12:3 · King James Version
Meaning
The verse describes a poor man who had only one cherished possession - a little ewe lamb that he had bought and cared for as if it were his own child. The lamb grew up alongside the man and his family, sharing their food and drink and even sleeping in the man's bosom. This verse reflects the deep bond and affection that the man had for his lamb, highlighting the sacrificial nature of his love and the personal connection he had developed with the animal. It serves as a reminder of the value of empathy, compassion, and the importance of caring for those who are vulnerable or in need, even when it means making personal sacrifices. The verse emphasizes the significant impact that a seemingly small and insignificant creature can have on someone's life, illustrating the power of love and companionship in fostering meaningful relationships.
Theological Overview
In this verse, we see a poignant illustration of the deep bond between a poor man and his beloved ewe lamb. The word "ewe lamb" in Hebrew is "כֶּבֶשׂ" (keves), which refers to a young female sheep. This imagery conveys the idea of innocence, purity, and vulnerability. The poor man's nurturing and care for this precious lamb mirrors the love and compassion that God has for His people. The lamb growing up alongside the man and his family symbolizes the inseparable relationship between the shepherd and his flock. It also emphasizes the sacrificial nature of the lamb, as it shares in the man's provisions and affection. The imagery of the lamb lying in the man's bosom signifies closeness and intimacy, much like how we are called to draw near to God as His beloved children. Overall, this verse serves as a powerful reminder of God's tender care for His people and the sacrificial love exemplified by Jesus, who is often referred to as the "Lamb of God" in the New Testament.
2 Samuel 12:3 in other translations
American Standard Version
but the poor man had nothing, save one little ewe lamb, which he had bought and nourished up: and it grew up together with him, and with his children; it did eat of his own morsel, and drank of his own cup, and lay in his bosom, and was unto him as a daughter.
World English Bible
but the poor man had nothing, except one little ewe lamb, which he had bought and raised. It grew up together with him, and with his children. It ate of his own food, drank of his own cup, and lay in his bosom, and was to him like a daughter.
Douay-Rheims
But the poor man had nothing at all but one little ewe lamb, which he had bought and nourished up, and which had grown up in his house together with his children, eating of his bread, and drinking of his cup, and sleeping in his bosom: and it was unto him as a daughter.
Geneva Bible (1599)
But the poore had none at all, saue one litle sheepe which he had bought, and nourished vp: and it grew vp with him, and with his children also, and did eate of his owne morsels, and dranke of his owne cup, and slept in his bosome, and was vnto him as his daughter.