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2 Samuel 12:9

Wherefore hast thou despised the commandment of the LORD, to do evil in his sight? thou hast killed Uriah the Hittite with the sword, and hast taken his wife to be thy wife, and hast slain him with the sword of the children of Ammon.

2 Samuel 12:9 · King James Version

Meaning

This verse from the book of 2 Samuel in the Bible highlights the consequences of King David's actions. It refers to an incident where David had Uriah the Hittite killed in battle so that he could take his wife, Bathsheba, for himself. The verse questions David's decision to go against the commandments of the Lord and commit such evil deeds. By ordering the death of Uriah and taking his wife, David showed a blatant disregard for God's laws and committed acts that were not only morally wrong but also deeply troubling. The verse serves as a reminder that even those in positions of power are not above divine judgment and must be held accountable for their actions. It illustrates the heavy toll that sin takes on individuals and the importance of remaining faithful to God's teachings.

Theological Overview

The theological interpretation of this verse focuses on the consequences of King David's sin. David's actions in this verse, specifically his adultery with Bathsheba and the murder of her husband Uriah, demonstrate a clear violation of the commandments of the Lord. In this passage, Nathan the prophet confronts David about his sins, highlighting the severity of his transgressions. Through this narrative, the importance of obedience to God's commands is emphasized, as well as the reality of the consequences of sin. David's sin not only affected him personally but also had far-reaching implications for his kingdom and the people of Israel. This story serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of disobedience and the need for repentance and forgiveness.

2 Samuel 12:9 in other translations

American Standard Version

Wherefore hast thou despised the word of Jehovah, to do that which is evil in his sight? thou hast smitten Uriah the Hittite with the sword, and hast taken his wife to be thy wife, and hast slain him with the sword of the children of Ammon.

World English Bible

Why have you despised Yahweh’s word, to do that which is evil in his sight? You have struck Uriah the Hittite with the sword, and have taken his wife to be your wife, and have slain him with the sword of the children of Ammon.

Douay-Rheims

Why therefore hast thou despised the word of the Lord, to do evil in my sight? Thou hast killed Urias the Hethite with the sword, and hast taken his wife to be thy wife, and hast slain him with the sword of the children of Ammon.

Geneva Bible (1599)

Wherefore hast thou despised the commandement of the Lord, to doe euill in his sight? thou hast killed Vriah the Hittite with ye sworde, and hast taken his wife to be thy wife, and hast slaine him with the sworde of the children of Ammon.