2 Samuel 13:15
Then Amnon hated her exceedingly; so that the hatred wherewith he hated her was greater than the love wherewith he had loved her. And Amnon said unto her, Arise, be gone.
2 Samuel 13:15 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse from 2 Samuel 13:15, we see the aftermath of a disturbing event where Amnon, King David's son, rapes his half-sister Tamar. The verse reveals the depth of Amnon's feelings after committing this heinous act. Although he initially professed love for Tamar, his actions indicate otherwise. The verse highlights how the hatred he now feels for Tamar surpasses any love he claimed to have had for her. The stark contrast between his emotions is a clear reflection of his twisted and sinful nature. By telling Tamar to leave after violating her, Amnon demonstrates his callousness and lack of remorse. This verse serves as a poignant reminder of the destructive power of sin and the devastating consequences of giving in to one's sinful desires. It also serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of self-control and the importance of treating others with kindness and respect.
Theological Overview
From a theological standpoint, this verse from the book of 2 Samuel highlights the tragic consequences of ungodly desires and actions. Amnon's infatuation with his half-sister Tamar led him to commit a terrible act of sexual assault against her. The text emphasizes the sharp contrast between the initial feelings of love Amnon had for Tamar and the intense hatred that consumed him afterward. This shift from love to hatred illustrates the destructive power of sin and the depth of Amnon's depravity. The word 'hated' used in this verse conveys an intense and passionate loathing, indicating the extent of Amnon's disdain for Tamar. Amnon's abrupt dismissal of Tamar after the assault reveals his callous and selfish nature, further underscoring the gravity of his actions. Ultimately, this verse serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of yielding to sinful desires and the importance of guarding one's heart against temptation.
2 Samuel 13:15 in other translations
American Standard Version
Then Amnon hated her with exceeding great hatred; for the hatred wherewith he hated her was greater than the love wherewith he had loved her. And Amnon said unto her, Arise, be gone.
World English Bible
Then Amnon hated her with exceeding great hatred; for the hatred with which he hated her was greater than the love with which he had loved her. Amnon said to her, “Arise, be gone!”
Douay-Rheims
Then Ammon hated her with an exceeding great hatred: so that the hatred wherewith he hated her was greater than the love with which he had loved her before. And Ammon said to her: Arise, and get thee gone.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Then Amnon hated her exceedingly, so that the hatred wherewith he hated her, was greater then the loue, wherewith hee had loued her: and Amnon sayde vnto her, Vp, get thee hence.