2 Samuel 13:4
And he said unto him, Why art thou, being the king's son, lean from day to day? wilt thou not tell me? And Amnon said unto him, I love Tamar, my brother Absalom's sister.
2 Samuel 13:4 · King James Version
Meaning
Within this verse, there is a complex and tragic story unfolding in the family of the king. Amnon, the king's son, is confronted about his apparent weight loss by a concerned individual. Amnon then confesses his love for Tamar, who is his half-sister, being the daughter of King David and another woman. This confession sets the stage for a tragic event that will ultimately lead to a series of devastating consequences within the royal family. This verse highlights the forbidden love between Amnon and Tamar, as well as the resulting chaos that will ensue due to this forbidden relationship. It serves as a prelude to a larger narrative of betrayal, revenge, and heartbreak that will unfold in the subsequent verses.
Theological Overview
In the verse, Amnon confesses his love for Tamar, who is his half-sister and the sister of Absalom. The theological interpretation of this verse delves into the complexities of love, desire, and sin. Amnon's infatuation with Tamar, despite knowing that their relationship is forbidden by the law, showcases the destructive power of unchecked passions. By highlighting Amnon's status as the king's son, the verse emphasizes the consequences of his immoral actions and the dishonor he brings to his family. Through a word study, we can explore the deeper meaning of 'love' in this context, which may not be the selfless love that one would expect in a healthy relationship. Amnon's distorted view of love leads him down a path of deceit and tragedy, ultimately resulting in devastating consequences for himself, Tamar, and the entire royal household. This verse serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of allowing sinful desires to take control and the importance of understanding the true meaning of love within the context of God's commandments.
2 Samuel 13:4 in other translations
American Standard Version
And he said unto him, Why, O son of the king, art thou thus lean from day to day? wilt thou not tell me? And Amnon said unto him, I love Tamar, my brother Absalom's sister.
World English Bible
He said to him, “Why, son of the king, are you so sad from day to day? Won’t you tell me?” Amnon said to him, “I love Tamar, my brother Absalom’s sister.”
Douay-Rheims
And he said to him: Why dost thou grow so lean from day to day, O son of the king? why dost thou not tell me the reason of it? And Ammon said to him: I am in love with Thamar the sister of my brother Absalom.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Who sayde vnto him, Why art thou the Kings sonne so leane from day to day? wilt thou not tell me? Then Amnon answered him, I loue Tamar my brother Absaloms sister.