2 Samuel 14:14
For we must needs die, and are as water spilled on the ground, which cannot be gathered up again; neither doth God respect any person: yet doth he devise means, that his banished be not expelled from him.
2 Samuel 14:14 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse highlights the inevitability of death and the fleeting nature of life. The comparison of human life to water spilled on the ground, which cannot be gathered up again, emphasizes the finality of death. It also reflects the idea that God does not show partiality; he does not favor one person over another. Despite our mortality and God's impartiality, the verse also conveys a message of hope. God devises means to reunite with those who have been banished from him, offering redemption and a way back to his presence. This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of facing our mortality and seeking reconciliation with God while we still have the chance. It encourages us to make the most of our time on earth and to seek God's grace and forgiveness, knowing that he offers a way for us to be reunited with him.
Theological Overview
This verse, found in 2 Samuel 14:14, touches on the inevitability of death and the ways in which God provides for the banished. The phrase "For we must needs die" speaks to the universal experience of mortality that humanity faces. The comparison of humans to water spilled on the ground emphasizes the irreversible nature of death, highlighting that once life is spilled, it cannot be gathered back up. Additionally, the statement that "neither doth God respect any person" underscores the idea that death does not discriminate based on status or wealth. However, the verse ends on a note of hope, stating that God devises means for the banished to not be expelled from Him. This suggests that even those who have strayed or been cast out can find a way back into God's presence through His provision. Overall, this verse offers a reflection on the reality of death, the impartiality of God, and the possibility of redemption for the banished.
2 Samuel 14:14 in other translations
American Standard Version
For we must needs die, and are as water split on the ground, which cannot be gathered up again; neither doth God take away life, but deviseth means, that he that is banished be not an outcast from him.
World English Bible
For we must die, and are like water split on the ground, which can’t be gathered up again; neither does God take away life, but devises means, that he who is banished not be an outcast from him.
Douay-Rheims
We all die, and like waters that return no more, we fall down into the earth: neither will God have a soul to perish, but recalleth, meaning that he that is cast off should not altogether perish.
Geneva Bible (1599)
For we must needes dye, and we are as water spilt on the ground, which cannot be gathered vp againe: neither doeth God spare any person, yet doeth he appoynt meanes, not to cast out from him, him that is expelled.