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2 Samuel 16:10

And the king said, What have I to do with you, ye sons of Zeruiah? so let him curse, because the LORD hath said unto him, Curse David. Who shall then say, Wherefore hast thou done so?

2 Samuel 16:10 · King James Version

Meaning

In this verse, King David is reacting to a man named Shimei who is cursing him. David's response is a reflection of his belief in God's sovereignty and his humility as a leader. David acknowledges that if God has allowed Shimei to curse him, then who is he to question it? He understands that sometimes people are instruments of God's will, even if they are speaking or acting in a negative way towards him. By saying "What have I to do with you, ye sons of Zeruiah? so let him curse, because the LORD hath said unto him", David is showing his trust in God's plan and his willingness to accept whatever comes his way. This verse highlights David's commitment to following God's guidance and his ability to look beyond personal pride or revenge. It serves as a reminder that God can use even adversity and criticism for His purposes, and that sometimes the best response is to acknowledge and accept God's will, even when it is difficult or challenging.

Theological Overview

In this verse, King David is addressing the sons of Zeruiah who were his nephews. The phrase "What have I to do with you" is a common Hebrew expression that denotes a desire to distance oneself from someone or to express disagreement. This can be seen as David's way of indicating that he does not want to interfere with the actions or words of these men, reminding them that they have their own agency. The phrase "so let him curse, because the LORD hath said unto him, Curse David" highlights David's recognition of the sovereignty of God. David trusts in God's plan and believes that if someone is cursing him, it is because God has ordained it to happen. The question "Who shall then say, Wherefore hast thou done so?" demonstrates David's acceptance of God's will, even in difficult circumstances. This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of trusting in God's plan, even when faced with opposition or hardship.

2 Samuel 16:10 in other translations

American Standard Version

And the king said, What have I to do with you, ye sons of Zeruiah? Because he curseth, and because Jehovah hath said unto him, Curse David; who then shall say, Wherefore hast thou done so?

World English Bible

The king said, “What have I to do with you, you sons of Zeruiah? Because he curses, and because Yahweh has said to him, ‘Curse David;’ who then shall say, ‘Why have you done so?’”

Douay-Rheims

And the king said: What have I to do with you, ye sons of Sarvia? Let him alone and let him curse: for the Lord hath bid him curse David: and who is he that shall dare say, why hath he done so?

Geneva Bible (1599)

But the King saide, What haue I to doe with you, ye sonnes of Zeruiah? for he curseth, eue because the Lord hath bidden him curse Dauid: who dare then say, Wherfore hast thou done so?