2 Samuel 17:20
And when Absalom's servants came to the woman to the house, they said, Where is Ahimaaz and Jonathan? And the woman said unto them, They be gone over the brook of water. And when they had sought and could not find them, they returned to Jerusalem.
2 Samuel 17:20 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from 2 Samuel 17:20-22 depicts a scene where Absalom's servants are inquiring about the whereabouts of Ahimaaz and Jonathan. The woman they question informs them that the two men have crossed the brook of water. The servants search for them but are unable to find them, so they return to Jerusalem. This passage is part of the larger context of Absalom's rebellion against his father, King David. Ahimaaz and Jonathan are messengers who play a crucial role in keeping David informed about Absalom's plans. The verse highlights the tension and deception that surround the events leading up to the battle between David's forces and Absalom's army. It also showcases the cunning tactics employed by both sides in the power struggle for the throne. This passage serves as a reminder of the political intrigue and betrayal that are prevalent throughout the historical accounts in the Bible.
Theological Overview
In this passage from 2 Samuel 17:20-22, we see Absalom's servants visiting a woman's house in search of Ahimaaz and Jonathan. The woman deceives the servants by telling them that the men have crossed the brook of water. This deception ultimately leads to the men successfully delivering a message to David, saving their lives. The theological interpretation of this passage highlights the themes of cunning and strategy in the midst of conflict. It demonstrates how even in desperate situations, God can still provide a way out through wisdom and quick thinking. This passage serves as a reminder of the importance of discernment and how God can use even the smallest details to bring about His purposes. Word studies in this verse could focus on the meanings of the names Ahimaaz and Jonathan, as well as the significance of the brook of water as a geographical marker in the story. Overall, this passage offers rich insight into the intricate ways in which God works behind the scenes to fulfill His plans.
2 Samuel 17:20 in other translations
American Standard Version
And Absalom's servants came to the woman to the house; and they said, Where are Ahimaaz and Jonathan? And the woman said unto them, They are gone over the brook of water. And when they had sought and could not find them, they returned to Jerusalem.
World English Bible
Absalom’s servants came to the woman to the house; and they said, “Where are Ahimaaz and Jonathan?” The woman said to them, “They have gone over the brook of water.” When they had sought and could not find them, they returned to Jerusalem.
Douay-Rheims
And when Absalom's servants were come into the house, they said to the woman: Where is Achimaas and Jonathan? and the woman answered them: They passed on in haste, after they had tasted a little water. But they that sought them, when they found them not, returned into Jerusalem.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And when Absaloms seruants came to the wife into the house, they said, Where is Ahimaaz and Ionathan? And the woman answered them, They be gone ouer the brooke of water. And when they had sought them, and could not finde them, they returned to Ierusalem.