2 Samuel 18:13
Otherwise I should have wrought falsehood against mine own life: for there is no matter hid from the king, and thou thyself wouldest have set thyself against me.
2 Samuel 18:13 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse, the speaker is acknowledging that if they were to deceive the king, they would be ultimately deceiving themselves. The king holds all the power and authority and is aware of everything that happens within his kingdom. Therefore, any attempt to hide the truth or deceive the king would ultimately be futile. The speaker recognizes that going against the king would have serious consequences, and it would be foolish to try to deceive someone who has the ability to uncover any falsehood. This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of honesty and integrity, especially when dealing with those in positions of authority. It emphasizes the futility of trying to hide the truth and the consequences of deception.
Theological Overview
When examining the theological interpretation of this verse, we see a clear reference to the idea of divine justice and omniscience. The speaker is expressing a fear of being caught in a lie or deceitful act, as nothing can be hidden from the king - a symbol of authority and judgement. This can be understood as a caution against trying to deceive others or act in a dishonest manner, as ultimately the truth will be revealed. The verse also touches on the idea of accountability and the consequences of one's actions, highlighting the importance of integrity and honesty in all aspects of life. The phrase "there is no matter hid from the king" can be seen as a reflection of the belief that God sees and knows all, and ultimately justice will prevail. This verse serves as a reminder to act with honesty and integrity, knowing that falsehoods will eventually be uncovered.
2 Samuel 18:13 in other translations
American Standard Version
Otherwise if I had dealt falsely against his life (and there is no matter hid from the king), then thou thyself wouldest have set thyself against [me] .
World English Bible
Otherwise if I had dealt falsely against his life (and there is no matter hidden from the king), then you yourself would have set yourself against me.”
Douay-Rheims
Yea and if I should have acted boldly against my own life, this could not have been hid from the king, and wouldst thou have stood by me?
Geneva Bible (1599)
If I had done it, it had bene the danger of my life: for nothing can be hid from the King: yea, thou thy selfe wouldest haue bin against me.