2 Samuel 13:5 Meaning and Explanation
“And Jonadab said unto him, Lay thee down on thy bed, and make thyself sick: and when thy father cometh to see thee, say unto him, I pray thee, let my sister Tamar come, and give me meat, and dress the meat in my sight, that I may see it, and eat it at her hand.”
King James Version (KJV)
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Read Full Chapter →Jonadab devises a deception: Amnon should feign illness so the king will send Tamar to feed him alone.
What Does 2 Samuel 13:5 Mean?
Jonadab supplies the plan in detail — pretend sickness, summon the king's pity, and ask specifically that Tamar prepare food in Amnon's sight and serve it by her own hand. Each step is calculated to bring her near and alone. The scheme weaponizes a father's tenderness and a sister's kindness.
Evil here cloaks itself in the appearance of care: a sick son, a nourishing meal, a family kindness. Scripture exposes how cunning can dress cruelty in innocent clothing. We are called to discernment, for not every gentle-seeming request is what it appears, and the manipulator counts on the goodness of others to accomplish what raw force could not.
Frequently Asked Questions About 2 Samuel 13:5
What does 2 Samuel 13:5 mean?
Jonadab devises a deception: Amnon should feign illness so the king will send Tamar to feed him alone.