2 Samuel 19:16

2 Samuel 19:16 Meaning and Explanation

And Shimei the son of Gera, a Benjamite, which was of Bahurim, hasted and came down with the men of Judah to meet king David.

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Shimei, the Benjamite who had cursed David in his flight, hurries with the men of Judah to meet the returning king.

What Does 2 Samuel 19:16 Mean?

Shimei now reappears. When David fled Jerusalem, this man of Saul's tribe had cursed and stoned him from a distance. Now, with the king restored, Shimei hastens down among the men of Judah to meet him, knowing his earlier insults could cost him his life. Speed reveals his urgency to make amends.

The one who cursed the king in his weakness now rushes to greet him in his strength. There is a kind of fear in such haste, but also an opening for mercy. The verse sets the stage for grace: the offender comes forward rather than fleeing, and the door to pardon stands ajar for those who turn back to the king.

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What does 2 Samuel 19:16 mean?

Shimei, the Benjamite who had cursed David in his flight, hurries with the men of Judah to meet the returning king.

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