This verse from 2 Samuel 14:12 is a pivotal moment in the story of the wise woman of Tekoa who is trying to persuade King David to bring his exiled son Absalom back to Jerusalem. Let's break it down:
"Then the woman said, “Please let your servant speak a word to my lord the king.”": This is a standard respectful request for permission to speak. The woman is acknowledging David's authority (calling him "my lord the king") and humbling herself ("your servant") to gain his ear. It's a polite way of saying, "May I have your attention?"
"He said, “Say on.”": This is David's granting of permission. He's saying, "Go ahead, speak." It indicates that he's willing to listen to what she has to say, even though he may not know her purpose yet.
Significance in Context:
Building Trust: The woman's initial polite request and David's granting of permission help establish a dynamic of respect and sets the stage for their conversation. It allows the woman to carefully and strategically present her fabricated story to David.
Setting the Stage for Persuasion: David's willingness to listen is crucial. Without it, the woman wouldn't have the opportunity to plant the seed of reconciliation with Absalom.
In essence, this verse represents a formal introduction to a crucial conversation. It's the moment when the wise woman secures the king's attention and opens the door to deliver her carefully crafted argument.
This verse from 2 Samuel 14:12 is a pivotal moment in the story of the wise woman of Tekoa who is trying to persuade King David to bring his exiled son Absalom back to Jerusalem. Let's break it down:
"Then the woman said, “Please let your servant speak a word to my lord the king.”": This is a standard respectful request for permission to speak. The woman is acknowledging David's authority (calling him "my lord the king") and humbling herself ("your servant") to gain his ear. It's a polite way of saying, "May I have your attention?"
"He said, “Say on.”": This is David's granting of permission. He's saying, "Go ahead, speak." It indicates that he's willing to listen to what she has to say, even though he may not know her purpose yet.
Significance in Context:
Building Trust: The woman's initial polite request and David's granting of permission help establish a dynamic of respect and sets the stage for their conversation. It allows the woman to carefully and strategically present her fabricated story to David.
Setting the Stage for Persuasion: David's willingness to listen is crucial. Without it, the woman wouldn't have the opportunity to plant the seed of reconciliation with Absalom.
In essence, this verse represents a formal introduction to a crucial conversation. It's the moment when the wise woman secures the king's attention and opens the door to deliver her carefully crafted argument.