2 samuel 20:1 - There happened to be there a wicked fellow, whose name was Sheba, the son of Bichri, a Benjamite; and he blew the trumpet, and said, “We have no portion in David, neither have we inheritance in the son of Jesse. Every man to his tents, Israel!”

Generated Verse: 2 samuel 20:1

What does "2 samuel 20:1" mean?


This verse from 2 Samuel 20:1 is essentially describing the start of a rebellion against King David. Let's break it down:

"There happened to be there a wicked fellow, whose name was Sheba, the son of Bichri, a Benjamite..." This introduces the instigator of the rebellion. The verse highlights that he is "wicked," indicating a pre-existing negative characterization. His being a "Benjamite" is significant, as the tribe of Benjamin had a history of conflict with the house of David. It might suggest lingering resentment or a power struggle.

"...and he blew the trumpet..." The trumpet was often used as a call to arms or to assemble the people for important announcements. Sheba is using it to rally support for his cause.

"...and said, “We have no portion in David, neither have we inheritance in the son of Jesse. Every man to his tents, Israel!”" This is the core message of the rebellion. It's a declaration of independence from David's rule. The phrases "no portion in David" and "no inheritance in the son of Jesse" mean they don't recognize David's authority and don't want to be part of his kingdom. "Every man to his tents, Israel!" is a call for everyone to go home and reject David's leadership, effectively dissolving the united kingdom.

In summary:

Sheba is a Benjamite who takes advantage of a moment of discontent (likely following Absalom's rebellion, which had already shaken David's kingdom) to launch a new revolt. He uses rhetoric to claim that the people have no stake in David's rule and encourages them to abandon him and return to their individual tribes, thus fracturing the united kingdom of Israel. This verse sets the stage for another period of conflict and instability in David's reign.

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