This verse is a crucial turning point in the story of the rebellion of Sheba in 2 Samuel 20. It sets the stage for a peaceful resolution, preventing a bloody and destructive siege. Here's a breakdown of the verse and its significance:
"Then a wise woman cried out of the city..." The most important element is that it's a wise woman who takes the initiative. In ancient societies, wisdom was highly valued, and wise people were often sought out for their counsel, especially in times of crisis. The fact that she is not named further emphasizes the significance of her wisdom, rather than who she is. The city, unnamed, is likely Abel Beth Maacah (identified earlier in the chapter). She is within the besieged city, watching Joab's forces.
"...“Hear, hear!”..." This is a call for attention. It's a way to get Joab and his troops to stop what they're doing and listen. The repetition emphasizes urgency and importance.
"...Please say to Joab, ‘Come near here, that I may speak with you.’” This is the core of her message. She wants to speak directly to Joab, the commander of David's army. By asking him to "come near," she's signaling a willingness to negotiate and avoid further conflict. She knows that Joab is the key to ending the siege, so she bypasses the soldiers and goes straight to the source of authority.
Significance of the Verse:
Initiative for Peace: The woman's action demonstrates a desire to avoid bloodshed and destruction. She proactively seeks a peaceful resolution instead of passively waiting for the city to be destroyed.
Recognition of Authority: She understands Joab's power and importance, addressing him directly.
Intelligence and Diplomacy: The woman's approach is intelligent and diplomatic. She doesn't threaten or demand, but politely requests a meeting.
** Foreshadowing:** This verse foreshadows that a conversation will occur and that the woman will convince Joab of something, likely saving the city from destruction.
In essence, this verse introduces a key player who is determined to use her wisdom and diplomacy to prevent a tragedy. It sets the stage for a remarkable act of negotiation that ultimately saves a city from destruction. The woman represents the power of wisdom and peace in the face of violence and conflict.
This verse is a crucial turning point in the story of the rebellion of Sheba in 2 Samuel 20. It sets the stage for a peaceful resolution, preventing a bloody and destructive siege. Here's a breakdown of the verse and its significance:
"Then a wise woman cried out of the city..." The most important element is that it's a wise woman who takes the initiative. In ancient societies, wisdom was highly valued, and wise people were often sought out for their counsel, especially in times of crisis. The fact that she is not named further emphasizes the significance of her wisdom, rather than who she is. The city, unnamed, is likely Abel Beth Maacah (identified earlier in the chapter). She is within the besieged city, watching Joab's forces.
"...“Hear, hear!”..." This is a call for attention. It's a way to get Joab and his troops to stop what they're doing and listen. The repetition emphasizes urgency and importance.
"...Please say to Joab, ‘Come near here, that I may speak with you.’” This is the core of her message. She wants to speak directly to Joab, the commander of David's army. By asking him to "come near," she's signaling a willingness to negotiate and avoid further conflict. She knows that Joab is the key to ending the siege, so she bypasses the soldiers and goes straight to the source of authority.
Significance of the Verse:
Initiative for Peace: The woman's action demonstrates a desire to avoid bloodshed and destruction. She proactively seeks a peaceful resolution instead of passively waiting for the city to be destroyed.
Recognition of Authority: She understands Joab's power and importance, addressing him directly.
Intelligence and Diplomacy: The woman's approach is intelligent and diplomatic. She doesn't threaten or demand, but politely requests a meeting.
** Foreshadowing:** This verse foreshadows that a conversation will occur and that the woman will convince Joab of something, likely saving the city from destruction.
In essence, this verse introduces a key player who is determined to use her wisdom and diplomacy to prevent a tragedy. It sets the stage for a remarkable act of negotiation that ultimately saves a city from destruction. The woman represents the power of wisdom and peace in the face of violence and conflict.