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Book of 2 Samuel - Chapter 12 - Verse 19

12:19
But when David saw that his servants whispered, David perceived that the child was dead: therefore David said unto his servants, Is the child dead? And they said, He is dead.

Meaning

In this verse from 2 Samuel 12:19, we see King David's reaction upon learning that his child with Bathsheba had died. The verse highlights David's sensitivity to the whispers of his servants, indicating his awareness of the child's condition even before being explicitly told. David's immediate question to his servants about the child's state shows his concern and perhaps a last glimmer of hope before receiving the confirmation that the child had indeed passed away. This moment showcases David's emotional response to the tragic event that had unfolded. It also serves as a reminder of the consequences of his actions with Bathsheba and the subsequent judgment from God. Overall, this verse captures a poignant and revealing moment in King David's life, emphasizing the weight of his decisions and the sorrow that followed.

Theological Overview

In this verse from 2 Samuel, we see David observing his servants whispering, and he deduces that the child he had with Bathsheba has died. The word "perceived" in this context speaks to David's intuition and understanding without explicit confirmation from his servants. This shows David's deep awareness and connection with the situation at hand. His question to his servants about the child's status further showcases his desire for clarity and confirmation, despite already knowing the answer. This moment highlights David's emotional turmoil and the gravity of the situation, as he comes to terms with the death of his child. Through theological interpretation, we can reflect on David's response to tragedy and the human experience of grief, as well as the consequences of his actions leading up to this moment. It serves as a reminder of the complexities and consequences of our choices, even for one as favored by God as David.

American Standard Version

But when David saw that his servants were whispering together, David perceived that the child was dead; and David said unto his servants, Is the child dead? And they said, He is dead.
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