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Book of 2 Samuel - Chapter 20 - Verse 22

20:22
Then the woman went unto all the people in her wisdom. And they cut off the head of Sheba the son of Bichri, and cast it out to Joab. And he blew a trumpet, and they retired from the city, every man to his tent. And Joab returned to Jerusalem unto the king.

Meaning

After the woman of Abel Beth Maacah decided to take matters into her own hands by seeking out all the people in her wisdom, they eventually located Sheba, the rebel leader. They swiftly cut off his head, symbolizing the end of his rebellion. The act was decisive and final, as they threw Sheba's head to Joab, the commander of King David's forces. Joab then signaled victory by blowing a trumpet, signaling the retreat of his troops from the city. Each man returned to his tent in peace, ending the conflict. Joab returned to Jerusalem, reporting the successful outcome to King David. This verse highlights the consequences of Sheba's actions and the decisive actions taken to maintain peace and order in the kingdom. It also showcases the wisdom and leadership of the woman who played a pivotal role in resolving the conflict.

Theological Overview

In this verse from 2 Samuel 20:22, the woman's actions and the subsequent events serve as a testament to the wisdom of a lesser-known figure in the Bible. The woman's wisdom led her to take decisive action, appealing to the people to cut off the head of Sheba the son of Bichri. This act not only symbolized the end of a rebellion but also demonstrated the consequences of going against the established order. The mention of Joab blowing a trumpet and the people retreating to their tents signifies the end of the conflict with a clear signal of peace and order being restored. Joab's return to Jerusalem to report to the king further emphasizes the importance of unity under leadership in times of turmoil. This passage serves as a reminder of the repercussions of defiance and the need for wisdom and decisive action in maintaining peace and order.

American Standard Version

Then the woman went unto all the people in her wisdom. And they cut off the head of Sheba the son of Bichri, and threw it out to Joab. And he blew the trumpet, and they were dispersed from the city, every man to his tent. And Joab returned to Jerusalem unto the king.
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