2 Samuel 20:19: “We are the peaceful and faithful in Israel. You are trying to destroy a city that is a mother in Israel. Why do you want to swallow up the Lord’s inheritance?”
Extended Explanation
In this verse, the wise woman of Abel Beth Maakah continues her plea to Joab. She identifies her city as a place of peace and faithfulness within Israel, referring to it as a “mother in Israel,” meaning that it has been a vital and nurturing city for the nation. By saying this, she highlights the city’s importance and legacy, contrasting it with Joab’s aggressive approach, which threatens to destroy it. The phrase “the Lord’s inheritance” reminds Joab that Abel Beth Maakah is part of God’s chosen nation, and that to destroy it would be an offense against God’s people. The woman’s argument emphasizes the absurdity of destroying a peaceful city for the sake of capturing a single rebel, Sheba.
Historical Context
Abel Beth Maakah was a city in northern Israel with a reputation for wisdom and peaceful conflict resolution, as indicated earlier in the conversation. Sheba’s rebellion against King David had led him to seek refuge in this city, and Joab, the military commander, had laid siege to it in an attempt to capture him. The woman’s appeal to Joab highlights the significance of the city in Israel’s history and its role as part of the “Lord’s inheritance,” meaning it is land given to the people of Israel by God. Her argument is both political and theological, designed to stop Joab from continuing his siege by reminding him of the city’s importance to the nation as a whole.
Theological Implications
This verse speaks to the value of peace, faithfulness, and the protection of God’s people. The woman’s reference to the city as part of the “Lord’s inheritance” points to the idea that God’s people and the land He has given them are precious in His sight. Theologically, it underscores the importance of preserving and protecting that which belongs to God, whether it is the physical land or the spiritual community of believers. The woman’s plea also illustrates how God’s people are called to live in peace and faithfulness, and how violence and destruction should be avoided whenever possible, especially among God’s own people.
Literary Analysis
The woman’s language is powerful and rhetorical. By describing Abel Beth Maakah as “peaceful and faithful,” she positions the city as an innocent victim in the conflict, while subtly shaming Joab for his actions. The metaphor of the city as a “mother” in Israel evokes an image of nurture and care, further strengthening her argument that Joab’s actions are unjustified. The use of the phrase “swallow up the Lord’s inheritance” brings a theological dimension to her speech, reminding Joab that his actions could be seen as an affront to God Himself.
Biblical Cross-References
- Exodus 19:5: “Now if you obey me fully and keep my covenant, then out of all nations you will be my treasured possession.” This verse speaks of Israel as God’s treasured inheritance, linking to the woman’s reference to the city as part of the Lord’s inheritance.
- Deuteronomy 32:9: “For the Lord’s portion is his people, Jacob his allotted inheritance.” The idea of God’s people being His inheritance runs throughout the Bible, reinforcing the woman’s plea to spare the city.
- Proverbs 16:7: “When the Lord takes pleasure in anyone’s way, he causes their enemies to make peace with them.” This reflects the importance of peace and faithfulness in God’s plan for His people.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, this verse reminds us of the value of peace and the importance of protecting what belongs to God. The woman’s appeal teaches us that even in times of conflict, we should strive for peaceful solutions and protect the community of faith. It also encourages believers to stand up for what is right, just as the woman stood up to Joab in defense of her city. We are reminded to guard the integrity of the body of Christ, the spiritual inheritance of believers, and to seek reconciliation and peace within our communities.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is reflected in His care for His people and His desire for peace among them. The woman’s plea shows that God values those who live in peace and faithfulness, and that He protects His inheritance—both the physical land of Israel and the spiritual inheritance of His people. God’s love is protective and nurturing, much like the image of the city as a “mother” in Israel. He desires His people to live in harmony and not be destroyed by internal conflicts.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
This verse connects to Jesus Christ, who is the ultimate protector of God’s inheritance—His people. Jesus came to bring peace and reconciliation, not only between God and humanity but also within the community of believers. John 14:27 says, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you.” Jesus offers a peace that goes beyond what the world can provide, and His sacrifice was the ultimate act of protecting God’s inheritance. Just as the woman sought to protect her city from destruction, Jesus came to protect and save humanity from the destruction of sin.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How can we, like the woman of Abel, stand up for peace and protect our communities from unnecessary harm or conflict?
- What does this verse teach us about the importance of preserving the unity and integrity of the body of Christ?
- How does Jesus’ role as the Prince of Peace challenge us to live in faithfulness and seek peace in our relationships with others?