2 Samuel 12:3
2 Samuel 12:3 in Multiple Translations
but the poor man had nothing except one small ewe lamb that he had bought. He raised it, and it grew up with him and his children. It shared his food and drank from his cup; it slept in his arms and was like a daughter to him.
But the poor man had nothing, save one little ewe lamb, which he had bought and nourished up: and it grew up together with him, and with his children; it did eat of his own meat, and drank of his own cup, and lay in his bosom, and was unto him as a daughter.
but the poor man had nothing, save one little ewe lamb, which he had bought and nourished up: and it grew up together with him, and with his children; it did eat of his own morsel, and drank of his own cup, and lay in his bosom, and was unto him as a daughter.
But the poor man had only one little she-lamb, which he had got and taken care of: from its birth it had been with him like one of his children; his meat was its food, and from his cup it took its drink, resting in his arms, and it was like a daughter to him.
but the poor man didn't have anything but one small ewe lamb that he had bought. He cared for it, and it grew up with him and his children. It would eat from his plate and drink from his cup. It slept on his lap and was like a daughter to him.
But the poore had none at all, saue one litle sheepe which he had bought, and nourished vp: and it grew vp with him, and with his children also, and did eate of his owne morsels, and dranke of his owne cup, and slept in his bosome, and was vnto him as his daughter.
And the poor one hath nothing, Except one little ewe-lamb, Which he hath bought, and keepeth alive, And it groweth up with him, And with his sons together; Of his morsel it eateth, And from his cup it drinketh, And in his bosom it lieth, And it is to him as a daughter;
but the poor man had nothing, except one little ewe lamb, which he had bought and raised. It grew up together with him and with his children. It ate of his own food, drank of his own cup, and lay in his bosom, and was like a daughter to him.
But the poor man had nothing save one little ewe-lamb, which he had bought and nourished: and it grew up together with him, and with his children: it fed of his own meat, and drank of his own cup, and lay in his bosom, and was to him as a daughter.
But the poor man had nothing at all but one little ewe lamb, which he had bought and nourished up, and which had grown up in his house together with his children, eating of his bread, and drinking of his cup, and sleeping in his bosom: and it was unto him as a daughter.
But the poor man had only one little female lamb, which he had bought. He raised the lamb, and it grew up with his children. He would give the lamb some of his own food and let it drink from his cup. He let the lamb sleep in his arms. The lamb was like a daughter to him.
but the poor man had only one little girl sheep. He paid money for it. He grew it up in his own house, just like one of his kids. It ate food from his plate and drank water from his cup. It slept on his lap like it was his own kid.
Berean Amplified Bible — 2 Samuel 12:3
BAB
Word Study
Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.
Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.
2 Samuel 12:3 Interlinear (Deep Study)
BIB
HEB
וְ/לָ/רָ֣שׁ
אֵֽין
כֹּ֗ל
כִּי֩
אִם
כִּבְשָׂ֨ה
אַחַ֤ת
קְטַנָּה֙
אֲשֶׁ֣ר
קָנָ֔ה
וַ/יְחַיֶּ֕/הָ
וַ/תִּגְדַּ֥ל
עִמּ֛/וֹ
וְ/עִם
בָּנָ֖י/ו
יַחְדָּ֑ו
מִ/פִּתּ֨/וֹ
תֹאכַ֜ל
וּ/מִ/כֹּס֤/וֹ
תִשְׁתֶּה֙
וּ/בְ/חֵיק֣/וֹ
תִשְׁכָּ֔ב
וַ/תְּהִי
ל֖/וֹ
כְּ/בַֽת
וְ/לָ/רָ֣שׁ
rûwsh
H7326
be poor
Conj | Prep | V-Qal
אֵֽין
ʼayin
H369
nothing
Part
כֹּ֗ל
kôl
H3605
all
N-ms
כִּי֩
kîy
H3588
for
Conj
אִם
ʼim
H518
if
Conj
כִּבְשָׂ֨ה
kibsâh
H3535
ewe-lamb
N-fs
אַחַ֤ת
ʼechâd
H259
one
Adj
קְטַנָּה֙
qâṭân
H6996
small
Adj
אֲשֶׁ֣ר
ʼăsher
H834
which
Rel
קָנָ֔ה
qânâh
H7069
to buy
V-Qal-Perf-3ms
וַ/יְחַיֶּ֕/הָ
châyâh
H2421
to live
Conj | V-Piel-ConsecImperf-3ms | Suff
וַ/תִּגְדַּ֥ל
gâdal
H1431
to magnify
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3fs
עִמּ֛/וֹ
ʻim
H5973
with
Prep | Suff
וְ/עִם
ʻim
H5973
with
Conj | Prep
בָּנָ֖י/ו
bên
H1121
son
N-mp | Suff
יַחְדָּ֑ו
yachad
H3162
unitedness
Adv
מִ/פִּתּ֨/וֹ
path
H6595
morsel
Prep | N-fs | Suff
תֹאכַ֜ל
ʼâkal
H398
to eat
V-Qal-Imperf-3fs
וּ/מִ/כֹּס֤/וֹ
kôwç
H3563
cup
Conj | Prep | N-fs | Suff
תִשְׁתֶּה֙
shâthâh
H8354
to drink
V-Qal-Imperf-3fs
וּ/בְ/חֵיק֣/וֹ
chêyq
H2436
bosom
Conj | Prep | N-ms | Suff
תִשְׁכָּ֔ב
shâkab
H7901
to lie down
V-Qal-Imperf-3fs
וַ/תְּהִי
hâyâh
H1961
to be
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3fs
ל֖/וֹ
Prep | Suff
כְּ/בַֽת
bath
H1323
Bath (Shua)
Prep | N-fs
Hebrew Word Study
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Hebrew Word Reference — 2 Samuel 12:3
וְ/לָ/רָ֣שׁ
rûwsh
H7326
"be poor"
Conj | Prep | V-Qal
To be poor or destitute, often used to describe someone who lacks material possessions or is in need, as seen in the story of the poor widow in Mark 12:42. This verb can also be used to describe someone who is spiritually poor or lacking.
Definition: 1) to be poor, be in want, lack 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to be poor 1a2) to be in want or hunger 1a3) poor man (subst) 1b)(Hithpolel) one impoverishing himself (participle)
Usage: Occurs in 24 OT verses. KJV: lack, needy, (make self) poor (man). See also: 1 Samuel 18:23; Proverbs 18:23; Psalms 34:11.
אֵֽין
ʼayin
H369
"nothing"
Part
This word means nothing or not, often used to indicate the absence of something, as in Genesis 1:2 where the earth was without form. It emphasizes the idea of something lacking or non-existent.
Definition: 1) nothing, not, nought n 1a) nothing, nought neg 1b) not 1c) to have not (of possession) adv 1d) without w/prep 1e) for lack of
Usage: Occurs in 686 OT verses. KJV: else, except, fail, (father-) less, be gone, in(-curable), neither, never, no (where), none, nor, (any, thing), not, nothing, to nought, past, un(-searchable), well-nigh, without. Compare H370 (אַיִן). See also: Genesis 2:5; Deuteronomy 14:27; 1 Kings 15:22.
כֹּ֗ל
kôl
H3605
"all"
N-ms
The Hebrew word for 'all' or 'everything' is used throughout the Bible, like in Genesis 1:31, where God sees all He has made as very good. It encompasses the entirety of something, whether people, things, or situations.
Definition: 1) all, the whole 1a) all, the whole of 1b) any, each, every, anything 1c) totality, everything Aramaic equivalent: kol (כֹּל "all" H3606)
Usage: Occurs in 4242 OT verses. KJV: (in) all (manner, (ye)), altogether, any (manner), enough, every (one, place, thing), howsoever, as many as, (no-) thing, ought, whatsoever, (the) whole, whoso(-ever). See also: Genesis 1:21; Genesis 17:10; Genesis 41:40.
כִּי֩
kîy
H3588
"for"
Conj
A conjunction used to show cause or connection, as in Genesis 2:23 where Adam says the woman is bone of his bone because she was taken out of him. It is often translated as 'for', 'because', or 'since'.
Definition: 1) that, for, because, when, as though, as, because that, but, then, certainly, except, surely, since 1a) that 1a1) yea, indeed 1b) when (of time) 1b1) when, if, though (with a concessive force) 1c) because, since (causal connection) 1d) but (after negative) 1e) that if, for if, indeed if, for though, but if 1f) but rather, but 1g) except that 1h) only, nevertheless 1i) surely 1j) that is 1k) but if 1l) for though 1m) forasmuch as, for therefore
Usage: Occurs in 3910 OT verses. KJV: and, + (forasmuch, inasmuch, where-) as, assured(-ly), + but, certainly, doubtless, + else, even, + except, for, how, (because, in, so, than) that, + nevertheless, now, rightly, seeing, since, surely, then, therefore, + (al-) though, + till, truly, + until, when, whether, while, whom, yea, yet. See also: Genesis 1:4; Genesis 26:16; Genesis 42:15.
אִם
ʼim
H518
"if"
Conj
This Hebrew word is used to express conditions or questions, like if or whether. It can also be used to make oaths or express wishes, as in Oh that! It appears in various forms in the KJV, including if, though, and when.
Definition: : if/whether_or/though 1) if 1a) conditional clauses 1a1) of possible situations 1a2) of impossible situations 1b) oath contexts 1b1) no, not 1c) if...if, whether...or, whether...or...or 1d) when, whenever 1e) since 1f) interrogative particle 1g) but rather
Usage: Occurs in 931 OT verses. KJV: (and, can-, doubtless, if, that) (not), [phrase] but, either, [phrase] except, [phrase] more(-over if, than), neither, nevertheless, nor, oh that, or, [phrase] save (only, -ing), seeing, since, sith, [phrase] surely (no more, none, not), though, [phrase] of a truth, [phrase] unless, [phrase] verily, when, whereas, whether, while, [phrase] yet. See also: Genesis 4:7; Exodus 22:3; Leviticus 27:27.
כִּבְשָׂ֨ה
kibsâh
H3535
"ewe-lamb"
N-fs
An ewe-lamb is a young female sheep, often used in sacrifices in the Old Testament. In 1 Samuel 7:9, Samuel offers a lamb to God to ask for His help. This word is also used in 2 Samuel 12:3 to describe a poor man's only lamb.
Definition: ewe-lamb, lamb
Usage: Occurs in 8 OT verses. KJV: (ewe) lamb. See also: Genesis 21:28; Numbers 6:14; 2 Samuel 12:6.
אַחַ֤ת
ʼechâd
H259
"one"
Adj
In the Bible, this Hebrew word means one or united, and is used to describe something that is single or unique. It is often translated as one, first, or alone. For example, in Genesis 1:5, God calls the light day and the darkness night, and separates them into one thing from another.
Definition: 1) one (number) 1a) one (number) 1b) each, every 1c) a certain 1d) an (indefinite article) 1e) only, once, once for all 1f) one...another, the one...the other, one after another, one by one 1g) first 1h) eleven (in combination), eleventh (ordinal)
Usage: Occurs in 739 OT verses. KJV: a, alike, alone, altogether, and, any(-thing), apiece, a certain, (dai-) ly, each (one), [phrase] eleven, every, few, first, [phrase] highway, a man, once, one, only, other, some, together, See also: Genesis 1:5; Exodus 36:26; Numbers 7:70.
קְטַנָּה֙
qâṭân
H6996
"small"
Adj
This Hebrew word means something or someone small in size, amount, or importance. It can describe something as little or least, and is often used to convey a sense of youth or insignificance. It appears in various forms throughout the Old Testament.
Definition: young, small, unimportant Another spelling of qa.ton (קָטֹן ": small" H6996B)
Usage: Occurs in 100 OT verses. KJV: least, less(-er), little (one), small(-est, one, quantity, thing), young(-er, -est). See also: Genesis 1:16; 1 Kings 22:31; Psalms 104:25.
אֲשֶׁ֣ר
ʼăsher
H834
"which"
Rel
This Hebrew word is a conjunction that connects ideas and events in the Bible, like in the book of Genesis, where it's used to describe the relationship between God and His creation.
Definition: A: 1) (relative part.) 1a) which, who 1b) that which 2) (conj) 2a) that (in obj clause) 2b) when 2c) since 2d) as 2e) conditional if B: Beth+ 1) in (that) which 2) (adv) 2a) where 3) (conj) 3a) in that, inasmuch as 3b) on account of C: Mem+ 1) from (or than) that which 2) from (the place) where 3) from (the fact) that, since D: Kaph+ 1) (conj.), according as, as, when 1a) according to that which, according as, as 1b) with a causal force: in so far as, since 1c) with a temporal force: when
Usage: Occurs in 4440 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] after, [idiom] alike, as (soon as), because, [idiom] every, for, [phrase] forasmuch, [phrase] from whence, [phrase] how(-soever), [idiom] if, (so) that ((thing) which, wherein), [idiom] though, [phrase] until, [phrase] whatsoever, when, where ([phrase] -as, -in, -of, -on, -soever, -with), which, whilst, [phrase] whither(-soever), who(-m, -soever, -se). As it is indeclinable, it is often accompanied by the personal pronoun expletively, used to show the connection. See also: Genesis 1:7; Genesis 20:9; Genesis 31:16.
קָנָ֔ה
qânâh
H7069
"to buy"
V-Qal-Perf-3ms
This verb means to buy or acquire something, and is used to describe God's redemption of His people. It emphasizes ownership and possession, as seen in the stories of God's creation and redemption.
Definition: 1) to get, acquire, create, buy, possess 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to get, acquire, obtain 1a1a) of God originating, creating, redeeming His people 1a1a1) possessor 1a1b) of Eve acquiring 1a1c) of acquiring knowledge, wisdom 1a2) to buy 1b) (Niphal) to be bought 1c) (Hiphil) to cause to possess Aramaic equivalent: qe.na (קְנָא "to buy" H7066)
Usage: Occurs in 76 OT verses. KJV: attain, buy(-er), teach to keep cattle, get, provoke to jealousy, possess(-or), purchase, recover, redeem, [idiom] surely, [idiom] verily. See also: Genesis 4:1; 2 Chronicles 34:11; Psalms 74:2.
וַ/יְחַיֶּ֕/הָ
châyâh
H2421
"to live"
Conj | V-Piel-ConsecImperf-3ms | Suff
To live or have life is the meaning of this Hebrew word, which can also mean to revive or be quickened. It is used in the Bible to describe God's power to sustain life and restore people to health, as seen in the stories of the prophets and Jesus' miracles.
Definition: 1) to live, have life, remain alive, sustain life, live prosperously, live for ever, be quickened, be alive, be restored to life or health 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to live 1a1a) to have life 1a1b) to continue in life, remain alive 1a1c) to sustain life, to live on or upon 1a1d) to live (prosperously) 1a2) to revive, be quickened 1a2a) from sickness 1a2b) from discouragement 1a2c) from faintness 1a2d) from death 1b) (Piel) 1b1) to preserve alive, let live 1b2) to give life 1b3) to quicken, revive, refresh 1b3a) to restore to life 1b3b) to cause to grow 1b3c) to restore 1b3d) to revive 1c) (Hiphil) 1c1) to preserve alive, let live 1c2) to quicken, revive 1c2a) to restore (to health) 1c2b) to revive 1c2c) to restore to life
Usage: Occurs in 239 OT verses. KJV: keep (leave, make) alive, [idiom] certainly, give (promise) life, (let, suffer to) live, nourish up, preserve (alive), quicken, recover, repair, restore (to life), revive, ([idiom] God) save (alive, life, lives), [idiom] surely, be whole. See also: Genesis 5:3; 2 Samuel 16:16; Psalms 22:27.
וַ/תִּגְדַּ֥ל
gâdal
H1431
"to magnify"
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3fs
To make something or someone great, important, or powerful. This Hebrew word means to magnify or grow, and is used in the Bible to describe God's power and greatness. The KJV translates it as 'magnify' or 'great'.
Definition: 1) to grow, become great or important, promote, make powerful, praise, magnify, do great things 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to grow up 1a2) to become great 1a3) to be magnified 1b) (Piel) 1b1) to cause to grow 1b2) to make great, powerful 1b3) to magnify 1c) (Pual) to be brought up 1d) (Hiphil) 1d1) to make great 1d2) to magnify 1d3) to do great things 1e) (Hithpael) to magnify oneself
Usage: Occurs in 112 OT verses. KJV: advance, boast, bring up, exceed, excellent, be(-come, do, give, make, wax), great(-er, come to... estate, [phrase] things), grow(up), increase, lift up, magnify(-ifical), be much set by, nourish (up), pass, promote, proudly (spoken), tower. See also: Genesis 12:2; Psalms 35:27; Psalms 18:51.
עִמּ֛/וֹ
ʻim
H5973
"with"
Prep | Suff
This Hebrew word means with or together, like when God is with his people in Exodus 33:14-15. It's used to describe accompaniment or association, and can also mean against or beside. The word is used to convey a sense of relationship or proximity between people or things.
Definition: 1) with 1a) with 1b) against 1c) toward 1d) as long as
Usage: Occurs in 919 OT verses. KJV: accompanying, against, and, as ([idiom] long as), before, beside, by (reason of), for all, from (among, between), in, like, more than, of, (un-) to, with(-al). See also: Genesis 3:6; Exodus 21:14; Deuteronomy 29:11.
וְ/עִם
ʻim
H5973
"with"
Conj | Prep
This Hebrew word means with or together, like when God is with his people in Exodus 33:14-15. It's used to describe accompaniment or association, and can also mean against or beside. The word is used to convey a sense of relationship or proximity between people or things.
Definition: 1) with 1a) with 1b) against 1c) toward 1d) as long as
Usage: Occurs in 919 OT verses. KJV: accompanying, against, and, as ([idiom] long as), before, beside, by (reason of), for all, from (among, between), in, like, more than, of, (un-) to, with(-al). See also: Genesis 3:6; Exodus 21:14; Deuteronomy 29:11.
בָּנָ֖י/ו
bên
H1121
"son"
N-mp | Suff
In the Bible, this word means a son or descendant, and can also refer to a grandson, nation, or quality. It appears in 1 Chronicles 24, describing a Levite named Beno. The word is used to show family relationships and inheritance.
Definition: : child/son
Usage: Occurs in 3653 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] afflicted, age, (Ahoh-) (Ammon-) (Hachmon-) (Lev-) ite, (anoint-) ed one, appointed to, ([phrase]) arrow, (Assyr-) (Babylon-) (Egypt-) (Grec-) ian, one born, bough, branch, breed, [phrase] (young) bullock, [phrase] (young) calf, [idiom] came up in, child, colt, [idiom] common, [idiom] corn, daughter, [idiom] of first, [phrase] firstborn, foal, [phrase] very fruitful, [phrase] postage, [idiom] in, [phrase] kid, [phrase] lamb, ([phrase]) man, meet, [phrase] mighty, [phrase] nephew, old, ([phrase]) people, [phrase] rebel, [phrase] robber, [idiom] servant born, [idiom] soldier, son, [phrase] spark, [phrase] steward, [phrase] stranger, [idiom] surely, them of, [phrase] tumultuous one, [phrase] valiant(-est), whelp, worthy, young (one), youth. See also: Genesis 3:16; Genesis 23:3; Genesis 34:18.
יַחְדָּ֑ו
yachad
H3162
"unitedness"
Adv
This adverb means together, describing people doing something in unity, like in Psalm 133:1.
Definition: 1) union, unitedness
Usage: Occurs in 139 OT verses. KJV: alike, at all (once), both, likewise, only, (al-) together, withal. See also: Genesis 13:6; Psalms 62:10; Psalms 2:2.
מִ/פִּתּ֨/וֹ
path
H6595
"morsel"
Prep | N-fs | Suff
In the Bible, this Hebrew word means a small piece of food, like a bite of bread. It is used in passages like Genesis and Exodus to describe eating. This word is about sharing a meal.
Definition: fragment, bit, morsel (of bread), piece Also means: pa.tot (פָּתוֹת "morsel" H6595B)
Usage: Occurs in 15 OT verses. KJV: meat, morsel, piece. See also: Genesis 18:5; 2 Samuel 12:3; Psalms 147:17.
תֹאכַ֜ל
ʼâkal
H398
"to eat"
V-Qal-Imperf-3fs
This word means to eat or devour, and it's used in many stories, including when Jesus fed the 5000 with fish and bread in the book of Matthew. It's about taking in nourishment and being satisfied.
Definition: 1) to eat, devour, burn up, feed 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to eat (human subject) 1a2) to eat, devour (of beasts and birds) 1a3) to devour, consume (of fire) 1a4) to devour, slay (of sword) 1a5) to devour, consume, destroy (inanimate subjects - ie, pestilence, drought) 1a6) to devour (of oppression) 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be eaten (by men) 1b2) to be devoured, consumed (of fire) 1b3) to be wasted, destroyed (of flesh) 1c) (Pual) 1c1) to cause to eat, feed with 1c2) to cause to devour 1d) (Hiphil) 1d1) to feed 1d2) to cause to eat 1e) (Piel) 1e1) consume Aramaic equivalent: a.khal (אֲכַל "to devour" H0399)
Usage: Occurs in 703 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] at all, burn up, consume, devour(-er, up), dine, eat(-er, up), feed (with), food, [idiom] freely, [idiom] in...wise(-deed, plenty), (lay) meat, [idiom] quite. See also: Genesis 2:16; Leviticus 6:9; Numbers 24:8.
וּ/מִ/כֹּס֤/וֹ
kôwç
H3563
"cup"
Conj | Prep | N-fs | Suff
In the Bible, this word can mean a cup or a type of owl, possibly due to the owl's unique eye shape. It's often used figuratively, like in Psalm 16:5, where God is the cup that fills our lives. The KJV translates it as 'cup' or 'owl'.
Definition: cup
Usage: Occurs in 29 OT verses. KJV: cup, (small) owl. Compare H3599 (כִּיס). See also: Genesis 40:11; Proverbs 23:31; Psalms 11:6.
תִשְׁתֶּה֙
shâthâh
H8354
"to drink"
V-Qal-Imperf-3fs
In the Bible, this Hebrew word means to drink, and it's used in many ways, like drinking from a cup or feasting. It's also used to describe being drunk or taking part in a big celebration. We see it in stories like the Last Supper in Matthew 26:27.
Definition: 1) to drink 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to drink 1a1a) of drinking cup of God's wrath, of slaughter, of wicked deeds (fig) 1a2) to feast 1b) (Niphal) to be drunk Aramaic equivalent: she.tah (שְׁתָה "to drink" H8355)
Usage: Occurs in 193 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] assuredly, banquet, [idiom] certainly, drink(-er, -ing), drunk ([idiom] -ard), surely. (Prop. intensive of H8248 (שָׁקָה).) See also: Genesis 9:21; 2 Kings 19:24; Psalms 50:13.
וּ/בְ/חֵיק֣/וֹ
chêyq
H2436
"bosom"
Conj | Prep | N-ms | Suff
The Hebrew word for bosom refers to the chest area, often used figuratively to describe a close or intimate relationship, as seen in the KJV translations of bosom, lap, or midst.
Definition: : embrace/chest bosom, hollow, bottom, midst
Usage: Occurs in 34 OT verses. KJV: bosom, bottom, lap, midst, within. See also: Genesis 16:5; Psalms 79:12; Psalms 35:13.
תִשְׁכָּ֔ב
shâkab
H7901
"to lie down"
V-Qal-Imperf-3fs
To lie down can mean to rest, sleep, or have sexual relations, and is used in various contexts throughout the Bible. It can also mean to relax or be at rest.
Definition: : lay_down/lie_with 1) to lie down 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to lie, lie down, lie on 1a2) to lodge 1a3) to lie (of sexual relations) 1a4) to lie down (in death) 1a5) to rest, relax (fig) 1b) (Niphal) to be lain with (sexually) 1c) (Pual) to be lain with (sexually) 1d) (Hiphil) to make to lie down 1e) (Hophal) to be laid
Usage: Occurs in 194 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] at all, cast down, (lover-)lay (self) (down), (make to) lie (down, down to sleep, still with), lodge, ravish, take rest, sleep, stay. See also: Genesis 19:4; 1 Kings 11:43; Psalms 3:6.
וַ/תְּהִי
hâyâh
H1961
"to be"
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3fs
The Hebrew word for to be means to exist or come into being. It is used to describe something that happens or comes to pass, like in Genesis where God creates the world.
Definition: 1) to be, become, come to pass, exist, happen, fall out 1a) (Qal) 1a1) --- 1a1a) to happen, fall out, occur, take place, come about, come to pass 1a1b) to come about, come to pass 1a2) to come into being, become 1a2a) to arise, appear, come 1a2b) to become 1a2b1) to become 1a2b2) to become like 1a2b3) to be instituted, be established 1a3) to be 1a3a) to exist, be in existence 1a3b) to abide, remain, continue (with word of place or time) 1a3c) to stand, lie, be in, be at, be situated (with word of locality) 1a3d) to accompany, be with 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to occur, come to pass, be done, be brought about 1b2) to be done, be finished, be gone
Usage: Occurs in 3131 OT verses. KJV: beacon, [idiom] altogether, be(-come), accomplished, committed, like), break, cause, come (to pass), do, faint, fall, [phrase] follow, happen, [idiom] have, last, pertain, quit (one-) self, require, [idiom] use. See also: Genesis 1:2; Genesis 17:4; Genesis 36:11.
ל֖/וֹ
""
Prep | Suff
כְּ/בַֽת
bath
H1323
"Bath (Shua)"
Prep | N-fs
The Hebrew word for daughter is used to describe a female child or a woman, and can also be used figuratively. In the Bible, it is used to describe women like Bathsheba, the wife of Uriah and later of King David.
Definition: A woman living at the time of the Patriarchs, first mentioned at Gen.38.2; daughter of: Shua (H7770); married to Judah (H3063); mother of: Er (H6147), Onan (H0209) and Shelah (H7956) the wife of Uriah whom David had murdered, having had adulterous relations with her; subsequently wife of David and mother of Solomon, Shimea, Shobab, and Nathan (alternate spelling to 'Bathsheba')
Usage: Occurs in 498 OT verses. KJV: apple (of the eye), branch, company, daughter, [idiom] first, [idiom] old, [phrase] owl, town, village. See also: Genesis 5:4; Exodus 2:21; Ruth 1:13.
Study Notes — 2 Samuel 12:3
Show Verse Quote Highlights
- Context
- Cross References
- 2 Samuel 12:3 Summary
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Reflection Questions
- Gill's Exposition on 2 Samuel 12:3
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on 2 Samuel 12:3
- Matthew Poole's Commentary on 2 Samuel 12:3
- Trapp's Commentary on 2 Samuel 12:3
- Ellicott's Commentary on 2 Samuel 12:3
- Adam Clarke's Commentary on 2 Samuel 12:3
- Cambridge Bible on 2 Samuel 12:3
- Whedon's Commentary on 2 Samuel 12:3
- Sermons on 2 Samuel 12:3
Context — Nathan Rebukes David
1Then the LORD sent Nathan to David, and when he arrived, he said, “There were two men in a certain city, one rich and the other poor.
2The rich man had a great number of sheep and cattle,
3but the poor man had nothing except one small ewe lamb that he had bought. He raised it, and it grew up with him and his children. It shared his food and drank from his cup; it slept in his arms and was like a daughter to him.
4Now a traveler came to the rich man, who refrained from taking one of his own sheep or cattle to prepare for the traveler who had come to him. Instead, he took the poor man’s lamb and prepared it for his guest.” 5David burned with anger against the man and said to Nathan: “As surely as the LORD lives, the man who did this deserves to die!Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Micah 7:5 | Do not rely on a friend; do not trust in a companion. Seal the doors of your mouth from her who lies in your arms. |
| 2 | 2 Samuel 11:3 | So David sent and inquired about the woman, and he was told, “This is Bathsheba, the daughter of Eliam and the wife of Uriah the Hittite.” |
| 3 | Proverbs 5:18–19 | May your fountain be blessed, and may you rejoice in the wife of your youth: A loving doe, a graceful fawn— may her breasts satisfy you always; may you be captivated by her love forever. |
| 4 | Deuteronomy 13:6 | If your very own brother, or your son or daughter, or the wife you embrace, or your closest friend secretly entices you, saying, “Let us go and worship other gods” (which neither you nor your fathers have known, |
2 Samuel 12:3 Summary
This verse tells us about a poor man who had only one small ewe lamb, but he loved and cared for it deeply, treating it like a member of his family. The lamb shared his food, drank from his cup, and even slept in his arms, showing how much the poor man valued and loved it. This story helps us understand the importance of treating others with kindness and respect, just as the poor man treated his lamb, and reminds us to be grateful for what we have, as encouraged in 1 Thessalonians 5:18 and Psalm 100:4-5. By reflecting on this story, we can learn to appreciate the value of humility, kindness, and compassion in our own lives.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the poor man's ewe lamb in this story?
The ewe lamb represents the poor man's only valuable possession, which he treats with great care and affection, much like God cares for us as His children, as seen in Psalm 23:1-4 and John 10:11-18.
Why does the poor man's relationship with the lamb matter in this context?
The poor man's relationship with the lamb illustrates the depth of his love and attachment, making the rich man's actions even more heartless and cruel, highlighting the importance of treating others with kindness and respect, as taught in Matthew 7:12 and Luke 6:31.
How does this story relate to the broader biblical theme of justice and compassion?
This story showcases the contrast between the rich man's selfishness and the poor man's selflessness, emphasizing the need for justice, compassion, and mercy, as emphasized in Micah 6:8 and Zechariah 7:9-10.
What can we learn from the poor man's example in this verse?
We can learn the value of humility, kindness, and contentment from the poor man, who is grateful for what little he has and treats it with care, as encouraged in 1 Timothy 6:6-10 and Hebrews 13:5.
Reflection Questions
- What are some ways I can demonstrate love and care for those around me, just as the poor man did for his lamb?
- How can I cultivate a sense of contentment and gratitude for what I have, rather than constantly desiring more?
- What are some areas in my life where I can practice selflessness and put others' needs before my own?
- How can I balance my desire for justice with the need for compassion and mercy in my interactions with others?
Gill's Exposition on 2 Samuel 12:3
But the poor [man] had nothing, save one little ewe lamb,.... Uriah had but one wife, who was much younger than he, called a lamb, an ewe lamb, a little one.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on 2 Samuel 12:3
The rich man had exceeding many flocks and herds: No JFB commentary on these verses.
Matthew Poole's Commentary on 2 Samuel 12:3
The poor man had nothing, save one little ewe lamb; designing Uriah, with his own and only wife. Which he had bought; as men then used to buy their wives; or, had procured. Lay in his bosom; which David might take for hyperbolical expressions of his tender care of and affection to it; although there want not instances of some who have treated such brute creatures in this manner.
Trapp's Commentary on 2 Samuel 12:3
2 Samuel 12:3 But the poor [man] had nothing, save one little ewe lamb, which he had bought and nourished up: and it grew up together with him, and with his children; it did eat of his own meat, and drank of his own cup, and lay in his bosom, and was unto him as a daughter.Ver. 3. But the poor man.] Poor Uriah; poor in comparison of David, who had all that heart could wish. Save one little ewe lamb.] This was his Bathsheba, he had no more wives but her: as Isaac never had more than Rebecca, whom therefore he loved tenderly and entirely. And it grew up together with him, and with his children.] Which he had by a former wife, as some think. It did eat of his own meat.] Heb., Morsel; he spared it out of his own belly for his favoured lamb; neither was anything good to him, whereof his wife had not part. And lay in his bosom.] Where he nourished and cherished her, as the hen doth her chickens, or as the cock pigeon doth the eggs. And was unto him as a daughter.] Yea, much dearer. The greater was her disloyalty against so loving a husband, and so gallant a man: the more heinous also was David’ s offence in wronging and robbing him of such an only jewel.
Ellicott's Commentary on 2 Samuel 12:3
(3) It grew up together.—“All these circumstances are exquisitely contrived to heighten the pity of the hearer for the oppressed, and his indignation against the oppressor.”—Speaker’s Commentary.
Adam Clarke's Commentary on 2 Samuel 12:3
Verse 3. And lay in his bosom] This can only mean that this lamb was what we call a pet or favourite in the family, else the circumstance would be very unnatural, and most likely would have prevented David from making the application which he did, as otherwise it would have appeared absurd. It is the only part of this parable which is at variance with nature and fact.
Cambridge Bible on 2 Samuel 12:3
3. of his own meat] Of his own morsel. The E. V. misses something of the graphic tenderness of the original, describing how the lamb actually shared the poor man’s meal.
Whedon's Commentary on 2 Samuel 12:3
3. One little ewe lamb — Referring tenderly to Bathsheba. Lay in his bosom — As a family pet. Perhaps designed to indicate that Uriah was passionately devoted to his wife.
Sermons on 2 Samuel 12:3
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
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When a Man's Enemies Are the Members of His Own Household by Keith Daniel | Keith Daniel delivers a powerful sermon on the painful reality of facing opposition from one's own family when choosing to follow Christ. He emphasizes that true discipleship may l |
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Examples of Circumspect Behaviour by Clement of Rome | Clement of Rome emphasizes the holy and separate lifestyles of the prophets and apostles, highlighting their dedication to serving God without the distractions of relationships wit |
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Luke 14 by John Nelson Darby | John Nelson Darby expounds on Luke 14, illustrating God's distributive justice and the importance of humility and grace. He emphasizes that true rest can only be found in Christ, a |
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The Jesus Family in Communist China - Part 6 by Dr. D. Vaughan Rees | Dr. D. Vaughan Rees shares harrowing experiences with Communists, highlighting the cruelty and brutality faced by many, including being subjected to horrific methods of execution. |
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How to Bring Your Children to Christ by Ray Comfort | In this sermon, the speaker shares personal experiences and observations about the transformative power of God's word. He emphasizes the importance of having a fear of God and reco |
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(Godly Home) Part 25 - Joining the Next Generation by Denny Kenaston | In this sermon, Brother Denny discusses the power of emotions and the importance of directing them towards the right person. He emphasizes the need for parents to be involved in th |
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Fiery Darts of Immorality by George Verwer | In this sermon, the speaker addresses the issue of using sex to communicate the gospel. He mentions a group that taught girls how to use sex to evangelize and shares examples of gi |