2 Samuel 19:20

2 Samuel 19:20 in Multiple Translations

Berean Standard Bible BSB

For your servant knows that I have sinned, so here I am today as the first of all the house of Joseph to come down to meet my lord the king.”

King James Version KJV

For thy servant doth know that I have sinned: therefore, behold, I am come the first this day of all the house of Joseph to go down to meet my lord the king.

American Standard Version ASV

For thy servant doth know that I have sinned: therefore, behold, I am come this day the first of all the house of Joseph to go down to meet my lord the king.

Bible in Basic English BBE

For your servant is conscious of his sin: and so, as you see, I have come today, the first of all the sons of Joseph, for the purpose of meeting my lord the king.

Free Bible Version FBV

I, your servant, recognize that I have sinned. But look! Today I'm the first from any of the tribes of Joseph to come down and meet Your Majesty.”

Geneva Bible 1599 GNV

For thy seruant doeth knowe, that I haue done amisse: therefore beholde, I am the first this day of al the house of Ioseph, that am come to goe downe to meete my lord the King.

Young's Literal Translation YLT

for thy servant hath known that I have sinned; and lo, I have come to-day, first of all the house of Joseph, to go down to meet my lord the king.'

World English Bible WEB

For your servant knows that I have sinned. Therefore behold, I have come today as the first of all the house of Joseph to go down to meet my lord the king.”

Noah Webster Bible WBS

For thy servant doth know that I have sinned: therefore behold, I have come the first this day of all the house of Joseph to go down to meet my lord the king.

Douay-Rheims 1899 DRV

For I thy servant acknowledge my sin: and therefore I am come this day the first of all the house of Joseph, and am come down to meet my lord the king.

Translation for Translators T4T

Because I know that I have sinned. Look, I have come today, the first one from the northern tribes to come here to greet you today, Your Majesty.”

Study Highlights

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Berean Amplified Bible — 2 Samuel 19:20

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 19:20 Interlinear (Deep Study)

BIB

HEB וַ/יֹּ֣אמֶר אֶל הַ/מֶּ֗לֶךְ אַל יַחֲשָׁב לִ֣/י אֲדֹנִ/י֮ עָוֺן֒ וְ/אַל תִּזְכֹּ֗ר אֵ֚ת אֲשֶׁ֣ר הֶעֱוָ֣ה עַבְדְּ/ךָ֔ בַּ/יּ֕וֹם אֲשֶׁר יָׄצָ֥ׄאׄ אֲדֹנִֽ/י הַ/מֶּ֖לֶךְ מִ/ירֽוּשָׁלִָ֑ם לָ/שׂ֥וּם הַ/מֶּ֖לֶךְ אֶל לִבּֽ/וֹ

וַ/יֹּ֣אמֶר ʼâmar H559 to say Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms

אֶל ʼêl H413 to(wards) Prep

הַ/מֶּ֗לֶךְ melek H4428 King's Art | N-ms

אַל ʼal H408 not Part

יַחֲשָׁב châshab H2803 to devise V-Qal-Juss-3ms

לִ֣/י Prep | Suff

אֲדֹנִ/י֮ ʼâdôwn H113 lord N-ms | Suff

עָוֺן֒ ʻâvôn H5771 iniquity N-cs

וְ/אַל ʼal H408 not Conj | Part

תִּזְכֹּ֗ר zâkar H2142 to remember V-Qal-Juss-2ms

אֵ֚ת ʼêth H853 Obj. DirObjM

אֲשֶׁ֣ר ʼăsher H834 which Rel

הֶעֱוָ֣ה ʻâvâh H5753 to twist V-Hiphil-Perf-3ms

עַבְדְּ/ךָ֔ ʻebed H5650 servant/slave N-ms | Suff

בַּ/יּ֕וֹם yôwm H3117 day Prep | N-ms

אֲשֶׁר ʼăsher H834 which Rel

יָׄצָ֥ׄאׄ yâtsâʼ H3318 to come out V-Qal-Perf-3ms

אֲדֹנִֽ/י ʼâdôwn H113 lord N-ms | Suff

הַ/מֶּ֖לֶךְ melek H4428 King's Art | N-ms

מִ/ירֽוּשָׁלִָ֑ם Yᵉrûwshâlaim H3389 Jerusalem Prep | N-proper

לָ/שׂ֥וּם sûwm H7760 to set Prep | V-Qal-Inf-a

הַ/מֶּ֖לֶךְ melek H4428 King's Art | N-ms

אֶל ʼêl H413 to(wards) Prep

לִבּֽ/וֹ lêb H3820 heart N-ms | Suff

Hebrew Word Study

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Hebrew Word Reference — 2 Samuel 19:20

וַ/יֹּ֣אמֶר ʼâmar H559 "to say" Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms

This Hebrew word means to say or speak, and it's used in many different ways in the Bible. It can mean to command, promise, or think, and it's translated in the KJV as 'answer', 'appoint', or 'command'.

Definition: 1) to say, speak, utter 1a) (Qal) to say, to answer, to say in one's heart, to think, to command, to promise, to intend 1b) (Niphal) to be told, to be said, to be called 1c) (Hithpael) to boast, to act proudly 1d) (Hiphil) to avow, to avouch Aramaic equivalent: a.mar (אֲמַר "to say" H0560)

Usage: Occurs in 4337 OT verses. KJV: answer, appoint, avouch, bid, boast self, call, certify, challenge, charge, [phrase] (at the, give) command(-ment), commune, consider, declare, demand, [idiom] desire, determine, [idiom] expressly, [idiom] indeed, [idiom] intend, name, [idiom] plainly, promise, publish, report, require, say, speak (against, of), [idiom] still, [idiom] suppose, talk, tell, term, [idiom] that is, [idiom] think, use (speech), utter, [idiom] verily, [idiom] yet. See also: Genesis 1:3; Genesis 18:23; Genesis 25:32.

אֶל ʼêl H413 "to(wards)" Prep

This Hebrew word means 'to' or 'toward', showing direction or movement. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus, to indicate where someone is going. The KJV translates it in various ways, like 'about', 'according to', or 'against'.

Definition: 1) to, toward, unto (of motion) 2) into (limit is actually entered) 2a) in among 3) toward (of direction, not necessarily physical motion) 4) against (motion or direction of a hostile character) 5) in addition to, to 6) concerning, in regard to, in reference to, on account of 7) according to (rule or standard) 8) at, by, against (of one's presence) 9) in between, in within, to within, unto (idea of motion to)

Usage: Occurs in 4205 OT verses. KJV: about, according to, after, against, among, as for, at, because(-fore, -side), both...and, by, concerning, for, from, [idiom] hath, in(-to), near, (out) of, over, through, to(-ward), under, unto, upon, whether, with(-in). See also: Genesis 1:9; Genesis 21:14; Genesis 31:13.

הַ/מֶּ֗לֶךְ melek H4428 "King's" Art | N-ms

This word refers to a king or royal person, like King David or King Saul. It can also describe something related to a king, like the King's Valley in Genesis. The Bible often uses this word to talk about the rulers of Israel.

Definition: King's (Valley) (Gen.14.17)

Usage: Occurs in 1919 OT verses. KJV: king, royal. See also: Genesis 14:1; Joshua 10:39; 1 Samuel 16:1.

אַל ʼal H408 "not" Part

Means not or nothing, used to express negation, as in the phrase do not or let not be.

Definition: 1) not, no, nor, neither, nothing (as wish or preference) 1a) do not, let not (with a verb) 1b) let there not be (with a verb understood) 1c) not, no (with substantive) 1d) nothing (as substantive) Aramaic equivalent: al (אַל "not" H0409)

Usage: Occurs in 572 OT verses. KJV: nay, neither, [phrase] never, no, nor, not, nothing (worth), rather than. See also: Genesis 13:8; Joshua 11:6; 1 Chronicles 22:13.

יַחֲשָׁב châshab H2803 "to devise" V-Qal-Juss-3ms

To devise means to think or plan something, often in a clever way. In the Bible, it can mean to plot or contrive, as seen in the story of David and Goliath.

Definition: : count/regard_as 1) to think, plan, esteem, calculate, invent, make a judgment, imagine, count 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to think, account 1a2) to plan, devise, mean 1a3) to charge, impute, reckon 1a4) to esteem, value, regard 1a5) to invent 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be accounted, be thought, be esteemed 1b2) to be computed, be reckoned 1b3) to be imputed 1c) (Piel) 1c1) to think upon, consider, be mindful of 1c2) to think to do, devise, plan 1c3) to count, reckon 1d) (Hithpael) to be considered

Usage: Occurs in 122 OT verses. KJV: (make) account (of), conceive, consider, count, cunning (man, work, workman), devise, esteem, find out, forecast, hold, imagine, impute, invent, be like, mean, purpose, reckon(-ing be made), regard, think. See also: Genesis 15:6; Psalms 35:4; Psalms 10:2.

לִ֣/י "" Prep | Suff

אֲדֹנִ/י֮ ʼâdôwn H113 "lord" N-ms | Suff

The Hebrew word ʼâdôwn refers to a lord or master, and can be used to describe human leaders or God. It emphasizes the person's power and control over others or things, and is often translated as lord or master.

Definition: 1) firm, strong, lord, master 1a) lord, master 1a1) reference to men 1a1a) superintendent of household, of affairs 1a1b) master 1a1c) king 1a2) reference to God 1a2a) the Lord God 1a2b) Lord of the whole earth 1b) lords, kings 1b1) reference to men 1b1a) proprietor of hill of Samaria 1b1b) master 1b1c) husband 1b1d) prophet 1b1e) governor 1b1f) prince 1b1g) king 1b2) reference to God 1b2a) Lord of lords (probably = "thy husband, Yahweh") 1c) my lord, my master 1c1) reference to men 1c1a) master 1c1b) husband 1c1c) prophet 1c1d) prince 1c1e) king 1c1f) father 1c1g) Moses 1c1h) priest 1c1i) theophanic angel 1c1j) captain 1c1k) general recognition of superiority 1c2) reference to God 1c2a) my Lord, my Lord and my God 1c2b) Adonai (parallel with Yahweh)

Usage: Occurs in 281 OT verses. KJV: lord, master, owner. Compare also names beginning with 'Adoni-'. See also: Genesis 18:3; 1 Samuel 25:30; 2 Kings 6:5.

עָוֺן֒ ʻâvôn H5771 "iniquity" N-cs

In the Bible, this Hebrew word means moral evil or sin, like the kind God sees in people's hearts. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Psalms. This concept is key to understanding human nature.

Definition: : crime 1) perversity, depravity, iniquity, guilt or punishment of iniquity 1a) iniquity 1b) guilt of iniquity, guilt (as great), guilt (of condition) 1c) consequence of or punishment for iniquity

Usage: Occurs in 215 OT verses. KJV: fault, iniquity, mischeif, punishment (of iniquity), sin. See also: Genesis 4:13; Psalms 107:17; Psalms 18:24.

וְ/אַל ʼal H408 "not" Conj | Part

Means not or nothing, used to express negation, as in the phrase do not or let not be.

Usage: Occurs in 572 OT verses. KJV: nay, neither, [phrase] never, no, nor, not, nothing (worth), rather than. See also: Genesis 13:8; Joshua 11:6; 1 Chronicles 22:13.

תִּזְכֹּ֗ר zâkar H2142 "to remember" V-Qal-Juss-2ms

To remember means to recall or mark something, like God remembering his covenant with Abraham in Genesis 9:1 and Exodus 2:24.

Definition: 1) to remember, recall, call to mind 1a) (Qal) to remember, recall 1b) (Niphal) to be brought to remembrance, be remembered, be thought of, be brought to mind 1c) (Hiphil) 1c1) to cause to remember, remind 1c2) to cause to be remembered, keep in remembrance 1c3) to mention 1c4) to record 1c5) to make a memorial, make remembrance

Usage: Occurs in 223 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] burn (incense), [idiom] earnestly, be male, (make) mention (of), be mindful, recount, record(-er), remember, make to be remembered, bring (call, come, keep, put) to (in) remembrance, [idiom] still, think on, [idiom] well. See also: Genesis 8:1; Psalms 74:2; Psalms 8:5.

אֵ֚ת ʼêth H853 "Obj." DirObjM

In the original Hebrew, this word points out the object of a verb or preposition, like 'namely' or 'even'. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus. It's not directly translated in English, but helps clarify the meaning of sentences.

Definition: sign of the definite direct object, not translated in English but generally preceding and indicating the accusative Aramaic equivalent: yat (יָת "whom" H3487)

Usage: Occurs in 6782 OT verses. KJV: (as such unrepresented in English). See also: Genesis 1:1; Genesis 10:8; Genesis 19:21.

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.

הֶעֱוָ֣ה ʻâvâh H5753 "to twist" V-Hiphil-Perf-3ms

This Hebrew word means to do wrong or commit iniquity, like when people turn away from God's laws. It appears in various forms, such as doing wickedly or perverting what is right. In the Bible, it is often used to describe those who stray from God's path.

Definition: 1) to bend, twist, distort 1a) (Niphal) to be bent, be bowed down, be twisted, be perverted 1b) (Piel) to twist, distort 1c) (Hiphil) to do perversely

Usage: Occurs in 17 OT verses. KJV: do amiss, bow down, make crooked, commit iniquity, pervert, (do) perverse(-ly), trouble, [idiom] turn, do wickedly, do wrong. See also: 1 Samuel 20:30; Psalms 38:7; Psalms 106:6.

עַבְדְּ/ךָ֔ ʻebed H5650 "servant/slave" N-ms | Suff

This word refers to a servant or slave, often in the context of serving God or a human master. It can also describe a prophet or Levite. The KJV translates it as bondage, bondman, or servant.

Definition: 1) slave, servant 1a) slave, servant, man-servant 1b) subjects 1c) servants, worshippers (of God) 1d) servant (in special sense as prophets, Levites etc) 1e) servant (of Israel) 1f) servant (as form of address between equals) Aramaic equivalent: a.vad (עֲבַד "servant/slave" H5649)

Usage: Occurs in 714 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] bondage, bondman, (bond-) servant, (man-) servant. See also: Genesis 9:25; Exodus 11:3; 1 Samuel 8:16.

בַּ/יּ֕וֹם yôwm H3117 "day" Prep | N-ms

The Hebrew word 'yom' refers to a day, which can be a literal 24-hour period or a figurative space of time. It is used in the Bible to describe a wide range of time periods, from a single day to a year or a lifetime. The word 'yom' is used in many different contexts throughout the Bible.

Definition: : day/when/time/period 1) day, time, year 1a) day (as opposed to night) 1b) day (24 hour period) 1b1) as defined by evening and morning in Genesis 1 1b2) as a division of time 1b2a) a working day, a day's journey 1c) days, lifetime (pl.) 1d) time, period (general) 1e) year 1f) temporal references 1f1) today 1f2) yesterday 1f3) tomorrow

Usage: Occurs in 1930 OT verses. KJV: age, [phrase] always, [phrase] chronicals, continually(-ance), daily, ((birth-), each, to) day, (now a, two) days (agone), [phrase] elder, [idiom] end, [phrase] evening, [phrase] (for) ever(-lasting, -more), [idiom] full, life, as (so) long as (... live), (even) now, [phrase] old, [phrase] outlived, [phrase] perpetually, presently, [phrase] remaineth, [idiom] required, season, [idiom] since, space, then, (process of) time, [phrase] as at other times, [phrase] in trouble, weather, (as) when, (a, the, within a) while (that), [idiom] whole ([phrase] age), (full) year(-ly), [phrase] younger. See also: Genesis 1:5; Genesis 33:13; Exodus 23:15.

אֲשֶׁר 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.

יָׄצָ֥ׄאׄ yâtsâʼ H3318 "to come out" V-Qal-Perf-3ms

In the Bible, this Hebrew word means to go out or come out, and it's used in many different ways, like leaving a place or starting a new journey, as seen in Genesis and Exodus.

Definition: : come/go_out/escape 1) to go out, come out, exit, go forth 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to go or come out or forth, depart 1a2) to go forth (to a place) 1a3) to go forward, proceed to (to or toward something) 1a4) to come or go forth (with purpose or for result) 1a5) to come out of 1b) (Hiphil) 1b1) to cause to go or come out, bring out, lead out 1b2) to bring out of 1b3) to lead out 1b4) to deliver 1c) (Hophal) to be brought out or forth

Usage: Occurs in 991 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] after, appear, [idiom] assuredly, bear out, [idiom] begotten, break out, bring forth (out, up), carry out, come (abroad, out, thereat, without), [phrase] be condemned, depart(-ing, -ure), draw forth, in the end, escape, exact, fail, fall (out), fetch forth (out), get away (forth, hence, out), (able to, cause to, let) go abroad (forth, on, out), going out, grow, have forth (out), issue out, lay (lie) out, lead out, pluck out, proceed, pull out, put away, be risen, [idiom] scarce, send with commandment, shoot forth, spread, spring out, stand out, [idiom] still, [idiom] surely, take forth (out), at any time, [idiom] to (and fro), utter. See also: Genesis 1:12; Exodus 9:33; Leviticus 26:45.

אֲדֹנִֽ/י ʼâdôwn H113 "lord" N-ms | Suff

Usage: Occurs in 281 OT verses. KJV: lord, master, owner. Compare also names beginning with 'Adoni-'. See also: Genesis 18:3; 1 Samuel 25:30; 2 Kings 6:5.

הַ/מֶּ֖לֶךְ melek H4428 "King's" Art | N-ms

Definition: King's (Valley) (Gen.14.17)

Usage: Occurs in 1919 OT verses. KJV: king, royal. See also: Genesis 14:1; Joshua 10:39; 1 Samuel 16:1.

מִ/ירֽוּשָׁלִָ֑ם Yᵉrûwshâlaim H3389 "Jerusalem" Prep | N-proper

Jerusalem is the capital city of Palestine, also known as the city of peace. It was the chief city of the united kingdom and the nation of Judah after the split.

Definition: § Jerusalem = "teaching of peace" the chief city of Palestine and capital of the united kingdom and the nation of Judah after the split

Usage: Occurs in 600 OT verses. KJV: Jerusalem. See also: Joshua 10:1; 2 Kings 22:14; 2 Chronicles 24:6.

לָ/שׂ֥וּם sûwm H7760 "to set" Prep | V-Qal-Inf-a

This Hebrew word means to put or place something, and is used in many different ways in the Bible, such as to appoint or determine something. It is first used in Genesis to describe God's creation. In the KJV, it is translated as 'appoint' or 'set' in various contexts.

Definition: : make/establish 1) to put, place, set, appoint, make 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to put, set, lay, put or lay upon, lay (violent) hands on 1a2) to set, direct, direct toward 1a2a) to extend (compassion) (fig) 1a3) to set, ordain, establish, found, appoint, constitute, make, determine, fix 1a4) to set, station, put, set in place, plant, fix 1a5) to make, make for, transform into, constitute, fashion, work, bring to pass, appoint, give 1b) (Hiphil) to set or make for a sign 1c) (Hophal) to be set

Usage: Occurs in 550 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] any wise, appoint, bring, call (a name), care, cast in, change, charge, commit, consider, convey, determine, [phrase] disguise, dispose, do, get, give, heap up, hold, impute, lay (down, up), leave, look, make (out), mark, [phrase] name, [idiom] on, ordain, order, [phrase] paint, place, preserve, purpose, put (on), [phrase] regard, rehearse, reward, (cause to) set (on, up), shew, [phrase] stedfastly, take, [idiom] tell, [phrase] tread down, (over-)turn, [idiom] wholly, work. See also: Genesis 2:8; Leviticus 20:5; 1 Samuel 21:13.

הַ/מֶּ֖לֶךְ melek H4428 "King's" Art | N-ms

Definition: King's (Valley) (Gen.14.17)

Usage: Occurs in 1919 OT verses. KJV: king, royal. See also: Genesis 14:1; Joshua 10:39; 1 Samuel 16:1.

אֶל ʼêl H413 "to(wards)" Prep

לִבּֽ/וֹ lêb H3820 "heart" N-ms | Suff

Leb refers to the heart, but also represents feelings, will, and intellect in the Bible. It is used figuratively to describe the center of something, and is often translated as heart or mind. Leb is a complex concept that encompasses emotions and thoughts.

Definition: 1) inner man, mind, will, heart, understanding 1a) inner part, midst 1a1) midst (of things) 1a2) heart (of man) 1a3) soul, heart (of man) 1a4) mind, knowledge, thinking, reflection, memory 1a5) inclination, resolution, determination (of will) 1a6) conscience 1a7) heart (of moral character) 1a8) as seat of appetites 1a9) as seat of emotions and passions 1a10) as seat of courage

Usage: Occurs in 552 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] care for, comfortably, consent, [idiom] considered, courag(-eous), friend(-ly), ((broken-), (hard-), (merry-), (stiff-), (stout-), double) heart(-ed), [idiom] heed, [idiom] I, kindly, midst, mind(-ed), [idiom] regard(-ed), [idiom] themselves, [idiom] unawares, understanding, [idiom] well, willingly, wisdom. See also: Genesis 6:5; 2 Samuel 13:33; Psalms 4:8.

Study Notes — 2 Samuel 19:20

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Context
Cross References
2 Samuel 19:20 Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Reflection Questions
Gill's Exposition on 2 Samuel 19:20
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Matthew Poole's Commentary on 2 Samuel 19:20
Trapp's Commentary on 2 Samuel 19:20
Ellicott's Commentary on 2 Samuel 19:20
Adam Clarke's Commentary on 2 Samuel 19:20
Cambridge Bible on 2 Samuel 19:20
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Whedon's Commentary on 2 Samuel 19:20
Sermons on 2 Samuel 19:20

Context — Shimei Pardoned

18and crossed at the ford to carry over the king’s household and to do what was good in his sight. When Shimei son of Gera crossed the Jordan, he fell down before the king 19and said, “My lord, do not hold me guilty, and do not remember your servant’s wrongdoing on the day my lord the king left Jerusalem. May the king not take it to heart.

20For your servant knows that I have sinned, so here I am today as the first of all the house of Joseph to come down to meet my lord the king.”

21But Abishai son of Zeruiah said, “Shouldn’t Shimei be put to death for this, because he cursed the LORD’s anointed?” 22And David replied, “Sons of Zeruiah, what have I to do with you, that you should be my adversaries today? Should any man be put to death in Israel today? Am I not indeed aware that today I am king over Israel?”

Cross References

	Reference	Text (BSB)
1	1 Kings 12:25	Then Jeroboam built Shechem in the hill country of Ephraim and lived there. And from there he went out and built Penuel.
2	Psalms 78:34–37	When He slew them, they would seek Him; they repented and searched for God. And they remembered that God was their Rock, that God Most High was their Redeemer. But they deceived Him with their mouths, and lied to Him with their tongues. Their hearts were disloyal to Him, and they were unfaithful to His covenant.
3	Genesis 48:14	But Israel stretched out his right hand and put it on the head of Ephraim, the younger; and crossing his hands, he put his left on Manasseh’s head, although Manasseh was the firstborn.
4	Genesis 48:20	So that day Jacob blessed them and said: “By you shall Israel pronounce this blessing: ‘May God make you like Ephraim and Manasseh.’” So he put Ephraim before Manasseh.
5	1 Kings 12:20	When all Israel heard that Jeroboam had returned, they summoned him to the assembly and made him king over all Israel. Only the tribe of Judah followed the house of David.
6	Hosea 4:15–17	Though you prostitute yourself, O Israel, may Judah avoid such guilt! Do not journey to Gilgal, do not go up to Beth-aven, and do not swear on oath, ‘As surely as the LORD lives!’ For Israel is as obstinate as a stubborn heifer. Can the LORD now shepherd them like lambs in an open meadow? Ephraim is joined to idols; leave him alone!
7	2 Samuel 19:9	And all the people throughout the tribes of Israel were arguing, “The king rescued us from the hand of our enemies and delivered us from the hand of the Philistines, but now he has fled the land because of Absalom.
8	Hosea 5:3	I know all about Ephraim, and Israel is not hidden from Me. For now, O Ephraim, you have turned to prostitution; Israel is defiled.
9	Jeremiah 22:23	O inhabitant of Lebanon, nestled in the cedars, how you will groan when pangs of anguish come upon you, agony like a woman in labor.”
10	2 Samuel 16:5	As King David approached Bahurim, a man from the family of the house of Saul was just coming out. His name was Shimei son of Gera, and as he approached, he kept yelling out curses.

2 Samuel 19:20 Summary

In this verse, Shimei takes responsibility for his past mistakes and humbly asks for forgiveness from King David. This shows us the importance of acknowledging our own sinfulness and seeking forgiveness, just like the Bible teaches in Psalms 32:5 and 1 John 1:9. By doing so, we can experience restoration and healing in our relationships with God and others. As we reflect on Shimei's actions, we can learn to approach God with humility and trust in His mercy, just as we see in Hebrews 4:16.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of Shimei being the first of the house of Joseph to meet King David?

Shimei's actions demonstrate his eagerness to make amends and show loyalty to King David, as seen in 2 Samuel 19:20, and this is a testament to the power of repentance and forgiveness, as taught in Matthew 6:14-15 and Luke 17:3-4.

How can we apply Shimei's acknowledgment of sin to our own lives?

We can learn from Shimei's example in 2 Samuel 19:20 by recognizing our own sinfulness and taking responsibility for our actions, just as the Psalmist does in Psalms 51:3-4, and then seeking forgiveness and restoration through faith in God, as promised in 1 John 1:9.

What does Shimei's statement reveal about his understanding of his relationship with King David?

Shimei's words in 2 Samuel 19:20 indicate that he recognizes King David's authority and his own position as a subject, similar to how we are to acknowledge God's sovereignty over our lives, as stated in Romans 14:7-8 and Ephesians 6:5-6.

How does Shimei's approach to King David compare to our approach to God when we sin?

Just as Shimei humbly acknowledges his sin and seeks forgiveness from King David in 2 Samuel 19:20, we should approach God with humility and repentance when we sin, as encouraged in Proverbs 28:13 and Isaiah 55:7, and trust in His mercy and forgiveness, as promised in Hebrews 4:16.

Reflection Questions

What are some ways I can demonstrate my commitment to making things right with God and others when I have wronged them, just like Shimei does in this verse?
How can I cultivate a deeper sense of humility and recognition of my own sinfulness, as Shimei exhibits in 2 Samuel 19:20?
In what ways can I apply the principles of forgiveness and restoration seen in this verse to my relationships with others, and how can I trust in God's sovereignty over these situations, as taught in Romans 8:28?
What are some areas in my life where I need to acknowledge my sin and seek forgiveness, and how can I take the first step towards restoration, just as Shimei does in this verse?

Gill's Exposition on 2 Samuel 19:20

For thy servant doth know that I have sinned,.... He was sensible of it, and sorry for it, and publicly acknowledged it before all the men he brought with him, and before all the servants of David;

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on 2 Samuel 19:20

For thy servant doth know that I have sinned: therefore, behold, I am come the first this day of all the house of Joseph to go down to meet my lord the king.

Matthew Poole's Commentary on 2 Samuel 19:20

Thy servant doth know that I have sinned; I do not excuse my sin, but with grief and shame confess it; in which case the Lord thy God is ready to pardon offenders, and so I trust wilt thou be. I am come the first; the sense of my former sin now hath, and whilst I live will, make me the first and most forward in all acts of duty and service to thy majesty. Of all the house of Joseph. Object. He was a Benjamite, . How then doth he make himself one of the house of Joseph? Answ. The house of Joseph is here put, either, 1. For the ten tribes, which are oft distinguished from Judah, and then they are called the house of Joseph, as . But this distinction was not made before the division of the people into two kingdoms; and even after that division Benjamin was constantly reckoned with Judah, and not with Joseph or Ephraim. Or, 2. For all the tribes of Israel, who are called the children of Joseph, ; compare 81:5; as well they might, not only because of Joseph’ s eminency, (the most eminent persons and things being oft put for the rest of the kind,) and because the rights of primogeniture were in a great part devolved upon him, ; but also because Joseph had been as a father to them, and had nourished them all like children, as is expressed in the Hebrew text, . But in this sense this was not true, for the house of Judah came before him, . Or rather, 3. For all the tribes except Judah, which are conveniently called the house of Joseph for the reasons now mentioned, and are fitly distinguished from Judah, because the rights of the first-born were divided between Judah and Joseph, . And though Benjamin, after the division of the kingdoms, was fitly joined with Judah, because then they adhered to that tribe; yet before that time it was more conveniently joined with Joseph, because they marched under the standard of the house of Joseph, or of Ephraim, ; whence it is that Ephraim, Benjamin, and Manasseh are put together, .

Trapp's Commentary on 2 Samuel 19:20

2 Samuel 19:20 For thy servant doth know that I have sinned: therefore, behold, I am come the first this day of all the house of Joseph to go down to meet my lord the king.Ver. 20. For thy servant doth know that I have sinned.] Thus the fox taken in a toil looketh pitifully, but it is only that he may get out. This confession was merely extorted by fear of punishment: it came not like water out of a spring, with a voluntary freeness, but like water out of a still, which is forced with fire. I am come the first this day.] That in me first thou mightest show forth all longsuffering for a pattern to them which shall hereafter submit to thy mercy and clemency, which in a king is no small commendation, and to his delinquent subjects no small encouragement. Of all the house of Joseph.] Joseph and Benjamin were so near akin that their tribes are spoken of as if one and the same.

Ellicott's Commentary on 2 Samuel 19:20

(20) The house of Joseph.—Shimei was not strictly of “the house of Joseph,” but of Benjamin; and it is plain that Joseph, as the name of the most prominent member, stands for all the tribes outside of Judah. This usage is well recognised at a later time (see 1 Chronicles 5:1-2; Amos 5:15), and it has hence been argued that it indicates a late date for the composition of the book; but it is also found in Psalms 80:1-2; Psalms 81:5 (the date of which it would be rash to attempt to fix), in the reign of Solomon, 1 Kings 11:28, and probably very early in Judges 1:35. There is no reason why the expression may not have been used at the earliest date when there began to be a certain separation and distinction between Judah and the other tribes, which was soon after the conquest of Canaan.

Adam Clarke's Commentary on 2 Samuel 19:20

Verse 20. For thy servant doth know that I have sinned] This was all he could do; his subsequent conduct alone could prove his sincerity. On such an avowal as this David could not but grant him his life.

Cambridge Bible on 2 Samuel 19:20

20. the house of Joseph] The ten tribes of Israel as distinguished from Judah are thus named from Ephraim, the most powerful tribe among them (Genesis 48:5). Cp. Psalms 78:67-68; 1 Kings 11:28; Amos 5:6. Shimei the Benjamite claims to be the first representative of Israel to welcome the king.

Barnes' Notes on 2 Samuel 19:20

This is the first time that the “house of Joseph,” or “Joseph,” stands for all the ten tribes of which Ephraim was the head and leader.

Whedon's Commentary on 2 Samuel 19:20

20. The house of Joseph — This designation is here used as synonymous with all Israel. In poetical and oratorical style this was a common term for Israel. Compare Psalms 77:15; Psalms 80:1; Psalms 81:5.

Sermons on 2 Samuel 19:20

	Sermon	Description
	True vs. False Conversions by C.J. Cutrone	In this sermon, the preacher discusses the repetitive cycle of the Israelites in the Bible. He highlights how the people would turn to God when they needed deliverance, but would q
	Xl. to Robert Stewart, on His Decision for Christ by Samuel Rutherford	Samuel Rutherford preaches a heartfelt message welcoming a brother to the world of suffering and to God's house, encouraging him to grow in faith and trust in Christ. He emphasizes
	Homily 41 on the Acts of the Apostles by St. John Chrysostom	John Chrysostom preaches about the importance of not giving in to anger and seeking revenge, highlighting the detrimental effects of holding onto grudges and the need to forgive ot
	(Genesis) Genesis 48:14 by J. Vernon McGee	In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of the new birth and how God does not choose individuals based on their natural abilities or birth order. The preacher uses t
	Laying on of Hands by Anton Bosch	Anton Bosch discusses the principle of the laying on of hands, tracing its origins from the Old Testament where Jacob blessed Joseph's sons, Ephraim and Manasseh, by crossing his h
	Israel in the End Times by David Pawson	In this sermon, the speaker discusses the signs that Jesus gave regarding his second coming. He explains that there are four main signs: famine, wars, earthquakes in the world; a g
	(2 Samuel) Bringing Back the King by David Guzik	In this sermon, the preacher discusses the story of David's return to Jerusalem and the response of the people of Judah. He emphasizes the importance of using our resources for the