Definition: And when she had brought [them] unto him to eat, he took hold of her, and said unto her, Come lie with me, my sister.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 2 Samuel 13:11. It’s a really significant passage about a woman's loyalty and the power of God. Here’s a simplified explanation: The Basic Story: This verse comes from a story in the Old Testament about a woman named Sheba who was being held captive by King David. David, feeling insecure and wanting to solidify his position, decided to make her life uncomfortable. He brought her to him for food, and then he took hold of her, meaning he physically restrained her. What Happened Next: He told her, "Come lie with me, my sister." This is a very direct and forceful request. It’s not a casual invitation; it's a statement of dominance. Simple Explanation – What it Means: “When she had brought them unto him…” - This means he took her to be with him. “…to eat” - He was serving her food, and this is the context of the situation. "...he took hold of her..." – This is a key point. He physically held her. "...and said unto her, Come lie with me, my sister.” – He addressed her directly and made a demand for her to join him. This wasn’t a gentle request; it was a forceful command. It implies a sense of control and perhaps even a threat. The Significance & Interpretation: This verse is often interpreted as a moment of intense power imbalance between David and Sheba. It suggests: David's insecurity: He was trying to make sure he wasn’t challenged or undermined by this woman. Dominance and control: It highlights David's desire to exert power over her, even through physical restraint. Important Note: This verse is complex and has been debated for centuries. Different interpretations exist about the exact nature of the relationship between David and Sheba, but it’s generally understood as a moment where David's manipulative behavior led to a difficult situation for her. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of this verse? Connect this verse to other stories in the Bible? Discuss the historical context of this passage?