Definition: Then David sent home to Tamar, saying, Go now to thy brother Amnonâs house, and dress him meat.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 2 Samuel 13:7. It’s a really important and somewhat unsettling passage in the Bible. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Core of the Verse: David is telling Tamar to go and visit her brother, Amnon, and dress him in meat. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “Then David sent home to Tamar…” : This tells us who is doing this. It’s David, who was previously the King of Israel. He's sending someone to visit his sister. “…saying, Go now to thy brother Amnonâs house…” : David is giving a specific instruction – he wants Tamar to go to her brother Amnon’s house. Amnon is a man who was previously married to Tamar and was considered a traitor. "...and dress him meat." : This is the shocking part. David tells Tamar to dress him in meat . What does this mean, and why is it so significant? This verse is a pivotal moment in the story of David’s life and the events that led to his downfall. Here's what it suggests: David's Betrayal: It reveals a deep betrayal by David. He was essentially sending Tamar to harm her brother, Amnon, who had been plotting against him. Amnon's Sin: Amnon is portrayed as a traitor – he actively tried to kill David, and his actions resulted in the death of Uriah the Hittite. This reinforces the idea that David has fallen into sin and has made choices that lead to tragedy. The Significance of the Meat: The act of dressing him in meat is symbolic. It’s a deliberate attempt to cover up the crime and prevent investigation. It's a way for David to try and avoid accountability for his actions. Overall Interpretation: This verse highlights a complex situation filled with deceit, betrayal, and potential for immense suffering. It’s a moment of great sorrow and suggests that even the most righteous King can be vulnerable to evil. Important Note: The Bible doesn't explicitly explain why David is sending Tamar to Amnon. However, it highlights his actions as a consequence of his choices and a turning point in his life, leading to devastating consequences. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of 2 Samuel 13? Discuss the theological significance of this verse?