So the king said to Shimei,This phrase refers to King David, who is addressing Shimei, a member of the tribe of Benjamin. Shimei had previously cursed David during Absalom's rebellion (
2 Samuel 16:5-13). The context here is David's return to Jerusalem after Absalom's defeat. Shimei approaches David at the Jordan River, seeking forgiveness. This encounter highlights the themes of mercy and reconciliation, which are central to David's character and reign.
“You shall not die.”
David's declaration of mercy towards Shimei is significant, as it contrasts with the expected retribution for Shimei's earlier actions. In the cultural and historical context of ancient Israel, cursing a king was a serious offense, often punishable by death. David's decision to spare Shimei reflects his desire to unify the kingdom and move past the civil strife caused by Absalom's rebellion. This act of clemency can be seen as a type of Christ, who also offers forgiveness and grace to those who repent.
And the king swore an oath to him.
By swearing an oath, David makes a solemn and binding promise to Shimei, further emphasizing the seriousness of his commitment to mercy. In biblical times, oaths were considered sacred and inviolable, often invoking God's name as a witness. This act underscores the importance of integrity and faithfulness in leadership. David's oath can be connected to other scriptural instances where oaths play a crucial role, such as God's covenant with Abraham (Genesis 22:16-18) and Jesus' teachings on the sanctity of one's word (Matthew 5:33-37).
Persons / Places / Events
1.
King DavidThe central figure in this passage, David is the king of Israel who is returning to Jerusalem after the rebellion of his son Absalom. He is known for his heart after God and his complex character, which includes both great faith and significant moral failings.
2.
ShimeiA member of the tribe of Benjamin, Shimei had previously cursed David during Absalom's rebellion. In this passage, he seeks forgiveness from David as the king returns to power.
3.
Absalom's RebellionThis was a significant event where David's son, Absalom, attempted to overthrow his father and take the throne of Israel. The rebellion ultimately failed, leading to Absalom's death and David's return to Jerusalem.
4.
JerusalemThe capital city of Israel and the center of political and spiritual life for the nation. David's return to Jerusalem signifies the restoration of his kingship.
5.
The OathDavid swears an oath to Shimei, promising that he will not be put to death for his previous actions. This oath is significant as it reflects David's decision to show mercy.
Teaching Points
The Power of MercyDavid's decision to spare Shimei's life exemplifies the power of mercy. As followers of Christ, we are called to extend mercy to others, even when it is undeserved.
The Importance of ForgivenessForgiveness is a central theme in the Christian life. David's forgiveness of Shimei serves as a model for us to forgive those who have wronged us, reflecting God's forgiveness towards us.
The Role of Leadership in ForgivenessAs a leader, David's choice to forgive Shimei sets a precedent for his followers. Leaders in any capacity should model forgiveness and grace, influencing others to do the same.
The Significance of Oaths and PromisesDavid's oath to Shimei underscores the importance of keeping our promises. As Christians, our word should be trustworthy and reflect our commitment to integrity.
Bible Study Questions and Answers
1.What is the meaning of 2 Samuel 19:23?
2.How does David's forgiveness in 2 Samuel 19:23 reflect Christ's teachings on mercy?
3.What does David's decision reveal about leadership and reconciliation in 2 Samuel 19:23?
4.How can we apply David's example of forgiveness in our daily conflicts?
5.In what ways does 2 Samuel 19:23 connect to Matthew 6:14 on forgiveness?
6.How does David's response in 2 Samuel 19:23 demonstrate trust in God's justice?
7.Why did King David choose to forgive Shimei in 2 Samuel 19:23?
8.How does 2 Samuel 19:23 reflect the theme of mercy in the Bible?
9.What historical context influenced David's decision in 2 Samuel 19:23?
10.What are the top 10 Lessons from 2 Samuel 19?
11.How can 2 Samuel 19:18–23 reconcile David’s promise to spare Shimei with later biblical texts (e.g., 1 Kings 2:8–9) commanding his execution?
12.2 Samuel 14:2-3: Does Joab's use of a disguised woman to deceive David suggest a narrative hole, since such a ruse seems unlikely to fool a king?
13.Who killed Goliath? David (I Samuel 17:23, 50) Elhanan (2 Samuel 21:19)
14.(2 Samuel 23:2-3) If these are David's 'last words,' why do other chapters describe David speaking afterward?What Does 2 Samuel 19:23 Mean
So the kingDavid is now returning to Jerusalem after Absalom’s revolt has been crushed (2 Samuel 19:15). In the crowd that meets him is Shimei, the Benjamite who had hurled stones and curses at David when he fled the city (2 Samuel 16:5-8). The text emphasizes “the king,” reminding us that David, God’s anointed (1 Samuel 16:13), has full legal authority over life and death (2 Samuel 12:13). Yet we also remember that this same king knows firsthand the mercy of the LORD who forgave his own transgressions (Psalm 51:1-2). That background sets the tone for what follows.
said to ShimeiShimei approaches in deep contrition, falling before David and pleading, “Do not hold me guilty” (2 Samuel 19:18-20). The palace guard, including Abishai, wants vengeance: “Shouldn’t Shimei be put to death for cursing the LORD’s anointed?” (v. 21). David’s reply addresses Shimei directly, showing personal engagement rather than cold judgment. This mirrors Joseph’s approach to his brothers (Genesis 45:4-5) and previews Christ’s gentle words to sinners like Zacchaeus (Luke 19:5-10).
You shall not dieHere is the heart of the verse: mercy triumphs over judgment (James 2:13).
• David spares Shimei even though the law allowed execution for cursing a ruler (Exodus 22:28).
• The statement recalls Nathan’s assurance to David, “The LORD has taken away your sin. You shall not die” (2 Samuel 12:13), linking David’s past forgiveness to his present action.
• It also foreshadows the gospel pattern: those who deserve death receive life through the king’s pronouncement (John 8:11;Romans 6:23).
This mercy is not cheap leniency but a deliberate act of royal grace, reflecting God’s own long-suffering character (Psalm 103:10-11).
And the king swore an oath to himDavid backs his promise with a solemn oath, making the pardon irrevocable during his lifetime (Numbers 30:2). Biblical history treats oaths with gravity: Joshua kept covenant with the Gibeonites despite Israel’s complaint because of an oath (Joshua 9:19), and even God “swore by Himself” to guarantee His promises (Hebrews 6:13-18).
• The oath safeguards Shimei from immediate retribution and brings peace to the kingdom (Proverbs 16:12).
• Yet David does not erase accountability forever; before his death he leaves instructions to Solomon regarding Shimei’s later conduct (1 Kings 2:8-9, 36-46). Mercy today does not cancel future responsibility—another reminder that grace and truth walk together (John 1:17).
summary2 Samuel 19:23 shows King David exercising kingly authority with gospel-shaped mercy. Confronted by a man who cursed him, David chooses life over death, echoing the mercy he himself received from the LORD. By sealing his word with an oath, he provides Shimei tangible assurance while upholding the seriousness of the king’s decree. The verse invites us to marvel at the greater Son of David, Jesus Christ, who likewise declares to repentant sinners, “You shall not die,” and guarantees that promise with His own blood-sealed covenant.
(23)
The king sware unto him.--This oath of David assuring immunity to Shimei brings to mind his dying charge to Solomon concerning him (
1Kings 2:8-9): "His hoar head bring thou down to the grave with blood." The whole transaction is to be viewed from a political point. Shimei had been guilty of high treason in David's distress; at his return he had confessed his fault, and exerted himself to help on David's restoration to the throne. He had accordingly been pardoned, and David, somewhat rashly, had confirmed this pardon with an oath, in such a way that he was unable to punish any subsequent treasonable tendencies showing themselves in Shimei. From the character of the man, however, and from Solomon's address to him in
1Kings 2:44, it is plain that he remained thoroughly disloyal. David saw this, and hindered by his oath from treating him as he deserved, pointed out the case to Solomon. Solomon settled the matter by a compact (into which Shimei willingly entered), that his life should be forfeited whenever he should go out of Jerusalem. There he was under supervision; elsewhere he could not be trusted. After a few years he violated this condition, and was executed. David had made a rash oath, and observed it to the letter, but no farther, towards a thorough traitor.
Verse 23. -
The king sware unto him. David's magnanimity was not the result merely of policy, but also of joyful feeling at seeing all the tribes so readily welcome him back to the throne. But in spite of his oath, he orders Solomon to execute him, regarding what he had done as a sin past forgiveness. In so doing we can hardly acquit David of breaking his oath, even granting that Shimei's repentance was insincere, and that the motive of his actions was the desire simply to save his life. But we must remember that our Lord described his injunction, "that ye love one another," as "a new commandment" (
John 13:34); and the utmost that can be said in David's favour is that his character was generous and full of chivalry. A half excuse may be found for his order in the supposition that Shimei was an inveterate conspirator, and dangerous to Solomon's peace. This view seems confirmed by the command given to Shimei to build a house at Jerusalem (
1 Kings 2:36), where he would always be under surveillance. But had not David himself praised the man who "sweareth to his own hurt, and changeth not" (
Psalm 15:4)?
Parallel Commentaries ...
Hebrew
So the kingהַמֶּ֛לֶךְ(ham·me·leḵ)Article | Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 4428:A kingsaidוַיֹּ֧אמֶר(way·yō·mer)Conjunctive waw | Verb - Qal - Consecutive imperfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 559:To utter, saytoאֶל־(’el-)Preposition
Strong's 413:Near, with, among, toShimei,שִׁמְעִ֖י(šim·‘î)Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 8096:Shimei -- the name of a number of Israelites“You shall notלֹ֣א(lō)Adverb - Negative particle
Strong's 3808:Not, nodie.”תָמ֑וּת(ṯā·mūṯ)Verb - Qal - Imperfect - second person masculine singular
Strong's 4191:To die, to killThen the kingהַמֶּֽלֶךְ׃(ham·me·leḵ)Article | Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 4428:A kingswore an oathוַיִּשָּׁ֥בַֽע(way·yiš·šā·ḇa‘)Conjunctive waw | Verb - Nifal - Consecutive imperfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 7650:To seven oneself, swearto him.ל֖וֹ(lōw)Preposition | third person masculine singular
Strong's Hebrew
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OT History: 2 Samuel 19:23 The king said to Shimei You shall (2Sa iiSam 2 Sam ii sam) 
