2 Samuel 20:3

And David came to his house at Jerusalem; and the king took the ten women his concubines, whom he had left to keep the house, and put them in ward, and fed them, but went not in unto them. So they were shut up unto the day of their death, living in widowhood.

2 Samuel 20:3 (KJV)

Context

David has just returned to Jerusalem after Absalom’s rebellion. When he fled the city, he left ten concubines to keep the house (2 Samuel 15:16). During the revolt, Absalom publicly took these women (2 Samuel 16:21-22), claiming the throne. Now David must respond to what his son has done.

Meaning

David places the women in ward, meaning under guard, and feeds them, but he does not go in unto them. This phrase means he has no sexual relations with them. The women are not punished for disloyalty; they were violated by Absalom. David’s action sets them apart from his household, yet he still provides for their needs. This was not a divorce, but a permanent setting aside from their former role.

Biblical connections

In the ancient Near East, taking a king’s concubines was a clear claim to his throne. Absalom’s act was a political challenge as much as a personal offense. By confining the women, David prevents anyone from using them to strengthen a rival claim. He also shows that what Absalom did cannot be undone. The women were shut up until the day of their death, living in widowhood.

Application

Sin often harms innocent people. These ten women suffer lifelong consequences because of another man’s ambition. We should remember that our choices affect others, sometimes permanently. When we cause such harm, we cannot simply erase it; we must care for those we have hurt as best we can. The lasting damage of sin is a sober reminder to seek God’s wisdom in every decision.

Reflection

The women live in widowhood until death, shut up and set aside. Their tragedy reminds us that God sees those who suffer because of others’ sins. He is near to the brokenhearted and will bring justice in his time. We can trust him with every painful outcome, knowing that he cares for the innocent and the violated.