“Am I not a woman of the city, and a mother in Israel? why then hast thou thought to speak any thing with the king?”
This verse is part of a larger narrative that takes place during the reign of King David. To provide context, let’s briefly review the events leading up to this verse:
In 2 Samuel 20, a rebellion led by Sheba, the son of Bichri, occurs against King David’s rule. Sheba rebels by rallying the men of Israel to follow him and break away from David’s kingdom. David then commands Amasa, the newly appointed commander of his army, to gather the men of Judah within three days and pursue Sheba. However, Amasa fails to meet the deadline, so David dispatches his loyal servant, Joab, to pursue Sheba instead.
Now, focusing on 2 Samuel 20:19, we encounter a wise woman from the city of Abel, which is under threat from Joab’s approaching forces. This woman, whose identity remains unnamed, confronts Joab at the city wall and asks why he has come to attack the city. She asserts her role as a woman of the city and a mother in Israel, questioning the necessity of Joab’s actions.
Courageous Woman:The wise woman of Abel displays courage by approaching Joab, who is known for his military prowess and loyalty to King David. Despite the danger, she fearlessly addresses Joab, seeking answers regarding the purpose of his attack.
Protection of Her City:The woman identifies herself as a resident of the city and expresses concern for the safety and well‑being of her community. Her question challenges Joab to consider the potential consequences of his actions and the impact they may have on innocent lives.
Appeal to Mercy and Reason:By questioning Joab’s motives, the woman appeals to his sense of reason and justice. She subtly suggests that Joab should reconsider his intentions, perhaps highlighting the possibility of resolving the conflict peacefully or avoiding unnecessary bloodshed.
Motherly Role:The woman emphasizes her identity as a mother in Israel. This serves as a reminder to Joab of the familial bonds that unite the people and highlights the importance of protecting and preserving life.
This passage offers insights into the power of a courageous individual who challenges authority for the sake of justice and the well‑being of her community. It serves as a reminder that wisdom, empathy, and peaceful resolution should always be considered, even in the midst of conflict.
As we reflect on this verse, we can draw practical lessons for our own lives. We should be willing to speak up for what is right, even when it may seem intimidating. We can strive to protect and care for our communities, advocating for peace and understanding in our interactions with others. Finally, we should remember the importance of empathy and the value of considering different perspectives when faced with difficult decisions or conflicts.
