“Then she spake, saying, They were wont to speak in old time, saying, They shall surely ask counsel at Abel: and so they ended the matter.”
This verse is part of a larger narrative found in 2 Samuel 20, which describes the rebellion of Sheba against David’s reign as king over Israel. In this particular verse, a wise woman from the city of Abel steps forward to speak and offers advice to Joab, David’s commander, who is pursuing Sheba.
Historical context:During this time, David was the anointed king of Israel, and his reign was marked by military victories and expansion of the kingdom. However, there were occasional challenges and rebellions against his rule. In this chapter, Sheba, a troublemaker, instigates a rebellion by calling the people of Israel to abandon David and follow him instead.
The role of Abel:Abel mentioned in this verse refers to Abel Beth Maachah, a city located in the northern part of Israel. It was known for its wisdom and was a place where people sought counsel in resolving disputes or making decisions. The wise woman from Abel draws upon the reputation of her city to make her point.
The woman’s counsel:The woman’s words suggest that in the past, it was customary for people to seek counsel or advice at Abel Beth Maachah, implying that the city was renowned for its wisdom and its ability to bring about peaceful resolutions to conflicts. She emphasizes that by seeking counsel from Abel, conflicts could be resolved, and the matters would be concluded in a satisfactory manner.
The woman’s wisdom:The wise woman’s advice serves to remind Joab and his troops that seeking counsel and wise guidance is crucial in dealing with conflicts and making decisions. Her words indicate that rushing into a situation without considering the wisdom and counsel of others can lead to unnecessary complications and an unsatisfactory resolution.
Lessons for us: This verse highlights the importance of seeking wise counsel and considering different perspectives when facing challenging situations. It reminds us that making decisions in isolation may lead to unintended consequences and further complications. Instead, we should be open to seeking advice from individuals with wisdom and experience to arrive at a well‑considered conclusion.
In summary, 2 Samuel 20:18 provides a glimpse into the wisdom of a woman from Abel Beth Maachah, who advises Joab to seek counsel and consider the lessons of the past in order to bring the rebellion of Sheba to a peaceful conclusion. This verse teaches us the value of seeking wise counsel and considering different perspectives when dealing with conflicts or making important decisions.
