Bible Verse Commentary: 2 Samuel 13:18
Verse Text: 2 Samuel 13:18 - "And she had a garment of diverse colours upon her: for with such robes were the king's daughters that were virgins apparelled. Then his servant brought her out." (KJV)
Overview of the Verse
This verse describes Tamar, the daughter of King David, as she was adorned in a special garment, symbolic of her virginity and noble status. It sets the stage for the tragic events that follow in her life, highlighting themes of purity, beauty, and calamity.
Commentary & Insights
Matthew Henry's Commentary
Matthew Henry notes that the garment of diverse colors signifies Tamar's nobility and the privilege of being a king's daughter. This colorful robe represents her virtue and status, emphasizing her beauty and the tragic nature of her impending fate. Henry emphasizes that despite her beauty, she is about to face a grave injustice, showcasing the vulnerability of virtue in a fallen world.
Albert Barnes' Commentary
Albert Barnes elaborates on the significance of the varied colors of Tamar's robe. He suggests that such garments were typical for royal daughters and indicative of their singular beauty and innocence. The mention of the servant bringing her out possibly hints at both her isolated condition and foreshadows the ensuing tragedy she would face, pointing to the societal norms that bind women even in the royal family.
Adam Clarke's Commentary
Adam Clarke highlights the importance of understanding the context behind this garment. He points out that the colors in her robes symbolize her purity and the expectations placed upon her as a virgin daughter. Clarke discusses the societal implications and the stark reality of her situation, which ultimately transgresses these expectations through her exploitation by Amnon, thus underscoring the darker facets of royal heritage.
Meaning of the Verse
The verse serves as a poignant reminder of the themes of innocence and tragedy. Tamar's beautiful garments represent not just her physical appearance but also her societal role as a virtuous young woman, which stands in stark contrast to the violent events that follow her depiction. This highlights the vulnerability of those who are seen as innocent or virtuous within a corrupt or dysfunctional family structure.
Applications and Reflections
In reflecting on this verse, individuals can consider the ways in which societal expectations can impact the lives of individuals, especially women. It opens up discussions on purity, honor, and the protection of vulnerable populations within scripture.
Life Application
- Reflect on the importance of honoring personal integrity and virtue in a world that often challenges these values.
- Consider the implications of power dynamics within familial and societal structures.
- Engage in discussions about protection for the vulnerable, drawing parallels from scripture to contemporary social justice issues.
Cross References
- 2 Samuel 13:1-2 - The narrative of Amnon's infatuation with Tamar.
- Genesis 34:1-2 - The story of Dinah and the consequences of vulnerability.
- Proverbs 1:18 - Discussions on the dangers that come with recklessness.
Further Reading
This exploration of 2 Samuel 13:18 contributes to a broader understanding of the struggles depicted in the Old Testament relating to family dysfunction, personal integrity, and societal roles. By using tools such as online Bible study resources and various Bible study guides, one can engage with these themes more profoundly and apply insights from scripture to daily life.
Additional Keywords to Explore
- Understanding difficult Bible passages
- In-depth Bible verse analysis
- Historical context of the story of Tamar
