2 Samuel 12:4
2 Samuel 12:4 in Multiple Translations
Now a traveler came to the rich man, who refrained from taking one of his own sheep or cattle to prepare for the traveler who had come to him. Instead, he took the poor man’s lamb and prepared it for his guest.”
And there came a traveller unto the rich man, and he spared to take of his own flock and of his own herd, to dress for the wayfaring man that was come unto him; but took the poor man’s lamb, and dressed it for the man that was come to him.
And there came a traveller unto the rich man, and he spared to take of his own flock and of his own herd, to dress for the wayfaring man that was come unto him, but took the poor man’s lamb, and dressed it for the man that was come to him.
Now a traveller came to the house of the man of wealth, but he would not take anything from his flock or his herd to make a meal for the traveller who had come to him, but he took the poor man's lamb and made it ready for the man who had come.
One day the rich man had a visitor. He didn't want to take one of his own sheep or cattle to feed his visitor. He took the poor man's lamb instead to prepare a meal for his visitor.”
Now there came a stranger vnto the rich man, who refused to take of his owne sheepe, and of his owne oxen to dresse for the stranger that was come vnto him, but tooke the poore mans sheepe, and dressed it for the man that was come to him.
And there cometh a traveller to the rich man, And he spareth to take Of his own flock, and of his own herd, To prepare for the traveller Who hath come to him, And he taketh the ewe-lamb of the poor man, And prepareth it for the man Who hath come unto him.'
A traveler came to the rich man, and he didn’t want to take of his own flock and of his own herd to prepare for the wayfaring man who had come to him, but took the poor man’s lamb and prepared it for the man who had come to him.”
And there came a traveler to the rich man, and he spared to take of his own flock and of his own herd, to dress for the way-faring man that had come to him; but took the poor man's lamb, and dressed it for the man that had come to him.
And when a certain stranger was come to the rich man, he spared to take of his own sheep and oxen, to make a feast for that stranger, who was come to him, but took the poor man’s ewe, and dressed it for the man that was come to him.
One day a visitor came to visit the rich man. The rich man did not want to take one of his own animals and kill it to prepare a meal for the visitor. So instead, he stole the poor man’s lamb and killed it and prepared a meal for his visitor.”
One day, a friend of the rich man came from another place, and he stayed at the rich man’s house. The rich man wanted to cook meat for his friend, but he didn’t want to kill one of his own animals. He took the little sheep from the poor man instead, and he killed it and cooked its meat for his friend.’” That’s the story Nathan told to David.
Berean Amplified Bible — 2 Samuel 12:4
BAB
Word Study
Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.
Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.
2 Samuel 12:4 Interlinear (Deep Study)
BIB
HEB
וַ/יָּ֣בֹא
הֵלֶךְ֮
לְ/אִ֣ישׁ
הֶֽ/עָשִׁיר֒
וַ/יַּחְמֹ֗ל
לָ/קַ֤חַת
מִ/צֹּאנ/וֹ֙
וּ/מִ/בְּקָר֔/וֹ
לַ/עֲשׂ֕וֹת
לָ/אֹרֵ֖חַ
הַ/בָּא
ל֑/וֹ
וַ/יִּקַּ֗ח
אֶת
כִּבְשַׂת֙
הָ/אִ֣ישׁ
הָ/רָ֔אשׁ
וַֽ/יַּעֲשֶׂ֔/הָ
לָ/אִ֖ישׁ
הַ/בָּ֥א
אֵלָֽי/ו
וַ/יָּ֣בֹא
bôwʼ
H935
Lebo
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms
הֵלֶךְ֮
hêlek
H1982
traveller
N-ms
לְ/אִ֣ישׁ
ʼîysh
H376
man
Prep | N-ms
הֶֽ/עָשִׁיר֒
ʻâshîyr
H6223
rich
Art | Adj
וַ/יַּחְמֹ֗ל
châmal
H2550
to spare
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms
לָ/קַ֤חַת
lâqach
H3947
to take
Prep | V-Qal-Inf-a
מִ/צֹּאנ/וֹ֙
tsôʼn
H6629
Sheep (Gate)
Prep | N-cs | Suff
וּ/מִ/בְּקָר֔/וֹ
bâqâr
H1241
cattle
Conj | Prep | N-cs | Suff
לַ/עֲשׂ֕וֹת
ʻâsâh
H6213
to make
Prep | V-Qal-Inf-a
לָ/אֹרֵ֖חַ
ʼârach
H732
to journey
Prep | V-Qal
הַ/בָּא
bôwʼ
H935
Lebo
Art | V-Qal
ל֑/וֹ
Prep | Suff
וַ/יִּקַּ֗ח
lâqach
H3947
to take
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms
אֶת
ʼêth
H853
Obj.
DirObjM
כִּבְשַׂת֙
kibsâh
H3535
ewe-lamb
N-fs
הָ/אִ֣ישׁ
ʼîysh
H376
man
Art | N-ms
הָ/רָ֔אשׁ
rûwsh
H7326
be poor
Art | V-Qal
וַֽ/יַּעֲשֶׂ֔/הָ
ʻâsâh
H6213
to make
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms | Suff
לָ/אִ֖ישׁ
ʼîysh
H376
man
Prep | N-ms
הַ/בָּ֥א
bôwʼ
H935
Lebo
Art | V-Qal
אֵלָֽי/ו
ʼêl
H413
to(wards)
Prep | Suff
Hebrew Word Study
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Hebrew Word Reference — 2 Samuel 12:4
וַ/יָּ֣בֹא
bôwʼ
H935
"Lebo"
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms
This verb means to go or come, and is used in many contexts, such as entering a place or approaching someone, as seen in the book of Genesis. It can also mean to abide or apply, and is translated in various ways in the KJV Bible. This term is related to the name Lebo Hamath.
Definition: A shortened name of Lebo Hamath complined withcha.mat (חֲמָת "Hamath" H2574) This name means to go in, enter
Usage: Occurs in 2307 OT verses. KJV: abide, apply, attain, [idiom] be, befall, [phrase] besiege, bring (forth, in, into, to pass), call, carry, [idiom] certainly, (cause, let, thing for) to come (against, in, out, upon, to pass), depart, [idiom] doubtless again, [phrase] eat, [phrase] employ, (cause to) enter (in, into, -tering, -trance, -try), be fallen, fetch, [phrase] follow, get, give, go (down, in, to war), grant, [phrase] have, [idiom] indeed, (in-) vade, lead, lift (up), mention, pull in, put, resort, run (down), send, set, [idiom] (well) stricken (in age), [idiom] surely, take (in), way. See also: Genesis 2:19; Genesis 32:7; Exodus 1:19.
הֵלֶךְ֮
hêlek
H1982
"traveller"
N-ms
A traveller is someone on a journey, like Abraham in Genesis 12:9. This word also means a flowing or a wayfarer. In the Bible, it refers to people on the move.
Definition: traveller
Usage: Occurs in 2 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] dropped, traveller. See also: 1 Samuel 14:26; 2 Samuel 12:4.
לְ/אִ֣ישׁ
ʼîysh
H376
"man"
Prep | N-ms
The Hebrew word for man, referring to a male person or individual, is used in the Bible to describe humans in contrast to God or animals, as seen in Genesis and Psalms. It can also mean husband or servant. In the KJV, it is translated as man or male.
Definition: : man 1) man 1a) man, male (in contrast to woman, female) 1b) husband 1c) human being, person (in contrast to God) 1d) servant 1e) mankind 1f) champion 1g) great man 2) whosoever 3) each (adjective)
Usage: Occurs in 1851 OT verses. KJV: also, another, any (man), a certain, [phrase] champion, consent, each, every (one), fellow, (foot-, husband-) man, (good-, great, mighty) man, he, high (degree), him (that is), husband, man(-kind), [phrase] none, one, people, person, [phrase] steward, what (man) soever, whoso(-ever), worthy. Compare H802 (אִשָּׁה). See also: Genesis 2:23; Genesis 42:25; Exodus 32:23.
הֶֽ/עָשִׁיר֒
ʻâshîyr
H6223
"rich"
Art | Adj
In the Bible, the Hebrew word for 'rich' describes someone with wealth or noble status. It is used to describe people who are wealthy, like the rich man in certain parables. The word is often translated as 'rich' in English Bibles.
Definition: adj 1) rich, wealthy n 2) the rich, the wealthy, rich man
Usage: Occurs in 23 OT verses. KJV: rich (man). See also: Exodus 30:15; Proverbs 18:23; Psalms 45:13.
וַ/יַּחְמֹ֗ל
châmal
H2550
"to spare"
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms
To spare or have pity is the meaning of this Hebrew verb, as seen in Genesis 43:14, where Joseph spares his brothers. It shows compassion and mercy towards others.
Definition: (Qal) to spare, pity, have compassion on
Usage: Occurs in 40 OT verses. KJV: have compassion, (have) pity, spare. See also: Exodus 2:6; Jeremiah 21:7; Proverbs 6:34.
לָ/קַ֤חַת
lâqach
H3947
"to take"
Prep | V-Qal-Inf-a
This Hebrew word means to take or get something, and it is used in many different ways in the Bible. It can mean to take a wife, to take possession of something, or to receive a gift. For example, in Genesis 2:22, God takes a rib from Adam to create Eve.
Definition: : take 1) to take, get, fetch, lay hold of, seize, receive, acquire, buy, bring, marry, take a wife, snatch, take away 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to take, take in the hand 1a2) to take and carry along 1a3) to take from, take out of, take, carry away, take away 1a4) to take to or for a person, procure, get, take possession of, select, choose, take in marriage, receive, accept 1a5) to take up or upon, put upon 1a6) to fetch 1a7) to take, lead, conduct 1a8) to take, capture, seize 1a9) to take, carry off 1a10) to take (vengeance) 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be captured 1b2) to be taken away, be removed 1b3) to be taken, brought unto 1c) (Pual) 1c1) to be taken from or out of 1c2) to be stolen from 1c3) to be taken captive 1c4) to be taken away, be removed 1d) (Hophal) 1d1) to be taken unto, be brought unto 1d2) to be taken out of 1d3) to be taken away 1e) (Hithpael) 1e1) to take hold of oneself 1e2) to flash about (of lightning)
Usage: Occurs in 909 OT verses. KJV: accept, bring, buy, carry away, drawn, fetch, get, infold, [idiom] many, mingle, place, receive(-ing), reserve, seize, send for, take (away, -ing, up), use, win. See also: Genesis 2:15; Genesis 34:17; Exodus 30:23.
מִ/צֹּאנ/וֹ֙
tsôʼn
H6629
"Sheep (Gate)"
Prep | N-cs | Suff
This word refers to a flock of sheep or goats, and is sometimes used to describe people in a figurative sense. It is also associated with the Sheep Gate in Jerusalem, a significant location in biblical times.
Definition: This name means sheep and goats Also named: probatikos (προβατικός "Sheep Gate" G4262)
Usage: Occurs in 247 OT verses. KJV: (small) cattle, flock ([phrase] -s), lamb ([phrase] -s), sheep(-cote, -fold, -shearer, -herds). See also: Genesis 4:2; Deuteronomy 28:31; Psalms 44:12.
וּ/מִ/בְּקָר֔/וֹ
bâqâr
H1241
"cattle"
Conj | Prep | N-cs | Suff
Domesticated cattle or oxen, used for work or sacrifice, like the animals used in the temple sacrifices in 1 Kings 8:63.
Definition: 1) cattle, herd, oxen, ox 1a) cattle (generic pl. but sing. in form-coll) 1b) herd (particular one) 1c) head of cattle (individually)
Usage: Occurs in 172 OT verses. KJV: beeve, bull ([phrase] -ock), [phrase] calf, [phrase] cow, great (cattle), [phrase] heifer, herd, kine, ox. See also: Genesis 12:16; Deuteronomy 8:13; Psalms 66:15.
לַ/עֲשׂ֕וֹת
ʻâsâh
H6213
"to make"
Prep | V-Qal-Inf-a
This verb means to make or do something, and is used over 2,600 times in the Bible. It is first used in Genesis 1:7 to describe God's creation of the world and is also used in Exodus 31:5 to describe the work of skilled craftsmen.
Definition: : make(OBJECT) 1) to do, fashion, accomplish, make 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to do, work, make, produce 1a1a) to do 1a1b) to work 1a1c) to deal (with) 1a1d) to act, act with effect, effect 1a2) to make 1a2a) to make 1a2b) to produce 1a2c) to prepare 1a2d) to make (an offering) 1a2e) to attend to, put in order 1a2f) to observe, celebrate 1a2g) to acquire (property) 1a2h) to appoint, ordain, institute 1a2i) to bring about 1a2j) to use 1a2k) to spend, pass 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be done 1b2) to be made 1b3) to be produced 1b4) to be offered 1b5) to be observed 1b6) to be used 1c) (Pual) to be made
Usage: Occurs in 2286 OT verses. KJV: accomplish, advance, appoint, apt, be at, become, bear, bestow, bring forth, bruise, be busy, [idiom] certainly, have the charge of, commit, deal (with), deck, [phrase] displease, do, (ready) dress(-ed), (put in) execute(-ion), exercise, fashion, [phrase] feast, (fight-) ing man, [phrase] finish, fit, fly, follow, fulfill, furnish, gather, get, go about, govern, grant, great, [phrase] hinder, hold (a feast), [idiom] indeed, [phrase] be industrious, [phrase] journey, keep, labour, maintain, make, be meet, observe, be occupied, offer, [phrase] officer, pare, bring (come) to pass, perform, pracise, prepare, procure, provide, put, requite, [idiom] sacrifice, serve, set, shew, [idiom] sin, spend, [idiom] surely, take, [idiom] thoroughly, trim, [idiom] very, [phrase] vex, be (warr-) ior, work(-man), yield, use. See also: Genesis 1:7; Genesis 34:19; Exodus 18:24.
לָ/אֹרֵ֖חַ
ʼârach
H732
"to journey"
Prep | V-Qal
This verb means to travel or journey, like going on a trip. In Exodus 33:7, Moses would journey to the tent of meeting outside the camp to talk with God. It is about moving from one place to another.
Definition: 1) to wander, journey, go, keep company with 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to journey, go 1a2) (part.) 1a2a) wandering, wayfarer, journeying 1a3) (subst.) 1a3a) wanderer, wayfarer, traveller
Usage: Occurs in 5 OT verses. KJV: go, wayfaring (man). See also: Judges 19:17; Job 34:8; Jeremiah 9:1.
הַ/בָּא
bôwʼ
H935
"Lebo"
Art | V-Qal
This verb means to go or come, and is used in many contexts, such as entering a place or approaching someone, as seen in the book of Genesis. It can also mean to abide or apply, and is translated in various ways in the KJV Bible. This term is related to the name Lebo Hamath.
Definition: A shortened name of Lebo Hamath complined withcha.mat (חֲמָת "Hamath" H2574) This name means to go in, enter
Usage: Occurs in 2307 OT verses. KJV: abide, apply, attain, [idiom] be, befall, [phrase] besiege, bring (forth, in, into, to pass), call, carry, [idiom] certainly, (cause, let, thing for) to come (against, in, out, upon, to pass), depart, [idiom] doubtless again, [phrase] eat, [phrase] employ, (cause to) enter (in, into, -tering, -trance, -try), be fallen, fetch, [phrase] follow, get, give, go (down, in, to war), grant, [phrase] have, [idiom] indeed, (in-) vade, lead, lift (up), mention, pull in, put, resort, run (down), send, set, [idiom] (well) stricken (in age), [idiom] surely, take (in), way. See also: Genesis 2:19; Genesis 32:7; Exodus 1:19.
ל֑/וֹ
""
Prep | Suff
וַ/יִּקַּ֗ח
lâqach
H3947
"to take"
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms
This Hebrew word means to take or get something, and it is used in many different ways in the Bible. It can mean to take a wife, to take possession of something, or to receive a gift. For example, in Genesis 2:22, God takes a rib from Adam to create Eve.
Definition: : take 1) to take, get, fetch, lay hold of, seize, receive, acquire, buy, bring, marry, take a wife, snatch, take away 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to take, take in the hand 1a2) to take and carry along 1a3) to take from, take out of, take, carry away, take away 1a4) to take to or for a person, procure, get, take possession of, select, choose, take in marriage, receive, accept 1a5) to take up or upon, put upon 1a6) to fetch 1a7) to take, lead, conduct 1a8) to take, capture, seize 1a9) to take, carry off 1a10) to take (vengeance) 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be captured 1b2) to be taken away, be removed 1b3) to be taken, brought unto 1c) (Pual) 1c1) to be taken from or out of 1c2) to be stolen from 1c3) to be taken captive 1c4) to be taken away, be removed 1d) (Hophal) 1d1) to be taken unto, be brought unto 1d2) to be taken out of 1d3) to be taken away 1e) (Hithpael) 1e1) to take hold of oneself 1e2) to flash about (of lightning)
Usage: Occurs in 909 OT verses. KJV: accept, bring, buy, carry away, drawn, fetch, get, infold, [idiom] many, mingle, place, receive(-ing), reserve, seize, send for, take (away, -ing, up), use, win. See also: Genesis 2:15; Genesis 34:17; Exodus 30:23.
אֶת
ʼêth
H853
"Obj."
DirObjM
In the original Hebrew, this word points out the object of a verb or preposition, like 'namely' or 'even'. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus. It's not directly translated in English, but helps clarify the meaning of sentences.
Definition: sign of the definite direct object, not translated in English but generally preceding and indicating the accusative Aramaic equivalent: yat (יָת "whom" H3487)
Usage: Occurs in 6782 OT verses. KJV: (as such unrepresented in English). See also: Genesis 1:1; Genesis 10:8; Genesis 19:21.
כִּבְשַׂת֙
kibsâh
H3535
"ewe-lamb"
N-fs
An ewe-lamb is a young female sheep, often used in sacrifices in the Old Testament. In 1 Samuel 7:9, Samuel offers a lamb to God to ask for His help. This word is also used in 2 Samuel 12:3 to describe a poor man's only lamb.
Definition: ewe-lamb, lamb
Usage: Occurs in 8 OT verses. KJV: (ewe) lamb. See also: Genesis 21:28; Numbers 6:14; 2 Samuel 12:6.
הָ/אִ֣ישׁ
ʼîysh
H376
"man"
Art | N-ms
The Hebrew word for man, referring to a male person or individual, is used in the Bible to describe humans in contrast to God or animals, as seen in Genesis and Psalms. It can also mean husband or servant. In the KJV, it is translated as man or male.
Definition: : man 1) man 1a) man, male (in contrast to woman, female) 1b) husband 1c) human being, person (in contrast to God) 1d) servant 1e) mankind 1f) champion 1g) great man 2) whosoever 3) each (adjective)
Usage: Occurs in 1851 OT verses. KJV: also, another, any (man), a certain, [phrase] champion, consent, each, every (one), fellow, (foot-, husband-) man, (good-, great, mighty) man, he, high (degree), him (that is), husband, man(-kind), [phrase] none, one, people, person, [phrase] steward, what (man) soever, whoso(-ever), worthy. Compare H802 (אִשָּׁה). See also: Genesis 2:23; Genesis 42:25; Exodus 32:23.
הָ/רָ֔אשׁ
rûwsh
H7326
"be poor"
Art | V-Qal
To be poor or destitute, often used to describe someone who lacks material possessions or is in need, as seen in the story of the poor widow in Mark 12:42. This verb can also be used to describe someone who is spiritually poor or lacking.
Definition: 1) to be poor, be in want, lack 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to be poor 1a2) to be in want or hunger 1a3) poor man (subst) 1b)(Hithpolel) one impoverishing himself (participle)
Usage: Occurs in 24 OT verses. KJV: lack, needy, (make self) poor (man). See also: 1 Samuel 18:23; Proverbs 18:23; Psalms 34:11.
וַֽ/יַּעֲשֶׂ֔/הָ
ʻâsâh
H6213
"to make"
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms | Suff
This verb means to make or do something, and is used over 2,600 times in the Bible. It is first used in Genesis 1:7 to describe God's creation of the world and is also used in Exodus 31:5 to describe the work of skilled craftsmen.
Definition: : make(OBJECT) 1) to do, fashion, accomplish, make 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to do, work, make, produce 1a1a) to do 1a1b) to work 1a1c) to deal (with) 1a1d) to act, act with effect, effect 1a2) to make 1a2a) to make 1a2b) to produce 1a2c) to prepare 1a2d) to make (an offering) 1a2e) to attend to, put in order 1a2f) to observe, celebrate 1a2g) to acquire (property) 1a2h) to appoint, ordain, institute 1a2i) to bring about 1a2j) to use 1a2k) to spend, pass 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be done 1b2) to be made 1b3) to be produced 1b4) to be offered 1b5) to be observed 1b6) to be used 1c) (Pual) to be made
Usage: Occurs in 2286 OT verses. KJV: accomplish, advance, appoint, apt, be at, become, bear, bestow, bring forth, bruise, be busy, [idiom] certainly, have the charge of, commit, deal (with), deck, [phrase] displease, do, (ready) dress(-ed), (put in) execute(-ion), exercise, fashion, [phrase] feast, (fight-) ing man, [phrase] finish, fit, fly, follow, fulfill, furnish, gather, get, go about, govern, grant, great, [phrase] hinder, hold (a feast), [idiom] indeed, [phrase] be industrious, [phrase] journey, keep, labour, maintain, make, be meet, observe, be occupied, offer, [phrase] officer, pare, bring (come) to pass, perform, pracise, prepare, procure, provide, put, requite, [idiom] sacrifice, serve, set, shew, [idiom] sin, spend, [idiom] surely, take, [idiom] thoroughly, trim, [idiom] very, [phrase] vex, be (warr-) ior, work(-man), yield, use. See also: Genesis 1:7; Genesis 34:19; Exodus 18:24.
לָ/אִ֖ישׁ
ʼîysh
H376
"man"
Prep | N-ms
The Hebrew word for man, referring to a male person or individual, is used in the Bible to describe humans in contrast to God or animals, as seen in Genesis and Psalms. It can also mean husband or servant. In the KJV, it is translated as man or male.
Definition: : man 1) man 1a) man, male (in contrast to woman, female) 1b) husband 1c) human being, person (in contrast to God) 1d) servant 1e) mankind 1f) champion 1g) great man 2) whosoever 3) each (adjective)
Usage: Occurs in 1851 OT verses. KJV: also, another, any (man), a certain, [phrase] champion, consent, each, every (one), fellow, (foot-, husband-) man, (good-, great, mighty) man, he, high (degree), him (that is), husband, man(-kind), [phrase] none, one, people, person, [phrase] steward, what (man) soever, whoso(-ever), worthy. Compare H802 (אִשָּׁה). See also: Genesis 2:23; Genesis 42:25; Exodus 32:23.
הַ/בָּ֥א
bôwʼ
H935
"Lebo"
Art | V-Qal
This verb means to go or come, and is used in many contexts, such as entering a place or approaching someone, as seen in the book of Genesis. It can also mean to abide or apply, and is translated in various ways in the KJV Bible. This term is related to the name Lebo Hamath.
Definition: A shortened name of Lebo Hamath complined withcha.mat (חֲמָת "Hamath" H2574) This name means to go in, enter
Usage: Occurs in 2307 OT verses. KJV: abide, apply, attain, [idiom] be, befall, [phrase] besiege, bring (forth, in, into, to pass), call, carry, [idiom] certainly, (cause, let, thing for) to come (against, in, out, upon, to pass), depart, [idiom] doubtless again, [phrase] eat, [phrase] employ, (cause to) enter (in, into, -tering, -trance, -try), be fallen, fetch, [phrase] follow, get, give, go (down, in, to war), grant, [phrase] have, [idiom] indeed, (in-) vade, lead, lift (up), mention, pull in, put, resort, run (down), send, set, [idiom] (well) stricken (in age), [idiom] surely, take (in), way. See also: Genesis 2:19; Genesis 32:7; Exodus 1:19.
אֵלָֽי/ו
ʼêl
H413
"to(wards)"
Prep | Suff
This Hebrew word means 'to' or 'toward', showing direction or movement. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus, to indicate where someone is going. The KJV translates it in various ways, like 'about', 'according to', or 'against'.
Definition: 1) to, toward, unto (of motion) 2) into (limit is actually entered) 2a) in among 3) toward (of direction, not necessarily physical motion) 4) against (motion or direction of a hostile character) 5) in addition to, to 6) concerning, in regard to, in reference to, on account of 7) according to (rule or standard) 8) at, by, against (of one's presence) 9) in between, in within, to within, unto (idea of motion to)
Usage: Occurs in 4205 OT verses. KJV: about, according to, after, against, among, as for, at, because(-fore, -side), both...and, by, concerning, for, from, [idiom] hath, in(-to), near, (out) of, over, through, to(-ward), under, unto, upon, whether, with(-in). See also: Genesis 1:9; Genesis 21:14; Genesis 31:13.
Study Notes — 2 Samuel 12:4
Show Verse Quote Highlights
- Context
- Cross References
- 2 Samuel 12:4 Summary
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Reflection Questions
- Gill's Exposition on 2 Samuel 12:4
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on 2 Samuel 12:4
- Matthew Poole's Commentary on 2 Samuel 12:4
- Trapp's Commentary on 2 Samuel 12:4
- Cambridge Bible on 2 Samuel 12:4
- Whedon's Commentary on 2 Samuel 12:4
- Sermons on 2 Samuel 12:4
Context — Nathan Rebukes David
2The rich man had a great number of sheep and cattle,
3but the poor man had nothing except one small ewe lamb that he had bought. He raised it, and it grew up with him and his children. It shared his food and drank from his cup; it slept in his arms and was like a daughter to him.
4Now a traveler came to the rich man, who refrained from taking one of his own sheep or cattle to prepare for the traveler who had come to him. Instead, he took the poor man’s lamb and prepared it for his guest.”
5David burned with anger against the man and said to Nathan: “As surely as the LORD lives, the man who did this deserves to die! 6Because he has done this thing and has shown no pity, he must pay for the lamb four times over.”Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | James 1:14 | But each one is tempted when by his own evil desires he is lured away and enticed. |
| 2 | 2 Samuel 11:3–4 | So David sent and inquired about the woman, and he was told, “This is Bathsheba, the daughter of Eliam and the wife of Uriah the Hittite.” Then David sent messengers to get her, and when she came to him, he slept with her. (Now she had just purified herself from her uncleanness.) Then she returned home. |
| 3 | Genesis 18:2–7 | And Abraham looked up and saw three men standing nearby. When he saw them, he ran from the entrance of his tent to meet them and bowed low to the ground. “My lord,” said Abraham, “if I have found favor in your sight, please do not pass your servant by. Let a little water be brought, that you may wash your feet and rest yourselves under the tree. And I will bring a bit of bread so that you may refresh yourselves. This is why you have passed your servant’s way. After that, you may continue on your way.” “Yes,” they replied, “you may do as you have said.” So Abraham hurried into the tent and said to Sarah, “Quick! Prepare three seahs of fine flour, knead it, and bake some bread.” Meanwhile, Abraham ran to the herd, selected a tender and choice calf, and gave it to a servant, who hurried to prepare it. |
2 Samuel 12:4 Summary
This verse tells us about a rich man who had many animals, but when a traveler came to visit, he took a poor man's only lamb to feed his guest instead of using one of his own. This shows that the rich man was very selfish and didn't care about the poor man's feelings, similar to the warnings against selfishness in Philippians 2:3-4. The Bible teaches us to be kind and generous to others, and to think about their needs before our own, as seen in Acts 2:45 and Galatians 6:2. We should try to be like the poor man, who loved and cared for his lamb, and demonstrate love and compassion to those around us, just as God shows us love and compassion in Romans 5:8.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the rich man's refusal to take one of his own sheep or cattle to prepare for the traveler?
The rich man's refusal to take from his own abundance and instead take from the poor man's only lamb highlights his selfishness and lack of compassion, as seen in the contrast with the poor man's actions in 2 Samuel 12:3, and reminiscent of the principles of hospitality and generosity found in Deuteronomy 15:7-8 and Proverbs 19:17.
Why did the rich man take the poor man's lamb instead of one of his own animals?
The rich man took the poor man's lamb because he did not want to sacrifice any of his own possessions, demonstrating a callous disregard for the well-being of others, as opposed to the selfless love demonstrated by God in John 3:16 and the importance of treating others with kindness and respect in Matthew 7:12.
How does this verse relate to the broader theme of justice and compassion in the Bible?
This verse illustrates the importance of treating others with fairness and compassion, as emphasized in Scripture, such as in Micah 6:8 and Zechariah 7:9-10, and serves as a reminder of God's expectation for His people to act justly and love mercy.
What can we learn from the rich man's actions in this verse?
We can learn that selfishness and a lack of compassion towards others are contrary to God's will, as seen in 2 Samuel 12:5-6, and that we should strive to demonstrate kindness, empathy, and generosity towards those in need, as taught in Acts 20:35 and 1 John 3:17-18.
Reflection Questions
- What are some ways in which I prioritize my own comfort and convenience over the needs of others, and how can I change this?
- How can I demonstrate the same kind of love and compassion that the poor man showed to his lamb, towards those around me?
- What are some areas in my life where I can practice selflessness and generosity, as opposed to selfishness and greed?
- How can I cultivate a heart of mercy and kindness, like the one described in Matthew 5:7, and what are the obstacles that prevent me from doing so?
Gill's Exposition on 2 Samuel 12:4
And there came a traveller unto the rich man,.... By which some understand Satan, who came to David, and stirred up his lust by the temptations that offered; who is a walker, as the word used
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on 2 Samuel 12:4
The rich man had exceeding many flocks and herds: No JFB commentary on these verses.
Matthew Poole's Commentary on 2 Samuel 12:4
A traveller: this some make to be the devil, whom David gratified by his sin; but it rather seems added for the decency of the parable.
Trapp's Commentary on 2 Samuel 12:4
2 Samuel 12:4 And there came a traveller unto the rich man, and he spared to take of his own flock and of his own herd, to dress for the wayfaring man that was come unto him; but took the poor man’ s lamb, and dressed it for the man that was come to him.Ver. 4. And there came a traveller.] This was the devil, say some, whom David feasted by abusing Bathsheba; and indeed he is a great traveller and trudge-over-the-world. Others - and better - understand it of fleshly lust, which beareth the name of the mother, called in general concupiscence or corruption; this to good David was but a stranger, and not a home dweller: and it must be our care, that though corruption enter, it may not be entertained - "How long shall thy vain thoughts lodge within thee?" - lest the traveller become the man of the house, lest the Lurdan (Lord-Dane) play rex in the soul. And he spared to take of his own flock.] While Nathan was querulously discoursing of the cruel rich man, how he spared to take of his own flock, &c., how willingly doth David listen to the story, and how sharply - even above law - doth he censure the fact! But took the poor man’ s lamb.] So sweet are stolen waters, and so pleasant is bread of secrecies, or eaten in hugger-mugger. “ Quod licet ingratum est, quod non licet acrius urit: Sic interdietis imminet roger aquis. ” - Ovid. And dressed it for the man that was come to him.] This was for lack of true charity, doubtless, which biddeth a man to make bold with his own, and not to meddle with others’ goods. Nevertheless that saying of Gul. Parisiensis hath a great deal of truth in it, Charitas est fur fidelissimus et innocentissimus: quia omnia bona proximoram sua facit, neque tamen illi adimit. Charity is a most faithful and most innocent thief: for why? it maketh all another man’ s good its own, without taking anything away from him.
Cambridge Bible on 2 Samuel 12:4
4. “The apologue of the rich man and the ewe lamb … ventures to disregard all particulars, and is content to aim at awakening the general sense of outraged justice. It fastens on the essential guilt of David’s sin; not its sensuality or its impurity, so much as its meanness and selfishness … A true description of a real incident, if like in its general character however unlike to our own case in all the surrounding particulars, strikes home with greater force than the sternest personal invective.” Stanley’s Lect. II. 90.
Whedon's Commentary on 2 Samuel 12:4
4. Spared to take of his own — David had Saul’s harem, and all the house of Israel, from which to take young virgins as wives, without interfering with Uriah’s possessions. Compare 2 Samuel 12:8.
Sermons on 2 Samuel 12:4
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
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Principles of the Most Holy War by Keith Daniel | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the destructive power of the tongue and the importance of refraining from engaging in harmful conversations. He highlights the need for holi |
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True Holiness by Zac Poonen | This sermon emphasizes the importance of recognizing true holiness distinct from counterfeit or Old Testament holiness. It addresses the fear or lack of understanding of holiness a |
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Blood Covenant - Part 13 by Bob Phillips | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the presence and influence of the devil in the world. He explains that the devil operates in the air and on earth, seeking to devour those w |
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Overcome Sin by Anton Bosch | In this sermon, the speaker begins by explaining that they have started a new series on the book of Revelation in the adult Bible class. However, for the Sunday morning meeting, th |
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The Heart of the Matter by Don McClure | In this sermon, the preacher discusses the nature of the world and how it constantly tries to distract people from God. He emphasizes the temptation that is prevalent in society, p |
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Avoiding Sin's Sudden Traps by Mack Tomlinson | In this sermon, the preacher discusses the story of David and Bathsheba from the Bible. David, while casually observing the sunset, sees Bathsheba and is immediately tempted by her |
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Conquered (A Message for Men) by Glenn Meldrum | In this sermon, the preacher discusses the concept of being conquered by God. He emphasizes the importance of coming near to God and allowing Him to capture our hearts. The preache |