1 Kings 17:22 "The LORD heard Elijah's cry, and the boy's life returned to him, and he lived."
Ahab was king on the throne of Israel, and was pretty freaking naughty, having built temples to Baal, and Asherah pole, and hooking up with a woman named Jezebel, a foreigner. This all added up to very unhappy God.
The next prophet, Elijah, passed on word from the LORD that as punishment for being a jackass, there will be no rain in Israel unless Elijah says so. Then the LORD gets him out there. Which is good. Evil kings have not reacted positively to bad news about their actions (See: Jeroboam). Where Elijah ends up, he will be fed bread and meat by ravens. The raven was last seen being Noah's signal that the earth was still flooded back in Genesis 8, and being declared an unclean animal in Leviticus 11 and Deuteronomy 14. So what's the deal with that? Why would God send an unclean animal to feed Elijah? Ravens weren't to be eaten, but if they were unclean, wouldn't what they touched be unclean (Lev. 7:19)? Were they exempt from the cleanliness laws that governed people? I don't want to get hung up here, I'm just curious. It is an amazing thing to be brought sustenance by something unclean. By a bird, period. Pretty awesome.
Because of the drought, the brook that Elijah called home dried up, God sends him to Sidon, a foreign town outside Israel. There he meets a woman who gives him some water when he asks for it. As she's on her way, he asks for bread. This woman was just preparing to make the last meal for her and her son, as they are going to starve. And Elijah asks for bread.
I must admire the faith of this woman. Elijah tells her that if she goes home and makes him a cake, her flour and oil will never run out until the drought ends. And since she's from Sidon, I wonder what she knew about faith in the LORD. If anything. She knew what sin was, as when her son dies, she accuses Elijah of reminding her of her sin and killing her son. So Elijah brings the boy upstairs, prays over him, and he comes back to life! This is new territory. God is capable of restoring life to dead people. Can you imagine being deathly sick, and then what it would be like to be alive and in perfect health? Where did he go? What happened? Was he temporarily gathered to his fathers? What did he see? What did he know? What was that conversation like between him and his mother after that? Whaaaaaaaat?
Its a pretty good miracle, and that's all it took for the woman to declare her trust that the word of the LORD through Elijah was true. Not the neverending flour jar and oil jug. Flour and oil were not enough. Life is.
Sunday, August 31, 2008
1 Ki. 16: In This Year of Asa King of Judah
1 Kings 16:19 "So he died, because of the sins he had committed, doing evil in the eyes of the LORD and walking in the ways of Jeroboam and in the sin he had committed and had caused Israel to commit."
Baasha's uppance comes quickly in chapter 16. He received word through the prophet Jehu that his time was over. I think God preserves a special kind of judgment on leaders who lead people into sin. The privilege is great, and so then is the responsibility. If that fails, the punishment is great. Baasha gets the Jeroboam treatment, in that his city-dwelling family will be eaten by dogs, while those who flee to or live in the country will be eaten by birds. Why the distinction? It must be symbollic, as it happens twice and is presented as some kind of awful judgment.
And there are several kings listed here in this chapter. The similarities between these guys are not only in that they did evil in the eyes of the LORD, made bad treaties, fomented idolatry and polytheism, and were generally just naughty dudes.
Look at it.
Verse 8 - "In the twenty-sixth year of Asa king of Judah, Elah..."
Verse 15 - "In the twenty-seventh year of Asa king of Judah, Zimri..."
Verse 23 - "In the thirty-first year of Asa king of Judah, Omri..."
Verse 29 - "In the thirty-eighth year of Asa king of Judah, Ahab..."
Asa, a good king, the king of Judah, keeps the fire burning, while in Israel, they keep having losers assume the throne. A condition of evil was bred. This was the culture. Short reigns. Bursts of carnality and self. Infighting and mutiny. That was how it was in Israel. Additionally, God rewards goodness and following His ways with longer reigns on the throne. Israel kept having evil guys on the throne for a few years at a time. Conversely, David went 40, Solomon went 40...Asa made it a long way, and then you have Israel's guys going two and three years...they don't have time to establish themselves as rulers, to get good at it. But I don't think they are there to get good at it, and do well by Israel.
Baasha's uppance comes quickly in chapter 16. He received word through the prophet Jehu that his time was over. I think God preserves a special kind of judgment on leaders who lead people into sin. The privilege is great, and so then is the responsibility. If that fails, the punishment is great. Baasha gets the Jeroboam treatment, in that his city-dwelling family will be eaten by dogs, while those who flee to or live in the country will be eaten by birds. Why the distinction? It must be symbollic, as it happens twice and is presented as some kind of awful judgment.
And there are several kings listed here in this chapter. The similarities between these guys are not only in that they did evil in the eyes of the LORD, made bad treaties, fomented idolatry and polytheism, and were generally just naughty dudes.
Look at it.
Verse 8 - "In the twenty-sixth year of Asa king of Judah, Elah..."
Verse 15 - "In the twenty-seventh year of Asa king of Judah, Zimri..."
Verse 23 - "In the thirty-first year of Asa king of Judah, Omri..."
Verse 29 - "In the thirty-eighth year of Asa king of Judah, Ahab..."
Asa, a good king, the king of Judah, keeps the fire burning, while in Israel, they keep having losers assume the throne. A condition of evil was bred. This was the culture. Short reigns. Bursts of carnality and self. Infighting and mutiny. That was how it was in Israel. Additionally, God rewards goodness and following His ways with longer reigns on the throne. Israel kept having evil guys on the throne for a few years at a time. Conversely, David went 40, Solomon went 40...Asa made it a long way, and then you have Israel's guys going two and three years...they don't have time to establish themselves as rulers, to get good at it. But I don't think they are there to get good at it, and do well by Israel.
Saturday, August 30, 2008
1 Ki. 15: The Line of Genius Continues
1 Kings 15:4 "Nevertheless, for David's sake the LORD his God gave him a lamp in Jerusalem by raising up a son to succeed him and by making Jerusalem strong."
Abijah is no better than his dad Rehoboam, but still God keeps a lamp for him because of the promise made to David. And that makes me wonder. The sin, and the horrible things these people did...God still honored his promise in spite of their failings. And even David wasn't the sweetest smelling rose himself. Makes me wonder if there's a lamp for me, so to speak.
Abijah's son Asa, however, did what was right in the eyes of God. He upset the system, throwing out the man-whores in the temple, and burning down the Asherah poles. He even deposed his own grandmother. This guy caused a ruckus for God, and ended up unifying some tribes and making treaties.
Nadab was evil as well. He was eventually killed by Baasha, who was the son of another guy named Ahijah. Baasha killed Jeroboam's entire family, thus fulfilling the word of God from Ahijah the prophet in the last chapter.
Apparently there's some annals of the kings of Israel, for further reading. I'll get right on that.
Abijah is no better than his dad Rehoboam, but still God keeps a lamp for him because of the promise made to David. And that makes me wonder. The sin, and the horrible things these people did...God still honored his promise in spite of their failings. And even David wasn't the sweetest smelling rose himself. Makes me wonder if there's a lamp for me, so to speak.
Abijah's son Asa, however, did what was right in the eyes of God. He upset the system, throwing out the man-whores in the temple, and burning down the Asherah poles. He even deposed his own grandmother. This guy caused a ruckus for God, and ended up unifying some tribes and making treaties.
Nadab was evil as well. He was eventually killed by Baasha, who was the son of another guy named Ahijah. Baasha killed Jeroboam's entire family, thus fulfilling the word of God from Ahijah the prophet in the last chapter.
Apparently there's some annals of the kings of Israel, for further reading. I'll get right on that.
1 Ki. 14: Power Changes Hands
1 Kings 14:15 "And the LORD will strike Israel, so that it will be like a reed swaying in the water. He will uproot Israel from this good land that he gave to their forefathers and scatter them beyond the River, because they provoked the LORD to anger by making Asherah poles."
So both Jeroboam and Rehoboam turn out to be losers. They both led Israel into idolatry and polytheism. I probably shouldn't say "led." Probably reignited the polytheism in Israel. And how does God bring Jeroboam to the knowledge that his kingdom will be torn away, and his son will be the last in his line to be buried? Jeroboam's son falls ill, and he has his wife disguise herself to visit the prophet Ahijah. Why the disguise? Probably everyone knew the queen. Anyway, the LORD tells Ahijah she's coming, and gives him the words to say. Horrible, horrible words. Jeroboam's son is going to die as soon his wife gets home. Jeroboam knew what he was commanded to do. He didn't do it. And it cost him the kingdom. And it wasn't just not doing what he was told. The prophet tells him that he did more evil than any of his predecessors.
And the punishment isn't limited to just Jeroboam, all of Israel will be uprooted and scattered. This isn't God breaking a promise. It's God keeping a promise. It was the "Conditionally Promised Land." After 22 years of Jeroboam's reign, his son Nadab assumed the throne. Nadab...I've heard that name before. Ah yes, uh-oh.
Rehoboam's story isn't much better. Idolatry, Asherah poles, etc. Invasion by the Egyptians, who came in and took all the stuff out of the temple. They stole all the holy things. Even Solomon's gold shields from the Forest of Lebanon. To see how far Israel fell, the shields were replaced by bronze. Remember when silver was of no use to Solomon? Well now bronze is the replacement. And it wasn't even allowed to be decoration only. They were forced to be functional for the guards. Amazing. After Rehoboam's 17 year reign in Judah, his son Abijah takes over. Yes, I know Jeroboam's son was named Abijah, too. Different guys, apparently. Hopefully.
So both Jeroboam and Rehoboam turn out to be losers. They both led Israel into idolatry and polytheism. I probably shouldn't say "led." Probably reignited the polytheism in Israel. And how does God bring Jeroboam to the knowledge that his kingdom will be torn away, and his son will be the last in his line to be buried? Jeroboam's son falls ill, and he has his wife disguise herself to visit the prophet Ahijah. Why the disguise? Probably everyone knew the queen. Anyway, the LORD tells Ahijah she's coming, and gives him the words to say. Horrible, horrible words. Jeroboam's son is going to die as soon his wife gets home. Jeroboam knew what he was commanded to do. He didn't do it. And it cost him the kingdom. And it wasn't just not doing what he was told. The prophet tells him that he did more evil than any of his predecessors.
And the punishment isn't limited to just Jeroboam, all of Israel will be uprooted and scattered. This isn't God breaking a promise. It's God keeping a promise. It was the "Conditionally Promised Land." After 22 years of Jeroboam's reign, his son Nadab assumed the throne. Nadab...I've heard that name before. Ah yes, uh-oh.
Rehoboam's story isn't much better. Idolatry, Asherah poles, etc. Invasion by the Egyptians, who came in and took all the stuff out of the temple. They stole all the holy things. Even Solomon's gold shields from the Forest of Lebanon. To see how far Israel fell, the shields were replaced by bronze. Remember when silver was of no use to Solomon? Well now bronze is the replacement. And it wasn't even allowed to be decoration only. They were forced to be functional for the guards. Amazing. After Rehoboam's 17 year reign in Judah, his son Abijah takes over. Yes, I know Jeroboam's son was named Abijah, too. Different guys, apparently. Hopefully.
Thursday, August 28, 2008
1 Ki. 13: Who's Who Here?
1 Kings 13:28 "Then he went out and found the body thrown down on the road, with the donkey and the lion standing beside it. The lion had neither eaten the body nor mauled the donkey."
Here's a story about an unnamed prophet. He comes to bring a warning to Jeroboam. He hangs out at Bethel, and speaks to an altar, telling it some dude named Josiah will be born to the line of David who is going to brutally set things right. The altar, currently being misused will be a tinderbox for the bones of the offending priests set up by Jeroboam. As a sign, the altar will split apart and ashes will fall all over the place.
Jeroboam hears about it, and stretches out his arm to have his men seize the unknown prophet. As he does, his hand gets all shriveled up like nine flabby grapes. Presumably arthritis is the condition to beset Jeroboam. Instant arthritis, can you imagine? Then the altar split apart. And ashes spilled. That was quick. Jeroboam calls on this prophet to have the LORD restore his hand. Not the calves at Bethel and Dan. The LORD. He knew where power came from. The prophet does so, and God heals Jerry's hand. He then invites the prophet to have dinner and receive a gift, probably so he could influence him in some way, or use him as a fortune teller...cheapening God's power in the process.
The prophet refuses and bails. Then there's this other prophet who finds out about the first prophet, and the other prophet's sons tell him about the first prophet so the other prophet comes to visit the first prophet and cons him into coming over to his house for dinner and drink. Then the LORD told the other prophet to tell the first prophet that he defied the word of the LORD in avoiding food and drink with men. And then I love this. The first prophet knew he was screwed, so he's like "Eff it, I'm finishing dinner! In for a penny, in for a pound." What was the deal with this second prophet? Did he want to meet with this first prophet, or was he just being a bastard?
Well, the second prophet saddles up the doomed first prophet and sends him on his way, where he proceeds to be killed by a lion. So then the second prophet, with at least a little regret, picks up the Josiah-predicting prophet, and buries him in his own tomb, and demands that he be buried next to him. What the heck is that all about?
Jerry still didn't take this message to heart, continuing to anoint priests that weren't Levites, as God commanded originally. This will end well.
Here's a story about an unnamed prophet. He comes to bring a warning to Jeroboam. He hangs out at Bethel, and speaks to an altar, telling it some dude named Josiah will be born to the line of David who is going to brutally set things right. The altar, currently being misused will be a tinderbox for the bones of the offending priests set up by Jeroboam. As a sign, the altar will split apart and ashes will fall all over the place.
Jeroboam hears about it, and stretches out his arm to have his men seize the unknown prophet. As he does, his hand gets all shriveled up like nine flabby grapes. Presumably arthritis is the condition to beset Jeroboam. Instant arthritis, can you imagine? Then the altar split apart. And ashes spilled. That was quick. Jeroboam calls on this prophet to have the LORD restore his hand. Not the calves at Bethel and Dan. The LORD. He knew where power came from. The prophet does so, and God heals Jerry's hand. He then invites the prophet to have dinner and receive a gift, probably so he could influence him in some way, or use him as a fortune teller...cheapening God's power in the process.
The prophet refuses and bails. Then there's this other prophet who finds out about the first prophet, and the other prophet's sons tell him about the first prophet so the other prophet comes to visit the first prophet and cons him into coming over to his house for dinner and drink. Then the LORD told the other prophet to tell the first prophet that he defied the word of the LORD in avoiding food and drink with men. And then I love this. The first prophet knew he was screwed, so he's like "Eff it, I'm finishing dinner! In for a penny, in for a pound." What was the deal with this second prophet? Did he want to meet with this first prophet, or was he just being a bastard?
Well, the second prophet saddles up the doomed first prophet and sends him on his way, where he proceeds to be killed by a lion. So then the second prophet, with at least a little regret, picks up the Josiah-predicting prophet, and buries him in his own tomb, and demands that he be buried next to him. What the heck is that all about?
Jerry still didn't take this message to heart, continuing to anoint priests that weren't Levites, as God commanded originally. This will end well.
1 Ki. 12: Traps, Ensnares
1 Kings 12:24 "'This is what the LORD says: Do not go up to fight against your brothers, the Israelites. Go home, every one of you, for this is my doing.' " So they obeyed the word of the LORD and went home again, as the LORD had ordered."
This chapter is a political cluster-fooey, and it took like six times to read it. Ridiculous. Rehoboam is the king, but the nation of Israel appears to prefer Jeroboam, who had fled to Egypt. Rehoboam sought advice from the elders to decide what to do with the people of Israel, who requested that he not be as hard on them as Solomon apparently was. After a three day thought vacay, Rehoboam rejects the advice of the elders to give the people what they want, and for some reason threatens to crack down on them even harder. What a jerk.
Israel heard about this, and was like, "Well forget this guy, we'll rule ourselves." They even stoned the guy who came out to force labor on them. And they would have killed that snaked Rehoboam, too, but he got away in the chariot.
Jeroboam was back in town, so Israel was like, "He's gotta be a better option." So they made him the king instead. Redividing the kingdom. Only one tribe, Judah, was loyal to Rehoboam and the Davidic line. They were able to get Benjamin on their side, too. Benjamin's loyalties, throughout history, appear to be very flexible. They are like Julian Sark if the Bible were a really long episode of Alias. Which makes sense, considering Joseph's blessing on their patriarch. Rehoboam takes Judah and Benjamin to fight, but God tells them to cool their jets, man, so they obey and go back home. They obeyed the direct word of the LORD. Which is good. Finally. Why did God not want them to fight against Jeroboam? Especially considering what happened next.
Jeroboam turned out to be a mess as well, installing golden calves for worship in Bethel and Dan. These gods were probably more installed to divert travel to the temple to keep the wrong people out of Jerusalem. The wrong people who would maybe kill him and turn for Rehoboam. He even installed priests for these ridiculous idols, completely flying in the face of what God commanded, claiming that it was these gods who brought Israel out of Egypt. Their leader set the traps for them.
This chapter is a political cluster-fooey, and it took like six times to read it. Ridiculous. Rehoboam is the king, but the nation of Israel appears to prefer Jeroboam, who had fled to Egypt. Rehoboam sought advice from the elders to decide what to do with the people of Israel, who requested that he not be as hard on them as Solomon apparently was. After a three day thought vacay, Rehoboam rejects the advice of the elders to give the people what they want, and for some reason threatens to crack down on them even harder. What a jerk.
Israel heard about this, and was like, "Well forget this guy, we'll rule ourselves." They even stoned the guy who came out to force labor on them. And they would have killed that snaked Rehoboam, too, but he got away in the chariot.
Jeroboam was back in town, so Israel was like, "He's gotta be a better option." So they made him the king instead. Redividing the kingdom. Only one tribe, Judah, was loyal to Rehoboam and the Davidic line. They were able to get Benjamin on their side, too. Benjamin's loyalties, throughout history, appear to be very flexible. They are like Julian Sark if the Bible were a really long episode of Alias. Which makes sense, considering Joseph's blessing on their patriarch. Rehoboam takes Judah and Benjamin to fight, but God tells them to cool their jets, man, so they obey and go back home. They obeyed the direct word of the LORD. Which is good. Finally. Why did God not want them to fight against Jeroboam? Especially considering what happened next.
Jeroboam turned out to be a mess as well, installing golden calves for worship in Bethel and Dan. These gods were probably more installed to divert travel to the temple to keep the wrong people out of Jerusalem. The wrong people who would maybe kill him and turn for Rehoboam. He even installed priests for these ridiculous idols, completely flying in the face of what God commanded, claiming that it was these gods who brought Israel out of Egypt. Their leader set the traps for them.
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
1 Ki. 11: Shedding the Mortal Coil
1 Kings 11:11 "So the LORD said to Solomon, 'Since this is your attitude and you have not kept my covenant and my decrees, which I commanded you, I will most certainly tear the kingdom away from you and give it to one of your subordinates.'"
Solomon gets into the same sort of trouble as his father did, with his libido. He hooked up with chicks far and wide, hot and not, chaste and skanktified. And just as before, hooking up with foreign women meant hooking up with polytheism. In addition to the Temple of the LORD, Solomon set up high places for Chemosh and Molech, additionally, Solomon followed Ashtoreth for a period of time.
What did God say? God said not to follow these gods. But Solomon did. Solomon had 700 wives and 300 concubines to keep happy religiously. Of course he was going to stray. Women overtook God in order of importance.
Was it merely a matter of keeping these women happy? Why would tail supersede religion? What was it about these women that made his heart turn away? Was it only pleasure? Was it only reputation? What could cause a man who was visited personally by God twice to turn away from God? To actually follow these other gods, when he knew the LORD was the one true God?
Because of this, God raised up some adversaries to make life hard for Solomon, politically and militarily. And it is interesting, the story of Hadad the Edomite. Hadad was just a boy when David and Joab crushed Edom. He bided his time in Egypt, until he saw that David was dead to make his move. Did God spare Hadad because he knew Solomon would one day turn away from Him? Or did God merely use Hadad's situation out of convenience?
Another rebel was Solomon's own subordinate, as God said in verse 11. Jeroboam was his name. A laborer in charge of building terraces or something, Jeroboam was met by the prophet Ahijah, who happened to be wearing a new cloak. Which is nice. It's nice to have new things. Especially cloaks. Those are great. The cloak had a purpose, and it wasn't for wearing. Ahijah tore it into twelve pieces. To represent the twelve tribes of Israel. Ten tribes went to Jeroboam, and one tribe went to Solomon, because God had made a promise to David, that his line would always be on the throne. So thats eleven. And the twelvth... the twelfth...that tribe goes to...doesn't say...but Jeroboam was told he would rule over all he desired...so maybe to Jeroboam? I guess we'll find out.
So the kingdom is divided again. Also, Jeroboam was given the "follow my statues and obey my commands" speech, but isn't given a permanent place on the throne in place of David's line.
Then Solomon dies after 40 years on the throne, and Rehoboam becomes king. Maybe Rehoboam gets the 12th Tribe?
Solomon gets into the same sort of trouble as his father did, with his libido. He hooked up with chicks far and wide, hot and not, chaste and skanktified. And just as before, hooking up with foreign women meant hooking up with polytheism. In addition to the Temple of the LORD, Solomon set up high places for Chemosh and Molech, additionally, Solomon followed Ashtoreth for a period of time.
What did God say? God said not to follow these gods. But Solomon did. Solomon had 700 wives and 300 concubines to keep happy religiously. Of course he was going to stray. Women overtook God in order of importance.
Was it merely a matter of keeping these women happy? Why would tail supersede religion? What was it about these women that made his heart turn away? Was it only pleasure? Was it only reputation? What could cause a man who was visited personally by God twice to turn away from God? To actually follow these other gods, when he knew the LORD was the one true God?
Because of this, God raised up some adversaries to make life hard for Solomon, politically and militarily. And it is interesting, the story of Hadad the Edomite. Hadad was just a boy when David and Joab crushed Edom. He bided his time in Egypt, until he saw that David was dead to make his move. Did God spare Hadad because he knew Solomon would one day turn away from Him? Or did God merely use Hadad's situation out of convenience?
Another rebel was Solomon's own subordinate, as God said in verse 11. Jeroboam was his name. A laborer in charge of building terraces or something, Jeroboam was met by the prophet Ahijah, who happened to be wearing a new cloak. Which is nice. It's nice to have new things. Especially cloaks. Those are great. The cloak had a purpose, and it wasn't for wearing. Ahijah tore it into twelve pieces. To represent the twelve tribes of Israel. Ten tribes went to Jeroboam, and one tribe went to Solomon, because God had made a promise to David, that his line would always be on the throne. So thats eleven. And the twelvth... the twelfth...that tribe goes to...doesn't say...but Jeroboam was told he would rule over all he desired...so maybe to Jeroboam? I guess we'll find out.
So the kingdom is divided again. Also, Jeroboam was given the "follow my statues and obey my commands" speech, but isn't given a permanent place on the throne in place of David's line.
Then Solomon dies after 40 years on the throne, and Rehoboam becomes king. Maybe Rehoboam gets the 12th Tribe?
Monday, August 25, 2008
1 Ki. 10: She's All Heart
1 Kings 10:7 "But I did not believe these things until I came and saw with my own eyes. Indeed, not even half was told me; in wisdom and wealth you have far exceeded the report I heard."
The Queen of Sheba (yeah, apparently there is such a broad...er...woman. Just lost half my female readership. Well, sad to lose you both.) visits Solomon, out of curiosity. She heard the stories, but just had to see for herself. She believed the hype. And hype was something Solomon lived up to and more. Solomon took the time to sit with the queen and answer all of her questions. What she had heard about Solomon wasn't even the half of what she experienced. And this is very interesting to me. In all that I know about God, I wonder if I only know the half...have only heard a fraction...and someday when I am gathered to my forefathers, and meet him, I will be blown away like the Queen of Sheba was with Solomon...aren't you curious?
Solomon received 666 talents of gold per year as tribute. OK. 666 talents translates to 25 tons. Gold's value right now is $827.00 per ounce. That translates to a yearly tribute of $661,600,000.00. Which is mind numbing. Adjusted for inflation...thats...I don't have a calculator big enough....roughly $297,720,000,000,000.00 according to the consumer price index. Yeah, that's almost 300 trillion dollars. A year. That's a lot. Hokey toots. How does that number exist? Solomon's wealth was incomprehensible. Compare that to his wisdom. Equally as incomprehensible. Think of the wisest person you know. For me that's Phil Long. Obviously. What if you couldn't comprehend that person's wisdom?
Solomon was so rich, silver was tossed on the refuse heap. He had no time for that junk. Can you believe being that wealthy? He must have followed God's commands and turned neither to the right nor the left.
The Queen of Sheba (yeah, apparently there is such a broad...er...woman. Just lost half my female readership. Well, sad to lose you both.) visits Solomon, out of curiosity. She heard the stories, but just had to see for herself. She believed the hype. And hype was something Solomon lived up to and more. Solomon took the time to sit with the queen and answer all of her questions. What she had heard about Solomon wasn't even the half of what she experienced. And this is very interesting to me. In all that I know about God, I wonder if I only know the half...have only heard a fraction...and someday when I am gathered to my forefathers, and meet him, I will be blown away like the Queen of Sheba was with Solomon...aren't you curious?
Solomon received 666 talents of gold per year as tribute. OK. 666 talents translates to 25 tons. Gold's value right now is $827.00 per ounce. That translates to a yearly tribute of $661,600,000.00. Which is mind numbing. Adjusted for inflation...thats...I don't have a calculator big enough....roughly $297,720,000,000,000.00 according to the consumer price index. Yeah, that's almost 300 trillion dollars. A year. That's a lot. Hokey toots. How does that number exist? Solomon's wealth was incomprehensible. Compare that to his wisdom. Equally as incomprehensible. Think of the wisest person you know. For me that's Phil Long. Obviously. What if you couldn't comprehend that person's wisdom?
Solomon was so rich, silver was tossed on the refuse heap. He had no time for that junk. Can you believe being that wealthy? He must have followed God's commands and turned neither to the right nor the left.
1 Ki. 9: Never Leave You
1 Kings 9:7 "then I will cut off Israel from the land I have given them and will reject this temple I have consecrated for my Name. Israel will then become a byword and an object of ridicule among all peoples."
After Solomon recovers from his big national party, God meets with him. He actually appeared to Solomon previously at Gibeon. So, this was still a novel thing for Solomon. He was the king. God's anointed, and this was only the second time the LORD appeared to him. This isn't some social call. This isn't a pat on the back, its a sobering challenge. Again God tells Israel's leader to obey His commands and decrees. And I love that God says He Himself has consecrated the temple. God's presence in itself is reward. What a thought. Do you think that today? A reward? For what?
But along with all the nasty terrible stuff that could happen to Israel, like famine and war and death, God introduces a new concept.
He says that Israel will become a byword and an object of ridicule. How horrible that must have been to hear for Solomon. No one wants to believe that at some point their nation could be a joke, forgotten. It doesn't take a deep history scholar to realize that happened eventually, so someone somewhere along the line didn't get the memo, or refused to heed it. Currently, and I haven't seen the news lately, but there doesn't appear to be a descendant of the line of David on the throne in Israel.
In other news, Solomon, as a reward to Hiram, the King of Tyre who hooked him up with a bunch of cedar and stuff, gives him twenty cities. These apparently aren't good cities. Biblical ghettoes, as it were. Hiram knew what was going on, these cities were junk, and he named them as such. Even so, he still sent men with Solomon's to sea to get some gold for some reason.
Solomon continues building up the city, using laborers conscripted from remnants of the HACPHAJ, which Israel couldn't or wouldn't drive out.
After Solomon recovers from his big national party, God meets with him. He actually appeared to Solomon previously at Gibeon. So, this was still a novel thing for Solomon. He was the king. God's anointed, and this was only the second time the LORD appeared to him. This isn't some social call. This isn't a pat on the back, its a sobering challenge. Again God tells Israel's leader to obey His commands and decrees. And I love that God says He Himself has consecrated the temple. God's presence in itself is reward. What a thought. Do you think that today? A reward? For what?
But along with all the nasty terrible stuff that could happen to Israel, like famine and war and death, God introduces a new concept.
He says that Israel will become a byword and an object of ridicule. How horrible that must have been to hear for Solomon. No one wants to believe that at some point their nation could be a joke, forgotten. It doesn't take a deep history scholar to realize that happened eventually, so someone somewhere along the line didn't get the memo, or refused to heed it. Currently, and I haven't seen the news lately, but there doesn't appear to be a descendant of the line of David on the throne in Israel.
In other news, Solomon, as a reward to Hiram, the King of Tyre who hooked him up with a bunch of cedar and stuff, gives him twenty cities. These apparently aren't good cities. Biblical ghettoes, as it were. Hiram knew what was going on, these cities were junk, and he named them as such. Even so, he still sent men with Solomon's to sea to get some gold for some reason.
Solomon continues building up the city, using laborers conscripted from remnants of the HACPHAJ, which Israel couldn't or wouldn't drive out.
Sunday, August 24, 2008
1 Ki. 8: Home Permanent
1 Kings 8:11 "And the priests could not perform their service because of the cloud, for the glory of the LORD filled his temple."
This is big time. All of Israel was ordered to assemble at the completed temple. The priests were bringing the ark into the temple from Zion. This is sort of the completion of what God promised way back in the time of Abraham. The promised land was conquered. God had a permanent place for his presence among the people of Israel.
So many sacrifices were made that they were immeasurable. What a mess. This showed a renewed (again) devotion to the work of God in their midst.
I think I don't know why the ark was said to have nothing except the stone tablets inside as the priests brought it into the Most Holy Place. What happened to the jar of manna? Aaron's staff? Were they taken by the Philistines? Wouldn't the ark have the same lethal effect on the Philistines who tried to move/touch it? If these things were taken, why were the stone tablets left? I wonder.
At any rate, the glory of the LORD filled temple so intensely that even the commissioned priests could not perform their duties. God's simple glory was so great that priests didn't have to do anything.
Solomon recognizes the fulfillment of prophecy, in that the temple was promised to David that it would be built by his son. Here it was. Built. What an amazing thought, to witness fulfillment of prophecy firsthand. To (maybe) have witnessed the original prophecy, and then to see it take place exactly as spoken. How often did/does that happen?
I just love Solomon's prayer of dedication in vs. 22-61. It's long-winded, but it's really Solomon talking to God. I don't see any real pretense or showmanship. Solomon is thankful for the covenant of love. Love. The covenant is more than just, "here's some land, live peacefully." This covenant was made because God loved his people and keeps his promise to his people.
Solomon also realizes how little consequence his building is for a God who cannot be contained by the highest heavens. Solomon built a place where "the Name" will dwell. And God said his Name would be there. This is all coming from God. Solomon realizes also that his people need mercy and forgiveness. Pretty humble coming from the richest, wisest man on earth. His prayer includes requests for discipline and justice when (not "if," v. 46) people screw up. I love that. He asks for correction. He expects God to show his holiness. Amazing.
Solomon seeks comfort and rest in God. He appears to realize that he's really nothing without God and his mercy.
So many sacrifices were being offered at this dedication that the courtyard had to be consecrated, since the altar was too small to handle the 22,000 cattle and 120,000 sheep and goats. It was a two week celebration, and God was the host with the most. That's my kind of party...right?
This is big time. All of Israel was ordered to assemble at the completed temple. The priests were bringing the ark into the temple from Zion. This is sort of the completion of what God promised way back in the time of Abraham. The promised land was conquered. God had a permanent place for his presence among the people of Israel.
So many sacrifices were made that they were immeasurable. What a mess. This showed a renewed (again) devotion to the work of God in their midst.
I think I don't know why the ark was said to have nothing except the stone tablets inside as the priests brought it into the Most Holy Place. What happened to the jar of manna? Aaron's staff? Were they taken by the Philistines? Wouldn't the ark have the same lethal effect on the Philistines who tried to move/touch it? If these things were taken, why were the stone tablets left? I wonder.
At any rate, the glory of the LORD filled temple so intensely that even the commissioned priests could not perform their duties. God's simple glory was so great that priests didn't have to do anything.
Solomon recognizes the fulfillment of prophecy, in that the temple was promised to David that it would be built by his son. Here it was. Built. What an amazing thought, to witness fulfillment of prophecy firsthand. To (maybe) have witnessed the original prophecy, and then to see it take place exactly as spoken. How often did/does that happen?
I just love Solomon's prayer of dedication in vs. 22-61. It's long-winded, but it's really Solomon talking to God. I don't see any real pretense or showmanship. Solomon is thankful for the covenant of love. Love. The covenant is more than just, "here's some land, live peacefully." This covenant was made because God loved his people and keeps his promise to his people.
Solomon also realizes how little consequence his building is for a God who cannot be contained by the highest heavens. Solomon built a place where "the Name" will dwell. And God said his Name would be there. This is all coming from God. Solomon realizes also that his people need mercy and forgiveness. Pretty humble coming from the richest, wisest man on earth. His prayer includes requests for discipline and justice when (not "if," v. 46) people screw up. I love that. He asks for correction. He expects God to show his holiness. Amazing.
Solomon seeks comfort and rest in God. He appears to realize that he's really nothing without God and his mercy.
So many sacrifices were being offered at this dedication that the courtyard had to be consecrated, since the altar was too small to handle the 22,000 cattle and 120,000 sheep and goats. It was a two week celebration, and God was the host with the most. That's my kind of party...right?
1 Ki. 7: Hardcastle and McSolomon
1 Kings 13:51 "When all the work King Solomon had done for the temple of the LORD was finished, he brought in the things his father David had dedicated—the silver and gold and the furnishings—and he placed them in the treasuries of the LORD's temple."
When I read that it took Solomon 13 years to build the palace and only 7 to build the temple, I had to wonder where the priorities were. But the temple was relatively simple, in comparison to all that had to go into the palace. And the palace wasn't just where Solomon lived. It included his throne room, the hall of justice and all kinds of stuff needed to run a kingdom. It was Solomon's command center. The seven years for the temple versus 13 years for the palace is in a way a microcosm of how man does things. It's never simple with man. God cuts it and dries it. Look at the sheer number of denominations out there. Of course it was more complex to build the temple.
Well, the temple had to be decorated. Solomon had these two pillars built out of bronze by Huram. 27 feet tall they were and 18 feet around. That seems like a sight! I wonder what they looked like...this? Or this... I found a pretty sweet video about the temple here. Turn down the scary music though. I have no idea why that first wall in the video is like 50 stories tall, I didn't read that anywhere. So take this for visual purposes only. It helped me visualize what the temple and furnishings looked like.
Huram also took care of the sea, which was a huge bronze basin, 15 feet wide and 7.5 feet tall. That would be awesome. So the outer stuff was bronze, and the inner stuff, the holy things, were gold. Also, the bronze stuff wasn't weighed.
Was the tabernacle no longer needed? Now that Israel was where they were supposed to be, God's office no longer needed to be portable.
Also, pomegranates must have some significance to the holy things. They were first mentioned as part of the priestly garb in Exodus 28, and now here again in temple deco. I don't know why they are significant, but there seems to be a health craze regarding pomegranates lately, and I love pomegranate tea, so...ponderous. Is it the shape? Is it the health benefits? Is it where they are found? Or is this because God says so?
When I read that it took Solomon 13 years to build the palace and only 7 to build the temple, I had to wonder where the priorities were. But the temple was relatively simple, in comparison to all that had to go into the palace. And the palace wasn't just where Solomon lived. It included his throne room, the hall of justice and all kinds of stuff needed to run a kingdom. It was Solomon's command center. The seven years for the temple versus 13 years for the palace is in a way a microcosm of how man does things. It's never simple with man. God cuts it and dries it. Look at the sheer number of denominations out there. Of course it was more complex to build the temple.
Well, the temple had to be decorated. Solomon had these two pillars built out of bronze by Huram. 27 feet tall they were and 18 feet around. That seems like a sight! I wonder what they looked like...this? Or this... I found a pretty sweet video about the temple here. Turn down the scary music though. I have no idea why that first wall in the video is like 50 stories tall, I didn't read that anywhere. So take this for visual purposes only. It helped me visualize what the temple and furnishings looked like.
Huram also took care of the sea, which was a huge bronze basin, 15 feet wide and 7.5 feet tall. That would be awesome. So the outer stuff was bronze, and the inner stuff, the holy things, were gold. Also, the bronze stuff wasn't weighed.
Was the tabernacle no longer needed? Now that Israel was where they were supposed to be, God's office no longer needed to be portable.
Also, pomegranates must have some significance to the holy things. They were first mentioned as part of the priestly garb in Exodus 28, and now here again in temple deco. I don't know why they are significant, but there seems to be a health craze regarding pomegranates lately, and I love pomegranate tea, so...ponderous. Is it the shape? Is it the health benefits? Is it where they are found? Or is this because God says so?
Saturday, August 23, 2008
1 Ki. 6: Temple of Soul
1 Kings 6:22 "So he overlaid the whole interior with gold. He also overlaid with gold the altar that belonged to the inner sanctuary."
The temple is actually smaller than I thought. I think I was thinking of Solomon's palace. There is no comparison to the amount of description that went into the tabernacle, originally. That took chapters. This is one chapter. Is this perhaps because having a temple for the LORD was of human origin? The concept of the tabernacle was divinely inspired, and it's construction and layout details were described to the minutest detail. That's not to say there weren't details with the building of the temple. Anyway, with the scope of the labor and construction, it's hard to believe the comparative size of the temple. Not that big.
Interesting that the stones were all carved and honed at the quarry. No stones were worked at the temple site. I'm guessing it's because of reverence, but what grabs me is the skill that had to go into the stonecutting off-site, in order to make it perfect. If a stone was wrong, was it discarded? Hauled off-site to fix? What a pain...
The stone temple was paneled inside to the point that no stone showed. While that would make modern interior designers cringe, I wonder if the significance of the cedar was life, while stone connoted death. Just wondering. That's what I do. Then the cedar is overlaid with gold, so...it's abundant life, apparently. It took seven years to complete.
The temple is actually smaller than I thought. I think I was thinking of Solomon's palace. There is no comparison to the amount of description that went into the tabernacle, originally. That took chapters. This is one chapter. Is this perhaps because having a temple for the LORD was of human origin? The concept of the tabernacle was divinely inspired, and it's construction and layout details were described to the minutest detail. That's not to say there weren't details with the building of the temple. Anyway, with the scope of the labor and construction, it's hard to believe the comparative size of the temple. Not that big.
Interesting that the stones were all carved and honed at the quarry. No stones were worked at the temple site. I'm guessing it's because of reverence, but what grabs me is the skill that had to go into the stonecutting off-site, in order to make it perfect. If a stone was wrong, was it discarded? Hauled off-site to fix? What a pain...
The stone temple was paneled inside to the point that no stone showed. While that would make modern interior designers cringe, I wonder if the significance of the cedar was life, while stone connoted death. Just wondering. That's what I do. Then the cedar is overlaid with gold, so...it's abundant life, apparently. It took seven years to complete.
Friday, August 22, 2008
1 Ki. 5: Sanctuary
1 Kings 5:4 "But now the LORD my God has given me rest on every side, and there is no adversary or disaster."
It's temple-buildin' time. Where God told David it wouldn't be him to build God's central office, He did give Solomon the go ahead. Was a completed conquest the reason it was time to build the temple? Or Solomon's place in history? God did a lot with David, and is probably going to do a lot with Solomon. He chose to give this responsibility of the temple to Solomon. God has definite plans for each person's life. He sets the limits on what will be accomplished. He chooses each person for their time and their moment.
Solomon makes a treaty with Hiram, the king of Tyre to get cedars for the temple. Maybe this is ok, now that there is peace? And Israel is firmly ensconced in their promised land? Of course Hiram was pleased with this situation. Israel didn't have their collective boot on the Sidonian throat.
Another thing that amazes me about this chapter is the sheer labor force and the massive undertaking it was to create this temple.
30,000 conscripted laborers, 70,000 carriers (because they couldn't just throw those logs on a bunch of trailers), 80,000 Stonecutters (who control the British crown, no doubt), and 3300 supervisors. Amazing. And this is going to take years. I always looked at the temple like the church I go to. Even with stone-age labor and ingenuity, it wasn't going to take years like the temple.
It's temple-buildin' time. Where God told David it wouldn't be him to build God's central office, He did give Solomon the go ahead. Was a completed conquest the reason it was time to build the temple? Or Solomon's place in history? God did a lot with David, and is probably going to do a lot with Solomon. He chose to give this responsibility of the temple to Solomon. God has definite plans for each person's life. He sets the limits on what will be accomplished. He chooses each person for their time and their moment.
Solomon makes a treaty with Hiram, the king of Tyre to get cedars for the temple. Maybe this is ok, now that there is peace? And Israel is firmly ensconced in their promised land? Of course Hiram was pleased with this situation. Israel didn't have their collective boot on the Sidonian throat.
Another thing that amazes me about this chapter is the sheer labor force and the massive undertaking it was to create this temple.
30,000 conscripted laborers, 70,000 carriers (because they couldn't just throw those logs on a bunch of trailers), 80,000 Stonecutters (who control the British crown, no doubt), and 3300 supervisors. Amazing. And this is going to take years. I always looked at the temple like the church I go to. Even with stone-age labor and ingenuity, it wasn't going to take years like the temple.
Thursday, August 21, 2008
1 Ki. 4: Our Man Solomon
1 Kings 4:9 "God gave Solomon wisdom and very great insight, and a breadth of understanding as measureless as the sand on the seashore."
Solomon is like no other man that ever was. The way his wisdom is described here is nothing short of amazing. He just knew stuff. Did he learn things, or did God reveal things to him? It says he taught about reptiles and fish and birds and hyssop and stuff. I don't believe he had a lab or something, but I believe he paid close attention to his surroundings. I imagine it was a little of both. He probably learned as he went. His asking God for wisdom in the previous chapter was in itself deeply wise. The wisdom God granted to him was probably far beyond any wisdom he would have expected or asked. He came from just wanting to be able to his job, to teaching men of other nations...wise...things.
What wise things? That's what boggles my mind about this chapter. What exactly did they discuss? What would it have been like to listen to Solomon? What did his people know about his wisdom and the nature of it? Did they realize what a gift they were given by God's gift of wisdom to Solomon? So, in a way, God's gift to Solomon was a gift to all of His people. What gifts do I have that are gifts to you? Makes me wonder. And are we thankful or jealous of other people's gifts?
A knowledge as broad and unmeasurable as the sand on the seashore...seems a bit overwhelming. I'd be interested at first...but I wonder if there's such a thing as too much knowledge? What responsibility goes with that?
Solomon is like no other man that ever was. The way his wisdom is described here is nothing short of amazing. He just knew stuff. Did he learn things, or did God reveal things to him? It says he taught about reptiles and fish and birds and hyssop and stuff. I don't believe he had a lab or something, but I believe he paid close attention to his surroundings. I imagine it was a little of both. He probably learned as he went. His asking God for wisdom in the previous chapter was in itself deeply wise. The wisdom God granted to him was probably far beyond any wisdom he would have expected or asked. He came from just wanting to be able to his job, to teaching men of other nations...wise...things.
What wise things? That's what boggles my mind about this chapter. What exactly did they discuss? What would it have been like to listen to Solomon? What did his people know about his wisdom and the nature of it? Did they realize what a gift they were given by God's gift of wisdom to Solomon? So, in a way, God's gift to Solomon was a gift to all of His people. What gifts do I have that are gifts to you? Makes me wonder. And are we thankful or jealous of other people's gifts?
A knowledge as broad and unmeasurable as the sand on the seashore...seems a bit overwhelming. I'd be interested at first...but I wonder if there's such a thing as too much knowledge? What responsibility goes with that?
1 Ki. 3: Wise Acres
1 Kings 3:13 "Moreover, I will give you what you have not asked for—both riches and honor—so that in your lifetime you will have no equal among kings."
This doesn't start out so good for Solomon. He aligns himself with the king of Egypt, and hooks up with his daughter. It has been pretty consistent throughout mentions of the covenant that Egypt is known as Israel's enslavers. Marrying into other races has proven itself to be a stumbling block. So we'll see. I don't like this.
But then Solomon tries to show his devotion by offering a whopping 1000 sacrifices. Can you imagine? How well did the priests eat that...month?
So God comes at night in a dream and asks Solomon to ask for anything. And we'd all have our answers, but Solomon, simply, just wants to know how to do his job. He wasn't really in any sort of big-time leadership position, and here he was, now the king. A daunting job. He wants to just do his job right, which I find amazing. No where did he mention great wealth or long life, but God goes ahead and gives that to him anyway. Which makes me wonder...if we humble ourselves and ask for simple things, will God grant more amazing things that we wouldn't have even thought of?
Solomon gets to put his wisdom to test right away, as two prostitutes bring in a baby, each claiming to be his mother. Apparently one mother suffocated her infant during the night, and switched him with the other mother's. Which takes some kind of balls. Only the threat of death brings the true mother to light. As Solomon raises a sword to cut the baby in two, she relents from her plea, and would give up her son so that he would live. The other was rather cold about it. And this was amazing to those in Solomon's court. What a genius idea to solve a problem.
This doesn't start out so good for Solomon. He aligns himself with the king of Egypt, and hooks up with his daughter. It has been pretty consistent throughout mentions of the covenant that Egypt is known as Israel's enslavers. Marrying into other races has proven itself to be a stumbling block. So we'll see. I don't like this.
But then Solomon tries to show his devotion by offering a whopping 1000 sacrifices. Can you imagine? How well did the priests eat that...month?
So God comes at night in a dream and asks Solomon to ask for anything. And we'd all have our answers, but Solomon, simply, just wants to know how to do his job. He wasn't really in any sort of big-time leadership position, and here he was, now the king. A daunting job. He wants to just do his job right, which I find amazing. No where did he mention great wealth or long life, but God goes ahead and gives that to him anyway. Which makes me wonder...if we humble ourselves and ask for simple things, will God grant more amazing things that we wouldn't have even thought of?
Solomon gets to put his wisdom to test right away, as two prostitutes bring in a baby, each claiming to be his mother. Apparently one mother suffocated her infant during the night, and switched him with the other mother's. Which takes some kind of balls. Only the threat of death brings the true mother to light. As Solomon raises a sword to cut the baby in two, she relents from her plea, and would give up her son so that he would live. The other was rather cold about it. And this was amazing to those in Solomon's court. What a genius idea to solve a problem.
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
1 Ki. 2: Solomon Cleans House
1 Kings 2:12 "So Solomon sat on the throne of his father David, and his rule was firmly established."
Probably no more apt of a linchpin verse than the above.
Anyway, David has a little father-son chat with Solomon before he kicks off, and tells him how to be a man. Despite Solomon having been a man for decades at a minimum. But anyway, its not military might, as one would expect coming from David, it's following the laws of Moses. David saw the blessings that come with obedience, and he saw the curses and downfalls that come with disobedience. He wanted to protect his son from sin and bad choices. It must have been important to David to continue his lineage. And important to God. I don't think God merely wanted to have just any clown on the throne. Despite God's sort of displeasure with the idea of a human king on the throne, he set regulations in place to ensure that it would endure. Weird.
David offers some inside info that Solomon may or may not have known about, regarding Joab, who killed two of David's military men, Barzillai, who helped David cross the river, and Shimei, who cursed David but then blessed him.
Adonijah wins the "Just Doesn't Get It" award for his request for Abishag to be his wife. The woman who sustained David. Adonijah was hanging by a thread already for his attempted coup. Now he sends in his mom to King Solomon to ask for Abishag? Solomon's lethal response I actually find quite appropriate. How much more power would Adonijah seek?
Abiathar was removed from the priesthood, partly because of his conspiracy with Adonijah, but also because of the curse brought upon the house of Eli.
Joab was next. Solomon had Benaiah, his new hitman, kill Joab. Joab tried to cling to the horns of the altar, which was apparently like calling "safety" in tag, as Adonijah had done.
Shimei was next, but was sort of a gray area. He was instructed never to leave Jerusalem. But he did to go find some lost slaves. Solomon had him killed. By Benaiah.
Probably no more apt of a linchpin verse than the above.
Anyway, David has a little father-son chat with Solomon before he kicks off, and tells him how to be a man. Despite Solomon having been a man for decades at a minimum. But anyway, its not military might, as one would expect coming from David, it's following the laws of Moses. David saw the blessings that come with obedience, and he saw the curses and downfalls that come with disobedience. He wanted to protect his son from sin and bad choices. It must have been important to David to continue his lineage. And important to God. I don't think God merely wanted to have just any clown on the throne. Despite God's sort of displeasure with the idea of a human king on the throne, he set regulations in place to ensure that it would endure. Weird.
David offers some inside info that Solomon may or may not have known about, regarding Joab, who killed two of David's military men, Barzillai, who helped David cross the river, and Shimei, who cursed David but then blessed him.
Adonijah wins the "Just Doesn't Get It" award for his request for Abishag to be his wife. The woman who sustained David. Adonijah was hanging by a thread already for his attempted coup. Now he sends in his mom to King Solomon to ask for Abishag? Solomon's lethal response I actually find quite appropriate. How much more power would Adonijah seek?
Abiathar was removed from the priesthood, partly because of his conspiracy with Adonijah, but also because of the curse brought upon the house of Eli.
Joab was next. Solomon had Benaiah, his new hitman, kill Joab. Joab tried to cling to the horns of the altar, which was apparently like calling "safety" in tag, as Adonijah had done.
Shimei was next, but was sort of a gray area. He was instructed never to leave Jerusalem. But he did to go find some lost slaves. Solomon had him killed. By Benaiah.
1 Ki. 1: I Guess I'm King
1 Kings 1:30 "I will surely carry out today what I swore to you by the LORD, the God of Israel: Solomon your son shall be king after me, and he will sit on my throne in my place."
David is too old and haggard to execute the duties of the office of the king of Israel at this point. How old and haggard? Well, if it gets too cold, he'll die. That's quite haggard. When a man gets that haggard, they hire a servant girl to come and lie next to him at night. The Bible points out that there was no hanky-panky going on here. So, why not a servant man? Anyway...I wouldn't want to be her, because dudes snore. And more. I just can't imagine it being a very pleasant job. I hope she was compensated well.
Meanwhile, Adonijah realizes David is too old and haggard, so he usurps the throne. He figures, "Eh, David can't handle it, I'll do it." Once again, he does it wrong. The king has repeatedly been chosen by God. Those who tried to take it meet unsightly ends. It almost works. He gets Joab's and Abiathar's support, but not the important people's support...Nathan, Benaiah...the mighty men. They weren't invited. Adonijah knew he was doing a shady thing. He knew David had promised the throne to Solomon.
David has the men, Zadok, and Solomon ride to Gihon, where he will be anointed. Can you imagine? A future king riding on a nasty mule into town to be anointed? Makes no sense. Anyway, they go through with it and create such a ruckus that even Joab is like "What's all that ruckus in the city?"
Jonathan, son of the priest busts into Adonijah's court or whatever, and says that David has anointed Solomon. Bad news for Adonijah. The party's over, and Adonijah's kingship melts away like so much sugar in the rain. This treason was punishable by death, but Solomon lets Adonijah live despite his rebellion. Maybe he will be a gracious king?
David is too old and haggard to execute the duties of the office of the king of Israel at this point. How old and haggard? Well, if it gets too cold, he'll die. That's quite haggard. When a man gets that haggard, they hire a servant girl to come and lie next to him at night. The Bible points out that there was no hanky-panky going on here. So, why not a servant man? Anyway...I wouldn't want to be her, because dudes snore. And more. I just can't imagine it being a very pleasant job. I hope she was compensated well.
Meanwhile, Adonijah realizes David is too old and haggard, so he usurps the throne. He figures, "Eh, David can't handle it, I'll do it." Once again, he does it wrong. The king has repeatedly been chosen by God. Those who tried to take it meet unsightly ends. It almost works. He gets Joab's and Abiathar's support, but not the important people's support...Nathan, Benaiah...the mighty men. They weren't invited. Adonijah knew he was doing a shady thing. He knew David had promised the throne to Solomon.
David has the men, Zadok, and Solomon ride to Gihon, where he will be anointed. Can you imagine? A future king riding on a nasty mule into town to be anointed? Makes no sense. Anyway, they go through with it and create such a ruckus that even Joab is like "What's all that ruckus in the city?"
Jonathan, son of the priest busts into Adonijah's court or whatever, and says that David has anointed Solomon. Bad news for Adonijah. The party's over, and Adonijah's kingship melts away like so much sugar in the rain. This treason was punishable by death, but Solomon lets Adonijah live despite his rebellion. Maybe he will be a gracious king?
Monday, August 18, 2008
2 Sa. 24: Miscount
2 Samuel 24:17 "When David saw the angel who was striking down the people, he said to the LORD, 'I am the one who has sinned and done wrong. These are but sheep. What have they done? Let your hand fall upon me and my family.'"
God orders a census of the nation, but David only counts the fighting men. Even Joab didn't get it. He wondered why David only wanted the fighting men counted, but David insisted. David doesn't realize it was so wrong until Joab gives him the number. I don't know exactly why this was so wrong, and why it would attack David's conscience so, but I guess when you start throwing numbers around, you begin to guage success by the numbers. God has proven himself to be beyond numbers...limitless. When someone calculates their power, that is completely against what God is all about. I wonder how often we are afraid of the numbers we crunch, not fully realizing God's capabilities.
God would have given David victory no matter what. David instead chose to put his faith in his men.
Because of this, God gives David a multiple-choice of how he would prefer to be punished. I think this is the first optional punishment God has doled out, but I could be wrong. Of three years of famine, three years of fleeing enemies or 3 days of plague, David only said he didn't want to fall into the hands of men. So God sent a plague, and wiped out 70,000 people before He was grieved and called for a halt. David wanted the punishment put only on his family. What stops plagues? Altar-building. David is led by Gad to buy the threshing floor of Araunah the Jebusite.
So this selfishness cost David 70,000 people and 50 shekels for the threshing floor. He'll learn
God orders a census of the nation, but David only counts the fighting men. Even Joab didn't get it. He wondered why David only wanted the fighting men counted, but David insisted. David doesn't realize it was so wrong until Joab gives him the number. I don't know exactly why this was so wrong, and why it would attack David's conscience so, but I guess when you start throwing numbers around, you begin to guage success by the numbers. God has proven himself to be beyond numbers...limitless. When someone calculates their power, that is completely against what God is all about. I wonder how often we are afraid of the numbers we crunch, not fully realizing God's capabilities.
God would have given David victory no matter what. David instead chose to put his faith in his men.
Because of this, God gives David a multiple-choice of how he would prefer to be punished. I think this is the first optional punishment God has doled out, but I could be wrong. Of three years of famine, three years of fleeing enemies or 3 days of plague, David only said he didn't want to fall into the hands of men. So God sent a plague, and wiped out 70,000 people before He was grieved and called for a halt. David wanted the punishment put only on his family. What stops plagues? Altar-building. David is led by Gad to buy the threshing floor of Araunah the Jebusite.
So this selfishness cost David 70,000 people and 50 shekels for the threshing floor. He'll learn
Sunday, August 17, 2008
2 Sa. 23: David's Last Words and Men
2 Samuel 23:7 "Whoever touches thorns uses a tool of iron or the shaft of a spear; they are burned up where they lie."
Well, David's winding it down, running out the clock or whatever, and he has his famous last words. It says it is an oracle, so whether or not it's actually David saying it, I don't know. I suppose it doesn't have to be. Balaam was a conduit, if you'll remember. What is apparent is that the LORD spoke, offering a reality check for future successful rulers. It's pretty interesting language...
the light of morning at sunrise
on a cloudless morning,
like the brightness after rain
that brings the grass from the earth.'
Well, David's winding it down, running out the clock or whatever, and he has his famous last words. It says it is an oracle, so whether or not it's actually David saying it, I don't know. I suppose it doesn't have to be. Balaam was a conduit, if you'll remember. What is apparent is that the LORD spoke, offering a reality check for future successful rulers. It's pretty interesting language...
the light of morning at sunrise
on a cloudless morning,
like the brightness after rain
that brings the grass from the earth.'
"Is not my house right with God?
Has he not made with me an everlasting covenant,
arranged and secured in every part?
Will he not bring to fruition my salvation
and grant me my every desire?
A righteous ruler is a change. It is the result of stretching, uncomfortable change. Its also a promise kept. Is it amazing to be granted every desire? Is it possible if you aren't David? What would those desires be? What if that were the norm?
Then we have a list of David's mighty men. His military All-Star team, as it were. These guys were not a welcome sight to David's enemies.
1. Josheb-Basshebeth - killed 800 men in one battle. Dang.
2. Eleazar - Master trash-talker, hand froze to his sword, and he continued to kick hiney.
3. Shammah - Great bean field defender.
Apparently, three guys, maybe the above, broke through Philistine ranks to bring David a drink of water. That's hardcore. David didn't even drink it.
4. Abishai - Speared three hundred dudes. Commander of the military.
5. Benaiah - Reminds me of Jack Bristow from Alias. All around BAMF. He took down Moab's top two. He slew a lion in a pit on a snowy day. He took a club against a huge Egyptian guy, took Egyptian guy's spear, and then killed Egyptian guy with Egyptian guy's own spear. You could see why David made Benaiah his body guard.
There was also Asahel, the runner who Abner killed, Elhanan (who killed another Goliath), another Shammah, Elika, Helez the Paltite, Ira, Abiezer from Anathoth, Mebunnai the Hushathite, Zalmon the Ahohite, Maharai the Netophathite, Heled son of Baanah the Netophathite, Ithai son of Ribai from Gibeah in Benjamin, Benaiah the Pirathonite, Hiddai from the ravines of Gaash, Abi-Albon the Arbathite, Azmaveth the Barhumite, Eliahba the Shaalbonite, the sons of Jashen, Jonathan son of Shammah the Hararite, Ahiam son of Sharar the Hararite, Eliphelet son of Ahasbai the Maacathite, Eliam son of Ahithophel the Gilonite, Hezro the Carmelite, Paarai the Arbite, Igal son of Nathan from Zobah, the son of Hagri, Zelek the Ammonite, Naharai the Beerothite, the armor-bearer of Joab son of Zeruiah, Ira the Ithrite,
Gareb the Ithrite and Uriah the Hittite, whose wife David stole.
2 Sa. 22: David Praises
2 Samuel 22: 31 "As for God, his way is perfect; the word of the LORD is flawless. He is a shield for all who take refuge in him."
The 22nd chapter of 2nd Samuel is another praise song from a person who was given great victory or blessings by God. This song is of particular interest because it just lists off all these things that God has done. It isn't made up of refrains where David says, "I praise you," or "I exalt you." This song is very God-ward. God has done a lot for David, and David humbles himself here greatly. He recognizes that none of his victory could have come without the LORD. It does seem a bit off when David claims to not have sinned, and to have kept himself pure, when that's obviously not the case. Was it his heart over all? Was this God's grace taking control? For the most part, sure, David did not turn away to the right or to the left of what it was that God told him to do, and I'm sure it was confusing and off-putting to those around David.
Overall this song is one of victory and encouragement. I imagine lots of people claim it when they need a little boost and a remind of what God is capable of doing.
The 22nd chapter of 2nd Samuel is another praise song from a person who was given great victory or blessings by God. This song is of particular interest because it just lists off all these things that God has done. It isn't made up of refrains where David says, "I praise you," or "I exalt you." This song is very God-ward. God has done a lot for David, and David humbles himself here greatly. He recognizes that none of his victory could have come without the LORD. It does seem a bit off when David claims to not have sinned, and to have kept himself pure, when that's obviously not the case. Was it his heart over all? Was this God's grace taking control? For the most part, sure, David did not turn away to the right or to the left of what it was that God told him to do, and I'm sure it was confusing and off-putting to those around David.
Overall this song is one of victory and encouragement. I imagine lots of people claim it when they need a little boost and a remind of what God is capable of doing.
2 Sa. 21: Gibeonites Avenged
2 Samuel 21:6 "'Let seven of his male descendants be given to us to be killed and exposed before the LORD at Gibeah of Saul—the Lord 's chosen one.' So the king said, 'I will give them to you.'"
So, there's a famine in Israel. And David waits three years before he asks God what the deal is. Seems like a long time. Maybe a famine isn't a famine for three years? Anyway, God tells David that this famine was brought on because of Saul's mistreatment of the Gibeonites...which I don't recall reading about up front, and after some backtracking, I still couldn't find where that was. Anyway. What interests me here is that God wasn't going to come out and tell David the reason for the famine. David had to go to Him.
What else does God do, and, to put it one way, "get away with" without us asking why? God can be confusing, so why don't people ask? Is it just assumed that God knows what he's doing, so who are people to expect any kind of explanation? I guess there's merit in that type of attitude, but it would never stop me from being curious as to what is going on. But this three year delay thing...I wonder if David would wait that long in the future, if this is some kind of lesson for him.
So the Gibeonites ask for seven descendents of Saul to kill in order to square with the house. David goes for it, and its kind of horrific. Is this a case of "Sins of the Fathers?" I think so. Exodus 34 talks about it being visited on the 3rd and fourth generation. And I know what you're saying. What about Deuteronomy 24? Because I asked that too. But what I can gather is that Exodus referred to how God dealt with man...supernaturally. Deuteronomy describes legal matters between men. Anyway, it would be rough to be the trade piece to bring prosperity back to Israel. It still took reburial of Saul and Jonathan along with the seven before God would answer prayer.
And I wonder why, of all the nonsense Saul pulled, that this Gibeon thing would be what brought the famine on Israel?
In spite of the famine's departure, Israel's political house was not in order. They had to fight more Philistines. Including another Goliath, and a guy with hexadactylism. Was it the same Goliath, as in a replay? Or was Goliath a popular name? The Goliath David killed was from Gath, while the one Elhanan killed was a Gittite. Same place? I'unno.
So, there's a famine in Israel. And David waits three years before he asks God what the deal is. Seems like a long time. Maybe a famine isn't a famine for three years? Anyway, God tells David that this famine was brought on because of Saul's mistreatment of the Gibeonites...which I don't recall reading about up front, and after some backtracking, I still couldn't find where that was. Anyway. What interests me here is that God wasn't going to come out and tell David the reason for the famine. David had to go to Him.
What else does God do, and, to put it one way, "get away with" without us asking why? God can be confusing, so why don't people ask? Is it just assumed that God knows what he's doing, so who are people to expect any kind of explanation? I guess there's merit in that type of attitude, but it would never stop me from being curious as to what is going on. But this three year delay thing...I wonder if David would wait that long in the future, if this is some kind of lesson for him.
So the Gibeonites ask for seven descendents of Saul to kill in order to square with the house. David goes for it, and its kind of horrific. Is this a case of "Sins of the Fathers?" I think so. Exodus 34 talks about it being visited on the 3rd and fourth generation. And I know what you're saying. What about Deuteronomy 24? Because I asked that too. But what I can gather is that Exodus referred to how God dealt with man...supernaturally. Deuteronomy describes legal matters between men. Anyway, it would be rough to be the trade piece to bring prosperity back to Israel. It still took reburial of Saul and Jonathan along with the seven before God would answer prayer.
And I wonder why, of all the nonsense Saul pulled, that this Gibeon thing would be what brought the famine on Israel?
In spite of the famine's departure, Israel's political house was not in order. They had to fight more Philistines. Including another Goliath, and a guy with hexadactylism. Was it the same Goliath, as in a replay? Or was Goliath a popular name? The Goliath David killed was from Gath, while the one Elhanan killed was a Gittite. Same place? I'unno.
Friday, August 15, 2008
2 Sa. 20: The Sheba Rebellion
2 Samuel 20:22 "Then the woman went to all the people with her wise advice, and they cut off the head of Sheba son of Bicri and threw it to Joab. So he sounded the trumpet, and his men dispersed from the city, each returning to his home. And Joab went back to the king in Jerusalem."
Obviously, not all of the Israelites were pleased with David being king. Sheba, a Benjamite (go figure), incites a rebellion, and David sends his best men out to squash it. And you may be wondering what awe-inspiring oration Sheba gave to get all the men of Israel back on his side. Well here it is...
I don't want to overlook how David treated his concubines. They were basically imprisoned, but provided for. That blows. I guess I don't know the whole story, but that's not that cool by me. David. Loving husband. There you go.
Meanwhile, on the way to crush Sheba, the deposed Joab greets and guts Amasa, slicing his intestines out with his knife. Amasa is tossed to the side of the road, and the men of Judah go on their way to beseige the city. And Joab gives a rather Bush-sounding ultimatum. "If you are with David, you are with me." Who could refuse? David gave the order for Pete's sake. This city, Abel Beth Maacah, was in no mood to be destroyed, so some wise woman negotiates. Joab was probably indifferent toward destroying the city, as his streak of impetuousness indicates, but he allows them to live in return for the head of Sheba. They toss it down to him. Which...is interesting. How great could this Sheba be if men weren't willing to die for him? He didn't have time to establish gravitas. I have to wonder if this bad-guy streak is going to do Joab in eventually. And when Joab returned home, and not Amasa...What did David do?
Obviously, not all of the Israelites were pleased with David being king. Sheba, a Benjamite (go figure), incites a rebellion, and David sends his best men out to squash it. And you may be wondering what awe-inspiring oration Sheba gave to get all the men of Israel back on his side. Well here it is...
"We have no share in David, no part in Jesse's son! Every man to his tent, O Israel!"Don't you just get chills? I know. Me neither. But it was enough.
I don't want to overlook how David treated his concubines. They were basically imprisoned, but provided for. That blows. I guess I don't know the whole story, but that's not that cool by me. David. Loving husband. There you go.
Meanwhile, on the way to crush Sheba, the deposed Joab greets and guts Amasa, slicing his intestines out with his knife. Amasa is tossed to the side of the road, and the men of Judah go on their way to beseige the city. And Joab gives a rather Bush-sounding ultimatum. "If you are with David, you are with me." Who could refuse? David gave the order for Pete's sake. This city, Abel Beth Maacah, was in no mood to be destroyed, so some wise woman negotiates. Joab was probably indifferent toward destroying the city, as his streak of impetuousness indicates, but he allows them to live in return for the head of Sheba. They toss it down to him. Which...is interesting. How great could this Sheba be if men weren't willing to die for him? He didn't have time to establish gravitas. I have to wonder if this bad-guy streak is going to do Joab in eventually. And when Joab returned home, and not Amasa...What did David do?
2 Sa. 19: And So It Goes
2 Samuel 19:22 "David replied, 'What do you and I have in common, you sons of Zeruiah? This day you have become my adversaries! Should anyone be put to death in Israel today? Do I not know that today I am king over Israel?'"
I guess at first blush I was kind of irritated with his reaction to David's mourning the death of his son. Then I tried to look at it from Joab's side. Joab had one job. To kick hiney. And he did it well, and he fought hard. And he was killing his countrymen. Then, instead of a victory celebration, he returns home to find his commander in mourning over the death of the leader of the enemy. Patton would do the same thing. I guess. Was Joab right in telling David to go out and encourage his men? I guess so. Probably.
This divided land was in desparate need of unity. Even one faction, the Israelites were in disarray about their current leadership position. David returns to Jerusalem, led by Zadok and Abiathar, the priests, and Amasa, who replaced Joab as military commander. Was Joab fired over the Absalom incident? I don't recall reading that yet, but this is the second time Amasa was mentioned as commander.
Remember Shimei, the rock chucking, dirt-showering curser? He makes another appearance, in contrition, repenting for how he treated David. Abishai, Joab's brother still wants this guy dead. David reacts in an intresting way, "Boy you guys really don't know me." David had the power to kill, and the power to protect. He chose to protect Shimei because of his repentence. So that loose end was tied up nicely.
What's next? Oh, Mephibosheth. Mephibosheth figured that Ziba slandered him to David, unjustly usurping Meph's rightful property. David has them divide their property evenly, but Mephibosheth gives up everything to Ziba, glad only in David's safe return to Jerusalem.
By this time, the men of Israel were getting the memo. It was time to unite behind David. Absalom didn't really have someone lined up, at least by what I've read thus far. They even managed to squabble about who was better for bringing David across the river. Sounds like the Israel we know.
I guess at first blush I was kind of irritated with his reaction to David's mourning the death of his son. Then I tried to look at it from Joab's side. Joab had one job. To kick hiney. And he did it well, and he fought hard. And he was killing his countrymen. Then, instead of a victory celebration, he returns home to find his commander in mourning over the death of the leader of the enemy. Patton would do the same thing. I guess. Was Joab right in telling David to go out and encourage his men? I guess so. Probably.
This divided land was in desparate need of unity. Even one faction, the Israelites were in disarray about their current leadership position. David returns to Jerusalem, led by Zadok and Abiathar, the priests, and Amasa, who replaced Joab as military commander. Was Joab fired over the Absalom incident? I don't recall reading that yet, but this is the second time Amasa was mentioned as commander.
Remember Shimei, the rock chucking, dirt-showering curser? He makes another appearance, in contrition, repenting for how he treated David. Abishai, Joab's brother still wants this guy dead. David reacts in an intresting way, "Boy you guys really don't know me." David had the power to kill, and the power to protect. He chose to protect Shimei because of his repentence. So that loose end was tied up nicely.
What's next? Oh, Mephibosheth. Mephibosheth figured that Ziba slandered him to David, unjustly usurping Meph's rightful property. David has them divide their property evenly, but Mephibosheth gives up everything to Ziba, glad only in David's safe return to Jerusalem.
By this time, the men of Israel were getting the memo. It was time to unite behind David. Absalom didn't really have someone lined up, at least by what I've read thus far. They even managed to squabble about who was better for bringing David across the river. Sounds like the Israel we know.
Thursday, August 14, 2008
2 Sa. 18: Absalom, Absalom
2 Samuel 18:9 "Now Absalom happened to meet David's men. He was riding his mule, and as the mule went under the thick branches of a large oak, Absalom's head got caught in the tree. He was left hanging in midair, while the mule he was riding kept on going."
David sets up an army to go and fight Absalom's men. Which was Israel. And that really stuck with me, in verse 6, where it says "The army marched into the field to fight Israel." It's unfortunate that it had to come to this. David, like other nations, was used by God to keep Israel in check. In this case to demoralize and humiliate it. Who else would have? The Philistines? A neighbor? Those fatcats in Washington? Hey. Maybe Israel would just punish itself. David's final marching orders were to protect Absalom. David, in spite of Absalom's continued and brutal rebellion, wanted desparately to reconcile with him.
Well, the war is on, and 20,000 men died...Don't know if it was all Israelites, or a healthy mix of David's men. Another oddity is that in verse 8 where it says "the forest claimed more lives than the sword." What is that all about? What does that mean, the forest. Presuming Ents are merely products of fiction, I don't know else a forest kills men. Is this another in the litany of vignettes in the Bible where the land, the creation, is sort of anthropomorphized? I wonder. Maybe its the boring, Scully explanation that more people died in the woods. Not by the hand of the woods.
Absalom, in his flight gets his head caught in branches. Which would have been funny enough. Then his donkey rides away, leaving him hanging in midair. By his head. Which is borderline hysterical. Despite David's orders to keep him alive, Joab is like, "Whatever," and puts three javelins into Absalom's heart. Which...on first blush doesn't appear to be wise. Just like the soldier in the army said, "I ain't killing the king's son, especially when he specifically commanded us not to. Screw that."
Then two dudes, one, the son of Zadok the priest, and some other guy decide they want to bring the news to David. Joab didn't want one guy to go, but he insisted, so Joab's like, "Fine, run, boy." They both bring the good/bad news to David. And David weeps.
Musical Consideration: "Absalom, Absalom" Pierce Pettis
David sets up an army to go and fight Absalom's men. Which was Israel. And that really stuck with me, in verse 6, where it says "The army marched into the field to fight Israel." It's unfortunate that it had to come to this. David, like other nations, was used by God to keep Israel in check. In this case to demoralize and humiliate it. Who else would have? The Philistines? A neighbor? Those fatcats in Washington? Hey. Maybe Israel would just punish itself. David's final marching orders were to protect Absalom. David, in spite of Absalom's continued and brutal rebellion, wanted desparately to reconcile with him.
Well, the war is on, and 20,000 men died...Don't know if it was all Israelites, or a healthy mix of David's men. Another oddity is that in verse 8 where it says "the forest claimed more lives than the sword." What is that all about? What does that mean, the forest. Presuming Ents are merely products of fiction, I don't know else a forest kills men. Is this another in the litany of vignettes in the Bible where the land, the creation, is sort of anthropomorphized? I wonder. Maybe its the boring, Scully explanation that more people died in the woods. Not by the hand of the woods.
Absalom, in his flight gets his head caught in branches. Which would have been funny enough. Then his donkey rides away, leaving him hanging in midair. By his head. Which is borderline hysterical. Despite David's orders to keep him alive, Joab is like, "Whatever," and puts three javelins into Absalom's heart. Which...on first blush doesn't appear to be wise. Just like the soldier in the army said, "I ain't killing the king's son, especially when he specifically commanded us not to. Screw that."
Then two dudes, one, the son of Zadok the priest, and some other guy decide they want to bring the news to David. Joab didn't want one guy to go, but he insisted, so Joab's like, "Fine, run, boy." They both bring the good/bad news to David. And David weeps.
Musical Consideration: "Absalom, Absalom" Pierce Pettis
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
2 Sa. 17: Here's Some Advice
2 Samuel 17:14 "Absalom and all the men of Israel said, "The advice of Hushai the Arkite is better than that of Ahithophel." For the LORD had determined to frustrate the good advice of Ahithophel in order to bring disaster on Absalom."
Ahithophel, who is just a fount of great advice, suggests to Absalom that the time is now to go in with a surgical strike and take David out, thus crushing the last of those who still stand with David. It doesn't say Absalom asked for this advice, but presumably he had periodic meetings with his advisors, and was probably anxious to end this conflict with his dad. And not to patch things up.
Hushai has a different plan, advising Absalom to overwhelm by sheer numbers. Hushai's advice is followed, and Ahithophel, apparently not used to rejection, goes and hangs himself. Ahithophel's advice, we find, was actually the better of the two options, as God sought to frustrate the plans. Following Hushai's advice apparently will lead to disaster.
Word gets back to David on the plans, and the advice of where to stay and where not to stay protects him.
Ahithophel, who is just a fount of great advice, suggests to Absalom that the time is now to go in with a surgical strike and take David out, thus crushing the last of those who still stand with David. It doesn't say Absalom asked for this advice, but presumably he had periodic meetings with his advisors, and was probably anxious to end this conflict with his dad. And not to patch things up.
Hushai has a different plan, advising Absalom to overwhelm by sheer numbers. Hushai's advice is followed, and Ahithophel, apparently not used to rejection, goes and hangs himself. Ahithophel's advice, we find, was actually the better of the two options, as God sought to frustrate the plans. Following Hushai's advice apparently will lead to disaster.
Word gets back to David on the plans, and the advice of where to stay and where not to stay protects him.
2 Sa. 16: Father Explains
2 Samuel 16:10 "But the king said, 'What do you and I have in common, you sons of Zeruiah? If he is cursing because the LORD said to him, "Curse David," who can ask, "Why do you do this?" ' "
Ziba reappears. He was the one who brought Mephibosheth to David when David wanted to shower favor on the house of Saul. Ziba returns the favor, bring a bunch of donkeys and provisions to David as he flees from Absalom. Apparently, David takes away what Mephibosheth presumed and gives it to Ziba. Mephibosheth was waiting in Jerusalem, lame, and waiting for the kingdom to return to him. It wasn't going to happen, so David gives it to Ziba. Maybe it was because Mephibosheth thought it would be Israel giving his grandfather's house back to him instead of God himself.
Suddenly, another dude, Shimei of the house of Saul (and so far, the only Japanese sounding name in the Bible) comes along as David is on his journey, and begins pelting rocks and cursing at David and his men. Shimei's hang up with David was apparently the blood David shed from the house of Saul. Did Shimei have a legitimate grievance? I doubt it. From what is recorded, David bent over backwards to prevent bloodshed in the house of Saul.
Refusing Abishai's suggestion to decapitate Shimei, David has a wacky attitude about. "Let him curse if God tells him to." Why would he say that? What kind of mind thinks of that, without wanting to kill the guy himself? David had a history of sort of being above the fray, being able to look at situations from God's perspective. What if God had told Shimei to curse him? What would David feel like thinking this? How would I feel if I knew God had told someone to curse me? Hard to figure. It wouldn't be a good feeling, certainly. I'd want to convene with myself and do a little business to figure out why such a thing would happen, but then again, David recognizes that God can do what He wants, without really giving any reason to man.
Hushai and Ahithophel were very trusted men. As David trusted their counsel, so did Absalom. Hushai satisfies Absalom with his explanation as to why he defected from David, while Ahithophel gives a bit of odd advice to Absalom...sleep with your father's concubines. This act would place Absalom firmly in charge, and make David seem cuckolded, weak. Remember 2 Samuel 12:11? The Bathsheba Incident chickens are still coming home. To roost.
That curse is at the root of what has been happening in these past couple chapters...right?
Ziba reappears. He was the one who brought Mephibosheth to David when David wanted to shower favor on the house of Saul. Ziba returns the favor, bring a bunch of donkeys and provisions to David as he flees from Absalom. Apparently, David takes away what Mephibosheth presumed and gives it to Ziba. Mephibosheth was waiting in Jerusalem, lame, and waiting for the kingdom to return to him. It wasn't going to happen, so David gives it to Ziba. Maybe it was because Mephibosheth thought it would be Israel giving his grandfather's house back to him instead of God himself.
Suddenly, another dude, Shimei of the house of Saul (and so far, the only Japanese sounding name in the Bible) comes along as David is on his journey, and begins pelting rocks and cursing at David and his men. Shimei's hang up with David was apparently the blood David shed from the house of Saul. Did Shimei have a legitimate grievance? I doubt it. From what is recorded, David bent over backwards to prevent bloodshed in the house of Saul.
Refusing Abishai's suggestion to decapitate Shimei, David has a wacky attitude about. "Let him curse if God tells him to." Why would he say that? What kind of mind thinks of that, without wanting to kill the guy himself? David had a history of sort of being above the fray, being able to look at situations from God's perspective. What if God had told Shimei to curse him? What would David feel like thinking this? How would I feel if I knew God had told someone to curse me? Hard to figure. It wouldn't be a good feeling, certainly. I'd want to convene with myself and do a little business to figure out why such a thing would happen, but then again, David recognizes that God can do what He wants, without really giving any reason to man.
Hushai and Ahithophel were very trusted men. As David trusted their counsel, so did Absalom. Hushai satisfies Absalom with his explanation as to why he defected from David, while Ahithophel gives a bit of odd advice to Absalom...sleep with your father's concubines. This act would place Absalom firmly in charge, and make David seem cuckolded, weak. Remember 2 Samuel 12:11? The Bathsheba Incident chickens are still coming home. To roost.
That curse is at the root of what has been happening in these past couple chapters...right?
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
2 Sa. 15: Everyone's Fallen Down
2 Samuel 15:15 "Then David said to all his officials who were with him in Jerusalem, 'Come! We must flee, or none of us will escape from Absalom. We must leave immediately, or he will move quickly to overtake us and bring ruin upon us and put the city to the sword.'"
Well, I think the most stunning aspect to me about chapter 14 is David's seemingly sudden fear of Absalom. Here was this fearless warrior, and now, through events he wasn't even a part of, Absalom had been banished, and now returned, and then not allowed to meet the king. Why? Why was David so afraid to the point where he just kind of gave up and thought Absalom was in power? In some ways, Absalom was doing things on his own power what David had done through the power of God. Did this creep into David's consciousness? That perhaps God was now using Absalom? David even calls Absalom king in verse 19. This is quite the turn of events.
Absalom was quite the PR man, handsome, and persuasive...pretty smart, to convince travelers that he should be the judge in order to get justice. Perhaps this influence got back to David, and began to get to him, making him think Absalom had the heart of the people. But what of David's relationship with God? Had that deteriorated?
David perhaps was unable to defeat Absalom militarily or socially, so he prayed that his advisor Ahithophel would give Absalom foolish counsel.
Well, I think the most stunning aspect to me about chapter 14 is David's seemingly sudden fear of Absalom. Here was this fearless warrior, and now, through events he wasn't even a part of, Absalom had been banished, and now returned, and then not allowed to meet the king. Why? Why was David so afraid to the point where he just kind of gave up and thought Absalom was in power? In some ways, Absalom was doing things on his own power what David had done through the power of God. Did this creep into David's consciousness? That perhaps God was now using Absalom? David even calls Absalom king in verse 19. This is quite the turn of events.
Absalom was quite the PR man, handsome, and persuasive...pretty smart, to convince travelers that he should be the judge in order to get justice. Perhaps this influence got back to David, and began to get to him, making him think Absalom had the heart of the people. But what of David's relationship with God? Had that deteriorated?
David perhaps was unable to defeat Absalom militarily or socially, so he prayed that his advisor Ahithophel would give Absalom foolish counsel.
Monday, August 11, 2008
2 Sa. 14: I Will Return
2 Samuel 14:33 "So Joab went to the king and told him this. Then the king summoned Absalom, and he came in and bowed down with his face to the ground before the king. And the king kissed Absalom."
Well, this chapter was a nightmare for me. I was confused 3 or 4 times through it to grasp what actually was happening.
Absalom had fled for killing Amnon. Joab wanted to reconcile Absalom and David, for some reason, perhaps because he knew how David felt about him. He concocts a scheme in order to trap David somehow, and has a woman from a nearby town feign mourning over a murdered relative, a story similar to that of Cain and Abel. They convince David to invoke the sanctuary city rule on this imaginary relative, so that the avenger of blood would be held at bay, and therefore allow Absalom's safe return.
David smells it out, and despite the ruse, allows Absalom's return...insists on it. It wasn't without a caveat, however. Absalom had to return home, and not see David's face. Why would David do that? Not being able to see the face of the one who brought you home...Moses was under similar instructions.
Another thing about Absalom...he cut off his handsome hair when it got too heavy. Five pounds of hair? How long does it take to grow that much hair? Crikey.
Absalom wanted to see the king, so he burns down Joab's field. That gets him sent to the principal's office. He knew David wouldn't have him put to death. That's a dangerous amount of power.
Well, this chapter was a nightmare for me. I was confused 3 or 4 times through it to grasp what actually was happening.
Absalom had fled for killing Amnon. Joab wanted to reconcile Absalom and David, for some reason, perhaps because he knew how David felt about him. He concocts a scheme in order to trap David somehow, and has a woman from a nearby town feign mourning over a murdered relative, a story similar to that of Cain and Abel. They convince David to invoke the sanctuary city rule on this imaginary relative, so that the avenger of blood would be held at bay, and therefore allow Absalom's safe return.
David smells it out, and despite the ruse, allows Absalom's return...insists on it. It wasn't without a caveat, however. Absalom had to return home, and not see David's face. Why would David do that? Not being able to see the face of the one who brought you home...Moses was under similar instructions.
Another thing about Absalom...he cut off his handsome hair when it got too heavy. Five pounds of hair? How long does it take to grow that much hair? Crikey.
Absalom wanted to see the king, so he burns down Joab's field. That gets him sent to the principal's office. He knew David wouldn't have him put to death. That's a dangerous amount of power.
Monday, August 04, 2008
2 Sa. 13: Annotation to Amnon (Engrish version)
2 Samuel 13:15 "Amnon then hates her by the intense hatred. In fact, he likes her him hating her to be more than. Amnon said to her that, "gets up and exits!"
David has a son, Amnon, causes oneself crazily to long for him with him the sisters, Tamar. I did not know if they are from the same mother, because the Holy Bible did not think by now. In some recommendations later from his cousins, Jonadab, he will feign illness and the request, Tamar comes in and prepares his some foods. That can cause him to feel well, correct? If he has eaten the thing. In any event, the Tamar participation looks after her brothers stemming from her to his own love. Which, my supposition are the actual situations. She is enough does not suspend the rack is has not realized to the Amnon feeling about her. She prepares all just in front of him. She hid not any from him. He forces oneself and then rapes her in her. David - sexual desire legislative body. The natural sin clearly can base in David's family. I can guess as a result of David's own peccadilloes.
The Tamar opposition displayed she will not have to want to be this kind of sin part, reminder Amnon about theirs future reputation basis from this action. She proposed the possible marriage by David's blessing. But Amnon is overcome has filled the lust.
Realized his action is fearful, he has transmitted Tamar. Has thrown her is more elephants. Which more concerned with he reputation compared to be able no longer to wear the clothing that easily to hide his sisters, with the meeting had the guitar sin fruit. Violates, it can be obvious, Tamar no longer is pure.
I can only hope I am am better than Absolom older brothers, importantly tells him sisters Tamar not to worry regarding this, because Amnon is her brothers. Why can he say this? He anticipated this can comfort? He is to comforts even is interested she? This bad ratio rapes by a stranger?
After two years, in the sheepshearing litigant, Absalom convene his man-power, and his waiting retaliates Tamar is integrated. He issues an order his man-power to kill drunk Amnon. Obtains by some method word returns to David, possesses him the son is dies. He plans nephew, Jonadab, however obtains it to be correct...Tells David, this is Amnon which only is dies. How do I want to know the Jonadab feeling regarding this, because this is he invests "solution" in the Amnon brains.
At the same time, Solomon runs the hill, runs for his life. After some time, David is saluted loses about his son Amnon, with longed is and Absolom. Which are may understand. David wants him the son to come back, eventually, he loves him, with is wants (obviously) to forgive him although this fearful error. It is a little interesting, Absolom has not tried to defend his behavior to David. David probably has justice accidental system most personnel.
David has a son, Amnon, causes oneself crazily to long for him with him the sisters, Tamar. I did not know if they are from the same mother, because the Holy Bible did not think by now. In some recommendations later from his cousins, Jonadab, he will feign illness and the request, Tamar comes in and prepares his some foods. That can cause him to feel well, correct? If he has eaten the thing. In any event, the Tamar participation looks after her brothers stemming from her to his own love. Which, my supposition are the actual situations. She is enough does not suspend the rack is has not realized to the Amnon feeling about her. She prepares all just in front of him. She hid not any from him. He forces oneself and then rapes her in her. David - sexual desire legislative body. The natural sin clearly can base in David's family. I can guess as a result of David's own peccadilloes.
The Tamar opposition displayed she will not have to want to be this kind of sin part, reminder Amnon about theirs future reputation basis from this action. She proposed the possible marriage by David's blessing. But Amnon is overcome has filled the lust.
Realized his action is fearful, he has transmitted Tamar. Has thrown her is more elephants. Which more concerned with he reputation compared to be able no longer to wear the clothing that easily to hide his sisters, with the meeting had the guitar sin fruit. Violates, it can be obvious, Tamar no longer is pure.
I can only hope I am am better than Absolom older brothers, importantly tells him sisters Tamar not to worry regarding this, because Amnon is her brothers. Why can he say this? He anticipated this can comfort? He is to comforts even is interested she? This bad ratio rapes by a stranger?
After two years, in the sheepshearing litigant, Absalom convene his man-power, and his waiting retaliates Tamar is integrated. He issues an order his man-power to kill drunk Amnon. Obtains by some method word returns to David, possesses him the son is dies. He plans nephew, Jonadab, however obtains it to be correct...Tells David, this is Amnon which only is dies. How do I want to know the Jonadab feeling regarding this, because this is he invests "solution" in the Amnon brains.
At the same time, Solomon runs the hill, runs for his life. After some time, David is saluted loses about his son Amnon, with longed is and Absolom. Which are may understand. David wants him the son to come back, eventually, he loves him, with is wants (obviously) to forgive him although this fearful error. It is a little interesting, Absolom has not tried to defend his behavior to David. David probably has justice accidental system most personnel.
2 Sa. 13: Note to Amnon
2 Samuel 13:15 "Then Amnon hated her with intense hatred. In fact, he hated her more than he had loved her. Amnon said to her, "Get up and get out!"
David had a son, Amnon, who made himself crazy with his longing for his sister, Tamar. I don't know if they were from the same mother, as the Bible doesn't say at this point. After some advice from his cousin, Jonadab, he feigns illness and requests that Tamar come in and prepare him some food. That would make him feel better, right? If he ate something. Anyway, Tamar goes in to take care of her brother out of her own love for him. Which, I assume to be the case. She was unassuming enough to be unaware of Amnon's feelings about her. She prepares everything right in front of him. She hid nothing from him. He then forces himself on her and rapes her. House of David - Libido. Sexual sin is clearly gaining a foothold in David's household. I would guess due to David's own peccadilloes.
Tamar's objections show she did not want to be a part of this sin, even reminding Amnon about their future reputations based from this one act. She brought up possible marriage with David's blessing. But Amnon was overcome with lust.
Realizing his act was horrible, he sent Tamar away. Threw her out was more like it. More concerned with his own reputation which was easily hidden than that of his sister's who could no longer wear the virgin's garment, and would have to bear the fruit of his sin. Violated, it would be obvious that Tamar was no longer pure.
I can only hope I was a better older brother than Absolom, who essentially told his sister Tamar not to worry about it, since Amnon was her brother. Why would he say this? Was he expecting this would be comforting? Was he even interested in comforting her? Was this worse than being raped by a total stranger?
Two years later, at a sheepshearing party, Absalom rallies his men, and his wait to avenge Tamar is complete. He orders his men to kill a drunken Amnon. Somehow word gets back to David that all his sons are dead. His scheming nephew, Jonadab, however gets it right...letting David know that it was only Amnon that was dead. I wonder how Jonadab felt about it, since it was he who put the "solution" in Amnon's mind.
Meanwhile, Solomon runs to the hills, runs for his life. After some time, David is consoled about the loss of his son Amnon, and longed to be with Absolom. Which is understandable. David wanted his son to return, after all, he loved him, and was willing (apparently) to forgive him despite this terrible wrong. It's kind of interesting that Absolom didn't try to defend his deed to David. David probably had an unexpected system of justice to most people.
David had a son, Amnon, who made himself crazy with his longing for his sister, Tamar. I don't know if they were from the same mother, as the Bible doesn't say at this point. After some advice from his cousin, Jonadab, he feigns illness and requests that Tamar come in and prepare him some food. That would make him feel better, right? If he ate something. Anyway, Tamar goes in to take care of her brother out of her own love for him. Which, I assume to be the case. She was unassuming enough to be unaware of Amnon's feelings about her. She prepares everything right in front of him. She hid nothing from him. He then forces himself on her and rapes her. House of David - Libido. Sexual sin is clearly gaining a foothold in David's household. I would guess due to David's own peccadilloes.
Tamar's objections show she did not want to be a part of this sin, even reminding Amnon about their future reputations based from this one act. She brought up possible marriage with David's blessing. But Amnon was overcome with lust.
Realizing his act was horrible, he sent Tamar away. Threw her out was more like it. More concerned with his own reputation which was easily hidden than that of his sister's who could no longer wear the virgin's garment, and would have to bear the fruit of his sin. Violated, it would be obvious that Tamar was no longer pure.
I can only hope I was a better older brother than Absolom, who essentially told his sister Tamar not to worry about it, since Amnon was her brother. Why would he say this? Was he expecting this would be comforting? Was he even interested in comforting her? Was this worse than being raped by a total stranger?
Two years later, at a sheepshearing party, Absalom rallies his men, and his wait to avenge Tamar is complete. He orders his men to kill a drunken Amnon. Somehow word gets back to David that all his sons are dead. His scheming nephew, Jonadab, however gets it right...letting David know that it was only Amnon that was dead. I wonder how Jonadab felt about it, since it was he who put the "solution" in Amnon's mind.
Meanwhile, Solomon runs to the hills, runs for his life. After some time, David is consoled about the loss of his son Amnon, and longed to be with Absolom. Which is understandable. David wanted his son to return, after all, he loved him, and was willing (apparently) to forgive him despite this terrible wrong. It's kind of interesting that Absolom didn't try to defend his deed to David. David probably had an unexpected system of justice to most people.
Sunday, August 03, 2008
2 Sa. 12: Sins of the Fathers
2 Samuel 12:22-23 "He answered, "While the child was still alive, I fasted and wept. I thought, 'Who knows? The LORD may be gracious to me and let the child live.' But now that he is dead, why should I fast? Can I bring him back again? I will go to him, but he will not return to me."
God was definitely not pleased with David's scheme. And it's not really fair to David to hold him as the only one complicit in this affair. But David is the king. And God convicts David through a rather pathetic parable of selfishness. Thankfully, David realizes that he has sinned as a result of this, and God forgives him, but even in forgiveness, there is consequence and discipline. The child born as a result of this sin will not survive. The child pays with his life. Bathsheba's (possible) plan to attain royal lineage through David has to wait.
I appreciate David's efforts in prayer and fasting while the child was still alive. He completely threw himself on God's mercy, and it's all summed up in two words: "Who knows?" God was still a complete mystery even to King David, God's own chosen. How much more mystery can we be expected to accept?
David's attendants, or people, or whoever wonder why he takes food after the child dies...but doesn't it make sense? Sure, you mourn, but what brings dead back to life? Up to this point, nothing.
Anyway, David and Bathsheba's next, legitimate son, Solomon, is a result of comfort sex. Because this kid was loved by the LORD, He sends word to name him Jedidiah. And the first thing you know, ol' Jed's a millionaire. And everything turns out great, because Joab takes another city for David, and the city is put to work making bricks. Sounds familiar.
God was definitely not pleased with David's scheme. And it's not really fair to David to hold him as the only one complicit in this affair. But David is the king. And God convicts David through a rather pathetic parable of selfishness. Thankfully, David realizes that he has sinned as a result of this, and God forgives him, but even in forgiveness, there is consequence and discipline. The child born as a result of this sin will not survive. The child pays with his life. Bathsheba's (possible) plan to attain royal lineage through David has to wait.
I appreciate David's efforts in prayer and fasting while the child was still alive. He completely threw himself on God's mercy, and it's all summed up in two words: "Who knows?" God was still a complete mystery even to King David, God's own chosen. How much more mystery can we be expected to accept?
David's attendants, or people, or whoever wonder why he takes food after the child dies...but doesn't it make sense? Sure, you mourn, but what brings dead back to life? Up to this point, nothing.
Anyway, David and Bathsheba's next, legitimate son, Solomon, is a result of comfort sex. Because this kid was loved by the LORD, He sends word to name him Jedidiah. And the first thing you know, ol' Jed's a millionaire. And everything turns out great, because Joab takes another city for David, and the city is put to work making bricks. Sounds familiar.
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