Definition: And it came to pass on the seventh day, that the child died. And the servants of David feared to tell him that the child was dead: for they said, Behold, while the child was yet alive, we spake unto him, and he would not hearken unto our voice: how will he then vex himself, if we tell him that the child is dead?

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from 2 Samuel 12:18. It’s a really important and complex story about David and his son. Here’s a simplified explanation: The Basic Story: David was having a hard time with his son. He was feeling incredibly disappointed and worried about his son, Jonathan, who was facing a difficult situation with his enemies. A servant pleads with David to tell him the truth. This servant is essentially saying, “David, you need to know that your son is dead.” This is a devastating moment for David. The servants are terrified and try to stop him from telling David. They’re worried about how his son would react – he might be angry, upset, or even try to run away. What it Means (Simplified): This verse is about the weight of grief and the potential for despair. It highlights a moment where David is grappling with immense sadness and fear. “On the seventh day…” This refers to the seventh day after the death of his son. It’s significant because it marks a turning point in the story. “…the child died.” This is the core of the verse – David's son has passed away. “…and the servants of David feared to tell him…” David’s servants are deeply worried about his reaction and how he might be affected by this news. They want to protect him from further pain. "...they said, Behold, while the child was yet alive, we spake unto him, and he would not hearken unto our voice: how will he then vex himself, if we tell him that the child is dead?” This is a really powerful metaphor. “Spoke unto him” means David heard about his son’s death. “He would not hearken” means he wouldn't listen to what the servants said. The worry is that this news will cause him immense suffering and pain. What it's about – The Bigger Picture: This verse is often interpreted as a reflection on David’s own struggles with pride and his tendency to be consumed by grief. It shows how difficult it can be to accept loss, especially when you’re feeling deeply vulnerable. It also touches on the importance of seeking counsel and support from others – in this case, David’s servants. Important Note: This passage isn't about literal truth. It’s a symbolic representation of the emotional turmoil that can arise during times of significant loss. --- Do you want me to: Explain any of these points further? Provide more context or background on the story? Talk about the meaning of the symbolism in this verse?