Definition: Then said his servants unto him, What thing [is] this that thou hast done? thou didst fast and weep for the child, [while it was] alive; but when the child was dead, thou didst rise and eat bread.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 2 Samuel 12:21. It’s a really complex and emotionally charged passage, so we'll go through it step-by-step. Here’s the explanation in simpler terms: The Basic Story: This verse comes from the story of King David’s relationship with his son, Absalom. After Absalom commits a terrible act – he murders his father, Nathan – David is deeply saddened and feels responsible. He asks his servants to explain what happened and why he did it. What's Happening in the Verse: “Then said his servants unto him, What thing [is] this that thou hast done?” - This is a direct question from the servants. They’re trying to understand the reason behind David’s actions. The word “thing” is key here; it's not just about a specific action, but the reason for his grief. “Thou didst fast and weep for the child, while it was alive; but when the child was dead, thou didst rise and eat bread.” - This is the core of the verse. It describes David's actions in two distinct stages: The First Stage (While the Child Was Alive): David fasted and wept for the child. He felt immense sorrow and regret because he was protecting his son from being harmed. The Second Stage (When the Child Was Dead): Later, when the child died, David reversed his behavior. He ate bread – a large portion of his food – as if to try and comfort himself. It’s like he’s trying to fill the void left by the loss. What Does it Mean? This verse is rich with symbolism and suggests several things: Regret & Guilt: David was deeply troubled by his actions, especially because he felt responsible for the child's death. A Shift in Perspective: It shows a significant shift from being consumed by grief to a moment of surprising self-compassion – attempting to find comfort in something other than his sorrow. The Power of Resilience: It speaks to David’s capacity to change and adapt, even after experiencing immense loss. Important Note: The meaning is often debated among theologians and biblical scholars. Some interpretations see it as a moment of profound repentance and a recognition of the consequences of his actions. Others view it as a complex expression of guilt and a desire for redemption. In short, this verse portrays David's emotional turmoil, his attempt to find solace, and a subtle hint at a possible shift in his understanding of his situation. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of the Bible verse? Discuss the symbolism behind this passage? Provide context for the story of Absalom?