Definition: Howbeit he would not hearken unto her voice: but, being stronger than she, forced her, and lay with her.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this difficult passage from 2 Samuel 13:14. It’s a really shocking and disturbing verse, and it describes a deeply violent act. Here’s an explanation in simple terms: The Core of the Story: This verse tells us about King David’s affair with Bathsheba, his wife. It's a moment of intense betrayal and profound consequence for him. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “Howbeit he would not hearken unto her voice…” – This is the key part. "Howbeit" means “though” or “even though.” David was trying to resist Bathsheba, but he was ultimately overpowered and forced into a situation he couldn’t control. He wasn't just being stubborn; he was actively forcing her. "...but, being stronger than she..." – This highlights the imbalance of power. David was physically stronger and more assertive than Bathsheba. He was able to exert pressure and dominance. "...forced her..." – This is the shocking part. David forcibly took Bathsheba. It wasn't a gentle refusal; it was a deliberate act of taking her against her will. "...and lay with her." – This describes the physical act itself. He engaged in sexual intercourse with her. What’s the Significance? This story is incredibly important because it shows: The Danger of Pride: David's pride and obsession with Bathsheba led him to make a terrible mistake. The Consequences of Sin: It highlights that sin, especially when fueled by pride and unchecked desire, can lead to devastating consequences for both the person doing the wrong thing and those around them. A Broken Relationship: The story demonstrates how even strong relationships can be destroyed by betrayal and a lack of respect for one another. Important Note: This verse is often interpreted as a warning against lust and pride, suggesting that unchecked desires can lead to harmful actions. It’s a difficult passage to read, but it's also a powerful reminder of the importance of humility and obedience. --- Disclaimer: I am an AI Chatbot and not a biblical scholar. This explanation is based on common interpretations of scripture. Would you like me to: Explain another part of this passage? Discuss the historical context surrounding this event?