Definition: Then the woman said, Let thine handmaid, I pray thee, speak [one] word unto my lord the king. And he said, Say on.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this short but significant passage from 2 Samuel 14:12. It's a really dramatic and unsettling moment in David’s life! Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Situation: David was feeling incredibly insecure about his son, Absalom. He was worried that Absalom would overthrow him and become king. He had overheard a conversation where his advisor, Nathan, told Absalom to not be obedient to David. What Happened Next: David, in a moment of intense rage and desperation, commanded his wife, Bathsheba, to speak to her husband (the King) one word. He essentially said, "Say something! Tell him what you think!" The Meaning – It’s a Powerful Plea for Revenge: This verse is about David trying to force Absalom to acknowledge his authority and obey him. He's essentially pleading with Bathsheba to tell the King to punish Absalom, even though he knows it’s likely to be a disastrous outcome. Here's a simplified interpretation: David was so upset that he wanted to make Absalom feel like he had to listen to him. He was trying to control the situation and achieve his own revenge. Important Note: This verse is often interpreted as a sign of David’s deep insecurity and perhaps even a glimpse into his potentially dark thoughts. It shows a man struggling with his own power and desire for retribution. Essentially, it's a dramatic moment where David attempts to manipulate and control Absalom through a desperate plea. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the context of this passage? Explore what this verse might symbolize in biblical storytelling?