David and Bathsheba
David’s scheme to steal another man’s wife succeeded, but he could not keep his secret from everyone.
about 1010 BC-1000 BC
From the 15th century Bedford Hours. Via Wikimedia Commons.
David enviously watches Bathsheba and Uriah, while a soldier takes orders to have Uriah placed in the heat of battle. From the 15th century Bedford Hours.
Introduction
David was King of all Israel early in the 10th century BC. Through Bathsheba, he was a forefather of Jesus, but the marriage was the result of a stratagem unworthy of a King.
DAVID became captivated by a young woman called Bathsheba, and wanted her for his wife.
When he discovered that she was already married, he contrived to have her husband, Uriah, drafted into the Israelite army, and posted to the front line.
Soon Uriah was killed in battle, just as David intended. The King seized his chance to comfort the grieving widow, and before long, Bathsheba bore David a son and heir.
A little later, David’s chief prophet Nathan brought a case of injustice to the King. A rich man, he said, with many sheep of his own had stolen a poor man’s lamb, and served it up at his own table!
David angrily demanded retribution; but Nathan simply said, ‘You are that man’.
David now realised the tale had been about him, Uriah, and Bathsheba. He was pierced through with shame and regret, and composed a Psalm* to express his repentance and hopes for forgiveness.
Based on 2 Samuel 11-12.
