2Sa 19:40-43 | MHM | STEP | Quarrel between Israel and Judah This section describes a disagreement between the tribes of Israel and Judah after King David returned across the Jordan River. The argument began because some tribes felt left out of welcoming the king back. This quarrel spoiled what should have been a joyful occasion and was the start of more trouble between the tribes.

‏ 2 Samuel 19:40-43

Quarrel between Israel and Judah

This section describes a disagreement between the tribes of Israel and Judah after King David returned across the Jordan River. The argument began because some tribes felt left out of welcoming the king back. This quarrel spoiled what should have been a joyful occasion and was the start of more trouble between the tribes.

v. 41: The men of Israel complained to King David. They were upset because the men of Judah brought the king over the Jordan River and did not invite them to join in the ceremony . The Israelites felt insulted, as if they did not care about the king as much as Judah did. However, David knew that the Israelites had actually talked about bringing him back before Judah did (2 Samuel 19:11 ^a). The Israelites also worried that Judah wanted to keep the king’s favor just for themselves. This shows how pride and jealousy can cause problems among people.

v. 42: The men of Judah answered the complaint. First, they said, He is near of kin to us. They believed it made sense for them to bring the king home because he belonged to their tribe. Second, they denied taking any special advantage. They said, Have we eaten at all of the king's cost? and Hath he given us any gift? They insisted they did not benefit from David’s return more than anyone else. Many people who serve a king do so only for personal gain, but Judah claimed this was not true for them .

v. 43: The men of Israel defended their complaint. They said, We have ten parts in the king, meaning most of the tribes belonged to Israel, while Judah only had the tribe of Simeon with them. They felt insulted that they were not asked for advice about bringing the king back. Just a short time before, these same people were fighting against the king. Now, they were competing to honor him the most. This shows that public opinion can change quickly. Often, arguments start because people feel ignored or insulted, even over small things. The men of Judah could have avoided this trouble by including Israel. Still, the Israelites should not have become so angry. If something good is done, we should not be upset just because we did not help do it (2 Samuel 19:43 ^b).

Finally, the Bible notes that the men of Judah argued more fiercely than the men of Israel. Even if we are right, speaking with harshness and anger is wrong in God’s eyes. God notices when we speak with too much passion and is displeased by it.