2 Samuel 10:2 meaning

David’s intentions toward Hanun, the newly appointed king of the Ammonites, reveal a profound commitment to kindness and loyalty, reflecting the value of honoring past relationships. Following the death of Nahash, Hanun’s father, David sought to extend goodwill, as Nahash had once shown kindness to him. This act of sending comforters was customary among neighboring rulers, aiming to preserve diplomatic ties. Such gestures illustrate David's values as a leader who aimed to maintain peace and goodwill. When David declared, “I will show kindness unto Hanun,” he was embracing the biblical concept of hesed, a steadfast love rooted in loyalty and covenant (2 Samuel 10:2).

However, this goodwill was met with suspicion as Hanun's advisors misinterpreted David’s intentions. Misguided by a lack of trust, Hanun dishonorably humiliated David’s ambassadors, exposing a deeper human tendency to suspect malice where none exists. This tragic turn of events illustrates the struggle between kindness and suspicion, serving as a cautionary reminder of how easily misunderstanding can sour even the best of intentions.