Did King David rape Bathsheba?
Psalms 51:1 - 19
KJVS - 1 [To the chief Musician, A Psalm of David, when Nathan the prophet came unto him, after he had gone in to Bathsheba.] Have mercy upon me, O God, according to thy lovingkindness: according unto the multitude of thy tender mercies blot out my transgressions. 2 Wash me throughly from mine iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin.
Community answers are sorted based on votes. The higher the vote, the further up an answer is.
Tim Maas
Supporter
To me, the more accurate phrasing would be to say that David took advantage of Bathsheba based on his power as king and the disparity in their positions. The Bible implies nothing forced, violent, or threat-coerced concerning it. Nevertheless, the sinfulness of David's actions (including both his adultery and his subsequent arranging of the murder of Uriah) in God's eyes was made clear by the rebuke David received from Nathan, and the multiple negative consequences that resulted for David arising from it (2 Samuel 12:11-13), including the death of the child resulting from that encounter (which would have adversely affected Bathsheba also). Despite these events, David (as Psalm 51 indicates) repented of his sin, and he and Bathsheba later became the parents of Solomon, whom the Bible says God loved (2 Samuel 12:24-25).
Add your Answer
All answers are REVIEWED and MODERATED.
Please ensure your answer MEETS all our guidelines.
A good answer provides new insight and perspective. Here are guidelines to help facilitate a meaningful learning experience for everyone.
- Adhere to the eBible Statement of Faith.
- Your answer should be complete and stand-alone.
- Include supporting arguments, and scripture references if possible. Seek to answer the "why".
- Adhere to a proper tone and spirit of love and understanding.
- For more info see The Complete Guide to eBible