19:202 Samuel 19:20

After Absalom's death God had turned the hearts of Israel to David as the heart of one man. SG4 91.3+1 It was in that setting that Shimei made the confession of 2 Samuel 19:20 to David. SG4 91.3+1

Shimei had previously cursed David in his time of humility and humiliation. SG4 91.3+1 Then, driven by fear for his life, he came among the first of the rebels to meet David on his return to Jerusalem. SG4 91.3+1 There he confessed his rebellious conduct toward David. SG4 91.3+1

Those who had witnessed Shimei's abusive course urged David not to spare his life because he had cursed the Lord's anointed. SG4 91.3+1 David rebuked those urging death and not only spared Shimei's life but mercifully forgave him. SG4 91.3+1 He did this though he could readily have put the offender to death. SG4 91.3+1

That merciful forgiveness shows David did not possess a revengeful spirit. SG4 91.3+1 That forgiveness also proves David was not the bloody and mischievous man Shimei had represented him to be. 1SP 383.2–384.2