Death of First Child
Overview
- Testament: Old
- Book: 2 Samuel
- Chapters: 2 Samuel 12
- Summary: The first child born to David and Bathsheba dies under the announced judgment of God.
Details
David fasts, prays, and lies on the ground for the child, but the judgment falls as Nathan said. David then rises, worships, and receives the mystery of God’s justice and mercy without bitterness. Later Solomon is born.
Key People Involved
Key Places
Important Verses
“I shall go to him, but he shall not return to me.” - 2 Samuel 12:23
Cross-References
- Related events: David & Bathsheba, Nathan’s Confrontation
- Related books: 2 Samuel
Notes
This is one of the most sobering consequence passages in David’s life. Forgiveness is real, but sin still wounds the house.