30 And the king said unto him, Turn aside, and stand here. And he turned aside, and stood still.
30 The king said, "Stand aside and wait here." So he stepped aside and stood there.
30 And the king said, "Turn aside and stand here." So he turned aside and stood still.
30 The king said, "Step aside and stand over there." So he stepped aside.
30 And the king said, "Turn aside and stand here." So he turned aside and stood still.
30 "Wait here," the king told him. So Ahimaaz stepped aside.
Matthew Henry's Commentary on 2 Samuel 18:30
Commentary on 2 Samuel 18:19-33
(Read 2 Samuel 18:19-33)
By directing David to give God thanks for his victory, Ahimaaz prepared him for the news of his son's death. The more our hearts are fixed and enlarged, in thanksgiving to God for our mercies, the better disposed we shall be to bear with patience the afflictions mixed with them. Some think David's wish arose from concern about Absalom's everlasting state; but he rather seems to have spoken without due thought. He is to be blamed for showing so great fondness for a graceless son. Also for quarrelling with Divine justice. And for opposing the justice of the nation, which, as king, he had to administer, and which ought to be preferred before natural affection. The best men are not always in a good frame; we are apt to over-grieve for what we over-loved. But while we learn from this example to watch and pray against sinful indulgence, or neglect of our children, may we not, in David, perceive a shadow of the Saviour's love, who wept over, prayed for, and even suffered death for mankind, though vile rebels and enemies.