THEOSISTheodoret of Cyrus
How should we interpret the statement, "If there be lacking, what have the faithful of Israel laid up" (2 Sam. 20:18)? After Sheba's rebellion against David, he fled and found refuge in the city of Abel, situated in Palestine. When the army commander besieged this city, a wise woman within its walls reminded him of God’s commandments. The divine instruction dictated that a message should be sent first before any aggression was taken against those who opposed it. The woman asked, "How shall you lack what you have laid up for the faithful of Israel?" meaning that they should not violate the prescribed laws. She continued, stating, "I am the peaceable one of Israel; why do you destroy the treasure of the Lord?" (2 Sam.
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20:19) indicating that, in accordance with God's law, they had not sent a message, and she was informing him that the city meant no harm and sought peace. She urged him not to destroy this city, which belonged to the same tribe and worshipped the same God. Upon hearing her plea, the commander expressed that he desired neither warfare nor a prolonged siege; his only intent was to apprehend the rebel against the king. The wise woman then advised the city's leaders to avoid plunging them into conflict by recalling the king’s righteousness, his valor in battles, and the peace they enjoyed as a result of his efforts. Consequently, her words led to the rebel's head being delivered to Joab, resulting in the lifting of the siege.