Week 10: David's Kindness Toward Hanun

2 Samuel 10 tells the story of kindness misunderstood. When the king of the Ammonites died, David sent servants to comfort Hanun, his son. Instead of accepting the gesture, Hanun suspected treachery. He humiliated David’s men and plunged his nation into an unnecessary war. This insult brought the Ammonites into conflict not just with Israel, but also with the powerful Aramean armies. The result was a decisive victory for Joab, Abishai, and Israel — and a clear reminder that rejecting peace often leads to destruction.

The chapter sharply contrasts with the previous one: Mephibosheth gratefully accepted David’s kindness, while Hanun foolishly rejected it. One received a blessing, the other faced ruin. Through this story, we learn that suspicion, pride, and bad advice can turn peace into disaster. At the same time, we see the courage and faith of Israel’s leaders as they confront overwhelming odds.