2 Samuel 18:27
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Even in his distress, David's immediate thought about Ahimaaz isn't just about his speed, but his character – he's "a good man." This shows how deeply David valued integrity and character, even above the potentially urgent news itself. It's a powerful reminder that our reputation for goodness often precedes us, shaping how others perceive our messages.
The watchman said, “I think the running of the first is like the running of Ahimaaz the son of Zadok.” And the king said, “He is a good man and comes with good news.”
English Standard Version (ESV)
King David is anxiously awaiting news from the battle against his rebellious son, Absalom. This moment comes right after a messenger, Cushite, has delivered the devastating news of Absalom's death, and David is deeply grieving. Ahimaaz, known for his loyalty and good nature, is seen approaching, and David hopes he brings better tidings or at least a more bearable report of the victory.
David was in a desperate situation, waiting for news from a brutal battle. His heart was heavy with dread, but he also held onto a flicker of hope. What fueled that hope?
King David was not just waiting for any news; he was waiting for good news. The battle against his own son, Absalom, was devastating, and the outcome would determine the fate of his kingdom and his family. When the watchman identifies Ahimaaz, David immediately says, 'He is a good man and comes with good news.' This reveals David's deep longing for a positive report, a sign that the crisis might be averted and that some semblance of peace could return.
In times of crisis, who brings the message is often as important as the message itself. David instinctively trusts Ahimaaz. Why?
David’s assessment of Ahimaaz as 'a good man' isn't just a casual observation. Ahimaaz, the son of Zadok the priest, belonged to a lineage associated with faithfulness and service to God and the king. Priestly families were often trusted with vital information and communication. David's trust implies Ahimaaz is not only reliable but also likely to deliver news with integrity and a sense of responsibility, possibly even with a measure of empathy or concern for the king’s well-being.
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The verse highlights the tension and fear surrounding the news of battle. David's desperate wait for word, his fear for Absalom's life, and his hope for good news reveal his deep personal turmoil amidst the political crisis.
c. 970 BC
David Establishes Jerusalem Capital
King David conquers Jerusalem and makes it the capital of his united Israelite kingdom, bringing the Ark of the Covenant to the city.
c. 970 BC
Absalom's Rebellion Begins
David's son Absalom incites a rebellion, claiming the throne and forcing David to flee Jerusalem. This sets the stage for civil war.
c. 970 BC
David Retreats from Jerusalem
David and his loyal followers are forced to abandon Jerusalem to Absalom's forces, crossing the Kidron Valley and heading toward the wilderness.
c. 970 BC— this verse
Battle of Ephraim's Wood
David's army, led by Joab, defeats Absalom's forces in the rugged terrain of the Ephraim's Wood forest. The battle is fierce and costly.
c. 970 BC
Absalom's Death
Absalom is killed by Joab against David's express wishes, leading to a somber end for the rebellion and a grief-stricken king.
c. 970 BC
News of Victory Travels
Messengers are dispatched to inform King David of the battle's outcome. Two messengers, Ahimaaz and a Cushite, race back to David.
This passage also features a runner bringing news of a battle's outcome, highlighting the tension and anxiety surrounding such reports.
2 Samuel 15:35This verse shows David's trust in Zadok the priest (Ahimaaz's father) and his son, reinforcing Ahimaaz's reputation as someone associated with faithfulness and good tidings.
1 Kings 1:42-43Ahimaaz's son is mentioned here, continuing the legacy of this family being involved in relaying significant news to the royal court, showing a pattern of reliable communication.
1 Samuel 4:13-18This passage presents a stark contrast to Ahimaaz's good news, showing a runner bringing devastating news of defeat and death, emphasizing the weight and potential impact of the messenger's role.
Even in his distress, David's immediate thought about Ahimaaz isn't just about his speed, but his character – he's "a good man." This shows how deeply David valued integrity and character, even above the potentially urgent news itself. It's a powerful reminder that our reputation for goodness often precedes us, shaping how others perceive our messages.
King David is anxiously awaiting news from the battle against his rebellious son, Absalom. This moment comes right after a messenger, Cushite, has delivered the devastating news of Absalom's death, and David is deeply grieving. Ahimaaz, known for his loyalty and good nature, is seen approaching, and David hopes he brings better tidings or at least a more bearable report of the victory.
King David is anxiously awaiting news from the battle against his rebellious son, Absalom. This moment comes right after a messenger, Cushite, has delivered the devastating news of Absalom's death, and David is deeply grieving. Ahimaaz, known for his loyalty and good nature, is seen approaching, and David hopes he brings better tidings or at least a more bearable report of the victory.
"The watchman said, “I think the running of the first is like the running of Ahimaaz the son of Zadok.” And the king said, “He is a good man and comes with good news.”" — Even in his distress, David's immediate thought about Ahimaaz isn't just about his speed, but his character – he's "a good man." This shows how deeply David valued integrity and character, even above…
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Last reviewed October 2026
