2 Samuel 13:20
And Absalom her brother said unto her, Hath Amnon thy brother been with thee? but hold now thy peace, my sister: he is thy brother; regard not this thing. So Tamar remained desolate in her brother Absalom’s house.
2 Samuel 13:20
Absalom’s counsel to Tamar to be quiet reveals a chilling complicity of silence within the family. He minimizes the event by urging her to hold her peace, labeling the matter as private “brotherly” trouble. Tamar remains desolate in Absalom’s house, living with the consequences of the assault while the household dynamics continue to deteriorate. The verse shows how a lack of protective response from siblings and a failure to pursue justice can deepen the harm and extend the trauma.
Theologically, this highlights communal responsibility for justice and care. When the family remains silent or dismissive, it implicitly endorses injustice. It also contrasts the right response—to validate the harmed, seek accountability, and pursue healing—with the wrong response—silence, complicity, and quiet acceptance of exploitation. The verse invites readers to reflect on how justice is deeply relational and communal, not merely an individual matter.
This is a call to break the culture of silence around abuse. If you witness harm within your circle, do not minimize or bury it. Encourage the harmed to speak, support them in seeking help, and help mobilize appropriate resources. For families and communities, create norms that demand accountability and care, even when it’s uncomfortable. Practical steps include establishing confidential reporting channels, offering mediation or counseling, and ensuring the safety and dignity of survivors.
Cross-References: James 5:16; Leviticus 19:16; Isaiah 1:17; Galatians 6:2; Matthew 18:15-17