When they told it unto David, he sent to meet them, because the men were greatly ashamed: and the king said, Tarry at Jericho until your beards be grown, and then return.
When David heard what had happened to them, he sent messengers to meet them, because the men were deeply humiliated. The king told them, 'Stay in Jericho until your beards grow back, and then come home.'
King David showed compassion to his embarrassed ambassadors by letting them stay away until their dignity was restored.
📚 Historical Context
This follows the incident where David's ambassadors were humiliated by the Ammonite king, who cut off half their beards and half their garments as an insult. In ancient Middle Eastern culture, a man's beard was a symbol of dignity and honor, so this was considered a grave public shame. David's response shows his care for his men's emotional well-being and cultural sensitivity.
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