Jonadab in the Bible: A Character Study

Though he appears only briefly in the Bible, Jonadab’s role is pivotal, and his actions invite careful examination. This blog post explores who Jonadab was, his significance in biblical history, and the lessons we can learn from his story.

Who Was Jonadab?

Jonadab, sometimes spelled Jehonadab, is most notably mentioned in the book of 2 Samuel, chapter 13. He was the son of Shimeah (also called Shammah), who was King David’s brother. This made Jonadab a cousin to David’s children, including Amnon and Absalom. His familial connections placed him in the inner circles of power and influence within the royal household.

Jonadab is described as a very shrewd man (2 Samuel 13:3). The Hebrew word used for ‘shrewd’ can mean wise, clever, or crafty, depending on the context. In Jonadab’s case, his intelligence is quickly revealed as he becomes involved in the events surrounding Amnon and Tamar, two of David’s children.

Jonadab’s Role in Amnon and Tamar’s Story

The main biblical account involving Jonadab centers around the tragic incident between Amnon and Tamar. Amnon, David’s firstborn son, became infatuated with his half-sister Tamar, the full sister of Absalom. Consumed by lust, Amnon grew physically ill over his inability to be with Tamar.

Jonadab noticed Amnon’s distress and inquired about it. Upon learning of Amnon’s feelings, Jonadab devised a scheme that would allow Amnon to be alone with Tamar. He advised Amnon to feign illness and request that his father send Tamar to care for him, preparing food in his presence. King David, unaware of the underlying motives, agreed to Amnon’s request. The plan worked, and Amnon assaulted Tamar when she came to minister to him.

Jonadab’s counsel set in motion a chain of events that led to immense suffering within David’s family. After the incident, Tamar was left desolate, and Absalom began to plot revenge against Amnon. Two years later, Absalom murdered Amnon during a feast. In the aftermath, Jonadab again appears, calmly explaining to David that only Amnon had been killed, not all the king’s sons, as was initially feared.

The Character of Jonadab

Jonadab’s actions reveal a great deal about his character. He is depicted as intelligent and resourceful, yet his cleverness is employed in the service of deceit and immorality. He not only conceives the plan that leads to Tamar’s violation but also appears to show little remorse or concern for the consequences of his advice. When the murder of Amnon occurs, Jonadab is quick to distance himself, offering information to King David and attempting to calm the king’s fears.

Some scholars and readers of the Bible view Jonadab as the archetype of the “crafty counselor”—someone who uses their insight for personal gain or to manipulate others, rather than for righteous purposes. His ability to read situations and influence outcomes stands in stark contrast to the biblical ideal of wisdom, which is often associated with justice, compassion, and fear of the Lord.

Lessons from Jonadab’s Story

The story of Jonadab serves as a cautionary tale about the misuse of intelligence and influence. Several key lessons can be drawn from his life:

1. The Responsibility of Counsel

Jonadab’s story reminds us that those who offer advice have a profound responsibility. Wise counsel can lead to healing, restoration, and justice, while foolish or selfish advice can result in devastation. Jonadab’s failure was not just in giving bad advice, but in being indifferent to the moral consequences of his counsel. Christians and all people of faith are encouraged to seek counsel that is rooted in righteousness and concern for the well-being of others.

2. The Dangers of Craftiness Without Integrity

Jonadab’s intelligence was not matched by integrity. The Bible repeatedly warns against the dangers of craftiness untempered by moral values. Proverbs 26:18-19 compares a deceiver to a madman who throws firebrands, arrows, and death. The story of Jonadab illustrates how cleverness, when used for selfish ends, can wreak havoc in the lives of individuals and families.

3. The Consequences of Enabling Sin

By providing Amnon with a plan to fulfill his sinful desires, Jonadab became complicit in the ensuing tragedy. The narrative shows the destructive ripple effects that can occur when sin is enabled rather than confronted. This serves as a warning to all about the importance of confronting wrongdoing and not facilitating the harmful actions of others.

4. The Value of Speaking Truth and Acting Justly

In contrast to Jonadab’s actions, the Bible commends those who speak the truth in love and act justly. The prophet Micah declared, “He has shown you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?” (Micah 6:8). Jonadab’s failure to stand up for what was right in a critical moment highlights the need for courage and righteousness in our own decision-making.

Jonadab in Later Tradition

Outside of the events of 2 Samuel 13, Jonadab is not mentioned again in the biblical narrative. His legacy is thus tied to this episode of family tragedy and intrigue. Some traditions have attempted to draw connections between the Jonadab of 2 Samuel and Jehonadab, son of Rechab, mentioned in 2 Kings 10, but these are regarded as separate figures by most scholars.

The brief yet intense role Jonadab plays in the biblical text serves as a reminder that even minor characters can have significant impact, for good or ill. His story invites readers to reflect on the ways in which we use our influence and the importance of aligning our actions with godly principles.