A person goes out of his home to buy milk for his child. As he walks on the street, a bike driven by a teenager hits him and he dies on the spot—innocent victims, who do not deserve to die. This happens almost every day. It could be due to the fault of others, the wicked sins of others, the failure of machines, and natural disasters. Uriah, the Hittite was one such victim, whose wife was seduced, raped, and he was murdered in the war by a conspiracy of David, executed by commander Joab. God sent Prophet Nathan to confront David, who confessed and sought forgiveness. (II Samuel 11&12) However, because of his sin of adultery and murder, his four sons perished. David pleased God in many things, except in this case of adultery and murder. (I Kings 15:5)
Uriah’s origin: It is believed that he was one of the descendants of the Hittite, who settled in the Jerusalem region before David took it over. He could have been the last successor to the Jebusite ruler in Jerusalem. The Bible records that he was one of the mighty men in his army. (II Samuel 23:39) Perhaps, Uriah became the follower of Jehovah because of David’s influence. As one of the trusted warriors, Uriah was with Joab when this sin of David happened.
Integrity: Uriah was a man of integrity, loyal to David, Israel, and Jehovah.
Laws and traditions: David blatantly violated the seventh commandment consciously. (Exodus 20:14) Uriah upheld the values and traditions of the army. During the war, as colleagues are fighting the battle, he refuses his conjugal rights, the luxury and comfort of home.
Drunk, but sober: David made his drunk the second time and wanted him to go home. Though drunk, he was sober enough to follow the protocol of remaining in the camp rather than go home. In contrast, David was drunk with covetousness, adultery, and murder.
Victim: Though he died miserably, God honored him as his name is found in the genealogy of the Messiah. (Matthew 1:6)
Do I believe that God vindicates the victims of unrighteousness?