Obsequiousness
Summary
Obsequiousness refers to excessive and servile compliance, often employed strategically to gain favor, exemplified in several biblical narratives.
☩Biblical Examples
Scripture records instances of obsequious behavior. Abigail's approach to David, while wise and humble, involved self-deprecating language and lavish provision to avert his wrath against her foolish husband Nabal. Mephibosheth's response to David's kindness displayed profound humility when he called himself a "dead dog." The woman of Tekoa employed artful flattery in her carefully crafted appeal designed by Joab to manipulate David into recalling Absalom. These examples show obsequiousness ranging from genuine humility to calculated manipulation.
Key verses:1 Samuel 25:23-311 Samuel 25:412 Samuel 9:82 Samuel 14:4-20