Charles Ellicott Commentary 2 Samuel 13:12

"And she answered him, Nay, my brother, do not force me; for no such thing ought to be done in Israel: do not thou this folly." — 2 Samuel 13:12 (ASV)

Do not thou this folly. —Tamar, now left alone in the power of her half-brother, endeavours to escape by reasoning.

She first speaks of the sinfulness in Israel of that which was allowed among surrounding heathen, quoting the very words of Genesis 34:7, as if by the traditions of their nation to recall the king’s son to a sense of right.

She then sets forth the personal consequences to themselves. If he had any love for her, he could not wish that shame and contempt should meet her everywhere. And for himself, such an act would make him as one of the fools in Israel, as one who had cast off the fear of God and the restraints of decency.