The answer is: He saw her take a bath, and saw she was beautiful

2 Sam 11:2

David's encounter with Bathsheba is one of the most dramatic tales in the Bible. Picture this: it's at twilight, when David, instead of being off to war like a good king should, decides to take a leisurely stroll on the roof of his palace. And bam! He spots Bathsheba from above, bathing and glowing with beauty. How often do these spur-of-the-moment experiences shift the direction of one’s life?

This moment of lust triggered a chain of events that unfolded tragically, demonstrating the critical consequences of impulsive decisions. Bathsheba was no ordinary woman; she was the granddaughter of a trusted advisor to David, and she was married to one of his military leaders, Uriah. This widens the moral complexity and further intertwines communities.

Interestingly, Bathsheba’s name itself means “daughter of the oath,” hinting at the significance she would later carry in the Davidic lineage, which would eventually lead to a major theological figure revered in various traditions.

In essence, this tale isn’t merely about a king’s flawed desire; it's a profound exploration of humanity's vulnerabilities. Deviating from one’s responsibilities often leads not just to personal unrest but affects those around us as well, creating ripples through history. This story rightly prompts deeper reflection on our paths and choices regarding love, integrity, and responsibility.