Also, when anyone approached to bow down to him, Absalom would reach out his hand, take hold of him, and kiss him. Also, when anyone approached to bow down to him,This phrase highlights the cultural practice of showing respect and submission to a person of higher status by bowing. In ancient Israel, bowing was a common gesture of honor and deference, often used in the presence of royalty or nobility. Absalom, the son of King David, was positioning himself as a figure of authority and influence, subtly undermining his father's rule. This act of bowing also reflects the hierarchical nature of society at the time, where social status and power dynamics were visibly demonstrated through physical gestures. 2Sa 14:4 When the woman from Tekoa went to the king,… Absalom would reach out his hand, Absalom's action of reaching out his hand signifies a deliberate and calculated move to connect with the people on a personal level. By extending his hand, Absalom breaks the traditional barrier between royalty and commoners, presenting himself as approachable and relatable. This gesture can be seen as a political strategy to win the hearts of the Israelites, contrasting with the more distant and formal demeanor expected of a king. It reflects Absalom's ambition and his desire to gain favor among the people, setting the stage for his eventual rebellion against David. Mat 8:3 Jesus reached out His hand and touched the man.… take hold of him, Taking hold of someone in this context implies a sense of familiarity and intimacy. Absalom's action is not just a casual handshake but a deliberate attempt to establish a personal connection. This physical contact would have been unexpected from someone of royal lineage, further endearing him to the people. It demonstrates Absalom's cunning nature, as he uses charm and charisma to manipulate public perception and gather support for his cause. This act of taking hold can also be seen as a metaphor for Absalom's attempt to seize control and influence over the kingdom. Mat 14:31 Immediately Jesus reached out His hand and took hold… and kiss him. The kiss in ancient Near Eastern culture was a sign of respect, loyalty, and affection. By kissing those who approached him, Absalom was not only showing acceptance but also creating a bond of loyalty. This act of kissing can be seen as a political maneuver to win the allegiance of the people, as it was a gesture that conveyed trust and solidarity. In a broader biblical context, the kiss can be contrasted with the betrayal of Judas in the New Testament, where a kiss is used as a sign of treachery. Absalom's kiss, while seemingly genuine, is ultimately self-serving, as it is part of his larger scheme to usurp his father's throne. 2Sa 20:9 “Are you well, my brother?” Joab asked Amasa.… Persons / Places / Events 1. AbsalomThe third son of King David, known for his handsome appearance and charismatic personality. He is central to this passage as he seeks to win the hearts of the Israelites and undermine his father's rule. 2. David The reigning king of Israel and father of Absalom. Although not directly mentioned in this verse, he is the backdrop against which Absalom's actions are set. 3. Jerusalem The capital city of Israel, where Absalom is conducting his campaign to gain favor with the people. 4. The Israelites The people of Israel who are being swayed by Absalom's charm and political maneuvering. 5. The Gate The place where Absalom positioned himself to intercept those coming to seek justice from the king, symbolizing a place of judgment and decision-making. Teaching Points The Deceptive Nature of SinAbsalom's actions remind us that sin often disguises itself as something good or harmless. We must be vigilant and discerning to recognize deceit. The Power of Influence Absalom's ability to sway the people highlights the power of influence. As Christians, we should use our influence to lead others toward truth and righteousness. Guarding Our Hearts Just as Absalom's heart was set on rebellion, we must guard our hearts against pride and ambition that can lead us away from God's will. The Importance of Integrity Absalom's lack of integrity contrasts with the biblical call to live honestly and uprightly. Our actions should align with our professed beliefs. Consequences of Rebellion Absalom's account serves as a warning of the destructive consequences of rebelling against God's established order. Bible Study Questions 1. How does Absalom's behavior in 2 Samuel 15:5 reflect the nature of sin and deception? Can you identify similar patterns in today's world?2. In what ways can we guard our hearts against the kind of pride and ambition that led Absalom astray? 3. How does Absalom's use of a kiss as a tool of manipulation compare to other biblical instances of betrayal? What lessons can we learn from these comparisons? 4. What role does influence play in our lives, and how can we ensure that our influence aligns with biblical principles? 5. Reflect on a time when you faced a decision at a "gate" in your life. How did you seek God's guidance, and what was the outcome? How can this passage inform future decisions? Connections to Other Scriptures Genesis 27The account of Jacob and Esau, where deception is used to gain a blessing, parallels Absalom's deceitful tactics to gain power. Proverbs 6:16-19 Lists things the Lord hates, including a heart that devises wicked schemes, which can be related to Absalom's manipulative actions. Matthew 26:48-49 Judas betrays Jesus with a kiss, similar to Absalom's use of a kiss to feign loyalty and affection while harboring ulterior motives.
People Abiathar, Absalom, Ahimaaz, Ahithophel, Aram, Arkite, Cherethites, David, Gittites, Hushai, Israelites, Ittai, Jonathan, Kerethites, Levites, Pelethites, ZadokPlaces Aram, Gath, Geshur, Giloh, Hebron, Jerusalem, Kidron, Mount of OlivesTopics Absalom, Anyone, Approached, Bow, Drawing, Forth, Hold, Honour, Kiss, Kissed, Laid, Nearing, Nigh, Obeisance, Pass, Prostrate, Reach, WheneverDictionary of Bible Themes 2 Samuel 15:5 5554 status Library A Loyal Vow'And the king's servants said unto the king, Behold, thy servants are ready to do whatsoever my lord the king shall appoint.'--2 SAMUEL xv. 15. We stand here at the darkest hour of King David's life. Bowed down by the consciousness of his past sin, and recognising in the rebellion of his favourite son the divine chastisement, his early courage and buoyant daring seem to have ebbed from him wholly. He is forsaken by the mass of his subjects, he is preparing to abandon Jerusalem, and to flee as an … Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture Ittai of Gath Pardoned Sin Punished Loyal to the Core Following Christ The Will of God A Light to Lighten the Gentiles The Daily Walk with Others (iii. ). And V the Kingdom Undivided and the Kingdom Divided That Whereas the City of Jerusalem had Been Five Times Taken Formerly, this was the Second Time of Its Desolation. A Brief Account of Its History. King of Kings and Lord of Lords Samuel Links 2 Samuel 15:5 NIV2 Samuel 15:5 NLT 2 Samuel 15:5 ESV 2 Samuel 15:5 NASB 2 Samuel 15:5 KJV 2 Samuel 15:5 Commentaries Bible Hub |
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