Background:
Absalom, the third son of King David, is a prominent figure in the narrative of the Hebrew Bible, particularly in the books of 2 Samuel. His account is marked by familial conflict, ambition, and tragedy. Absalom's exile is a significant event that follows the murder of his half-brother Amnon, which he orchestrated in revenge for the rape of his sister Tamar.

The Crime and Initial Flight:
The catalyst for Absalom's exile is the heinous act committed by Amnon, David's firstborn, who violated his half-sister Tamar. Absalom, Tamar's full brother, harbored a deep-seated hatred for Amnon following this incident. After two years, Absalom avenged his sister by orchestrating Amnon's murder during a feast at Baal Hazor. The account is detailed in 2 Samuel 13:28-29 : "Now Absalom had commanded his young men, 'Watch Amnon until his heart is merry with wine. Then strike him down, and do not be afraid. Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous!' So Absalom’s young men did to Amnon as Absalom had commanded. Then all the rest of the king’s sons got up, and each mounted his mule and fled."

Exile in Geshur:
Following the murder, Absalom fled to Geshur, the kingdom of his maternal grandfather, King Talmai. This period of exile lasted three years. The narrative in 2 Samuel 13:37-38 states: "Now Absalom fled and went to Talmai son of Ammihud, the king of Geshur. But David mourned for his son every day. After Absalom had fled and gone to Geshur, he stayed there three years."

David's Longing and Joab's Intervention:
During Absalom's exile, King David experienced a complex mix of grief for Amnon and longing for Absalom. Despite his sorrow, David did not take immediate action to bring Absalom back. Joab, the commander of David's army, perceived the king's heart and orchestrated a plan to facilitate Absalom's return. Joab employed a wise woman from Tekoa to present a parable to David, which ultimately led to the king's decision to allow Absalom's return. This is recorded in 2 Samuel 14:1-3 : "Now Joab son of Zeruiah perceived that the king’s heart longed for Absalom. So Joab sent to Tekoa to bring a wise woman from there. He told her, 'Please pretend to be a mourner; put on mourning clothes and do not anoint yourself with oil. Act like a woman who has been mourning for the dead a long time.'"

Return to Jerusalem:
David consented to Absalom's return to Jerusalem, but initially, he was not allowed to see the king's face. Absalom lived in Jerusalem for two years without seeing David. Eventually, through persistent efforts, including setting Joab's field on fire to gain his attention, Absalom secured a meeting with his father. The reconciliation is described in 2 Samuel 14:33 : "So Joab went to the king and told him. Then David summoned Absalom, who came to him and bowed facedown before the king. And the king kissed Absalom."

Significance:
Absalom's exile and subsequent return to Jerusalem set the stage for further conflict and his eventual rebellion against David. This period highlights themes of justice, familial loyalty, and the complexities of forgiveness and reconciliation within the royal family. The narrative of Absalom's exile is a pivotal moment in the broader account of David's reign and the challenges he faced within his own household.