Topical Encyclopedia Background and Family:Absalom was the third son of King David, born to Maacah, the daughter of Talmai, king of Geshur (2 Samuel 3:3). Known for his striking appearance, Absalom was praised for his handsome looks and his long, flowing hair (2 Samuel 14:25-26). He had a sister named Tamar and a brother named Amnon, whose actions would set the stage for Absalom's later rebellion. The Incident with Amnon: The seeds of Absalom's conspiracy were sown in the tragic events involving his sister Tamar. Amnon, Absalom's half-brother, developed an illicit desire for Tamar and ultimately violated her (2 Samuel 13:1-14). Absalom harbored a deep hatred for Amnon following this incident and, after two years, orchestrated Amnon's murder during a feast (2 Samuel 13:23-29). Fleeing to Geshur, Absalom remained in exile for three years before being allowed to return to Jerusalem (2 Samuel 13:37-38; 14:23). Return to Jerusalem and Growing Discontent: Upon his return, Absalom lived in Jerusalem for two years without seeing his father, King David (2 Samuel 14:28). Eventually, through the intercession of Joab, David's military commander, Absalom was reconciled with David (2 Samuel 14:33). Despite this reconciliation, Absalom began to cultivate favor among the Israelites, positioning himself as a more accessible and just alternative to his father. The Conspiracy: Absalom's conspiracy against David was a calculated and strategic effort to usurp the throne. He acquired a chariot and horses and recruited fifty men to run ahead of him, creating an image of power and authority (2 Samuel 15:1). Absalom would rise early and stand by the city gate, intercepting those who came to seek justice from the king. He would express sympathy for their grievances and suggest that he would provide better justice if he were judge in the land (2 Samuel 15:2-4). Through these actions, Absalom "stole the hearts of the men of Israel" (2 Samuel 15:6). The Revolt: After four years, Absalom requested permission from David to go to Hebron under the pretense of fulfilling a vow to the LORD (2 Samuel 15:7-9). Once in Hebron, Absalom sent secret messengers throughout the tribes of Israel, proclaiming, "When you hear the sound of the horn, you are to say, 'Absalom is king in Hebron!'" (2 Samuel 15:10). He also invited two hundred men from Jerusalem, who were unaware of his intentions, to join him, further legitimizing his claim (2 Samuel 15:11). Ahithophel's Counsel: Absalom's conspiracy gained significant momentum with the defection of Ahithophel, David's trusted counselor, whose advice was highly esteemed (2 Samuel 15:12). Ahithophel's support lent credibility to Absalom's cause and posed a serious threat to David's reign. David's Flight: Upon learning of Absalom's conspiracy, David decided to flee Jerusalem to avoid bloodshed and to regroup (2 Samuel 15:13-14). Accompanied by his loyal followers, David crossed the Kidron Valley and ascended the Mount of Olives, weeping as he went (2 Samuel 15:23, 30). The Outcome: The conspiracy ultimately led to a civil war between the forces loyal to David and those supporting Absalom. Despite initial successes, Absalom's rebellion ended in defeat. During the battle in the forest of Ephraim, Absalom was caught by his hair in the branches of a great oak tree and was killed by Joab, despite David's explicit instructions to deal gently with him (2 Samuel 18:6-15). Aftermath: Absalom's death marked the end of the conspiracy, and David was restored to his throne. The king mourned deeply for his son, expressing profound grief over the loss (2 Samuel 18:33). The rebellion and its consequences left a lasting impact on David's reign and the unity of Israel. Nave's Topical Index 2 Samuel 15:17And the king went forth, and all the people after him, and tarried in a place that was far off. Nave's Topical Index Library Chastisements. David and Nathan Pardoned Sin Punished The Reign of David. David Appointing Solomon Seasonable Counsel: Or, Advice to Sufferers. The Antiquities of the Jews The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus Resources Why did Amnon rape Tamar? Why didn't David punish Amnon? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Amnon in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Who was Tamar in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Absalom is Permitted by David to Return to Jerusalem Absalom: Son of David by Maacah Related Terms |
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