Background:
Absalom, the third son of King David, is a prominent figure in the narrative of the Hebrew Bible. His mother was Maacah, the daughter of Talmai, king of Geshur (2 Samuel 3:3). Absalom is known for his striking appearance and charismatic personality, which played a significant role in his later rebellion against his father, King David.

The Incident Leading to Flight:
The events leading to Absalom's flight to Geshur are rooted in a tragic family conflict. Absalom's sister, Tamar, was violated by their half-brother Amnon, David's eldest son. Despite David's anger, he did not punish Amnon, which deeply grieved Absalom. After two years, Absalom avenged his sister by orchestrating Amnon's murder during a feast at Baal Hazor (2 Samuel 13:23-29).

Flight to Geshur:
Following the murder of Amnon, Absalom fled to Geshur to seek refuge with his maternal grandfather, King Talmai. The Bible records, "Then Absalom fled and went to Talmai son of Ammihud, the king of Geshur. And David mourned for his son every day" (2 Samuel 13:37). Absalom remained in Geshur for three years, during which time King David longed to go to Absalom, having been comforted concerning Amnon's death (2 Samuel 13:38-39).

Significance of Geshur:
Geshur was a small Aramean kingdom located northeast of the Sea of Galilee. It was politically significant due to its familial ties with the house of David through Maacah. Absalom's refuge in Geshur highlights the complex inter-tribal and familial relationships in the region during this period.

Return to Jerusalem:
Absalom's return to Jerusalem was facilitated by Joab, David's military commander, who perceived the king's longing for his estranged son. Joab orchestrated a plan involving a wise woman from Tekoa to persuade David to allow Absalom's return. Consequently, David permitted Absalom to return to Jerusalem, though he was initially not allowed to see the king's face (2 Samuel 14:1-24).

Biblical References:
· 2 Samuel 3:3: Introduction of Absalom and his lineage.
· 2 Samuel 13:1-39: The narrative of Tamar, Amnon, and Absalom's revenge.
· 2 Samuel 14:1-24: Joab's intervention and Absalom's return to Jerusalem.

Absalom's flight to Geshur marks a pivotal moment in his life, setting the stage for his eventual rebellion against King David. His time in Geshur reflects the intricate dynamics of kinship and political alliances in ancient Israel.2 Samuel 13:37,38
But Absalom fled, and went to Talmai, the son of Ammihud, king of Geshur. And David mourned for his son every day.
Nave's Topical Index

Why did Amnon rape Tamar? Why didn't David punish Amnon? | GotQuestions.org

Who was Amnon in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org

Who was Tamar in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org

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