Topical Encyclopedia
Absalom, the third son of King David, is a central figure in one of the most tumultuous periods of David's reign over Israel. His account is a complex narrative of ambition, familial strife, and divine providence, as recorded in the books of 2 Samuel.
Background and AmbitionAbsalom was born to David and Maacah, the daughter of Talmai, king of Geshur (
2 Samuel 3:3). Known for his striking appearance, "In all Israel there was no one as handsome as Absalom, so highly praised; from the sole of his foot to the crown of his head there was no blemish in him" (
2 Samuel 14:25). Despite his outward charm, Absalom harbored deep-seated ambitions and grievances, particularly following the rape of his sister Tamar by their half-brother Amnon. Absalom avenged Tamar by orchestrating Amnon's murder, leading to his temporary exile in Geshur (
2 Samuel 13:23-38).
Return and ConspiracyAfter three years, Absalom was permitted to return to Jerusalem through the intercession of Joab, David's military commander, though he did not see his father for another two years (
2 Samuel 14:23-28). Upon reconciliation with David, Absalom began to cultivate favor among the Israelites. He "would get up early and stand beside the road leading to the city gate" and intercept those seeking justice from the king, subtly undermining David's authority by suggesting that he would provide better justice (
2 Samuel 15:2-6).
Absalom's charm and political maneuvering won him the hearts of many in Israel, and he eventually declared himself king in Hebron, a significant city in Judah and David's former capital (
2 Samuel 15:10). He sent messengers throughout the tribes of Israel to proclaim his kingship, effectively initiating a coup against his father.
David's Flight and Absalom's ReignUpon learning of Absalom's conspiracy, David chose to flee Jerusalem to avoid bloodshed, taking his household and loyal followers with him (
2 Samuel 15:13-17). This retreat was marked by deep personal anguish, as David ascended the Mount of Olives weeping, barefoot, and with his head covered (
2 Samuel 15:30).
Absalom entered Jerusalem and took over the royal palace, advised by Ahithophel, a former counselor of David who had defected to Absalom's side. Ahithophel's counsel was highly esteemed, "as if one inquired of the word of God" (
2 Samuel 16:23). However, Hushai, a loyal friend of David, infiltrated Absalom's court to counter Ahithophel's advice, ultimately persuading Absalom to delay an immediate attack on David, which proved to be a critical mistake (
2 Samuel 17:1-14).
The Battle and Absalom's DeathThe conflict culminated in the forest of Ephraim, where David's forces, led by Joab, clashed with Absalom's army. Despite David's explicit command to "deal gently with the young man Absalom" (
2 Samuel 18:5), the battle resulted in a decisive victory for David's men. Absalom, caught by his hair in the branches of a great oak while riding his mule, was found and killed by Joab, who thrust three javelins into his heart (
2 Samuel 18:9-15).
AftermathThe death of Absalom brought profound grief to David, who lamented, "O my son Absalom—my son, my son Absalom! If only I had died instead of you—O Absalom, my son, my son!" (
2 Samuel 18:33). This poignant expression of sorrow underscores the personal cost of the rebellion and the enduring complexities of David's family dynamics.
Absalom's usurpation serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of unchecked ambition and familial discord, as well as the enduring mercy and sovereignty of God in the life of David, His chosen king.
Nave's Topical Index
2 Samuel 14:1Now Joab the son of Zeruiah perceived that the king's heart was toward Absalom.
Nave's Topical Index2 Samuel 15:1
And it came to pass after this, that Absalom prepared him chariots and horses, and fifty men to run before him.
Nave's Topical Index
Library
The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus
... the ark of the covenant"The Philistine dominion over Israel; Samuel, Saul ... of
Saul"The struggle between Ish-bosheth and David"David sole king, and the ...
/.../chapter iiithe hebrews and the.htm
An Exposition on the First Ten Chapters of Genesis, and Part of ...
... this world; so the whale is called, king over all ... unto me, Go, prophesy unto my people
Israel" (Amos 7 ... a great fault in the woman, an usurpation, to undertake ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/an exposition on the first.htm
Resources
Who was David in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgDid David rape Bathsheba? | GotQuestions.orgWhy was God so angry at David for taking the census? | GotQuestions.orgDavid: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance •
Bible Dictionary •
Bible Encyclopedia •
Topical Bible •
Bible Thesuarus