Topical Encyclopedia Geshur was a small Aramean kingdom located in the region of Bashan, northeast of the Sea of Galilee. It is mentioned in the Bible as the homeland of Maacah, the mother of Absalom, one of King David's sons. The kingdom of Geshur played a significant role in the narrative of Absalom, particularly following the murder of his half-brother Amnon.Biblical Context The account of Absalom's refuge in Geshur is found in the Second Book of Samuel. Absalom, the third son of King David, is described as a handsome and charismatic figure. His sister, Tamar, was wronged by their half-brother Amnon, who violated her. In response to this grievous act, Absalom harbored a deep-seated hatred for Amnon. After two years, Absalom orchestrated a plan to avenge his sister by killing Amnon during a feast. This act of fratricide set off a chain of events that led to Absalom's flight to Geshur. Flight to Geshur Following the murder of Amnon, Absalom feared retribution from his father, King David. Seeking safety, he fled to Geshur, where his maternal grandfather, King Talmai, ruled. The Bible records this event in 2 Samuel 13:37-38: "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." Geshur provided a sanctuary for Absalom during this tumultuous period. The familial ties through his mother, Maacah, likely facilitated his acceptance and protection in the kingdom. Absalom's stay in Geshur lasted three years, during which time King David longed for reconciliation with his estranged son, despite the gravity of Absalom's actions. Return to Jerusalem The narrative continues with Joab, the commander of David's army, recognizing the king's yearning for Absalom. Joab orchestrated a plan to bring Absalom back to Jerusalem, as detailed in 2 Samuel 14. Through the intervention of a wise woman from Tekoa, Joab persuaded David to allow Absalom's return. However, upon his return, Absalom was not immediately restored to his former status and was required to live in his own house without seeing the king's face for two more years. Significance Absalom's refuge in Geshur highlights the complex dynamics within King David's family and the political alliances of the time. The kingdom of Geshur, though small, played a pivotal role in providing a haven for Absalom, which ultimately influenced the course of events in David's reign. The account underscores themes of justice, familial loyalty, and the consequences of sin, which are prevalent throughout the biblical narrative. The account of Absalom's refuge in Geshur serves as a reminder of the intricate interplay between personal relationships and political realities in the biblical world. It also reflects the enduring impact of family ties and the quest for justice and reconciliation within the framework of divine providence. Nave's Topical Index 2 Samuel 1:3And David said to him, From where come you? And he said to him, Out of the camp of Israel am I escaped. Nave's Topical Index Resources Who was Absalom in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWho are the sons of David mentioned in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Who was Amnon in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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