Topical Encyclopedia Absalom, the third son of King David, is a prominent biblical figure whose life is marked by a quest for revenge, ultimately leading to rebellion and tragedy. His account is primarily found in the books of 2 Samuel, where his actions and motivations provide a complex narrative of familial strife, justice, and vengeance.Background and Family Dynamics Absalom was born to David and Maacah, the daughter of Talmai, king of Geshur (2 Samuel 3:3). He was noted for his striking appearance, with the Bible describing him as having no physical blemish from head to toe (2 Samuel 14:25). Absalom's family life was fraught with tension, particularly following the incident involving his sister, Tamar. The Incident with Amnon The catalyst for Absalom's quest for revenge was the violation of his sister Tamar by their half-brother Amnon. Amnon, David's firstborn, became infatuated with Tamar and, through deceit, lured her into his quarters and raped her (2 Samuel 13:1-14). King David was furious when he heard of the incident, but he did not take action against Amnon, possibly due to his status as the firstborn (2 Samuel 13:21). Absalom's Revenge Absalom harbored a deep-seated hatred for Amnon following the assault on Tamar. He waited two years, biding his time and concealing his intentions. During a sheep-shearing event, Absalom invited all the king's sons, including Amnon, and ordered his servants to kill Amnon once he was in high spirits from wine (2 Samuel 13:23-28). The plan was executed, and Amnon was slain, leading to Absalom's flight to Geshur, where he stayed for three years (2 Samuel 13:37-38). Return and Rebellion After three years in exile, Absalom was brought back to Jerusalem through the intercession of Joab, David's military commander (2 Samuel 14:1-23). However, he did not see his father for another two years, until he forced a meeting by setting Joab's field on fire (2 Samuel 14:28-33). Absalom's return to favor was short-lived, as he began to undermine David's authority. He positioned himself at the city gate, where he would intercept those seeking justice from the king, promising them better judgment if he were in power (2 Samuel 15:1-6). Over time, Absalom "stole the hearts of the men of Israel" (2 Samuel 15:6). The Revolt Absalom's ambition culminated in a full-scale rebellion against David. He declared himself king in Hebron, and many Israelites rallied to his cause (2 Samuel 15:10-12). David, upon hearing of the conspiracy, fled Jerusalem with his loyal followers (2 Samuel 15:13-17). The ensuing conflict between Absalom's forces and David's loyalists reached its climax in the forest of Ephraim. Despite David's explicit instructions to "deal gently" with Absalom (2 Samuel 18:5), Joab, upon finding Absalom caught in an oak tree by his hair, killed him (2 Samuel 18:9-15). Aftermath Absalom's death marked the end of the rebellion, but it left a profound impact on David, who mourned deeply for his son, expressing his grief with the lament, "O my son Absalom! O Absalom, my son, my son!" (2 Samuel 18:33). The narrative of Absalom serves as a poignant reminder of the destructive nature of revenge and the familial discord it can sow. Theological Implications Absalom's account is often examined for its moral and theological implications. It highlights the consequences of unchecked sin, the failure of parental discipline, and the destructive power of vengeance. The narrative also underscores the importance of justice and the perils of taking matters into one's own hands, deviating from divine justice. Torrey's Topical Textbook 2 Samuel 13:23-29And it came to pass after two full years, that Absalom had sheep shearers in Baalhazor, which is beside Ephraim: and Absalom invited all the king's sons. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Chastisements. The Reign of David. How David, when He had Recovered his Kingdom, was Reconciled to ... David's Deserts The Second Book Aron, Brother of Moses, 486, 487. Colossians iii. 7-May Home-Discipline. Book 5 Footnotes The Wrath of God Resources What is the just war theory? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about grudges? | GotQuestions.org How and when should we overlook an offense (Proverbs 19:11)? | GotQuestions.org Revenge: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Revenge: Be Thankful for Being Kept from Taking Revenge: Christ an Example of Forbearing Revenge: Forbidden by Our Lord Revenge: Inconsistent With Christian Spirit Revenge: Inconsistent With the Will of Christ Revenge: Instead of Taking, we should Bless Revenge: Instead of Taking, we should Exercise Forbearance Revenge: Instead of Taking, we should Exhibit Love Revenge: Instead of Taking, we should Give Place to Wrath Revenge: Instead of Taking, we should Overcome Others by Kindness Revenge: Instead of Taking, we should Trust in God Revenge: Jesus an Example of Forbearing Revenge: Keep Others from Taking Revenge: Proceeds from a Spiteful Heart Revenge: The Wicked are Earnest After Related Terms |
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