06. ABSALOM

ABSALOM

"Absalom hated Amnon, because he had humbled his sister Tamar...Absalom stole the hearts of the men of Israel...Absalom sent emissaries into all the tribes of Israel, saying, When ye hear the sound of the trumpet, ye shall say, Absalom reigns in Hebron...The people increased continually with Absalom."

2Sa 13:22; 2Sa 15:6; 2Sa 15:10; 2Sa 15:12

Absalom was King David’s third son. He was handsome and vain, especially about his long, thick hair-which he cut and weighed annually-and which eventually proved his downfall. When Amnon, his half-brother, was not punished for what he did to Absalom’s sister, Absalom hated him and plotted to kill him. He succeeded in this and escaped the punishment he had merited for murder.

Having gotten away with murder, his sights were now set on a greater goal-to become king over Israel. Methodically he set out to accomplish this. Impress the people! Chariots and horses and fifty men to run before him! At the same time, get up early, meet and democratically greet those coming to King David, and insinuate that they would not get the justice they deserved from him. Steal the hearts of the Israelites with smooth words, and get Ahithophel, that esteemed counselor, on his side. Cloak all this with pious words about offering sacrifices and serving Jehovah. A masterful politician! "And the conspiracy gathered strength and the people increased continually with Absalom."

All went according to plan. David and those loyal to him hurriedly fled from Jerusalem. Absalom and his forces moved in. His successes foreshadow the rapid rise of the Antichrist in the soon-coming Tribulation. David’s life was in imminent danger. But Absalom had not reckoned with God. "Whoso curseth his father or his mother, his lamp shall be put out in the blackest darkness" (Pro 20:20). Absalom’s army was routed and his proud ambitions came to a miserable end in a great terebinth tree.