Absalom
Rebellious Son of David
Name Information
- Meaning: "Father of peace"
- Language of Origin: Hebrew
- Gender Usage: Masculine
Absalom, a son of David, avenged his sister Tamar, won the hearts of many in Israel, and led a revolt against his father before dying in battle.
⏰ United Kingdom (David’s reign)
Roles
- Prince
- Usurper
Relationships
- Father: David
- Mother: Maacah
- Siblings: Tamar (full sister); many half-siblings
- Children: Three sons; one daughter Tamar (2 Samuel 14:27)
Story
After Amnon violated Tamar, Absalom later killed Amnon and fled (2 Samuel 13).
Returned to Jerusalem, he cultivated popularity and declared himself king in Hebron (2 Samuel 15:1–12).
David fled; Absalom entered Jerusalem and pursued him (2 Samuel 15–17).
Caught by his hair in a tree during battle, Absalom was killed by Joab (2 Samuel 18:9–15).
Spiritual Significance
- Central figure in the aftermath of Tamar’s assault and in the civil war against David (2 Samuel 13–18).
- His revolt tested loyalties across Israel and exposed the fragility of the kingdom.
What We Can Learn
- Unaddressed sin and bitterness can tear families and nations apart.
- Charisma without righteousness leads to ruin.
- God’s purposes prevail despite human rebellion.
Memory Verses
O my son Absalom, my son, my son Absalom!
— 2 Samuel 18:33
Key Passages
- 2 Samuel 13–18
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