II Samuel 15: A Kingdom Divided, A Father's Heart Broken
And it came to pass after this, that Absalom prepared him chariots and horses, and fifty men to run before him.
And Absalom rose up early, and stood beside the way of the gate: and it was so, that when any man that had a controversy came to the king for judgment, then Absalom called unto him, and said, Of what city art thou? And he said, Thy servant is of one of the tribes of Israel.
And Absalom said unto him, See, thy matters are good and right; but there is no man deputed of the king to hear thee.
Absalom said moreover, Oh that I were made judge in the land, that every man which hath any suit or cause might come unto me, and I would do him justice!
And it was so, that when any man came nigh to him to do him obeisance, he put forth his hand, and took him, and kissed him.
And on this manner did Absalom to all Israel that came to the king for judgment: so Absalom stole the hearts of the men of Israel.
And it came to pass after forty years, that Absalom said unto the king, I pray thee, let me go and pay my vow, which I have vowed unto the Lord, in Hebron.
For thy servant vowed a vow while I abode at Geshur in Syria, saying, If the Lord shall bring me again indeed to Jerusalem, then I will serve the Lord.
And the king said unto him, Go in peace. So he arose, and went to Hebron.
But Absalom sent spies throughout all the tribes of Israel, saying, As soon as ye hear the sound of the trumpet, then ye shall say, Absalom reigneth in Hebron.
And with Absalom went two hundred men out of Jerusalem, that were called; and they went in their simplicity, and they knew not any thing.
And Absalom sent for Ahithophel the Gilonite, David’s counsellor, from his city, even from Giloh, while he offered sacrifices. And the conspiracy was strong; for the people increased continually with Absalom.
And there came a messenger to David, saying, The hearts of the men of Israel are after Absalom.
And David said unto all his servants that were with him at Jerusalem, Arise, and let us flee; for we shall not else escape from Absalom: make speed to depart, lest he overtake us suddenly, and bring evil upon us, and smite the city with the edge of the sword.
And the king’s servants said unto the king, Behold, thy servants are ready to do whatsoever my lord the king shall appoint.
And the king went forth, and all his household after him. And the king left ten women, which were concubines, to keep the house.
And the king went forth, and all the people after him, and tarried in a place that was far off.
And all his servants passed on beside him; and all the Cherethites, and all the Pelethites, and all the Gittites, six hundred men which came after him from Gath, passed on before the king.
Then said the king to Ittai the Gittite, Wherefore goest thou also with us? return to thy place, and abide with the king: for thou art a stranger, and also an exile.
Whereas thou camest but yesterday, should I this day make thee go up and down with us? seeing I go whither I may, return thou, and take back thy brethren: mercy and truth be with thee.
And Ittai answered the king, and said, As the Lord liveth, and as my lord the king liveth, surely in what place my lord the king shall be, whether in death or life, even there also will thy servant be.
And David said to Ittai, Go and pass over. And Ittai the Gittite passed over, and all his men, and all the little ones that were with him.
And all the country wept with a loud voice, and all the people passed over: the king also himself passed over the brook Kidron, and all the people passed over, toward the way of the wilderness.
And lo Zadok also, and all the Levites were with him, bearing the ark of the covenant of God: and they set down the ark of God; and Abiathar went up, until all the people had done passing out of the city.
And the king said unto Zadok, Carry back the ark of God into the city: if I shall find favour in the eyes of the Lord, he will bring me again, and shew me both it, and his habitation:
But if he thus say, I have no delight in thee; behold, here am I, let him do to me as seemeth good unto him.
The king said also unto Zadok the priest, Art not thou a seer? return into the city in peace, and your two sons with you, Ahimaaz thy son, and Jonathan the son of Abiathar.
See, I will tarry in the plain of the wilderness, until there come word from you to certify me.
Zadok therefore and Abiathar carried the ark of God again to Jerusalem: and they tarried there.
And David went up by the ascent of mount Olivet, and wept as he went up, and had his head covered, and he went barefoot: and all the people that was with him covered every man his head, and they went up, weeping as they went up.
And one told David, saying, Ahithophel is among the conspirators with Absalom. And David said, O Lord, I pray thee, turn the counsel of Ahithophel into foolishness.
And it came to pass, that when David was come to the top of the mount, where he worshipped God, behold, Hushai the Archite came to meet him with his coat rent, and earth upon his head:
Unto whom David said, If thou passest on with me, then thou shalt be a burden unto me:
But if thou return to the city, and say unto Absalom, I will be thy servant, O king; as I have been thy father’s servant hitherto, so will I now also be thy servant: then mayest thou for me defeat the counsel of Ahithophel.
And hast thou not there with thee Zadok and Abiathar the priests? therefore it shall be, that what thing soever thou shalt hear out of the king’s house, thou shalt tell it to Zadok and Abiathar the priests.
Behold, they have there with them their two sons, Ahimaaz Zadok’s son, and Jonathan Abiathar’s son; and by them ye shall send unto me every thing that ye can hear.
So Hushai David’s friend came into the city, and Absalom came into Jerusalem.
II Samuel 15 unveils a pivotal moment in David's reign, a chapter filled with political intrigue, personal betrayal, and profound sorrow. It marks the beginning of Absalom's open rebellion, a crisis that would test David's leadership and faith like never before. This chapter serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of unchecked ambition and the pain of fractured relationships, offering valuable lessons on leadership, loyalty, and the importance of trusting in God's sovereignty even in the midst of turmoil.
Absalom's Calculated Ascent (II Samuel 15:1-6)
Absalom, harboring resentment and ambition, meticulously plotted to usurp his father's throne. He understood the power of perception and skillfully exploited the people's grievances. Instead of building an army, Absalom leveraged his charm and physical attractiveness – qualities that can be potent tools in the hands of a skilled politician. He positioned himself at the city gate (II Samuel 15:2), intercepting those seeking justice from the king. He would express sympathy, lamenting the perceived lack of attention to their cases and subtly suggesting that his own leadership would bring about a better outcome (II Samuel 15:3). His calculated empathy won over the hearts of the people of Israel (II Samuel 15:6), all while David remained unaware of his son's insidious scheme. This passage highlights the importance of leaders being attentive to the needs of their people and the dangers of neglecting justice.
The Rebellion Ignites (II Samuel 15:7-12)
After four years of carefully orchestrated manipulation, Absalom felt confident enough to launch his rebellion. Under the pretense of fulfilling a vow, he requested permission from David to go to Hebron (II Samuel 15:7-8), the very place where David had been anointed king of Judah (see II Samuel 2:1-4). David granted his blessing, unknowingly paving the way for Absalom's insurrection (II Samuel 15:9-10). Absalom had already dispatched agents throughout Israel to proclaim him as the new king in Hebron. The conspiracy rapidly gained momentum, fueled by the support of influential figures like Ahithophel, David's advisor (II Samuel 15:12). Tragically, two hundred men from Jerusalem accompanied Absalom to Hebron in innocence, unaware of his true intentions, and were quickly swayed to his side (II Samuel 15:11). This underscores how easily people can be misled, especially when trust is misplaced.
David's Flight and Faith (II Samuel 15:13-29)
News of Absalom's rebellion quickly reached David (II Samuel 15:13), who immediately recognized the gravity of the situation. To avoid bloodshed and spare Jerusalem from destruction, he ordered the evacuation of his entire household (II Samuel 15:14). In a poignant detail, David left behind ten concubines to care for the palace (II Samuel 15:16), a decision that would later have devastating consequences, fulfilling Nathan's prophecy regarding the consequences of David's sin with Bathsheba (see II Samuel 12:11-12).
As David and his loyal followers fled Jerusalem, his concern extended to even the most vulnerable. He noticed Ittai of Gath, a foreigner and exile, and urged him to return (II Samuel 15:19). However, Ittai pledged unwavering loyalty to David, regardless of the cost (II Samuel 15:20-21). The sight of the king and his entourage fleeing caused widespread weeping among the people (II Samuel 15:23), a powerful testament to their love and respect for David.
Amidst the chaos, Zadok the priest and the Levites arrived, carrying the Ark of the Covenant (II Samuel 15:24). However, David insisted that they return the Ark to Jerusalem, declaring that if he found favor in the Lord's eyes, he would be allowed to return and see both the Ark and its dwelling place (II Samuel 15:25). This act reveals David's deep faith and his willingness to submit to God's will, even in the face of immense adversity (II Samuel 15:26). He entrusted his fate to God's sovereign hand, recognizing that true authority ultimately rests with Him. David also strategically requested Zadok and Abiathar to remain in Jerusalem and serve as informers, providing him with crucial intelligence (II Samuel 15:27-29).
Prayer and Strategy on the Mount of Olives (II Samuel 15:30-37)
David continued his ascent of the Mount of Olives, weeping and mourning as he went (II Samuel 15:30). Upon learning that his trusted advisor Ahithophel had joined Absalom's rebellion, David fervently prayed that God would frustrate Ahithophel's counsel (II Samuel 15:31). God would answer this prayer in a powerful way.
At the summit, David encountered Hushai the Archite, another loyal advisor, grieving for his king (II Samuel 15:32). Recognizing Hushai's potential value, David devised a plan to send him back to Jerusalem under the guise of joining Absalom's conspiracy (II Samuel 15:33-36). Hushai's mission was to counteract Ahithophel's advice and gather intelligence to relay back to David through the priests. This strategic maneuver demonstrates David's wisdom and resourcefulness in the face of adversity, as well as the importance of seeking wise counsel. David now had eyes and ears within Absalom's camp, a direct answer to his prayer (II Samuel 15:31).
II Samuel 15 paints a vivid picture of a kingdom in turmoil and a king facing unimaginable betrayal. It showcases the devastating consequences of ambition and the importance of remaining faithful to God, even when circumstances seem hopeless. David's response to the rebellion, characterized by faith, humility, and strategic thinking, offers a powerful example of leadership in times of crisis. The chapter serves as a reminder that true strength lies not in earthly power, but in unwavering trust in God's sovereignty.
And it came to pass after this, that Absalom prepared him chariots and horses, and fifty men to run before him.
And Absalom rose up early, and stood beside the way of the gate: and it was so, that when any man that had a controversy came to the king for judgment, then Absalom called unto him, and said, Of what city art thou? And he said, Thy servant is of one of the tribes of Israel.
And Absalom said unto him, See, thy matters are good and right; but there is no man deputed of the king to hear thee.
Absalom said moreover, Oh that I were made judge in the land, that every man which hath any suit or cause might come unto me, and I would do him justice!
And it was so, that when any man came nigh to him to do him obeisance, he put forth his hand, and took him, and kissed him.
And on this manner did Absalom to all Israel that came to the king for judgment: so Absalom stole the hearts of the men of Israel.
And it came to pass after forty years, that Absalom said unto the king, I pray thee, let me go and pay my vow, which I have vowed unto the Lord, in Hebron.
For thy servant vowed a vow while I abode at Geshur in Syria, saying, If the Lord shall bring me again indeed to Jerusalem, then I will serve the Lord.
And the king said unto him, Go in peace. So he arose, and went to Hebron.
But Absalom sent spies throughout all the tribes of Israel, saying, As soon as ye hear the sound of the trumpet, then ye shall say, Absalom reigneth in Hebron.
And with Absalom went two hundred men out of Jerusalem, that were called; and they went in their simplicity, and they knew not any thing.
And Absalom sent for Ahithophel the Gilonite, David’s counsellor, from his city, even from Giloh, while he offered sacrifices. And the conspiracy was strong; for the people increased continually with Absalom.
And there came a messenger to David, saying, The hearts of the men of Israel are after Absalom.
And David said unto all his servants that were with him at Jerusalem, Arise, and let us flee; for we shall not else escape from Absalom: make speed to depart, lest he overtake us suddenly, and bring evil upon us, and smite the city with the edge of the sword.
And the king’s servants said unto the king, Behold, thy servants are ready to do whatsoever my lord the king shall appoint.
And the king went forth, and all his household after him. And the king left ten women, which were concubines, to keep the house.
And the king went forth, and all the people after him, and tarried in a place that was far off.
And all his servants passed on beside him; and all the Cherethites, and all the Pelethites, and all the Gittites, six hundred men which came after him from Gath, passed on before the king.
Then said the king to Ittai the Gittite, Wherefore goest thou also with us? return to thy place, and abide with the king: for thou art a stranger, and also an exile.
Whereas thou camest but yesterday, should I this day make thee go up and down with us? seeing I go whither I may, return thou, and take back thy brethren: mercy and truth be with thee.
And Ittai answered the king, and said, As the Lord liveth, and as my lord the king liveth, surely in what place my lord the king shall be, whether in death or life, even there also will thy servant be.
And David said to Ittai, Go and pass over. And Ittai the Gittite passed over, and all his men, and all the little ones that were with him.
And all the country wept with a loud voice, and all the people passed over: the king also himself passed over the brook Kidron, and all the people passed over, toward the way of the wilderness.
And lo Zadok also, and all the Levites were with him, bearing the ark of the covenant of God: and they set down the ark of God; and Abiathar went up, until all the people had done passing out of the city.
And the king said unto Zadok, Carry back the ark of God into the city: if I shall find favour in the eyes of the Lord, he will bring me again, and shew me both it, and his habitation:
But if he thus say, I have no delight in thee; behold, here am I, let him do to me as seemeth good unto him.
The king said also unto Zadok the priest, Art not thou a seer? return into the city in peace, and your two sons with you, Ahimaaz thy son, and Jonathan the son of Abiathar.
See, I will tarry in the plain of the wilderness, until there come word from you to certify me.
Zadok therefore and Abiathar carried the ark of God again to Jerusalem: and they tarried there.
And David went up by the ascent of mount Olivet, and wept as he went up, and had his head covered, and he went barefoot: and all the people that was with him covered every man his head, and they went up, weeping as they went up.
And one told David, saying, Ahithophel is among the conspirators with Absalom. And David said, O Lord, I pray thee, turn the counsel of Ahithophel into foolishness.
And it came to pass, that when David was come to the top of the mount, where he worshipped God, behold, Hushai the Archite came to meet him with his coat rent, and earth upon his head:
Unto whom David said, If thou passest on with me, then thou shalt be a burden unto me:
But if thou return to the city, and say unto Absalom, I will be thy servant, O king; as I have been thy father’s servant hitherto, so will I now also be thy servant: then mayest thou for me defeat the counsel of Ahithophel.
And hast thou not there with thee Zadok and Abiathar the priests? therefore it shall be, that what thing soever thou shalt hear out of the king’s house, thou shalt tell it to Zadok and Abiathar the priests.
Behold, they have there with them their two sons, Ahimaaz Zadok’s son, and Jonathan Abiathar’s son; and by them ye shall send unto me every thing that ye can hear.
So Hushai David’s friend came into the city, and Absalom came into Jerusalem.
II Samuel 15 unveils a pivotal moment in David's reign, a chapter filled with political intrigue, personal betrayal, and profound sorrow. It marks the beginning of Absalom's open rebellion, a crisis that would test David's leadership and faith like never before. This chapter serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of unchecked ambition and the pain of fractured relationships, offering valuable lessons on leadership, loyalty, and the importance of trusting in God's sovereignty even in the midst of turmoil.
Absalom's Calculated Ascent (II Samuel 15:1-6)
Absalom, harboring resentment and ambition, meticulously plotted to usurp his father's throne. He understood the power of perception and skillfully exploited the people's grievances. Instead of building an army, Absalom leveraged his charm and physical attractiveness – qualities that can be potent tools in the hands of a skilled politician. He positioned himself at the city gate (II Samuel 15:2), intercepting those seeking justice from the king. He would express sympathy, lamenting the perceived lack of attention to their cases and subtly suggesting that his own leadership would bring about a better outcome (II Samuel 15:3). His calculated empathy won over the hearts of the people of Israel (II Samuel 15:6), all while David remained unaware of his son's insidious scheme. This passage highlights the importance of leaders being attentive to the needs of their people and the dangers of neglecting justice.
The Rebellion Ignites (II Samuel 15:7-12)
After four years of carefully orchestrated manipulation, Absalom felt confident enough to launch his rebellion. Under the pretense of fulfilling a vow, he requested permission from David to go to Hebron (II Samuel 15:7-8), the very place where David had been anointed king of Judah (see II Samuel 2:1-4). David granted his blessing, unknowingly paving the way for Absalom's insurrection (II Samuel 15:9-10). Absalom had already dispatched agents throughout Israel to proclaim him as the new king in Hebron. The conspiracy rapidly gained momentum, fueled by the support of influential figures like Ahithophel, David's advisor (II Samuel 15:12). Tragically, two hundred men from Jerusalem accompanied Absalom to Hebron in innocence, unaware of his true intentions, and were quickly swayed to his side (II Samuel 15:11). This underscores how easily people can be misled, especially when trust is misplaced.
David's Flight and Faith (II Samuel 15:13-29)
News of Absalom's rebellion quickly reached David (II Samuel 15:13), who immediately recognized the gravity of the situation. To avoid bloodshed and spare Jerusalem from destruction, he ordered the evacuation of his entire household (II Samuel 15:14). In a poignant detail, David left behind ten concubines to care for the palace (II Samuel 15:16), a decision that would later have devastating consequences, fulfilling Nathan's prophecy regarding the consequences of David's sin with Bathsheba (see II Samuel 12:11-12).
As David and his loyal followers fled Jerusalem, his concern extended to even the most vulnerable. He noticed Ittai of Gath, a foreigner and exile, and urged him to return (II Samuel 15:19). However, Ittai pledged unwavering loyalty to David, regardless of the cost (II Samuel 15:20-21). The sight of the king and his entourage fleeing caused widespread weeping among the people (II Samuel 15:23), a powerful testament to their love and respect for David.
Amidst the chaos, Zadok the priest and the Levites arrived, carrying the Ark of the Covenant (II Samuel 15:24). However, David insisted that they return the Ark to Jerusalem, declaring that if he found favor in the Lord's eyes, he would be allowed to return and see both the Ark and its dwelling place (II Samuel 15:25). This act reveals David's deep faith and his willingness to submit to God's will, even in the face of immense adversity (II Samuel 15:26). He entrusted his fate to God's sovereign hand, recognizing that true authority ultimately rests with Him. David also strategically requested Zadok and Abiathar to remain in Jerusalem and serve as informers, providing him with crucial intelligence (II Samuel 15:27-29).
Prayer and Strategy on the Mount of Olives (II Samuel 15:30-37)
David continued his ascent of the Mount of Olives, weeping and mourning as he went (II Samuel 15:30). Upon learning that his trusted advisor Ahithophel had joined Absalom's rebellion, David fervently prayed that God would frustrate Ahithophel's counsel (II Samuel 15:31). God would answer this prayer in a powerful way.
At the summit, David encountered Hushai the Archite, another loyal advisor, grieving for his king (II Samuel 15:32). Recognizing Hushai's potential value, David devised a plan to send him back to Jerusalem under the guise of joining Absalom's conspiracy (II Samuel 15:33-36). Hushai's mission was to counteract Ahithophel's advice and gather intelligence to relay back to David through the priests. This strategic maneuver demonstrates David's wisdom and resourcefulness in the face of adversity, as well as the importance of seeking wise counsel. David now had eyes and ears within Absalom's camp, a direct answer to his prayer (II Samuel 15:31).
II Samuel 15 paints a vivid picture of a kingdom in turmoil and a king facing unimaginable betrayal. It showcases the devastating consequences of ambition and the importance of remaining faithful to God, even when circumstances seem hopeless. David's response to the rebellion, characterized by faith, humility, and strategic thinking, offers a powerful example of leadership in times of crisis. The chapter serves as a reminder that true strength lies not in earthly power, but in unwavering trust in God's sovereignty.