BibleTools.info

33. O Absalom, my son. There are few places in the Bible that picture more poignant grief. David’s sorrow was not merely that of a father for his departed son, although for the tenderhearted king such a sorrow would be heavy enough. What made the situation more difficult for David was that he himself was responsible for the course of events that had had its climax in this terrible tragedy. Absalom had slain his brother after Amnon had violated his sister, Tamar, and now he in turn was slain in battle against his own father. All this followed in natural consequence of David’s heinous sin.

chapter 19

1 Joab causeth the king to cease his mourning. 9 The Israelites are earnest to bring the king back. 11 David sendeth to the priests to incite them of Judah. 18 Shimei is pardoned. 24 Mephibosheth excused. 32 Barzillai dismissed, Chimham his son is taken into the king’s family. 41 The Israelites expostulate with Judah for bringing home the king without them.

1. It was told Joab. The word of David’s great grief for Absalom was quickly carried to all his men. Joab was responsible for the death of Absalom, and David’s grief for his son might easily turn to anger at the disobedient commander in chief.