2. The gate. The city gate was the place where public business was carried on and where the judges took their position for the administration of justice (see on Gen. 19:1).
Came to the king. The people were wont to come to the king for judgment, but justice was slow. David’s preoccupation with his troubles, his hesitation to take a firm stand in rebuking wrong, evidently showed in his administration of public affairs. Absalom, however, courted public favor, placing himself in the way of the people and putting his time and services at their command.
Of what city? The prince was a skillful politician. By asking questions he indicated that he took a real interest in the people and left the impression that he was a personal friend.
Of one of the tribes. We would say “of such and such a tribe.” In each case the individual, of course, mentioned the particular tribe.