19:1-8

Back to Contents

War between Absalom and David

(2Sa 17:1-19:8)

Ahithophel advised Absalom that he needed to do only one thing to make his throne secure, and that was kill David. If he did this swiftly, without war or unnecessary bloodshed, the people would soon be fully behind him (2Sa 17:1-4).

Hushai, wishing to gain time for David to escape and organize his troops, advised against such a risky operation, for David was a very experienced soldier. He recommended that the whole Israelite army be assembled and Absalom himself lead them into battle (2Sa 17:5-13).

Being as vain as he was ambitious, Absalom liked this idea and accepted Hushai’s advice (2Sa 17:14).

At the risk of their lives, David’s spies took him news of Absalom’s plan (2Sa 17:15-20), with the result that David and his men quickly escaped across Jordan (2Sa 17:21-22).

Ahithophel committed suicide. His plotting had brought Absalom to the throne, and he knew that all would be lost if Absalom followed Hushai’s advice (2Sa 17:23).

David had now gained valuable time to rest his weary men, obtain provisions and plan his war strategy (2Sa 17:24-29).

The military leaders whom David appointed over his men suggested he not go with his troops to the battle, lest he be killed. David agreed, but warned them not to kill Absalom (2Sa 18:1-5).

David’s experienced army leaders knew better than the inexperienced Absalom how to direct the fighting in the difficult conditions of the thick forest. Absalom’s forces suffered a crushing defeat (2Sa 17:6-8).

Though Joab acted against David’s command in killing Absalom, he knew that this was the only way to bring the revolt to an end (2Sa 17:9-15).

Once Absalom was dead, further fighting was not necessary. Absalom had hoped for himself an honourable memorial, but he was buried in disgrace (2Sa 17:16-18).

Not knowing how best to break the news of Absalom’s death to David, Joab sent an African slave, in case the king reacted violently and killed the bearer of such bad news.

But Ahimaaz, knowing that David would be overcome with grief, persuaded Joab to send him as well (2Sa 17:19-23).

Ahimaaz arrived first and tried to break the news to David softly (2Sa 17:24-29), but when the African arrived he told David bluntly that Absalom was dead (2Sa 17:30-33).

David’s uncontrolled grief over the death of Absalom created dissatisfaction among those who had risked their lives to save him (2Sa 19:1-4).

Joab spoke harshly to David, telling him to stop mourning and show some appreciation of what his troops had done for him. If not, he might lose their support entirely (2Sa 17:5-8).