Monday, October 26, 2015

II Samuel 15: Absalom: An Ingratiating Ingrate

David's reign takes another tragic turn in II Samuel 15 when a coup is plotted against him by none other than his son, the attractive and popular Absalom.

Absalom has spent four years ingratiating himself to the people of Israel by camping out in Jerusalem with his men and sweet-talking those who appear before the king for justice.  He makes it seem like he is on their side - but he tells them his father the king will not judge their case correctly.  In doing so, the Bible says that he "stole" the hearts of the Israelites (vs. 6)

The next phase of Absalom's treachery kicks in when he moves his forces to Hebron (the former center of David's power) and enlists people in his conspiracy, including his father's wisest adviser, Ahitophel.  It soon becomes clear to everyone that Absalom is planning a revolt against David.

A messenger comes to David with the news of what Absalom is plotting (vs. 13).  David's response is to flee.  He realizes that Absalom has been planning his demise for some time, and David feels it is safest to get out of Jerusalem with the people he trusts and place his cause before the Lord and the people.  He goes, weeping, with his faithful followers (vs. 30).

David devises a couple of schemes before his exit, however.  He sets up a spy network involving Zadok and Abiathar the priests.  Instead of coming with him, they will remain in Jerusalem and send him secret messages about Absalom's plans through their sons Ahimaaz and Jonathan.  Meanwhile, he recruits Hushai the Archite to serve him as a double-agent.  David urges Hushai to pretend to support Absalom and become an adviser, and work against the counsel of Ahitophel.  The chapter ends with Absalom - that ingratiating ingrate - striding into Jerusalem in apparent victory.

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