2 Samuel 18:1-33
Q.1. Why was David dissuaded from going into battle? What was David’s greatest concern over Absalom’s rebellion? – (2 Sam.18:1-5)
In his youth, David had slain Goliath, the giant Philistine. However, time has passed, and David was no longer able to do all he once did. His leaders wisely advised him to stay safe at home. They knew that their opponents would want David, more than all others, to be killed. It is a wise person who accepts his limitations (2 Sam.18:1-4). However, as the men went out to battle, there was only one concern on David’s mind … his son Absalom. The king charged his three commanders – Joab and Abishai and Ittai, saying, “Deal gently for my sake with the young man Absalom.” And all the people heard when the king charged all the commanders concerning Absalom (2 Sam.18:5). In spite of Absalom’s treasonous plot, David loved him deeply and probably blamed himself for his son’s failures.
Q.2. How well was David’s word respected by his soldiers? How did the uprising against David end? – (2 Sam.18:6-18)
It seemed that the blood-thirsty Joab was the only one who defied David. Upon hearing the news that Absalom was in a vulnerable position suspended between earth and heaven, Joab ordered his death (2 Sam.18:9-11). However, the reporting officer replied – Even if I should receive a thousand pieces of silver in my hand, I would not put out my hand against the king’s son (2 Sam.18:12). He then repeated the king’s command to protect Absalom. Joab disregarded David’s plea and thrust three spears through the heart of Absalom (2 Sam.18:14-15). Absalom was cast into a deep pit which was marked by a heap of stones. Though he had built a monument to his own memory in the King’s Valley, Absalom was dumped into a pit (2 Sam.18:17-18). Joab blew the trumpet, and his men retreated, leaving David a heartbroken king (2 Sam.18:16).
Q.3. How was the news of Absalom’s death conveyed to David? Why do you think the news made such an impact on David? – (2 Sam.18.19-33)
Ahimaaz, the son of Zadok the priest had a track record of faithfulness to David (c.f. 2 Sam.17:17-22). He wanted to bear the news to his king, but Joab sent a Cushite messenger instead. Afterwards Ahimaaz persuaded Joab to let him also go. He outran the Cushite to deliver the news of the triumph (2 Sam.18:19-23). David’s army had won a great triumph (2 Sam.18:24-32). However, David was overcome with grief – … and went up to the chamber over the gate and wept … “O my son Absalom, my son, my son Absalom! Would I had died instead of you, O Absalom, my son, my son!” (2 Sam.18:33). David’s understandable grief over the killing of Absalom meant his faithful soldiers could not enjoy the victory.