Monday 27 January 2025
A messenger came to David, saying, “The hearts of the Israelites have gone after Absalom.” (v. 13)
Background
The two books of Samuel revolve around the career of David and his ascent from shepherd boy to warrior to king ruling over the feuding tribes of the Israelites.
In 2 Samuel, David’s rule is gradually established by a combination of military skill, political cunning and a degree of ruthlessness. No sooner than stability is achieved, however, than things begin to unravel, as David’s sons compete to succeed him.
Absalom is David’s favourite son, despite a chequered career (see 2 Samuel 13-14). After building up a popular following by promising quick fixes to disgruntled people (2 Samuel 15:1-12), Absalom initiates a coup against his father. Absalom has the support of the people (v. 13) and of David’s trusted adviser Ahitophel, while David is left with only his court officials and some foreign mercenaries, the Cherethites, the Pelethites and the Gittites.
Faced by overwhelming force, David takes the decision to withdraw from Jerusalem. David takes the troops with him, leaving his harem to Absalom (and see 2 Samuel 16:20-22). The departure of the king is marked by weeping, a sign both of distress and ritual lamentation (v. 30). But David is evidently determined to return – he orders that the ark of God, representing the relationship between God and God’s people, should remain in the city (v. 25), and he makes plans to gather information via the priests Zadok and Abiathar (vs 27 and 28).
The story weaves together politics and piety. Although at the beginning David seems to have lost the initiative to the cunning of Absalom, David’s strategic wisdom comes into play, allied with a very practical prayer, that Ahitophel’s advice may turn to folly (v. 31). Theologian Walter Brueggemann says in his book First and Second Samuel: "David is not afraid to be politically candid with God."
To Ponder:
- Faced with disaster, David is both realistic and prayerful. What do you do when things are difficult? Where do you turn for help?
- What qualities make for a good leader?
Prayer
Sovereign God, grant to all in positions of power and authority wisdom to know and courage to do what is right. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Bible notes author: The Revd Dr Martin Wellings
Martin Wellings is a Methodist presbyter, serving in north London.