Tuesday 28 January 2025
The king ordered Joab and Abishai and Ittai, saying, “Deal gently for my sake with the young man Absalom.” And all the people heard when the king gave orders to all the commanders concerning Absalom. (v. 5)
Background
In 2 Samuel, King David’s rule is gradually established. [For more detail, see the Bible notes for Monday 27 January.] David’s sons compete to succeed him and his favourite son Absalom initiates a coup against his father (2 Samuel 15:1-12).
Having forced David to flee from Jerusalem, Absalom squanders an initial tactical advantage, allowing David to muster his forces under the command of three experienced leaders, Joab, Abishai and Ittai. David’s presence is seen as the army’s greatest asset, vital to its morale, so he is urged not to put himself at risk in the battle (vs 3-4), and he agrees. For his part, David urges his commanders to ‘deal gently’ with Absalom (v. 5). Although Absalom is referred to here as ‘the young man’ and not as ‘my son’, David’s humanity as a father is set against his role as a military leader and a king, concerned to put an end to the rebellion and to reunite the kingdom.
The scene is set for the death of Absalom at the hands of Joab (2 Samuel 18:14) and for David’s grief-stricken reaction (2 Samuel 18:33). The battle itself is described in a single verse (v. 7), noting the defeat of Absalom’s forces by David’s army, with many casualties.
To Ponder:
- 2 Samuel 17:14 says that the Lord had determined to bring ruin on Absalom. Do you think that David’s victory was due to God’s will or Joab’s generalship, or both? How do you see God at work in world events?
- What do you make of David’s continuing concern for Absalom? Was it compassionate? Or foolish?
Prayer
God of second chances, thank you for your patience with everyone. Help us to reflect your love in our dealings with others. Amen.
Bible notes author: The Revd Dr Martin Wellings
Martin Wellings is a Methodist presbyter, serving in north London.