“The Death of Absalom”

 “And David numbered the people that were with him, and set captains of thousands and captains of hundreds over them.” (2 Samuel 18:1)

War Has Come

War is a conflict between humans that uses violence, or perceived threat of violence to achieve an end. So far in Absalom’s rebellion it has been the posturing by Absalom and the elders of Israel. However, after occupying Jerusalem, a plan to complete the rebellion is being put into action.

David’s Preparation

“And David sent forth a third part of the people under the hand of Joab, and a third part under the hand of Abishai the son of Zeruiah, Joab’s brother, and a third part under the hand of Ittai the Gittite. And the king said unto the people, I will surely go forth with you myself also.” (2 Samuel 18:2)

King David has built 3 separate units. Joab, Abishai (Joab’s nephew), and Ittai (the head of King David’s body guard) are now Captains of thousands. It is interesting that Ittai, was pagan born, but had come to trust in the one true God.

The people that followed King David did not want him to go with the army.

“But the people answered, Thou shalt not go forth: for if we flee away, they will not care for us; neither if half of us die, will they care for us: but now thou art worth ten thousand of us: therefore now it is better that thou succour us out of the city.” (2 Samuel 18:3)

King David understands their fear and agrees to stay with them.

“And the king commanded Joab and Abishai and Ittai, saying, Deal gently for my sake with the young man, even with Absalom. And all the people heard when the king gave all the captains charge concerning Absalom.” (2 Samuel 18:5)

The Battle

Israel, being led by Absalom and the elders of Israel meet King David and his followers in the wood of Ephraim.

“So the people went out into the field against Israel: and the battle was in the wood of Ephraim;” (2 Samuel 18:6)

Fighting is best done on your own terms, but when God picks the battlefield it is even better. Absalom has brought a force of horses, or in this case a combination of horses and mules. Absalom also brought chariots. Fighting with cavalry is best done on an open plain. This allows for the swift flanking of an enemy. A forest changes everything.

In a forest the horses, mules, and chariots become the victims of branches, stumps, roots, and brambles. Include all of the wild beasts that inhabit a forest and the forest becomes a living creature that devours the best armies.

“For the battle was there scattered over the face of all the country: and the wood devoured more people that day than the sword devoured.” (2 Samuel 18:8)

Rabbit in a Snare

“And Absalom met the servants of David. And Absalom rode upon a mule, and the mule went under the thick boughs of a great oak, and his head caught hold of the oak, and he was taken up between the heaven and the earth; and the mule that was under him went away.“ (2 Samuel 18:9)

Absalom’s goal was to kill his father. King David’s goal was to defeat everyone except his son. One of King David’s men had witnessed Absalom being hung from a tree and reported it to Joab.

Joab was angry that the man did not kill Absalom at once. If we remember Joab had killed Abner against King David’s wishes, now he kills Absalom with darts through his heart. The rest of Joab’s army completes the job.

“14Then said Joab, I may not tarry thus with thee. And he took three darts in his hand, and thrust them through the heart of Absalom, while he was yet alive in the midst of the oak.

15And ten young men that bare Joab’s armour compassed about and smote Absalom, and slew him.

16And Joab blew the trumpet, and the people returned from pursuing after Israel: for Joab held back the people.

17And they took Absalom, and cast him into a great pit in the wood, and laid a very great heap of stones upon him: and all Israel fled every one to his tent.

18Now Absalom in his lifetime had taken and reared up for himself a pillar, which is in the king’s dale: for he said, I have no son to keep my name in remembrance: and he called the pillar after his own name: and it is called unto this day, Absalom’s place.” (2 Samuel 18:14-18)

Stay Tuned…

“The Counsel of Hushai”

 “Moreover Ahithophel said unto Absalom, Let me now choose out twelve thousand men, and I will arise and pursue after David this night:” (2 Samuel 17:1)

Introduction

At the end of 2 Samuel 16 we see Ahithophel advising Absalom to rape King David’s Concubines. Did Absalom regret what he had done? Maybe, but we will never know. We do know Absalom did not trust everything Ahithophel suggested.

David’s closest friend had sent Hushai to send word to David about everything that was said in the court of Absalom. Hushai is to tell it to Zadok and Abiathar, the priests who had returned the Ark to Jerusalem. The Zadok and Abiathar were to send the message to their sons, Jonathan and Ahimaaz. They would pass the message to King David.

Ahithophel wants to chase King David down. We can assume he wants to lead the twelve thousand men himself to elevate his standing in Absalom’s court.

What Ahithophel said pleased Absalom and the elders of Israel. Now Absalom turns to Hushai for advice.

Hushai’s Counsel.

“For, said Hushai, thou knowest thy father and his men, that they be mighty men, and they be chafed in their minds, as a bear robbed of her whelps in the field: and thy father is a man of war, and will not lodge with the people.“(2 Samuel 17:8)

Hushai makes Absalom realize that King David is a man of war, and his army is also a mighty army. Not just a mighty army, but “as a bear robbed of her whelps in the field”. In short, the army was chomping at the bit to attack Absalom. Since the army was not lodging with the people, they were free to maneuver. This would make Absalom nervous.

“Behold, he is hid now in some pit, or in some other place: and it will come to pass, when some of them be overthrown at the first, that whosoever heareth it will say, There is a slaughter among the people that follow Absalom.” (2 Samuel 17:9)

Hushai describes the type of attack that Absalom will endure. An ambush from some hidden location, which at first will result is a slaughter of Absalom’s men. This will instill fear in Absalom and his followers.

Hushai now gives Absalom a way to engage King David and his followers is a more powerful way.

“11 Therefore I counsel that all Israel be generally gathered unto thee, from Dan even to Beersheba, as the sand that is by the sea for multitude; and that thou go to battle in thine own person.

12 So shall we come upon him in some place where he shall be found, and we will light upon him as the dew falleth on the ground: and of him and of all the men that are with him there shall not be left so much as one.

13 Moreover, if he be gotten into a city, then shall all Israel bring ropes to that city, and we will draw it into the river, until there be not one small stone found there.” (2 Samuel 17:11-12)

Hushai tells Absalom to build a huge army. Then we will find King David’s army and destroy them all, to include taking their cities apart.

Ahithophel’s Folly

God uses evil people for good. King David has to pay the price for his sinful nature. Ahithophel and Absalom play a part in the price David had to pay, and pay for their own sinful nature.

Ahithophel wanted to be more than just a member of King David’s court. He also wanted to be more than the number one guide for Absalom’s court. Now, with the arrival of Hushai he is relegated to at best number three and that is not enough for him.

“And Absalom and all the men of Israel said, The counsel of Hushai the Archite is better than the counsel of Ahithophel. For the LORD had appointed to defeat the good counsel of Ahithophel, to the intent that the LORD might bring evil upon Absalom.” (2 Samuel 17:14)

Just like that Ahithophel goes home and hangs himself.

Stay Tuned…

“The Counsel Of Ahithophel”

“And Ahithophel said unto Absalom, Go in unto thy father’s concubines, which he hath left to keep the house; and all Israel shall hear that thou art abhorred of thy father: then shall the hands of all that are with thee be strong.” (2 Samuel 16:21)

Introduction

אחיתפל in Ancient Hebrew means “Brother of Folly”, or “My Brother of Folly”. When David, before David became King, Ahithophel was one of David’s trusted advisors. Ahithophel had been known as an Oracle of God.

While serving with David, Ahithophel would have appeared to speak for God, but little is said of that while David is struggling with Saul. In fact, Ahithophel does not show up in Samuel until Absalom begins his rebellion. It is not like every incident that happened in the Bible lists everyone that was there, unless they actually mattered in the incident. When Absalom begins to build his advisors then Ahithophel is in the forefront.

Ahithophel was a deeply political person. He knew how to read people. He knew what people wanted and he knew how to control them.

Concubines

There is a difference between a “Concubine” and a “Wife” in ancient Israel. This where things get difficult to understand. We know God intended Marriage to be between One Man and One Woman. For instance, Abram’s wife Sari was barren and Sari’s slave Hagar was used to bring a son into the world.

Concubines were also women who found that their protector (men) had died, and the only protection was to become part of a family headed by men.

No where in the Bible did God explicitly forbid Concubines. However, God did condemn it implicitly. The problems incurred by the addition of Concubines and wives is apparent in the lives of men and women, from Abram to current day. Every sin has a consequence.

Ahithophel’s Plan

Ahithophel wanted Absalom to degrade King David so completely that it would pull more people into the Absalom Camp.

“So they spread Absalom a tent upon the top of the house; and Absalom went in unto his father’s concubines in the sight of all Israel.” (2 Samuel 16:22)

Ahithophel wants Absalom to defile David’s Concubines in the most horrible way, in full view of the people in Jerusalem. Absalom has no problem with this since abuse is his thing.

This is the consequence King David pays for his sin.

“11Thus saith the LORD, Behold, I will raise up evil against thee out of thine own house, and I will take thy wives before thine eyes, and give them unto thy neighbour, and he shall lie with thy wives in the sight of this sun.

12For thou didst it secretly: but I will do this thing before all Israel, and before the sun”. (2 Samuel 12:11,12)

Stay Tuned…

”“חושי”

 “And it came to pass, when Hushai the Archite, David’s friend, was come unto Absalom, that Hushai said unto Absalom, God save the king, God save the king.” (2 Samuel 16:16)

Introduction

Absalom has now entered into Jerusalem with Ahithophel. As you may recall Ahithophel was one of David’s counselors and is now Absalom’s chief counselor.

A new face arrives in the court of Absalom, his name is חושי the ancient Hebrew for Hushai. God has a purpose.

Friend or Foe?

“And Absalom said to Hushai, Is this thy kindness to thy friend? why wentest thou not with thy friend?” (2 Samuel 16:17)

Absalom asks a good question. Are you with me, or against me? Friend or Foe? What Absalom doesn’t know is that his Friends and Foes are one in the same. Sometimes a smile and a handshake holds a dagger at your back.

Both Ahithophel and Hushai, were at one point David’s friends and counselors. That changed with Absalom. Ahithophel was never David’s friend, but he is Absalom’s counselor.

Hushai is different. He is not faithful to anyone but God.

“18And Hushai said unto Absalom, Nay; but whom the LORD, and this people, and all the men of Israel, choose, his will I be, and with him will I abide

19And again, whom should I serve? should I not serve in the presence of his son? as I have served in thy father’s presence, so will I be in thy presence. (2 Samuel 16:18-19)

Absalom did not inquire of God as to what he should do, he used his self-centered knowledge, as did Ahithophel. This is the problem in our world.

We seek our own counsel before seeking God’s counsel.

Stay tuned…

“Scavengers”

 “And when David was a little past the top of the hill, behold, Ziba the servant of Mephibosheth met him, with a couple of asses saddled, and upon them two hundred loaves of bread, and an hundred bunches of raisins, and an hundred of summer fruits, and a bottle of wine.” (2 Samuel 16:1)

Introduction

King David has left Jerusalem and Absalom has entered Jerusalem. Though it appears to be a two way struggle, that is not how power struggles work. There are the scavengers who are looking for a way to maintain a little piece of the kingdom for themselves. Maybe even take a bigger piece.

Ziba, Servant of Mephibosheth

As we recall, Mephibosheth was the son of Jonathan, grandson of King Saul. While the Philistines were ravaging the country side after the death of Saul, Mephibosheth was dropped and became lame. King David showed Mephibosheth great kindness because of his love for Jonathan. And then comes Ziba.

Ziba was responsible for the care of Mephibosheth. Ziba is not just a servant, but the top servant, the head cheese, top dawg, of Mephibosheth. Ziba sends a gift to King David of bread, raisins, summer fruit, and a bottle of wine.

What a sweet thing for Ziba to do for King David. It is neither sweet, nor true. Ziba’s intention is to gain the favor of King David, by telling a lie.

“And the king said, And where is thy master’s son? And Ziba said unto the king, Behold, he abideth at Jerusalem: for he said, To day shall the house of Israel restore me the kingdom of my father.” (2 Samuel 16:3)

Ziba’s lie that Mephibosheth intends to be the King of Israel. King David in his time of weakness believes Ziba.

“Then said the king to Ziba, Behold, thine are all that pertained unto Mephibosheth. And Ziba said, I humbly beseech thee that I may find grace in thy sight, my lord, O king.” (2 Samuel 16:4)

Platitudes are often used to deceive, and King David gives all that was Mephibosheth to Ziba. King David will later regret this. That is for a later time.

Shimei the son of Gera.

“And when king David came to Bahurim, behold, thence came out a man of the family of the house of Saul, whose name was Shimei, the son of Gera: he came forth, and cursed still as he came.” (2 Samuel 16:5)

Shimei is having a hissy fit. A combination of anger and joy at how far King David has fallen. Shimei is cursing King David and his followers, he is throwing rocks and dirt at them.

One of King David’s followers asks the King to let him go over and cut Shimei’s head off. Not an unusual request; that is how school yard brawls get started. King David’s response is completely different.

He is of no danger to me, or my followers, let him rant. King Saul had used every opportunity to kill David, yet David did not touch a hair on Saul’s head. Saul was his own undoing. King David realized his sinfulness and the consequence that came with it. Killing Shimei would do nothing.

Conclusion

From the sneaky servant to the annoying screamer there were many that used King David’s affliction to achieve their own piece of the pie.

Stay Tuned…

“A Complicated Affair Part 2”

 “And the king’s servants said unto the king, Behold, thy servants are ready to do whatsoever my lord the king shall appoint.” (2 Samuel 15:15)

Introduction

Absalom has built a political organization to complete his goal of becoming King of Israel. As with anything political, there are more than two sides. In Part 1 we discussed the people who were in Absalom’s Faction, now we will discuss the people who are in David’s Faction.

King David’s Faction.

Joab. Joab was David’s most trusted General, yet David understood that Joab was not the most forth coming. When the woman of Tekoah had lied about her problems, David knew straightaway that Joab had put her up to it. (2 Samuel 13) David also knew of the Joab’s sin in killing Abner. Joab was not perfect and David was Okay with that.

David’s Household: David took with him his wives and children so that he could protect them from Absalom. With the exception of 10 concubines that he left behind to take care of his household.

David’s Body Guard: From ancient times until today, Kings have had a Body Guard. Typically a select group of fighters that pledge their lives to the King. David’s Body Guard is not one of those who were known for their ability. The Cherethites, Pelethites, and Gittites were mostly Philistines who had come to love David for his piety. They had become part of the Jewish religion, though they were Gentiles by birth. They numbered 600, but were far from a formable force.

Ittai the Gittite: Here was a man that was not from any of the tribes of Israel, in fact, he had been from Gath where Goliath was from.

David realized that Ittai was a new convert from paganism to the one true GOD. Was Ittai strong enough to face the trials that David surely saw coming?

” 19 Then said the king to Ittai the Gittite, Wherefore goest thou also with us? return to thy place, and abide with the king: for thou art a stranger, and also an exile.

20 Whereas thou camest but yesterday, should I this day make thee go up and down with us? seeing I go whither I may, return thou, and take back thy brethren: mercy and truth be with thee.” (2 Samuel 15:19-20)

Ittai would have none of this. He promised King David that he would stick with him, no matter what would happen.

The Levites:

“24 And lo Zadok also, and all the Levites were with him, bearing the ark of the covenant of God: and they set down the ark of God; and Abiathar went up, until all the people had done passing out of the city.

25 And the king said unto Zadok, Carry back the ark of God into the city: if I shall find favour in the eyes of the LORD, he will bring me again, and shew me both it, and his habitation:” (2 Samuel 24-25)

It was not that David didn’t want the Ark with him. It is that David knew the Ark was to be in the tent, in Jerusalem. David also knew that if the Ark was taken out of Jerusalem it would become a target of Absalom. As long as the Ark remained in Jerusalem David didn’t think Absalom would bother it.

Conclusion

King David went from being the most loved person in Israel to riding a donkey into the wilderness. His greatest General was known to manipulate the King for his own purposes.

King David’s Body Guard consisted of Philistines that had converted to follow the God of Israel. Unfortunately, they were too old to do much good.

The Levite priests brought the Ark to follow King David, but King David realized that it was he who should follow the Ark, not the other way around.

Although it appears there are two factions at work in this affair, it gets more complicated.

Stay Tuned…

“A Complicated Affair”

“And David went up by the ascent of mount Olivet, and wept as he went up, and had his head covered, and he went barefoot: and all the people that was with him covered every man his head, and they went up, weeping as they went up.” (2 Samuel 15:30)

Introduction

Absalom has moved the leaders of Israel onto his side in a rebellion against his father King David. Absalom is not just intending on replacing King David, but in his greed he is replacing God. We see this in our everyday life. Absalom is leading otherwise God fearing people into a Satan filled existence. If we remember the Serpent in the Garden of Eden, beautiful and full of soothing words, we recognize how destructive that path becomes.

Interested Parties

What begins as King David versus his son Absalom quickly changes into a multiple faceted problem. It is no longer a battle for Kingship, but individual battles for a piece of the pie.

This rebellion leads the elders of each tribe into the battle for self-preservation and away from the followership, worship, and listening to God. The elders of the tribes are supposed to be shepherds of the flock, instead they become wolves.

The Absalom Faction

Absalom does not have to entice every person in Israel. He only needs to entice specific people to follow him. From there his words will flow like honey into their ears. But with honey, comes poison.

In Order of appearance.

David, King of Israel: Yes, David is the first member of Absalom’s faction. Through disobeying God’s commandments by sleeping with and taking his friend’s wife as his own wife; God makes the consequence clear.

“11 Thus saith the LORD, Behold, I will raise up evil against thee out of thine own house, and I will take thy wives before thine eyes, and give them unto thy neighbour, and he shall lie with thy wives in the sight of this sun.

12 For thou didst it secretly: but I will do this thing before all Israel, and before the sun.” (2 Samuel 12:11-12)

Although Absalom is about to revolt against David, it was David that made Absalom’s revolt possible.

Amnon, King David’s oldest son: Amnon was not interested in Kingship, he was interested only in his own lusts. Amnon’s lusts targeted his sister Tamar. He raped his sister and everyone knew he was guilty. Absalom used this as a means to have his brother killed. Absalom didn’t personally cause his death, Absalom had ordered his servants to kill Amnon. The same way David did not personally kill Uriah, his friend. David had his general Joab make sure that Uriah died. By calling his brothers to watch the death of Amnon, Absalom sends a strong message that he will do the same to them.

Talmai, the son of Ammihud, king of Geshur: Talmai is Absalom’s Grand-Father on his mother’s side. Absalom lived for three years with his Grand-Father, who is a pagan.

Ahithophel the Gilonite, David’s Counselor: The court of a king always has its enemies. David had counted Ahithophel as a friend at one time. Ahithophel had a mind for politics and the means to use it for his own desires. As David put it “But it was thou, a man mine equal, my guide, and mine acquaintance.” (Psalms 55:13) and “Yea, mine own familiar friend, in whom I trusted, which did eat of my bread, hath lifted up his heel against me.” (Psalms 41:9) Ahithophel is a crucial supporter of Absalom.

King David’s Faction

King David is not alone in Israel. Those who were following David before Absalom’s rebellion are still willing to follow David. This includes Jews and Gentiles.

Stay tuned…

“David Withdraws From Jerusalem”

 “And there came a messenger to David, saying, The hearts of the men of Israel are after Absalom.” (2 Samuel 15:13)

Background

Absalom spent 40 years building his political base at the gate of Jerusalem. It was a drip, drip, drip of support for his cause until a deluge of supporters came to his side. Now Absalom is in Hebron and his supporters are spreading the news that he is now King in Hebron. He has staked his claim and is now preparing to move against his father, King David.

Absalom had prepared a guard to move ahead of him with horses, chariots and 50 men willing to fight with him. He goes a step further to deceive another 200 who had no idea what Absalom’s plan was.

“And Absalom sent for Ahithophel the Gilonite, David’s counsellor, from his city, even from Giloh, while he offered sacrifices. And the conspiracy was strong; for the people increased continually with Absalom.” (2 Samuel 15:12)

Absalom feels safe in the fact that he has deceived the people, and now with the religious leader (Ahithophel) from David’s court he has the force he needs to defeat David.

David Withdraws

“And David said unto all his servants that were with him at Jerusalem, Arise, and let us flee; for we shall not else escape from Absalom: make speed to depart, lest he overtake us suddenly, and bring evil upon us, and smite the city with the edge of the sword.” (2 Samuel 15:14)

The verse says that David tells his servants to “flee”. The question becomes is David running away as in a rout? David does not have a standing army as you would find in Egypt. His armies were called as needed; at this point his men from the wars with the Philistines were old and not exactly fit for war. David also says “make speed to depart”. A “rout” is when a force runs from an enemy without any control or organization. No, this is not a rout, it is a tactical withdrawal.

David leaves concubines to look after his house, moreover, he has the priests remain with the Ark in Jerusalem. David remembers what God had warned him of, and that it is going to be fulfilled.

“Thus saith the LORD, Behold, I will raise up evil against thee out of thine own house, and I will take thy wives before thine eyes, and give them unto thy neighbour, and he shall lie with thy wives in the sight of this sun.” (2 Samuel 12:11)

David is not surrendering Jerusalem to Absalom, he is surrendering himself to God. If it is God’s will, David will return to Jerusalem, if not, he will suffer in the wilderness.

Stay tuned…

“You Say You Want a Revolution”

 “And it came to pass after forty years, that Absalom said unto the king, I pray thee, let me go and pay my vow, which I have vowed unto the LORD, in Hebron.” (2 Samuel 15:7)

Background

Absalom has spent 40 years working at the gate to Jerusalem, telling every person that passed through the gate that he would be a judge for them. Absalom wants to be more than just a judge. He wants to be King.

“For thy servant vowed a vow while I abode at Geshur in Syria, saying, If the LORD shall bring me again indeed to Jerusalem, then I will serve the LORD.

And the king said unto him, Go in peace. So he arose, and went to Hebron.” (2 Samuel 15:8-9)

Revolution

Appearances are deception. Absalom has used a great deal of care in deceiving the common Israelite on his intentions. There is no evidence that he spent anytime in becoming educated on the law, or worshipping God.

The people wanted a king that looked like the other kings. Absalom surrounded himself with horses and chariots; while King David rode on a mule. That was the way of the world then, and the way of the world now. We are like a crow, attracted to anything shiny. Not just the physical, but the mental as well. Appearances are deceiving.

“But Absalom sent spies throughout all the tribes of Israel, saying, As soon as ye hear the sound of the trumpet, then ye shall say, Absalom reigneth in Hebron.” (2 Samuel 15:10)

Absalom has infiltrated all the tribes of Israel. When the trumpet sounds, the spies are expected to proclaim Absalom is King in Hebron. This is how politics works. The problem is that Absalom has misled the people to believe that Absalom has been anointed by God to be a new king. Absalom has drawn them to believe that he is now a King like all the other nations. Its a competition to be like everyone else.

Stay Tuned…

“Absalom at the Gate”

 “And it came to pass after this, that Absalom prepared him chariots and horses, and fifty men to run before him.” (2 Samuel 15:1)

Background

Absalom, in Hebrew means, “the peace of his father”. Obviously, Absalom was not exactly peaceful since he had his brother killed. Now Absalom has prepared a small army to work with him.

Absalom At The Gate

“And Absalom rose up early, and stood beside the way of the gate: and it was so, that when any man that had a controversy came to the king for judgment, then Absalom called unto him, and said, Of what city art thou? And he said, Thy servant is of one of the tribes of Israel.” (2 Samuel 15:2)

Absalom is a very gifted politician. Although he would be allowed into King David’s house, he is not given a place of power in King David’s court. Absalom has a plan to change that. So he sits at the entrance to Jerusalem questioning every man that enters the city. He wants to know what business they have in the city, are they looking for a judgement from the King over a quarrel or grievance? Absalom tells them I’m your man.

Absalom tells them that he understands that their arguments are “good and right”. It is almost like he is saying, “I will give you your wildest dreams”. Absalom goes on to say “..there is no man deputed of the king to hear thee”. Which means, “the King has not made anyone in charge of hearing arguments.” Absalom further states “I will give you Justice”(2 Samuel 15:3-4)

“5 And it was so, that when any man came nigh to him to do him obeisance, he put forth his hand, and took him, and kissed him.

6 And on this manner did Absalom to all Israel that came to the king for judgment: so Absalom stole the hearts of the men of Israel.” (2 Samuel 15:5-6)

As old as this story is, the technique has been used since in the world of politics and family issues. However, it begins well before Absalom.

Stay Tuned…

“A Beautiful Boy”

 “So Absalom dwelt two full years in Jerusalem, and saw not the king’s face.” (2 Samuel 14:28)

Background

When the people of Israel saw Absalom they were stricken by his beauty. He was tall and without blemish. His vestige spewed goodness. Of course, it is all superficial. We humans tend to put more importance on outward appearance and ignore the spirit of the person.

I Want To See The King

Absalom wanted to see the King in person.

“Therefore Absalom sent for Joab, to have sent him to the king; but he would not come to him: and when he sent again the second time, he would not come.” (2 Samuel 14:29)

Absalom does not want just any messenger to arrange a meeting with the King. He chose one of King David’s most trusted advisors, Joab. Absalom knows that if Joab makes a meeting possible he is a step closer to being in the inner circle of King David’s court.

Joab is not easily fooled. He knows the danger Absalom can bring into the court. Being the next in line for King, Absalom will bring political clout into the court. Joab ignores Absalom’s request.

Absalom uses a new tactic. Instead of sending more messages to Joab, or even going to Joab himself. Absalom goes the threatening route. Absalom sends his servants to burn Joab’s fields. This is going out on a limb. Joab had killed Abner (Saul’s advisor) and he had paid a price for that. However, Absalom had killed his brother Amnon and after fleeing from David, Absalom had been allowed back into Jerusalem and David’s house. Joab knew that if he had taken any action against Absalom he would be putting himself in a weak position.

Joab relents and takes Absalom to see King David.

“So Joab came to the king, and told him: and when he had called for Absalom, he came to the king, and bowed himself on his face to the ground before the king: and the king kissed Absalom.” (2 Samuel 14:33)

Stay tuned…

“King David, Joab, and The Old Woman”

 “Now Joab the son of Zeruiah perceived that the king’s heart was toward Absalom.” (2 Samuel 14:1)

The Story [Paraphrased]

Joab is the leader of David’s Army, close advisor, and friend. Joab’s history is not perfect. He had killed Abner, King Saul’s General, even though David had entered into a pact with Abner. Joab, by killing Abner had brought judgement on himself. (2 Samuel 3:39)

Joab needed something to move his status with King David upward. Joab realized that though Absalom had killed Amnon, and now a marked man, that David was still feeling affection towards Absalom. In Joab’s mind, if he can create a story that David could relate to, Joab would give David an escape and Joab a higher status.

Finding the Actress for the Role

“And Joab sent to Tekoah, and fetched thence a wise woman, and said unto her, I pray thee, feign thyself to be a mourner, and put on now mourning apparel, and anoint not thyself with oil, but be as a woman that had a long time mourned for the dead:” (2 Samuel 14:2)

“All the world’s a stage. And all the men and women merely players” (William Shakespeare, As You Like It, Act II Scene VII)

The audience is this play is King David. The writer/director, some would consider is Joab. The actress is a wise old woman whose name is not known.

ACT I (A Sad Story)

[An old woman dressed as a widow who has mourned a long time, appears in the court of King David, she lays face down in the presence of the King.]

Old Woman: “Help, O King”

King David: “What aileth thee?”

Old Woman: “I am indeed a widow woman, and mine husband is dead. And thy handmaid had two sons, and they two strove together in the field, and there was none to part them, but the one smote the other, and slew him.

And, behold, the whole family is risen against thine handmaid, and they said, Deliver him that smote his brother, that we may kill him, for the life of his brother whom he slew; and we will destroy the heir also: and so they shall quench my coal which is left, and shall not leave to my husband neither name nor remainder upon the earth.”

King David: “Go to thine house, and I will give charge concerning thee.”

Old Woman: “My lord, O king, the iniquity be on me, and on my father’s house: and the king and his throne be guiltless.”

King David: “Whosoever saith ought unto thee, bring him to me, and he shall not touch thee any more.”

Old Woman: “I pray thee, let the king remember the LORD thy God, that thou wouldest not suffer the revengers of blood to destroy any more, lest they destroy my son.”

King David: “As the LORD liveth, there shall not one hair of thy son fall to the earth.”

Old Woman: “Let thine handmaid, I pray thee, speak one word unto my lord the king.”

King David: “Say on.”

Old Woman: “And the woman said, Wherefore then hast thou thought such a thing against the people of God? for the king doth speak this thing as one which is faulty, in that the king doth not fetch home again his banished.

For we must needs die, and are as water spilt on the ground, which cannot be gathered up again; neither doth God respect any person: yet doth he devise means, that his banished be not expelled from him.

Now therefore that I am come to speak of this thing unto my lord the king, it is because the people have made me afraid: and thy handmaid said, I will now speak unto the king; it may be that the king will perform the request of his handmaid.

For the king will hear, to deliver his handmaid out of the hand of the man that would destroy me and my son together out of the inheritance of God.

Then thine handmaid said, The word of my lord the king shall now be comfortable: for as an angel of God, so is my lord the king to discern good and bad: therefore the LORD thy God will be with thee.”

King David: “Hide not from me, I pray thee, the thing that I shall ask thee.”

Old Woman: “Let my lord the king now speak.”

King David: “Is not the hand of Joab with thee in all this?”

Old Woman: “As thy soul liveth, my lord the king, none can turn to the right hand or to the left from ought that my lord the king hath spoken: for thy servant Joab, he bade me, and he put all these words in the mouth of thine handmaid.

To fetch about this form of speech hath thy servant Joab done this thing: and my lord is wise, according to the wisdom of an angel of God, to know all things that are in the earth.”

End of Scene

ACT II (Absalom’s Return)

[Joab and King David meet]

King David: “Behold now, I have done this thing: go therefore, bring the young man Absalom again.’

[Joab, like the Old Woman, falls face down before the King]

Joab: “To day thy servant knoweth that I have found grace in thy sight, my lord, O king, in that the king hath fulfilled the request of his servant.”

[Joab fetches Absalom from his banishment back to Jerusalem]

King David: “Let him turn to his own house, and let him not see my face.”

End of Scene

Epilogue

King David had certainly worried about the fate of his children, nieces and nephews. Joab, through the Old Woman used this as a wedge to secure his position in King David’s court. Although Absalom is returned safely from his banishment, he is still not allowed to see King David, or work within the King’s court. That will all change.

Stay Tuned…

“Pointing Fingers”

 “But Absalom fled, and went to Talmai, the son of Ammihud, king of Geshur. And David mourned for his son every day.”(2 Samuel 13:37)

Afraid for his life, Absalom fled from his brothers and King David. He took refuge with his mother’s father.

About 400 Years Earlier

When Moses was in the wilderness with the children of Israel he spent every hour of every day working on their problems. Every grievance, from a hole in a sandal to murder, Moses judged over them all. Moses’s father in-law gave him advice on how to organize his government to make it simpler.

“Thou wilt surely wear away, both thou, and this people that is with thee: for this thing is too heavy for thee; thou art not able to perform it thyself alone.” (Exodus 18:18)

Jethro, Moses’s father in-law, gave Moses some sound advice about organizing his people. You can call it Government if you wish.

“Moreover thou shalt provide out of all the people able men, such as fear God, men of truth, hating covetousness; and place such over them, to be rulers of thousands, and rulers of hundreds, rulers of fifties, and rulers of tens:” (Exodus 18:21)

The Problem

On the surface it looks like a good idea, but we may ignore the individual’s needs. Moses is expected to find leaders that fit most closely to God’s commands. Imagine we have a group of tens and their leader follows 90% of God’s commands (from a human perspective). To keep the leadership of ten, that leader only needs to keep the leader of fifties happy. The leader of ten only keeps the leader of fifties needs in mind. That is where politics is invented. The needs of the many are reduced to the needs of the few, the powerful few.

The issue of the problem is not how many are involved, it is the ignoring of God. Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Moses, Arron, and Jethro all spoke directly to God. As we learn in scriptures we realize that although they were certainly led by God, they were still only people. People make mistakes. Even the simplest mistake can have disastrous results.

Remember the priest of David who mistakenly touched the Ark? It wasn’t a simple mistake, it was a direct command from God, written by Moses, followed by Joshua, and now forgotten by David. People either forget the simple commands or ignore them, and the result is pain.

The Blame

As humans we often pin the blame on anything/one other than ourselves. Many people say, “Yeah I did it, but…”. The “but” is not unimportant from a group perspective, however, from an individual perspective it is very important. The “but” doesn’t just point at other’s failures. It amplifies your failures.

Absalom killed Amnon, and that was wrong, but Amnon had raped Tamar. King David knew it, but King David had caused the death of Uriah because of his adultery. There are so many fingers pointing it becomes difficult to untangle in the human mind. In God’s point of view it is not impossible.

From Tamar’s point there is nothing she had done to deserve Amnon’s violence.

From Amnon’s point of view he deserved judgement from God, but he did not deserve being murdered by Absalom.

From Absalom’s point of view he deserved death, but God gave him a rescue in the form of King David.

From David’s point of view he deserved death, and though he will suffer God provides him with a rescue.

Stay Tuned…

“Murder He Wrote”

“And Absalom spake unto his brother Amnon neither good nor bad: for Absalom hated Amnon, because he had forced his sister Tamar.” (2 Samuel 13:22)

Two Years Later

Absalom said nothing to Amnon about his sinful ways with his sister Tamar. David said nothing to Amnon. It is almost as if nothing happened? David’s guilt of his own sins kept him from teaching his son how to be righteous, and how to repent of his sins. David could have reproached Amnon and as King David had every right to do so.

Absalom is a different story. He is not seeking to educate Amnon, he is seeking revenge. Absalom sees himself as a Judge of Israel and since David will not, Absalom will.

Absalom was planning a sheep shearing party. He plans on inviting all of the sons of David, and King David himself. This was important to Absalom. He could not invite his brothers without giving and invite to his father. King David saw no reason for him to go to a sheepshearing and have Absalom spend his money on David’s entertainment.

Absalom pushes King David to allow Amnon and the other sons to join in the party. King David could see no reason to suspect any foul behavior by Absalom, so he allowed Amnon to go.

Murder So Foul.

With King David out of the way Absalom sees himself as having the upper hand.

“Now Absalom had commanded his servants, saying, Mark ye now when Amnon’s heart is merry with wine, and when I say unto you, Smite Amnon; then kill him, fear not: have not I commanded you? be courageous, and be valiant.” (2 Samuel 13:28)

Absalom attempts to take the responsibility for murdering his brother and sharing it among his servants. However, Absalom’s servants are only responsible for following his commands. Absalom is the authority in this case.

When Absalom’s brothers find out about the death of Amnon they get on their donkeys and run away. It is obvious they fear Absalom.

Satan In The House

“And it came to pass, while they were in the way, that tidings came to David, saying, Absalom hath slain all the king’s sons, and there is not one of them left.” (2 Samuel 13:30)

Who came to King David with this information is not known. However, we do know there was someone else in the room that knew what the truth was. King David was beside himself with the grief that all his sons had been killed.

“And Jonadab, the son of Shimeah David’s brother, answered and said, Let not my lord suppose that they have slain all the young men the king’s sons; for Amnon only is dead: for by the appointment of Absalom this hath been determined from the day that he forced his sister Tamar.” (2 Samuel 13:32)

There is no way Jonadab could have known this. He could not have watched Absalom kill Amnon, watch David’s sons ride off, and then make it back to David. Jonadab knew what Absalom had planned. Jonadab also knew what Amnon had planned. Satan likes to observe the sinful ways of people, then make it known to everyone.

Jonadab was there when David’s sons returned with the news Amnon was indeed dead. King David is sad about the death of Amnon, but happy that his sons are okay. Yet, he is still upset that Absalom had killed Amnon.

Stay tuned…

“Evil in the House”

 “And it came to pass after this, that Absalom the son of David had a fair sister, whose name was Tamar; and Amnon the son of David loved her.” (2 Samuel 13:1)

David’s family consists of 4 wives and an unknown number of concubines. As for children David is known to have had 21 by his 4 wives, one of which is unnamed by his adulterous relationship with Bathsheba. Here we know of only one of David’s daughters, Tamar.

David wanted to keep his indiscretion in private. A term many people like to fall back on to feel OK about the things they do to others. “What happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas”, the old adage that seldom stays private. You can’t hide from God. Adam and Eve had hidden from God, only to find out he knew where they were all the time. Now David’s sons and daughter are about to be caught up in poor choices.

Absalom and Tamar are brother and sister, Amnon is their half-brother. Amnon is the oldest of David’s sons. In many families the oldest is the one that gets the inheritance of the father. This is obviously not always the case. Esau and Jacob were twins, but Esau was the first born. Esau sold his inheritance to Jacob for a bowl of lentils. Later Jacob had to deceive Isaac to get the inheritance.

The first born in David’s house is Amnon. We know nothing about Amnon’s ability to eventually lead David’s house. But we do know about Amnon’s lustful heart.

“And Amnon was so vexed, that he fell sick for his sister Tamar; for she was a virgin; and Amnon thought it hard for him to do any thing to her.” (2 Samuel 13:2)

Amnon certainly lusted for his half-sister, but she was a virgin. Had she been anything but a virgin, Amnon could have found many reasons to sleep with her. Not only did Amnon know she was a virgin, it was known throughout the house of David that she was sexually pure. Had Amnon had an excuse based on her sexual impurity, he could have blamed her for coming on to him. It was going to be hard for him to do anything to her.

“But Amnon had a friend, whose name was Jonadab, the son of Shimeah David’s brother: and Jonadab was a very subtil man.” (2 Samuel 13:3)

Jonadab, Amnon’s cousin, was a sneaky man. Not a genius, but smart enough to manipulate Amnon. Jonadab knew Amnon was having a problem and cut straight to the matter of the issue. Jonadab realizes Amnon is lusting for his half-sister Tamar. This gives Jonadab the chance to interject family strife by presenting a plan for Amnon.

Jonadab is aware that David is concerned about his children. Jonadab realizes he has to get Tamara into Amnon’s bed chamber alone. So, he tells Amnon to pretend to be sick and have David make Tamara your nurse.

“And Jonadab said unto him, Lay thee down on thy bed, and make thyself sick: and when thy father cometh to see thee, say unto him, I pray thee, let my sister Tamar come, and give me meat, and dress the meat in my sight, that I may see it, and eat it at her hand.” (2 Samuel 13:5)

David had no reason to believe that Amnon was planning on doing anything ugly to Tamar. Tamar had no reason to believe that Amnon was planning on doing anything ugly to her. There was only two people who knew what Amnon was planning. That is Amnon, and Jonadab.

When Amnon is alone with his half-sister he forcefully rapes her. Amnon’s guilt comes crashing down on him and he throws Tamar out of the room. Tamar leaves the room and rents her clothes and covers herself in ashes.

Drama is about to get crazy.

Stay Tuned…

“The House of…”

 “Thus saith the LORD, Behold, I will raise up evil against thee out of thine own house, and I will take thy wives before thine eyes, and give them unto thy neighbour, and he shall lie with thy wives in the sight of this sun.” (2 Samuel 12:11)

Narrative

The House of, insert name here, is linked to a patriarchal group of closely related people. The person named as the leader of the house is not necessarily the actual power in the house. Two houses that are spoken of is The House of Saul and the House of David.

The House of…does not mean everyone concerned live in the same actual house. They might live in the same house, city, or region. For instance, The House of Abraham lived in tents tending their flocks, moving from place to place. However, he gives birth to the House of Isaac, who also gives birth to the House of Esau, and the House of Jacob.

The House of…was not a place of perfection. The House of Abraham lied that he and Sarah were brother and sister; The House of Isaac suffered from the lie of his wife and Jacob about who was the heir.

The House of….is an example not just to Israel, but to Gentiles (that means everyone) as well. Samuel knew The House of Saul was a bad idea as king, but God allowed it, to be a lesson to us all. Saul’s son Jonathan was an unusual case in the House of Saul. Jonathan loved David as he did himself, yet Jonathan continued to honor his father. Jonathan died beside Saul on the battlefield.

The House of Saul not only had men, but it had women. Michal the daughter of Saul was given to David as David’s first wife. Michal pretended David was sick in bed when Saul sent his guards to kill David. Michal had helped David escape from her father. Michal is given by Saul to another man after David had escaped.

The House of David lived in several cities while David was avoiding Saul. David had many wives and many son’s. David’s failure results in God’s wrath. Not just to David, but to the entire House of David.

Stay tuned…

“Rich Man Poor Man”

 “And the LORD sent Nathan unto David. And he came unto him, and said unto him, There were two men in one city; the one rich, and the other poor.” (2 Samuel 12:1)

A Rich Man had many sheep, goats, and cattle.

A Poor Man had nothing, except for one little female lamb. He brought the little lamb up as if it was one of his children. He fed it, groomed it, and cuddled it as he would a daughter.

A traveler came to visit the Rich Man. The Rich Man had laid out a feast for the traveler. However, instead of using his own riches, he took the Poor Man’s lamb, slaughtered it and fed it to the traveler.

“5And David’s anger was greatly kindled against the man; and he said to Nathan, As the LORD liveth, the man that hath done this thing shall surely die:

6And he shall restore the lamb fourfold, because he did this thing, and because he had no pity.” (2 Samuel 12:5-6)

“7And Nathan said to David, Thou art the man. Thus saith the LORD God of Israel, I anointed thee king over Israel, and I delivered thee out of the hand of Saul;

8And I gave thee thy master’s house, and thy master’s wives into thy bosom, and gave thee the house of Israel and of Judah; and if that had been too little, I would moreover have given unto thee such and such things.

9Wherefore hast thou despised the commandment of the LORD, to do evil in his sight? thou hast killed Uriah the Hittite with the sword, and hast taken his wife to be thy wife, and hast slain him with the sword of the children of Ammon.

10Now therefore the sword shall never depart from thine house; because thou hast despised me, and hast taken the wife of Uriah the Hittite to be thy wife.

11Thus saith the LORD, Behold, I will raise up evil against thee out of thine own house, and I will take thy wives before thine eyes, and give them unto thy neighbour, and he shall lie with thy wives in the sight of this sun.

12For thou didst it secretly: but I will do this thing before all Israel, and before the sun.

13And David said unto Nathan, I have sinned against the LORD. And Nathan said unto David, The LORD also hath put away thy sin; thou shalt not die.

14Howbeit, because by this deed thou hast given great occasion to the enemies of the LORD to blaspheme, the child also that is born unto thee shall surely die.

15And Nathan departed unto his house. And the LORD struck the child that Uriah’s wife bare unto David, and it was very sick.

16David therefore besought God for the child; and David fasted, and went in, and lay all night upon the earth.

17And the elders of his house arose, and went to him, to raise him up from the earth: but he would not, neither did he eat bread with them.

18And it came to pass on the seventh day, that the child died. And the servants of David feared to tell him that the child was dead: for they said, Behold, while the child was yet alive, we spake unto him, and he would not hearken unto our voice: how will he then vex himself, if we tell him that the child is dead?

19But when David saw that his servants whispered, David perceived that the child was dead: therefore David said unto his servants, Is the child dead? And they said, He is dead.

20Then David arose from the earth, and washed, and anointed himself, and changed his apparel, and came into the house of the LORD, and worshipped: then he came to his own house; and when he required, they set bread before him, and he did eat.

21Then said his servants unto him, What thing is this that thou hast done? thou didst fast and weep for the child, while it was alive; but when the child was dead, thou didst rise and eat bread.

22And he said, While the child was yet alive, I fasted and wept: for I said, Who can tell whether GOD will be gracious to me, that the child may live?

23But now he is dead, wherefore should I fast? can I bring him back again? I shall go to him, but he shall not return to me.

24And David comforted Bathsheba his wife, and went in unto her, and lay with her: and she bare a son, and he called his name Solomon: and the LORD loved him.

25And he sent by the hand of Nathan the prophet; and he called his name Jedidiah, because of the LORD.

26And Joab fought against Rabbah of the children of Ammon, and took the royal city.

27And Joab sent messengers to David, and said, I have fought against Rabbah, and have taken the city of waters.

28Now therefore gather the rest of the people together, and encamp against the city, and take it: lest I take the city, and it be called after my name.

29And David gathered all the people together, and went to Rabbah, and fought against it, and took it.

30And he took their king’s crown from off his head, the weight whereof was a talent of gold with the precious stones: and it was set on David’s head. And he brought forth the spoil of the city in great abundance.

31And he brought forth the people that were therein, and put them under saws, and under harrows of iron, and under axes of iron, and made them pass through the brickkiln: and thus did he unto all the cities of the children of Ammon. So David and all the people returned unto Jerusalem.” (2 Samuel 12:7-31)

A lesson we all need to understand.

“Underwater”

 “And it came to pass, after the year was expired, at the time when kings go forth to battle, that David sent Joab, and his servants with him, and all Israel; and they destroyed the children of Ammon, and besieged Rabbah. But David tarried still at Jerusalem.” (2 Samuel 11:1)

Introduction

We are surrounded by poor choices or worse. Poor choices from our sinful ways. Yes we have all sinned. But before going into that lets look at King David’s sinful ways.

Weakness

The war with the Ammonites and Syrians has been raging and now Rabbah is under siege. King David is now in Jerusalem. What is he doing? Maybe penning a Psalm, plucking his harp, or just thinking? That is until one morning.

“And it came to pass in an eveningtide, that David arose from off his bed, and walked upon the roof of the king’s house: and from the roof he saw a woman washing herself; and the woman was very beautiful to look upon.” (2 Samuel 11:2)

Just like David we see a pool of water that is inviting, then jump in without looking to see what hazards lie beneath. There is no doubt that David had sinful thoughts in his mind. God provides salvation through his son Jesus if we just ask. David did not ask. His thoughts were not focused on anything other than his own sinful heart.

Bathsheba was her name. David brings her into his house and sleeps with her. Bathsheba was already married to Uriah the Hittite. David’s sins at this point were, Adultery, Steal and Covet.

After a short time, “And the woman conceived, and sent and told David, and said, I am with child.” (2 Samuel 11:5)

David needs an out and if he can get Uriah to sleep with his own wife he can put the child on Uriah and hide his sin. Now David is expecting to commit “Bearing False Witness” to the list.

David brought Uriah back from the war and tried everything to include making Uriah drunk to get him to sleep with his own wife. Uriah refused.

David sends Uriah back to the war and sends a message to Joab to have Uriah on the front in the most dangerous part of the battle.

“24And the shooters shot from off the wall upon thy servants; and some of the king’s servants be dead, and thy servant Uriah the Hittite is dead also.

25Then David said unto the messenger, Thus shalt thou say unto Joab, Let not this thing displease thee, for the sword devoureth one as well as another: make thy battle more strong against the city, and overthrow it: and encourage thou him.

26And when the wife of Uriah heard that Uriah her husband was dead, she mourned for her husband.

27And when the mourning was past, David sent and fetched her to his house, and she became his wife, and bare him a son. But the thing that David had done displeased the LORD. (2 Samuel 11:24-27)

When you get in water over your head, you are in real trouble.

Stay Tuned…

“David’s Love of Jonathan”

 “And David said, Is there yet any that is left of the house of Saul, that I may shew him kindness for Jonathan’s sake?” (2 Samuel 9:1)

Introduction

David and Jonathan were more than friends, they were brothers with the same heart. Both had faith and trust in what God wanted them to do and to be.

“And it came to pass, when he had made an end of speaking unto Saul, that the soul of Jonathan was knit with the soul of David, and Jonathan loved him as his own soul.” (1 Samuel 18:1)

David has increased the territory of Israel and now seeks to pay homage to those that had helped him.

Mephibosheth

Mephibosheth was Jonathan’s son, when he was just a child his nurse had dropped him when they were fleeing the Philistines. Mephibosheth was made lame in the fall. This left him with no way of fending for himself. Even after the death of Saul and Jonathan he still had servants that looked after him. David went looking for him.

There is no doubt that those in the house of Saul would expect retribution based on the hate Saul had harbored for David. Now that David was no longer bothered by his powerful enemies, would he not seek out those in the house of Saul?

What happened instead was a rescue, just as Jesus Christ has rescued us from our sins, David rescues Mephibosheth.

“And David said unto him, Fear not: for I will surely shew thee kindness for Jonathan thy father’s sake, and will restore thee all the land of Saul thy father; and thou shalt eat bread at my table continually.” (2 Samuel 9:7)

Conclusion

King David had found himself in the lowest station of life. Drooling and acting like he was crazy in order to find safety with the Philistines. David could have killed Saul at any point during his flight from the wrath of Saul. Instead of killing Saul he listened to God and let God take care of the problem. Now with the love David and Jonathan had for each other, he has pledged to take care of the least in Saul’s house.

Growth of Israel

 Background

King David has brought the Ark into his house and placed it in a tent modeled by Moses’s guidance. Now King David is expanding the Kingdom of Israel.

Expansion of David’s Kingdom

King David isn’t sitting around, he began by taking the chief city of the Philistines, Metheg-ammah. Metheg-ammah is the royal city of the Philistines that is originally called Gath. Metheg means bridle, a bridle is used to take control of a horse, mule, or donkey. This is the same place where Joab had chased Abner to.

“Joab also and Abishai pursued after Abner: and the sun went down when they were come to the hill of Ammah, that lieth before Giah by the way of the wilderness of Gibeon.” (2 Samuel 2:24)

Gath was also the hometown of Goliath, that David had killed. And when David was hiding from Saul he took refuge in Gath.

Next King David went up against the Moabites. The Moabites had been dangerous enemies from the time of Moses in the wilderness. Remember Balaam’s talking donkey? Balaam prophesized the end of two thirds of the Moabites.

“And he smote Moab, and measured them with a line, casting them down to the ground; even with two lines measured he to put to death, and with one full line to keep alive. And so the Moabites became David’s servants, and brought gifts.” (2 Samuel 8:2)

As servants to King David they will provide tribute (as in more than just taxes). They will continue to serve King David until the death of Ahab.

Now King David turns his attention to Syria. There are two important targets in Syria. The first is Zobah, the second are the Syrians in Damascus. Both had worked with each other to protect the other. King David made quick work of them.

“And David took from him a thousand chariots, and seven thousand horsemen, and twenty thousand footmen: David also houghed all the chariot horses, but reserved of them an hundred chariots.” (1 Chronicles 18:4)

Tribute to God

King David’s territories and principle cites now include most of Caanan to include Syria. David has amassed a great deal of gold, silver, gems, copper, and brass.

“Which also king David did dedicate unto the LORD, with the silver and gold that he had dedicated of all nations which he subdued; 12 Of Syria, and of Moab, and of the children of Ammon, and of the Philistines, and of Amalek, and of the spoil of Hadadezer, son of Rehob, king of Zobah.” (2 Samuel 8:11)

The pagan idols of David’s enemies were burned and refashioned.

King David had prospered through the protection of God and he praised God in all he had been given.