“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…