“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…