Absalom was the third son of King David, born to Maacah, the daughter of Talmai king of Geshur (2 Samuel 3:3). He is described as exceptionally handsome: “from the sole of his foot even to the crown of his head there was no blemish in him” (2 Samuel 14:25). His hair was especially noted, being heavy and luxurious, which later played a role in his death (2 Samuel 14:26; 18:9).
Absalom’s life is marked by rebellion and tragedy. When his sister Tamar was violated by their half-brother Amnon, Absalom took vengeance by having Amnon killed two years later (2 Samuel 13:28–29). After the murder, Absalom fled to Geshur and remained there for three years until Joab persuaded David to allow his return (2 Samuel 14:23–24). Even then, David refused to see him for two more years.
Eventually, Absalom was fully restored to David’s presence, but he began to plot against his father to take the kingdom. He gained favor among the people by presenting himself as a just and caring alternative to David (2 Samuel 15:1–6). He then declared himself king in Hebron, leading a full-scale rebellion against David (2 Samuel 15:10–14).
David fled Jerusalem, and Absalom entered the city. He further dishonored his father by taking David’s concubines publicly, fulfilling Nathan’s prophecy of judgment upon David for his sin with Bathsheba (2 Samuel 16:21–22; cf. 2 Samuel 12:11). Eventually, Absalom’s forces were defeated in battle. As he fled on a mule, his hair was caught in the branches of a tree, leaving him hanging and helpless. Joab found him and killed him with three darts (2 Samuel 18:9–14).
David mourned bitterly for his son, crying, “O my son Absalom, my son, my son Absalom!” (2 Samuel 18:33). Absalom’s life stands as a solemn warning against pride, rebellion, and the destruction that comes from seeking to usurp authority established by God.
