1. How does Joab manipulate David's feelings for Absalom? How can we guard against manipulation in our own lives?

2. In what ways does the wise woman's story mirror David's own situation?

3. How does David initially respond to the plea of the wise woman from Tekoa? What does this reveal about his character?

4. What does Absalom's time in Jerusalem, without seeing David, indicate about their relationship?

5. How does Absalom's frustration reflect in his actions towards Joab and David?

6. What does David's decision to reconcile with Absalom tell us about forgiveness and reconciliation?

7. How does this chapter showcase the theme of family relationships in terms of forgiveness, manipulation, and justice?

8. How does this chapter reflect on the effects of unresolved guilt?

9. How might David's role as a king have influenced his actions as a father?

10. How do political and personal interests intertwine in this chapter?

11. How would you handle a situation similar to David's, in which you have unresolved issues with a family member?

12. What lessons can you draw from David and Absalom's relationship?

13. How can this story guide us in handling conflicts within our families?

14. How does the narrative of the woman from Tekoa inspire empathy? How important is empathy in our everyday relationships?

15. How can we relate the concept of "seeking justice" as shown in Absalom's demand to our present day situations?

16. Why do you think David agreed to Absalom's demand for justice?

17. How does Absalom's physical beauty (as described in verses 25-27) play a part in his story? How does society today place emphasis on physical appearance?

18. In what ways can we apply the themes of forgiveness and reconciliation in this chapter to our own lives?

19. How would you handle feelings of guilt and regret like David’s in your personal context?

20. What are the potential consequences of avoiding direct confrontation of our personal issues as shown in this chapter?