2 Samuel 14:30

Then Absalom said to his servants, "Look, Joab's field is next to mine, and he has barley there. Go and set it on fire!" And Absalom's servants set the field on fire.

Study Bible

Then Absalom said to his servants
Absalom, the third son of King David, is a central figure in the narrative of 2 Samuel. Known for his striking appearance and charisma, he often acted with impulsive and rebellious tendencies. His relationship with his father was strained, especially after the incident involving his sister Tamar and his brother Amnon. Absalom's command to his servants reflects his authoritative position and his willingness to use others to achieve his goals.

“Look, Joab’s field is next to mine, and he has barley there.
Joab, the commander of David's army, played a crucial role in the political and military landscape of Israel. His field being next to Absalom's suggests proximity and perhaps a previous relationship or alliance. Barley was a staple crop in ancient Israel, indicating the field's value. The mention of barley also highlights the agricultural context of the time, where land and crops were significant assets.

Go and set it on fire!”
Setting a field on fire was an act of aggression and a means of drawing attention. In the ancient Near East, such actions were often used to provoke or send a message. Absalom's decision to burn Joab's field was a strategic move to compel Joab to respond, as Joab had been avoiding Absalom. This act of destruction reflects Absalom's desperation and willingness to resort to extreme measures to achieve his objectives.

And Absalom’s servants set the field on fire.
The obedience of Absalom's servants indicates his influence and authority over them. The act of setting the field on fire fulfilled Absalom's intention to force Joab into action. This event is a turning point in the narrative, leading to Joab's intervention and Absalom's eventual reconciliation with David. The burning of the field symbolizes the destructive consequences of unresolved conflict and the lengths to which individuals will go to assert their will.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Absalom
The son of King David, known for his handsome appearance and rebellious nature. In this passage, he is frustrated with Joab for not responding to his requests.

2. Joab
The commander of King David's army and a key political figure. He is a relative of David and has significant influence in the kingdom. Joab's field is set on fire by Absalom's servants.

3. Field of Barley
The field belonging to Joab, which is set on fire by Absalom's servants as a means to get Joab's attention.

4. Servants of Absalom
They carry out Absalom's orders to set Joab's field on fire, demonstrating their loyalty to Absalom.

5. Event of Arson
Absalom's act of setting Joab's field on fire is a pivotal moment that reflects his desperation and willingness to use extreme measures to achieve his goals.

Teaching Points

Desperation Leads to Destructive Actions
Absalom's decision to set Joab's field on fire shows how desperation can lead to destructive and sinful actions. Believers should seek God’s guidance in times of frustration rather than resorting to harmful measures.

The Consequences of Manipulation
Absalom's manipulation to gain Joab's attention serves as a warning about the consequences of using deceitful tactics. Christians are called to be honest and transparent in their dealings with others.

The Importance of Communication
The breakdown in communication between Absalom and Joab highlights the importance of addressing issues directly and openly. Effective communication can prevent misunderstandings and conflicts.

Seeking Godly Counsel
Absalom's actions reflect a lack of wise counsel. Believers should seek godly advice and wisdom from Scripture and mature Christians when facing difficult situations.

Bible Study Questions

1. What motivated Absalom to set Joab's field on fire, and what does this reveal about his character?

2. How can we apply the principle of sowing and reaping (Galatians 6:7) to the actions and consequences seen in Absalom's life?

3. In what ways can poor communication lead to conflict, and how can we ensure our communication is effective and godly?

4. Reflect on a time when you felt desperate or frustrated. How can you handle such situations in a way that honors God?

5. What steps can you take to seek godly counsel and avoid manipulative behavior in your relationships?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Samuel 13-15
Provides context for Absalom's actions, including his estrangement from David and his desire to return to favor.

Proverbs 6:16-19
Lists things the Lord hates, including a heart that devises wicked schemes, which can be related to Absalom's manipulative actions.

Galatians 6:7
Discusses the principle of sowing and reaping, which can be connected to the consequences of Absalom's actions.