2 Samuel 14:32

"Look," said Absalom, "I sent for you and said, 'Come here. I want to send you to the king to ask: Why have I come back from Geshur? It would be better for me if I were still there.' So now, let me see the king's face, and if there is iniquity in me, let him kill me."

Study Bible

Look, said Absalom
The word "Look" here is a call for attention, a plea for understanding and recognition. Absalom, the son of King David, is seeking to be heard. In Hebrew, the word often translated as "look" or "behold" is "הִנֵּה" (hinneh), which is used to draw attention to something important. Absalom's use of this word indicates his desperation and urgency. He is not merely speaking; he is demanding to be noticed, reflecting his frustration and the gravity of his situation.

I sent word to you
This phrase indicates Absalom's proactive attempt to communicate. The Hebrew root for "sent" is "שָׁלַח" (shalach), which means to send or dispatch. Absalom is taking initiative, trying to bridge the gap between himself and his father, King David. This action underscores his desire for reconciliation and resolution, highlighting the strained relationship between father and son.

Come here so I can send you to the king
Absalom is orchestrating a meeting with King David through an intermediary. The phrase "come here" suggests a summons, an invitation to participate in a crucial mission. The historical context reveals the complexities of royal communication and the protocols involved in approaching a king. Absalom's strategy reflects his understanding of courtly procedures and his determination to address his grievances.

to ask, 'Why have I come from Geshur?
Absalom questions the purpose of his return from Geshur, a place of refuge after he fled following the murder of his brother Amnon. The rhetorical question "Why have I come" reveals his inner turmoil and sense of injustice. Geshur, a region northeast of the Sea of Galilee, was ruled by Absalom's maternal grandfather, providing him a safe haven. His return to Jerusalem was supposed to signify reconciliation, yet he remains isolated, prompting this poignant inquiry.

It would be better for me if I were still there!
This expression of regret highlights Absalom's disillusionment. The phrase "better for me" suggests a comparison between his current state and his past refuge. Absalom's lamentation reflects his perception of being trapped in a liminal space—neither fully accepted nor entirely rejected. His words echo the biblical theme of exile and the longing for a place of belonging and peace.

Now then, I want to see the king's face
Absalom's desire to "see the king's face" is a plea for personal audience and reconciliation. In ancient Near Eastern culture, seeing the king's face was a sign of favor and acceptance. The Hebrew word for "face" is "פָּנִים" (panim), often associated with presence and relational intimacy. Absalom's request underscores his yearning for restoration of his relationship with his father, King David.

and if there is any guilt in me, let him put me to death
This bold statement reveals Absalom's willingness to face the consequences of his actions. The phrase "if there is any guilt" suggests a conditional acceptance of responsibility. Absalom is prepared to submit to judgment, reflecting a complex mix of defiance and vulnerability. His words echo the biblical principle of justice and accountability, emphasizing the gravity of sin and the need for atonement.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Absalom
The third son of King David, known for his handsome appearance and rebellious nature. He is central to this passage as he seeks reconciliation with his father, King David.

2. Joab
David's military commander and a key figure in the account. He acts as an intermediary between Absalom and King David.

3. King David
The reigning king of Israel and father of Absalom. His relationship with Absalom is strained due to past events, including Absalom's murder of his brother Amnon.

4. Geshur
A region where Absalom fled after killing Amnon. It represents a place of exile and separation from his father and the kingdom.

5. The Event of Reconciliation
This passage is part of the larger account where Absalom seeks to be reconciled with his father, King David, after being in exile.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Sin
Absalom's actions remind us that sin can lead to separation and broken relationships. We must be mindful of our actions and their potential impact on others.

The Importance of Reconciliation
Absalom's desire to see the king's face highlights the human need for reconciliation. As Christians, we are called to seek reconciliation with others and with God.

The Role of Intermediaries
Joab's role as a mediator reflects the importance of having peacemakers in our lives who can help bridge gaps in broken relationships.

Facing Consequences with Courage
Absalom's willingness to face the king and accept the consequences of his actions is a lesson in accountability and courage.

The Father's Heart
David's eventual acceptance of Absalom mirrors God's willingness to forgive and restore us when we repent and seek His face.

Bible Study Questions

1. What can we learn from Absalom's approach to seeking reconciliation with King David, and how can we apply this in our own relationships?

2. How does the account of Absalom and David compare to the Parable of the Prodigal Son in Luke 15, and what does this teach us about forgiveness?

3. In what ways can we act as intermediaries like Joab to help others reconcile their broken relationships?

4. How does Hebrews 12:14-15 encourage us to pursue peace, and what practical steps can we take to avoid bitterness in our lives?

5. Reflect on a time when you had to face the consequences of your actions. How did you approach the situation, and what did you learn from it about accountability and courage?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Samuel 13
Provides the background of Absalom's exile, detailing the events leading to his estrangement from David, including the murder of Amnon.

Luke 15:11-32
The Parable of the Prodigal Son, which similarly deals with themes of estrangement and reconciliation between a father and son.

Hebrews 12:14-15
Encourages believers to pursue peace and avoid bitterness, relevant to the reconciliation theme in Absalom's account.