Topical Bible: Hair: Worn Long by Absalom

◄ Hair: Worn Long by Absalom ►

Jump to: Nave's • Library • Subtopics • Terms

Topical Encyclopedia

Absalom, the third son of King David, is a prominent figure in the Old Testament known for his striking appearance and tumultuous life. One of the most notable aspects of Absalom's physical description is his long hair, which is mentioned in the context of his beauty and charisma. The account of Absalom's hair is found primarily in the Second Book of Samuel.

Biblical Description

The Bible describes Absalom as exceptionally handsome, with his long hair being a significant feature of his appearance. In 2 Samuel 14:25-26 , it is written: "Now in all Israel there was no man as handsome and highly praised as Absalom. From the sole of his foot to the crown of his head, he was without blemish. And when he cut the hair of his head—he shaved it at the end of every year because it grew so heavy on him—he would weigh it, and its weight was two hundred shekels by the royal standard."

This passage highlights not only the length and weight of Absalom's hair but also the cultural significance of such a feature. In ancient Israel, long hair could be a symbol of strength, virility, and nobility, and Absalom's hair was a testament to his physical allure and the admiration he received from the people.

Cultural and Symbolic Significance

In the context of ancient Israelite culture, hair held symbolic meaning. Long hair was often associated with the Nazirite vow, a special dedication to God, as seen in the life of Samson (Judges 13-16). However, there is no indication that Absalom was a Nazirite. Instead, his long hair seems to serve as a symbol of his personal pride and vanity, traits that would later contribute to his downfall.

Absalom's hair also plays a crucial role in the narrative of his rebellion against his father, King David. In 2 Samuel 18:9 , during the battle in the forest of Ephraim, Absalom's hair becomes entangled in the branches of a large oak tree, leaving him suspended and vulnerable: "Now Absalom happened to meet the servants of David. He was riding his mule, and as the mule went under the thick branches of a large oak, Absalom’s head was caught fast in the tree. The mule under him kept going, so he was left hanging in midair."

This incident ultimately leads to Absalom's death at the hands of Joab, David's military commander. The entanglement of his hair, which had been a source of pride, becomes a literal and symbolic snare, illustrating the biblical theme of pride leading to destruction (Proverbs 16:18).

Theological Reflections

From a theological perspective, Absalom's long hair can be seen as a reflection of his character and the consequences of his actions. His physical beauty and charisma, symbolized by his hair, are overshadowed by his ambition and rebellion against God's anointed king, his father David. The narrative serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of pride and the importance of humility and obedience to God's will.

In summary, Absalom's long hair is a multifaceted symbol within the biblical narrative, representing both his personal allure and the tragic flaws that lead to his demise. The account of Absalom serves as a reminder of the biblical principle that external appearances can be deceiving, and true strength and honor come from a heart aligned with God's purposes.

Nave's Topical Index

2 Samuel 14:26
And when he polled his head, (for it was at every year's end that he polled it: because the hair was heavy on him, therefore he polled it:) he weighed the hair of his head at two hundred shekels after the king's weight.
Nave's Topical Index

Library

Abraham, his Trial in Egypt; his Humility
... 385. Absalom, popular, [16]4; sober-minded as long as in exile, [17]401.
Acclamations in churches, [18]22, [19]74. Accommodation ...
/.../abraham his trial in egypt.htm

The Journey of the Three Holy Kings to Bethlehem
... loose flaps of stuff between which cushions of hair could be ... to the knee, rather
like the coats worn by our ... their chief was going away for some long time, all ...
/.../emmerich/the life of the blessed virgin mary/xiii the journey of the.htm

The Life and Death of Mr. Badman,
... his brothers, and, as it were, think every godly opportunity seven times as long
as it ... and the Lord hath delivered the kingdom into the hand of Absalom thy son ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/the life and death of.htm

The Work of Jesus Christ as an Advocate,
... and reason, and equity, were all on his side, and if, by the adversary, there could
be nothing urged, but that against which the Advocate had long before made ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/the work of jesus christ.htm