The tragic account of the rape of Tamar by her half-brother Amnon and the subsequent avenging of this act by her brother Absalom is a significant narrative found in the Old Testament, specifically in 2 Samuel 13. This account is a poignant illustration of the consequences of sin, familial discord, and the pursuit of justice.

Background and Characters

Tamar was the daughter of King David and Maacah, making her a princess of Israel. She is described as a beautiful woman, and her account is intertwined with the lives of her brothers, Amnon and Absalom. Amnon, David's firstborn son, was born to Ahinoam of Jezreel, while Absalom was Tamar's full brother, sharing the same mother.

The Crime

Amnon's infatuation with Tamar is described as an overwhelming obsession. In 2 Samuel 13:2, the Berean Standard Bible states, "Amnon was frustrated to the point of illness on account of his sister Tamar, for she was a virgin, and it seemed impossible for him to do anything to her." Amnon's desire led him to devise a deceitful plan with the help of his cunning cousin Jonadab. Pretending to be ill, Amnon requested that Tamar prepare food for him in his chamber. Once alone with her, he overpowered and raped her, despite her protests and reasoning against such a vile act (2 Samuel 13:12-14).

Tamar's Desolation

After the assault, Amnon's feelings turned to hatred, and he callously dismissed Tamar, further compounding her humiliation and distress. Tamar's response was one of deep mourning; she tore her robe, put ashes on her head, and went away crying aloud (2 Samuel 13:19). Her brother Absalom took her into his home, offering her protection and counsel, though he advised her to remain silent about the incident for the time being.

David's Inaction

King David, upon learning of the incident, was furious but took no action against Amnon, his firstborn. This lack of response is often viewed as a failure of leadership and justice, contributing to the subsequent events. David's inaction may have been influenced by his own past sins and the complexities of familial relationships.

Absalom's Revenge

Absalom, however, harbored a deep-seated anger towards Amnon. For two years, he waited patiently, biding his time to exact revenge. During a sheep-shearing event, Absalom invited all the king's sons, including Amnon, to a feast. It was there that Absalom ordered his servants to kill Amnon once he was in high spirits from wine (2 Samuel 13:28-29). This act of vengeance was carried out, and Amnon was slain, leading to Absalom's temporary flight to Geshur to escape the repercussions.

Theological and Moral Implications

The narrative of Tamar, Amnon, and Absalom is a sobering reminder of the destructive nature of sin and the importance of justice and righteousness. It highlights the consequences of unchecked lust, the failure of leadership to address wrongdoing, and the complexities of familial loyalty and retribution. The account also underscores the need for compassion and protection for victims of such heinous acts, as well as the pursuit of justice in accordance with God's laws.2 Samuel 13:6-29,32,33
So Amnon lay down, and made himself sick: and when the king was come to see him, Amnon said to the king, I pray you, let Tamar my sister come, and make me a couple of cakes in my sight, that I may eat at her hand.
Nave's Topical Index

Did David rape Bathsheba? | GotQuestions.org

Does Deuteronomy 22:28-29 command a rape victim to marry her rapist? | GotQuestions.org

Why did Amnon rape Tamar? Why didn't David punish Amnon? | GotQuestions.org

Rape: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com

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