Topical Encyclopedia Flattery, a form of insincere praise or excessive compliments, is often used as a tool for manipulation and deceit. In the biblical narrative, Absalom, the third son of King David, is a prominent figure who employed flattery to further his own ambitions, ultimately leading to a rebellion against his father.Absalom's Background Absalom was known for his striking appearance and charismatic personality. 2 Samuel 14:25 describes him as "the most handsome man in all Israel," with "no blemish from head to toe." His charm and physical allure made him a popular figure among the Israelites, setting the stage for his use of flattery to gain favor and influence. The Use of Flattery in Absalom's Rebellion Absalom's discontent with his father, King David, began to manifest after the incident involving his sister Tamar and his half-brother Amnon. Following Amnon's death, Absalom fled and later returned to Jerusalem, where he began to plot against David. Absalom's strategy involved winning the hearts of the people through flattery and deceit. 2 Samuel 15:2-6 details Absalom's tactics: "He would get up early and stand beside the road leading to the city gate. Whenever anyone had a grievance to bring before the king for judgment, Absalom would call out to him, 'What city are you from?' And he would reply, 'Your servant is from one of the tribes of Israel.' Then Absalom would say to him, 'Look, your claims are good and right, but the king has no deputy to hear you.' And he would add, 'If only someone would appoint me judge in the land, then every man with a grievance or dispute could come to me, and I would give him justice.'" Absalom's words were designed to flatter the people, making them feel valued and understood. By suggesting that their grievances were legitimate and that he alone could provide justice, Absalom subtly undermined David's authority and positioned himself as a more favorable leader. The Consequences of Flattery Absalom's flattery was effective, as "he stole the hearts of the men of Israel" (2 Samuel 15:6). His manipulation led to a full-scale rebellion against King David, forcing David to flee Jerusalem. The rebellion, however, ended in tragedy. Absalom's forces were defeated, and he was killed in battle, as recorded in 2 Samuel 18. Biblical Perspective on Flattery The Bible consistently warns against the dangers of flattery. Proverbs 26:28 states, "A lying tongue hates those it crushes, and a flattering mouth causes ruin." Absalom's account serves as a cautionary tale about the destructive power of flattery when used for selfish gain. His insincere praise and manipulation ultimately led to division, conflict, and his own demise. In the broader biblical context, flattery is often associated with deceit and is condemned as contrary to the values of truth and integrity. Believers are encouraged to speak truthfully and to avoid using flattery as a means of manipulation or personal advancement. Torrey's Topical Textbook 2 Samuel 15:2-6And Absalom rose up early, and stood beside the way of the gate: and it was so, that when any man that had a controversy came to the king for judgment, then Absalom called to him, and said, Of what city are you? And he said, Your servant is of one of the tribes of Israel. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library We must Observe a Right Standard Between Too Great Mildness and ... Sermon. Philippians ii. 4-Jan The Ninth Commandment 2 Cor. xii. 1 Scriptures Showing the Sin and Danger of Joining with Wicked and ... Aron, Brother of Moses, 486, 487. On the Great Athanasius, Bishop of Alexandria. From the Close of the General Conference of 1816 to the ... They Shall be Called the Children of God Resources Who was Daniel in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWho is the king of the South in Daniel 11? | GotQuestions.org What is apostasy and how can I recognize it? | GotQuestions.org Flattery: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Flattery by Darius's Courtiers Flattery by the Woman of Tekoah Flattery: Avoid Those Given To Flattery: False Prophets and Teachers Use Flattery: General Scriptures Concerning Flattery: Hypocrites Use, to God Flattery: Hypocrites Use, to Those in Authority Flattery: Ministers should not Use Flattery: Paul Correctly Informs Felix Flattery: Saints should not Used Flattery: Seldom Gains Respect Flattery: Tertullus Flatters Felix Flattery: The Wicked Use, to Others Flattery: The Wicked Use, to Themselves Flattery: Wisdom, a Preservative Against Flattery: Worldly Advantage Obtained By Related Terms |
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