24. The king wept over his son’s death (2 Samuel 18:19 – 19:8)

David wept over Absalom’s death as if he cared more for his son than for himself and his kingdom. This displeased Joab and his soldiers.

πŸ‘‰ Read 2Samuel 18:19 – 19:8


Q1. Despite Joab deterring him from going, why did Ahimaaz insist on delivering the news of the victory? (22)

He might have wanted a reward.
Joab knew David would not be happy with Absalom’s death and therefore sent a Cushite soldier who might be killed by David, though Joab would accept that risk.


Q2. The passage repeatedly refers to David as ‘the king.’ How many times do you see ‘the king’ from 18:19 – 19:8?

More than 11 times.
Also, Absalom is called ‘the king’s son’ (18:20), and they addressed David as ‘my lord the king’ (18:28, 31, 32). This passage contrasts the grief of losing a son with the responsibilities of a king. David was caught between these two identities and responsibilities.


Q3. When David heard his son had died, what did he cry?

‘My son, Absalom! My son, my son Absalom! If only I could have died in your place! Absalom, my son, my son!’


Q4. What was wrong with David’s action according to Joab’s words? (19:6)

He did not care about the lives and sacrifices of his soldiers but only about Absalom’s fate.
He forgot he was the king, who should respond properly with responsibility in such a national crisis. Note that Joab did not call David ‘my lord the king.’ David was supposed to be sitting at the city gate, not crying at home (19:5, 8).


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