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2 Samuel 19:9–18a

So [David] swayed the hearts of all the men of Judah, just as the heart of one man, so that they sent this word to the king: “Return, you and all your servants!” (v. 14).

God has brought Absalom to destruction in his rebellion against his father, David. But despite Absalom’s defeat and death, David does not immediately return to Jerusalem from his place of exile in Mahanaim. Why? The reason appears to be that the nation is in dispute over what to do with him. Some people are zealous to bring David back, remembering all his good deeds for Israel. These supporters of David seem to be from the northern tribes of Israel. By contrast, the people of David’s own tribe, Judah, are less eager for David’s return. Perhaps their hesitation stems from the fact that Absalom launched his rebellion in the Judahite city of Hebron (2 Sam. 15:7–9), and they fear David will hold them responsible in some way.

Therefore, David takes steps to reassure the elders of Judah. He sends word to the priests, Zadok and Abiathar, asking them to communicate to the Judahites that he bears no grudge. He still considers them to be his “brethren … [his] bone and [his] flesh.” And he sends a special word for his nephew Amasa, who signed on as Absalom’s general. David swears an oath to make Amasa the commander of his own forces in place of Joab, a very magnanimous move (and one that likely shows David is unhappy about Joab’s disregard of his wish that Absalom be spared). These appeals have their intended effect: The Judahites’ hesitations are overcome and they invite David to come back. The intention seems to be to bring him first to Gilgal, the place where the covenant was renewed by Joshua (Josh. 5:2–9) and where the kingdom was renewed by Samuel (1 Sam. 11:14). At that highly symbolic place, David and his subjects will renew their covenant.

It is interesting to note the similar descriptions of Absalom’s appeals for support (“Absalom stole the hearts of the men of Israel,” 15:6) and those of David (“He swayed the hearts of all the men of Judah”). But the words translated as “stole” and “swayed” are very different. The former connotes deception, while the latter has to do with persuasion. Absalom won Israel to his cause by untruth, but David persuades Judah by means of promises he intends to keep.

Along with the Judahites, several other people head to the river, including some who treated David shabbily as he fled. In our next few studies, we will see how David treats them upon his return.

Coram Deo Living before the face of God

David showed that he was a man after God’s heart by refusing to hold a grudge against the Ezekiel Judahites for the support they gave to Absalom. His forgiveness overcame their fears of retribution. When we are wronged by others, we also should express a willingness to forgive, that no fear of vengeance may sabotage our relationships in Christ.


For Further Study
  • Lev. 19:18
  • Mark 11:26
  • Luke 17:3–4; 23:34

    The Person of Christ

    David’s Forgiveness

    Keep Reading Prophet, Priest, and King: The Offices of Christ

    From the December 2003 Issue
    Dec 2003 Issue