Bible Chapter Summary
2 Samuel 14 Summary
Joab Reconciles Absalom and David
Joab perceives David's heart yearns for Absalom and sends for a wise woman from Tekoah to move the king toward forgiveness. The woman feigns widowhood and tells David a parable of her two sons who fought in a field; one slew the other, and the whole family now demands she deliver the living son for death, which would destroy her and leave her husband without name or heir. David promises to protect her son. The woman then reveals this is Absalom's case, suggesting the king speak for his banished son. David recognizes Joab's hand in the scheme but is moved to grant Absalom's return. Joab brings Absalom back to Jerusalem, yet the king refuses to see his face for two full years. Growing impatient, Absalom has Joab's field set on fire to gain his attention. Joab comes to Absalom's house, and Absalom sends him to the king to request an audience. David then receives Absalom, kisses him, and pardons him.
Key themes
Key verses
2 Samuel 14:13
“And the woman said, Wherefore then hast thou thought such a thing against the people of God? for the king doth speak this thing as one which is faulty, in that the king doth not fetch home again his banished.”
2 Samuel 14:21
“And the king said unto Joab, Behold now, I have done this thing: go therefore, bring the young man Absalom again.”
2 Samuel 14:28-29
“So Absalom dwelt two full years in Jerusalem, and saw not the king's face.”
2 Samuel 14:33
“So Joab came to the king, and told him: and when he had called for Absalom, he came to the king, and bowed himself on his face to the ground before the king: and the king kissed Absalom.”
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