2 Samuel 14:21-27

What kind of return does David allow Absalom?

Berean Standard Bible

21 Then the king said to Joab, “I hereby grant this request. Go, bring back the young man Absalom.” 22 Joab fell facedown in homage and blessed the king. “Today,” said Joab, “your servant knows that he has found favor in your eyes, my lord the king, because the king has granted his request.” 23 So Joab got up, went to Geshur, and brought Absalom to Jerusalem. 24 But the king added, “He may return to his house, but he must not see my face.” So Absalom returned to his own house, but he did not see the face of the king.
25 Now there was not a man in all Israel as handsome and highly praised as Absalom. From the sole of his foot to the top of his head, he did not have a single flaw. 26 And when he cut the hair of his head—he shaved it every year because his hair got so heavy—he would weigh it out to be two hundred shekels, according to the royal standard. 27 Three sons were born to Absalom, and a daughter named Tamar, who was a beautiful woman.

What is the context?

David grants Joab’s request, and Joab brings Absalom back from Geshur to Jerusalem. But the permission has a limit: Absalom may go to his house and must not see the king’s face. Return to the city has not yet become a personal reunion with his father.

The narrative then describes Absalom’s appearance and family. He is highly praised for his beauty, and his heavy hair is weighed when cut each year. Three sons and a daughter named Tamar are mentioned. Public admiration stands beside the unresolved relationship at the center of the story.

How is this passage commonly understood?

Wesley and Gill understand David’s restriction as a way of showing that Absalom’s crime has not been approved, and possibly of encouraging deeper humility. Those are explanations of his decision; the account does not report David giving a complete account of his motives.

Henry notes that the praise here concerns Absalom’s looks rather than wisdom or godliness. His attractive appearance gives readers no reason to assume that the problems revealed by his earlier actions have been resolved.

What is our position?

We don't have a position on this passage yet. When our study reaches a conclusion the text supports, it will appear here.

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