2 Samuel 13:28 – “Absalom ordered his men, ‘Listen! When Amnon is in high spirits from drinking wine and I say to you, “Strike Amnon down,” then kill him. Don’t be afraid. Haven’t I given you this order? Be strong and brave.’”
Extended Explanation
In this verse, Absalom gives his servants a direct order to kill his brother Amnon. Absalom has waited two years for this moment, harboring anger and a desire for revenge after Amnon assaulted their sister Tamar. He chooses this festive occasion, during the sheep-shearing celebration, as the moment to strike. By instructing his men to wait until Amnon is in a vulnerable state—intoxicated and off guard—Absalom ensures that his plan will succeed. His words to his men, encouraging them to be “strong and brave,” reflect his attempt to justify his actions and calm their potential fears about committing such an act. This verse reveals the depth of Absalom’s bitterness and how far he is willing to go to avenge his sister.
Historical Context
In ancient Israel, family honor and justice were closely tied to personal actions, and revenge was often sought privately when justice was perceived to have been denied. Absalom felt personally responsible for Tamar’s honor after Amnon’s violation of her, especially since King David had not taken formal action to punish Amnon. By planning Amnon’s murder, Absalom takes the law into his own hands. The sheep-shearing festival was traditionally a time of joy and celebration, making it an ideal setting for Absalom to catch Amnon by surprise. This act of vengeance was not just a personal matter but also had significant political implications for the royal family.
Theological Implications
This verse highlights the destructive power of unchecked anger and vengeance. Instead of seeking justice through proper channels, Absalom allows bitterness to fester, leading him to murder his own brother. Theologically, this speaks to the danger of harboring unforgiveness and seeking revenge, which contradicts God’s call to leave judgment and vengeance to Him (Romans 12:19). Absalom’s actions reflect the natural human inclination toward revenge, but the Bible teaches a different path—one of forgiveness and leaving justice in God’s hands. Absalom’s encouragement to his men to “be strong and brave” is a misuse of courage, applying it to an act of sin rather than to righteousness.
Literary Analysis
The narrative tension in this verse is high, as Absalom’s cold, calculated plan is revealed. The contrast between the joyful celebration and the dark intentions of Absalom heightens the emotional impact of the scene. The use of the phrase “be strong and brave” is particularly striking, as it is often used in the Bible to encourage people to trust in God and act with righteousness (Joshua 1:9). Here, Absalom twists that encouragement, using it to justify murder. The contrast between the festive atmosphere and the impending violence builds suspense, leading to a climax of betrayal and death within the family.
Biblical Cross-References
- Romans 12:19: “Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: ‘It is mine to avenge; I will repay,’ says the Lord.” This verse highlights the biblical principle of leaving justice in God’s hands rather than seeking personal revenge.
- Genesis 4:8: “Now Cain said to his brother Abel, ‘Let’s go out to the field.’ While they were in the field, Cain attacked his brother Abel and killed him.” Absalom’s plan to kill Amnon mirrors the story of Cain and Abel, where jealousy and anger lead to murder.
- Proverbs 14:29: “Whoever is patient has great understanding, but one who is quick-tempered displays folly.” Absalom’s lack of patience and his quickness to act in anger lead to foolish and destructive actions.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, this verse serves as a warning about the dangers of allowing anger and bitterness to go unresolved. Absalom’s failure to forgive and his decision to take matters into his own hands led to devastating consequences for his family and his future. Christians are called to seek forgiveness and reconciliation rather than holding on to grudges or pursuing revenge. This verse also reminds believers of the importance of trusting God to bring justice in His own time, rather than taking matters into their own hands. It challenges us to examine how we deal with anger and injustice, ensuring that we act in a way that aligns with God’s will.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is marked by justice, mercy, and forgiveness. While Absalom chose the path of revenge, God’s way is one of reconciliation and leaving judgment to Him. God’s love calls His people to forgive those who have wronged them, trusting that He will bring justice in the right way and time. Absalom’s actions reflect the opposite of God’s heart, as his desire for vengeance leads to more pain and destruction. God’s love seeks to heal broken relationships, offering a path of restoration rather than one of retaliation. This verse contrasts human vengeance with God’s perfect justice and love.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus Christ is the ultimate example of forgiveness and the rejection of vengeance. While on the cross, Jesus prayed for those who were crucifying Him, saying, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing” (Luke 23:34). In contrast to Absalom’s desire for revenge, Jesus teaches His followers to love their enemies and pray for those who persecute them (Matthew 5:44). Through His life, death, and resurrection, Jesus made it possible for humanity to be reconciled to God and to one another, offering a path of forgiveness rather than vengeance. Absalom’s story serves as a reminder of the consequences of rejecting this path.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How do we handle anger and bitterness when we feel wronged, and what steps can we take to ensure it doesn’t lead to sin?
- In what ways does this verse challenge us to trust God’s justice rather than seeking revenge on our own terms?
- How does Jesus’ example of forgiveness influence the way we respond to those who have hurt us?
- What practical steps can we take to seek reconciliation and forgiveness, even in difficult situations, rather than allowing anger to fester?