Absalom-An Ambitious Opportunist

The life course of King David's third son, Absalom, provides a study  in  ambition.  This scheming opportunist tried to curry the favor of those who came to the king for judgment.  First he insinuated that David was indifferent to their needs.  Then he dropped  the subtlety and got right to the point.  "O that I were appointed judge in the land," Absalom intoned, "that to me every man might come that happens to have a legal case or judgment!  Then I should certainly do justice to him," states the Bible,   "he thrusts his hand out and grabbed hold of him and kissed him. And Absalom kept doing a thing like this to all Israelites that would come in for judgment to the king."  With what result?  Absalom kept stealing the hearts of the men of Israel." -2 Samuel 15:1-6.  

Absalom was determined to usurp his father's kingship. Five years earlier, he had David's eldest son, Annon, murdered, ostensibly in revenge for the rape of Absalom's sister Tamar.  (2 Samuel  13:28, 29)  However, even then Absalom might have had his sights on the throne, viewing Annon's murder as a convenient way to eliminate a rival. In any event, when the time was ripe, Absalom made his move. He had his kingship proclaimed throughout the land. -2 Samuel 15:10.

For a while, Absalom had success, for "the conspiracy kept getting stronger, and the people were continually growing in number with Absalom."  In time, King David was forced  to flee for his life.  (2 Samuel 15:12-17) Soon, though, Absalom's career was cut short when he was slain by Joab, pitched in a hollow, and covered with stones. Imagine-this ambitious man who wanted to be king did not even receive a decent burial upon his death!  Presumptuousness truly led to Absalom's dishonor. -2 Samuel 18:9-17. 

Next time: Shun Selfish Ambition

From the Watchtower magazine, 2000