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Absalom

Absalom in the Bible — third-born son of King David (2SA 3:3). Absalom belonged to the tribe of Judah. Referenced in 6 scripture passages.

Name meaning: father of peace

Profile

Gender
male
Tribe
Judah
Scripture References
6 references
Known Names
1 name
Relationships
5 connections

Biography

The third son of King David, known for his exceptional beauty and his tragic rebellion against his father. Absalom killed his half-brother Amnon to avenge the rape of his sister Tamar, then fled to Geshur. After returning to Jerusalem, he conspired to usurp David's throne, forcing his father to flee. He was killed by Joab while caught in an oak tree during the battle.

Significance

Absalom's rebellion illustrates the devastating consequences of family dysfunction and unchecked ambition, as well as the depths of a father's love despite betrayal.

Key Events

Birth to David and Maacah(2 Samuel 3:3)
Killed Amnon for raping Tamar(2 Samuel 13:28-29)
Fled to Geshur for three years(2 Samuel 13:37-38)
Returned to Jerusalem(2 Samuel 14:23)
Began conspiracy against David(2 Samuel 15:10)
Death caught in oak tree(2 Samuel 18:9-15)

Names & Labels (1)

Absalomproper name
Hebrew
אַבְשָׁלוֹם
Transliteration
avəsalom
Meaning
father is peace
Greek
Αβεσσαλωμ
Reference
2SA 3:3
Strong's
H53

Family & Relationships (5)

son

David(2SA 3:3)
Maacah(2SA 3:3)

brother

Tamar(2SA 13:1)

father

Tamar(2SA 14:27)

killed by

Joab(2SA 18:14)

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Absalom in the Bible?

Absalom is described in the Bible as third-born son of King David (2SA 3:3). Absalom belonged to the tribe of Judah.

What does the name Absalom mean?

The name Absalom means “father of peace” according to Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary.

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