Palace intrigue
2 Samuel Chapter 13:23 – Chapter 14
Violence begets violence. Disobedience begets disobedience.
Absalom takes his vengeance for the rape of his sister, Tamar, by killing her attacker, his half-brother, Amnon.
In an early bit of misinformation, David is first told that all of his sons have been killed, but ultimately learns it is only Amnon.
After a time of mourning and intervention from his military leader, Joab, David allows Absalom to return to the city but will not see him in person. This prompts Absalom’s anger.
Joab is finally able to get them to meet, and the rift appears to be settled. However, there is more conflict to come.