July 24, 2025 • 26 mins
# 200 - Absalom’s Attack - In this episode of The Chosen People with Yael Eckstein, Absalom launches a quiet coup—built not with swords, but with charm, whispers, and betrayal from within. As David flees barefoot into exile, the crown slips from his head but not his heart, revealing a different kind of kingship: one shaped by surrender, not survival.
Episode 200 of The Chosen People with Yael Eckstein is inspired by the Book of Joshua.
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For more information about Yael Eckstein and IFCJ visit https://www.ifcj.org/who-we-are?utm_source=pray
Today's opening prayer is inspired by John 3:30, "He must increase, but I must decrease."
Listen to some of the greatest Bible stories ever told and make prayer a priority in your life by downloading the Pray.com app.
Show Notes:
(01:09) Intro with Yael Eckstein
(01:59) Absalom’s Attack
(24:44) Reflection with Yael Eckstein
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Mark as Played
Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
Speaker 1 (00:00):
Previously on the Chosen People.
Speaker 2 (00:03):
Have the alarm is to be exiled from Jerusalem. If
he dares step foot in my city. If I so
much as hear the hooves of his donkeys cross my gates,
he shall die. Market Beniah, let the walls know he
is banished, and mourn the living like the dead.
Speaker 1 (00:22):
Bring Absalom home and end this.
Speaker 2 (00:25):
And if I did, what would I say? It doesn't
have to be poetry, David in my absolute back.
Speaker 1 (00:35):
Then Absalom fell to his knees. He spread his arms wide,
his face turned to the ground. A single tear traced
his cheek as.
Speaker 2 (00:46):
He whispered, Father, I am here, forgive me.
Speaker 1 (00:54):
It was a perfect performance.
Speaker 2 (00:57):
I forgive you, my sir. Welcome home.
Speaker 1 (01:00):
The stage was set.
Speaker 2 (01:03):
Let the game.
Speaker 3 (01:04):
Begin, Shello, my friends, from here in the holy land
of Israel. I'm ya l Exstein with the International Fellowship
of Christians and Jews, and welcome to the Chosen People.
Each day we'll hear a dramatic story inspired by the Bible,
(01:25):
stories filled with timeless lessons of faith, love, and the
meaning of life. Through Israel's story, we will find this
truth that we are all chosen for something great. So
take a moment today to follow the podcast. If you're
feeling extra grateful for these stories, we would love it
if you left us a review. I read every single
(01:48):
one of them, and if you're interested in hearing more
about the prophetic, life saving work of the Fellowship, you
can visit IFCJ dot Org. Let's begin.
Speaker 1 (02:02):
The sun hung low over Jerusalem, painting the stones of
the city gold. But the true light that day was Absalom, glorious, charming, deadly.
Absalom was at the gates, waiting, searching for something someone.
(02:23):
He saw an old farmer approaching the gates and smiled wide.
Speaker 4 (02:29):
You there, traveler, Where do you come from?
Speaker 1 (02:33):
The old man turned, startled, squinting beneath his hand.
Speaker 5 (02:38):
Oh, I'm a farmer from Trailoh, of the tribe of Ephraim.
Speaker 4 (02:42):
Ah, Yes, Ephraim, the Ruby crown of Israel. Come drink,
my friend, water from the well of Hazekiah and wine
to ease your legs. You've come a long way.
Speaker 5 (02:57):
Oh well, oh, yes, I thank you, my lord, But
I must worry. I've a matter for the king.
Speaker 1 (03:03):
Absalom tilted his head, feigning regret.
Speaker 4 (03:08):
Blast it, I'm afraid you've wasted the trip, My poor friend.
You see, the king no longer seize petitioners. Too troubled,
they say, burdened with grief, sorrow, and age.
Speaker 1 (03:21):
But I Absalom placed a hand on the man's shoulder.
His brow was low and earnest, meeting the farmer's gaze
with compassion.
Speaker 4 (03:32):
I am a son. Perhaps I can be of service
to you.
Speaker 5 (03:36):
You the son of King David.
Speaker 4 (03:40):
Yes, good fellow, I am Absalom, heir to the throne.
Perhaps you've heard the name.
Speaker 5 (03:47):
Forgive me, my prince. I did not know.
Speaker 4 (03:52):
Oh I please, no apologies necessary. You've been toiling in
the soil of Israel with your head low and heart sturdy.
Of course you wouldn't recognize me. Now, please tell me
you trouble.
Speaker 1 (04:08):
And so the man told his tale. Have Salom listened
with a deep frown, like a man burdened with sorrow
for every wound in Israel.
Speaker 4 (04:19):
Oh, this is grievous. Indeed, I'm glad you brought this
to me. Had I been king, you would never have
needed to make such a journey. Every village would have
had a voice in the court. Every voice would be heard.
But alas I am not King, David still sits on
the throne, plucking his lyre and reading with the pampered
(04:41):
prince Solomon.
Speaker 5 (04:43):
I wish you were king, Lord Absalom. You're a man
of the people. Perhaps we'd have justice if you're working.
Speaker 4 (04:53):
Yes, one day, one day, the Lord may see fit
to raise me up, For the people deserve a king
who sees them. Until then, you know you have a
prince at your side.
Speaker 1 (05:06):
The farmer left, and Absalom wore a tight grin on
his face as he watched him leave. One of Absalom's
gods tilted his head in confusion.
Speaker 2 (05:17):
My prince, why linger out here like a beggar.
Speaker 4 (05:21):
This is where I make my play for the throne.
Speaker 2 (05:25):
You already have enough men to storm the castle. Why
talk to peasants out here?
Speaker 1 (05:30):
Absalom scoffed and shook his head.
Speaker 4 (05:34):
Because swords cannot cut with the herdholds deer. The throne
is not one with blades alone.
Speaker 2 (05:42):
It is one with love.
Speaker 4 (05:44):
When the people no longer remember the feel of David's hand,
but only the warmth of mine, then and only then
will the city be ripe for the taking.
Speaker 1 (05:56):
Each morning, Absalom came to the gates and did the
same thing again, and again he stood with his guards,
his robes flowing, his smile ever ready. When men came
to seek David, he told them the king was too
busy to hear them. Then he'd listen for four years.
(06:18):
He rose before dawn and sat in the shadow of
the gates a lion cloaked in Lamb's wool, and the
people one by one forgot the shepherd King and began
to dream of King Absalom. The wind whispered through the
(06:39):
shuttered windows of Absalom's estate, carrying with it the chill
of the oncoming winter. The room smelled of spiced wine
and cedar logs burning in the fireplace. Absalom was ruminating
over the hearth, eyes as sharp as a serpent's. The
door creaked open behind him. Absalom knew who it was.
(07:03):
A smirk twitched at the edges of his face.
Speaker 4 (07:07):
I knew you'd answer my call.
Speaker 1 (07:09):
A Hitherfel, the elderly general, slowly approached, his white beard
glowing orange from the firelight. He was a regal looking man,
sturdy and stately a Hitherefel, the grandfather of Bathsheba.
Speaker 4 (07:26):
Sit share a drink with me. We have much to discuss.
Speaker 1 (07:31):
A Hitherfel sat. Absalom poured him a cup and slid
it gently across the table. The two sat for a
while in silence, staring into the fire. Absalom loved the
game of politics. He was born for it.
Speaker 4 (07:47):
I've been wondering something. What was it like for you
when David wed? I mean, you must have known something
was awry when they united so soon after Uriah's tragic death.
Speaker 2 (08:04):
What do you want, Absalom?
Speaker 6 (08:06):
The same thing?
Speaker 2 (08:07):
You want?
Speaker 4 (08:07):
A hithethel David off the throne, so.
Speaker 2 (08:13):
Forward, so bold, You talk a treason so casually. What
makes you think I want David off the throne.
Speaker 4 (08:22):
Let's agree not to insult each other's intelligence. M I
know you've wanted David off the throne ever since Euriah's death.
I was there for the wedding. I saw the look
of disgust on your face. You hate David, but even
more you love Israel. Two traits we share, well, two out.
Speaker 2 (08:43):
Of three, and what's the third?
Speaker 4 (08:46):
We both know how the game is played. I can
buy all the hired hands I need to storm the
palace and seize the throne for myself. But you and
I both know that's not enough. We need to sway
the hearts of the people and the courts. I've already
done plenty of legwork for the former. It's the latter
(09:07):
I need help with someone trusted on the inside.
Speaker 1 (09:11):
The old general stroked his beard and released a ragged sigh,
one of resignation. He nodded, took a sip from the
spiced wine, and winced as it burned on the way down.
Speaker 2 (09:25):
It can't look like treason now. This must feel inevitable,
as if the Lord himself handed you the throne. That's
how David was able to ascend. But you, sir, don't
have profits anointing you with oil, no people singing songs
about you.
Speaker 4 (09:45):
Perhaps it could be arranged.
Speaker 2 (09:47):
Write the script and the city will play its part.
Find yourself. Two hundred men chosen for their tongues, not
their swords. They'll speak in every quarter, every alley, every house,
a meeting. Say the king himself is named as Heir Absalom.
Speaker 4 (10:04):
And what of the elders and courts.
Speaker 2 (10:07):
They'll think they've missed something vital, a meeting they weren't
invited to. If enough people proclaim it, the elders will
be too embarrass to question it.
Speaker 4 (10:17):
I'll send them out at dawn. The King has chosen Absalom,
they'll say it is done. Rejoice.
Speaker 1 (10:26):
Absalom smirked, then jabbed at the fire with an iron rod,
breaking the coals apart, as if imagining David beneath it.
Speaker 4 (10:35):
And once the chant is loud enough, loud enough to
drown out any truth, we strike.
Speaker 1 (10:43):
There was a bitterness in a Hitherfel's tone, one that
went beyond politics. Absalom caught it and raised an eyebrow.
Speaker 4 (10:53):
My my, a hither fewl you want him dead more
than I did.
Speaker 2 (11:01):
He ruined my house. That sheep was my granddaughter. Her
shame was my shape. Riah is worth ten of David.
Let the Lord judge between us, But let David die.
Speaker 1 (11:15):
Absalom leaned back.
Speaker 4 (11:17):
Considering his advisers must fall with him. But Nia Joshuabim
Abershi joe ab every pillar he leans upon must be
snapped at the root.
Speaker 2 (11:28):
Then you should go to Hibron, raise an altar, offer
a sacrifice, make the people see your platy, make them
see your holiness and reverence for the Lord. Once more,
David will be pleased to see you worship, while they
watch you with incense.
Speaker 4 (11:44):
And prayers will put the dagger in David's ribs.
Speaker 2 (11:48):
No one will suspect a man kneeling before the Lord
to be the one wielding the blade.
Speaker 1 (11:53):
And so they plotted by firelight. In the days that followed,
two hundred men were sent, each carrying whispers like poison
in their mouths, and the streets of Jerusalem, once loyal
to David, began to murmur the name of Absalom, as
if it were already written upon the crown. And so
(12:16):
the coup was not waged with swords or siege craft.
It was built on words, on whispers, on belief. The
moon hung cold and pale over Jerusalem. All was still,
save for the faint crackling of coals in the hearth.
(12:39):
David lay in peace beside Bathsheba, their breaths rising and falling,
with little Solomon between them. The great doors of his
chamber burst open. David shot up, sword in hand, before
his eyes were fully open. In the doorway stood Beniah,
wild eyed, and lit by torchlight.
Speaker 5 (13:01):
My King, arise, they're coming for you.
Speaker 2 (13:03):
What is the meaning of this?
Speaker 1 (13:05):
And then he heard it clamor distant at first, then closer,
the pounding at the palace gate, the shouting a name
carried in the wind like a curse. Absalom. Who's out there?
Speaker 2 (13:20):
Absolom? The people have turned, They chant his name in
the streets. He has declared himself king.
Speaker 1 (13:26):
David stood still, struck, silent, and then realization dawned on him.
Speaker 2 (13:33):
He used the sacrifice as a decoy. He's been plotting
this all along. It was all a lie, a mask.
Speaker 1 (13:42):
David sprang up and donned Jonathan's armor, weathered but still noble,
and strapped Goliath's sword across his back. The weight steadied him.
Are you going to fight them?
Speaker 2 (13:53):
No? I'll not see Jerusalem become a field of civil war.
That's what Absolom wants. We flee. Now, where's Joe ab gone?
Speaker 1 (14:05):
I don't know where, David nodded grimly.
Speaker 2 (14:08):
Then gather what men you can, wake the servants, escort
my household to the brook. Kildren Solomon and I will
be by your side. No, I'm too big a target.
Go with Beniah. My guards remain at their side. Solomon
must live. He's the key to Israel's future. Baniah, take
my wives and children, the company of guards. We'll cross
(14:31):
paths at the brook.
Speaker 1 (14:32):
The palace stirred with quiet panic as servants moved like
shadows in the halls, rousing wives and children. The concubines
remained behind, instructed to tend to the house. Absalom wouldn't
harm them. David dropped from the window into the gardens
below and mounted his horse. Hooms thudded on stone as
(14:54):
they rode for the gates. But it was too late.
Absalom's mercenaries breached the walls. David drew steel, ready to
fight them all himself, but before he could charge, two
riders broke through the smoke and steel of the fray,
Abishai and Jashabine, blades flashing in the firelight.
Speaker 4 (15:16):
Ride, my king, we'll cut your path.
Speaker 5 (15:19):
Be strong and courageous.
Speaker 1 (15:22):
David's eyes glinted with pride as his mighty men rode
by his side. They fell on the mercenaries like wolves
among cattle, carving a swathe through the chaos. Three of
Absalom's men rode with spears, poised to strike David. Joshabin
threw a dagger at the man's eye, retrieved the spear
(15:44):
and used it to flail the second with one swift swoop,
Abishi rode fiercely leaped off his horse and tackled the
other to the ground. They scrambled before Abishi was able
to gain the advantage. With his knee pressed again his throat,
the three of them rode past the gates towards the
(16:04):
Brook Kedron.
Speaker 7 (16:06):
Just like old times a jash hy this old man
needs another adventure.
Speaker 1 (16:12):
David, battered and broken hearted, rode from his own son.
The king was fleeing, the usurper was rising, and war
once more was coming to Israel. Under the hush of twilight,
(16:35):
King David stood at the edge of the brook Keedron.
Its course was steady, gentle, and tranquil. David looked out
over the brook. The olive groves and tall trees lay
before him, the place that would one day be known
as deathsemone. David then looked behind him, where his betrayers
(16:59):
hoarded and conspired to kill him. He was fleeing for
his life, but it didn't feel right. David's family stood
behind him, ready to follow wherever he led. He stepped
over the brook. Then came a rustling from the trees.
(17:19):
David turned soared ready, but it was no enemy. The Cheraphites,
the Pellaphites, the Gitthites, foreigners and former exiles, servants of
the king. They had come not to pillage, but to follow.
David stepped forward, brow furrowed, amazed. Then there was more movement.
(17:45):
Abiathar emerged from the trees, then Zadok, and behind them
the rest of the Levites. Upon their shoulders, cloaked in reverence,
rested the Ark of the Covenant. The presence of God
had followed David into exile.
Speaker 2 (18:06):
All do go back, serve the new king. There's only
paid where I go.
Speaker 1 (18:13):
Abiathar, no longer a boy, but the high Priest of Israel,
stepped forward. David stepped back, shaking his head with tears
brimming at the sides of his eyes.
Speaker 2 (18:26):
We go with you. You are the Lord's anointed.
Speaker 1 (18:30):
David turned his face to the brook. Its silver surface
mirrored his grief. He clenched his jaw and looked again
at the ark. There was something small speaking within David
and inkling that the Lord was at work somehow. David
turned to Zadok and Aviathar.
Speaker 2 (18:52):
No, carry the ark back to the city. If I
find favor in the Lord's eyes, you'll bring me home
again to see it live. Not here I am let
him do as he pleases. Then we will remain in
the city. We will send our sons to bring you word.
(19:13):
It will be your eyes and ears within the walls
of Jerusalem.
Speaker 1 (19:17):
David embraced them, whispered blessings, and sent them back. Then
he turned toward the forest, bleak and solemn under moonlight,
the mount of Olives awaited. His family waited at the
base of the mountain while David pressed in further to
be with the Lord. The sound of weeping faded as
(19:41):
he found a solitary place. David, under the dancing shadows
cast by moonlight through trees, prayed to God. This this
was the curse.
Speaker 2 (19:54):
Nathan spoke of violence, blood within my house. This is
what I disturb them. I asked, what have mercy on me?
Speaker 1 (20:08):
Just then a figure stumbled from the trees behind him.
David drew his blade, but the face that emerged from
the dark was no enemy.
Speaker 2 (20:18):
Hushai, is that you?
Speaker 1 (20:21):
One of David's most trusted counselors removed his hood. He
was caked in dirt, his garments torn, and his breath ragged.
Speaker 6 (20:31):
My king praised me to the Lord. You are safe,
I thought. Absolom had already struck you down. Why are
you here for him? Why not remain in the city.
Speaker 7 (20:42):
I could never serve that snake while you still drop breath.
I'm loyal to you till the very end.
Speaker 1 (20:49):
Hushai was a dutiful man, filled with integrity, nearly to
a fault. It is what made the other counselors, like
a Hitherfell, hate him so much. It's why David needed him.
Speaker 2 (21:02):
Does the council know you've gone to be with me?
Speaker 7 (21:05):
Heavens No, a Hitherfel has poisoned their minds. They have
no idea where I am good. Then I need you
to return to Jerusalem. No, no, my king.
Speaker 2 (21:19):
If you follow me up this mountain, you but another
mouth to feed. But if you go back, if you
serve Absalom, you may yet be the blade in his council.
Speaker 7 (21:31):
You want to spy for you, my king, I am
no spy.
Speaker 5 (21:37):
Lying makes me so nervous.
Speaker 7 (21:39):
By hands swift and nip. Begin to s s ss
stamp stammer.
Speaker 2 (21:47):
I need you to phocis sushi, frustrate the hitherm need him.
Blessed words. Learn Absalom's plans, say Doc and Abiemar will
send their sons to bring me what you discovery, it
will be done. The girl clean yourself and served the truth.
Speaker 1 (22:08):
Hushai vanished into the shadows, back toward Jerusalem, where chaos reigned.
Half the city cheered for the traitor prince, the other
half wept for the fleeing king. At his home, Hushai
washed the dirt from his face. He looked into the
mirror and saw not a fool, as others claimed, but
(22:31):
a servant of God and King. He tightened his belt,
squared his shoulders, and went out to greet Absalom. War
was coming, not of swords alone, but of whispers and
masks and counsel in candle lit haws, and Hushai would
be the dagger in the dark. David's jaw quivered at
(22:59):
the summit. It was cold and the air was unforgiving.
He closed his eyes and fell to the ground. He
clenched fistfuls of dirt and grass as he prayed vigorously
to the Lord. Tears streamed down his wincing face. He
lifted up his head to the skies and sang to God.
Speaker 2 (23:23):
Oh Lord, my poes are many. They're rising against me.
They say to my soul, there's no salvation for.
Speaker 5 (23:31):
Him and God.
Speaker 2 (23:33):
But you, o Lord, are a shield about me. You're
the lifter of my head.
Speaker 4 (23:39):
And my glory.
Speaker 2 (23:41):
You, oh Lord, are a shield about me. You're the
lifter of my head and my glory.
Speaker 8 (23:50):
I cried aloud to you, and you answered me from
your holy hill.
Speaker 1 (23:56):
David paused his singing and stood up his arms out
to the Lord. He raised his fists in the air
and sang with more fire and intensity than he had
ever before.
Speaker 8 (24:10):
I'll not be afraid of the thousands that will say
me arise, O Lord, save me, Save me, Oh my God,
Will you strike all my enemies on the cheek, You
break the teeth of the wicked arise, O Lord, horise,
(24:31):
save me, Oh my God.
Speaker 2 (24:34):
Salvation belongs to the Lord.
Speaker 5 (24:37):
Arise.
Speaker 3 (24:47):
If your faith has been kindled by this podcast and
it has affected your life, we'd love it if you
left her view. We read them, and me personally, I
cherish them as you venture forth, bull and faithfully. I
leave you with the biblical blessing from numbers sex ivarech
hashem vieschmerechra Yeah heir hashempanave ileha rocher ye sa hashempanave
(25:14):
lera vi Salon May the Lord bless you and keep you.
May the Lord make his face shine upon you. May
he be gracious to you. May the Lord turn his
face towards you and give you peace.
Speaker 1 (25:28):
Amen. You can listen to the Chosen People with Isle
Egstein add free by downloading and subscribing to the pray
dot Com app today. This prey dog comproduction is only
made possible by our dedicated team of creative talents. Steve Katina,
Max Bard, Zach Shellavaga and Ben Gammon are the executive
(25:50):
producers of the Chosen People with Yaele Estein, edited by
Alberto Avilla, narrated by Paul Coltefianu. Characters are voiced by
Jonathan Cotton, Aaron Salvado, Sarah Seltz, Mike Reagan, Stephen Ringwald,
Sylvia Zaradoc, Thomas Copeland Junior, Rosanna Pilcher, and the opening
prayer is voiced by John Moore. Music by Andrew Morgan Smith,
(26:14):
written by Aaron Salvado, bre Rosalie and Chris Baig. Special
thanks to Bishop Paulinier, Robin van Ettin, kayleb Burrows, Jocelyn
Fuller and the team at International Fellowship of Christians and Jews,
You can hear more Prey dot com productions on the
Prey dot Com app, available on the Apple App Store
and Google Play Store. If you enjoyed The Chosen People
(26:36):
with Yeile Eckstein, please rate and leave a review.
Previously on the Chosen People.
Speaker 2 (00:03):
Have the alarm is to be exiled from Jerusalem. If
he dares step foot in my city. If I so
much as hear the hooves of his donkeys cross my gates,
he shall die. Market Beniah, let the walls know he
is banished, and mourn the living like the dead.
Speaker 1 (00:22):
Bring Absalom home and end this.
Speaker 2 (00:25):
And if I did, what would I say? It doesn't
have to be poetry, David in my absolute back.
Speaker 1 (00:35):
Then Absalom fell to his knees. He spread his arms wide,
his face turned to the ground. A single tear traced
his cheek as.
Speaker 2 (00:46):
He whispered, Father, I am here, forgive me.
Speaker 1 (00:54):
It was a perfect performance.
Speaker 2 (00:57):
I forgive you, my sir. Welcome home.
Speaker 1 (01:00):
The stage was set.
Speaker 2 (01:03):
Let the game.
Speaker 3 (01:04):
Begin, Shello, my friends, from here in the holy land
of Israel. I'm ya l Exstein with the International Fellowship
of Christians and Jews, and welcome to the Chosen People.
Each day we'll hear a dramatic story inspired by the Bible,
(01:25):
stories filled with timeless lessons of faith, love, and the
meaning of life. Through Israel's story, we will find this
truth that we are all chosen for something great. So
take a moment today to follow the podcast. If you're
feeling extra grateful for these stories, we would love it
if you left us a review. I read every single
(01:48):
one of them, and if you're interested in hearing more
about the prophetic, life saving work of the Fellowship, you
can visit IFCJ dot Org. Let's begin.
Speaker 1 (02:02):
The sun hung low over Jerusalem, painting the stones of
the city gold. But the true light that day was Absalom, glorious, charming, deadly.
Absalom was at the gates, waiting, searching for something someone.
(02:23):
He saw an old farmer approaching the gates and smiled wide.
Speaker 4 (02:29):
You there, traveler, Where do you come from?
Speaker 1 (02:33):
The old man turned, startled, squinting beneath his hand.
Speaker 5 (02:38):
Oh, I'm a farmer from Trailoh, of the tribe of Ephraim.
Speaker 4 (02:42):
Ah, Yes, Ephraim, the Ruby crown of Israel. Come drink,
my friend, water from the well of Hazekiah and wine
to ease your legs. You've come a long way.
Speaker 5 (02:57):
Oh well, oh, yes, I thank you, my lord, But
I must worry. I've a matter for the king.
Speaker 1 (03:03):
Absalom tilted his head, feigning regret.
Speaker 4 (03:08):
Blast it, I'm afraid you've wasted the trip, My poor friend.
You see, the king no longer seize petitioners. Too troubled,
they say, burdened with grief, sorrow, and age.
Speaker 1 (03:21):
But I Absalom placed a hand on the man's shoulder.
His brow was low and earnest, meeting the farmer's gaze
with compassion.
Speaker 4 (03:32):
I am a son. Perhaps I can be of service
to you.
Speaker 5 (03:36):
You the son of King David.
Speaker 4 (03:40):
Yes, good fellow, I am Absalom, heir to the throne.
Perhaps you've heard the name.
Speaker 5 (03:47):
Forgive me, my prince. I did not know.
Speaker 4 (03:52):
Oh I please, no apologies necessary. You've been toiling in
the soil of Israel with your head low and heart sturdy.
Of course you wouldn't recognize me. Now, please tell me
you trouble.
Speaker 1 (04:08):
And so the man told his tale. Have Salom listened
with a deep frown, like a man burdened with sorrow
for every wound in Israel.
Speaker 4 (04:19):
Oh, this is grievous. Indeed, I'm glad you brought this
to me. Had I been king, you would never have
needed to make such a journey. Every village would have
had a voice in the court. Every voice would be heard.
But alas I am not King, David still sits on
the throne, plucking his lyre and reading with the pampered
(04:41):
prince Solomon.
Speaker 5 (04:43):
I wish you were king, Lord Absalom. You're a man
of the people. Perhaps we'd have justice if you're working.
Speaker 4 (04:53):
Yes, one day, one day, the Lord may see fit
to raise me up, For the people deserve a king
who sees them. Until then, you know you have a
prince at your side.
Speaker 1 (05:06):
The farmer left, and Absalom wore a tight grin on
his face as he watched him leave. One of Absalom's
gods tilted his head in confusion.
Speaker 2 (05:17):
My prince, why linger out here like a beggar.
Speaker 4 (05:21):
This is where I make my play for the throne.
Speaker 2 (05:25):
You already have enough men to storm the castle. Why
talk to peasants out here?
Speaker 1 (05:30):
Absalom scoffed and shook his head.
Speaker 4 (05:34):
Because swords cannot cut with the herdholds deer. The throne
is not one with blades alone.
Speaker 2 (05:42):
It is one with love.
Speaker 4 (05:44):
When the people no longer remember the feel of David's hand,
but only the warmth of mine, then and only then
will the city be ripe for the taking.
Speaker 1 (05:56):
Each morning, Absalom came to the gates and did the
same thing again, and again he stood with his guards,
his robes flowing, his smile ever ready. When men came
to seek David, he told them the king was too
busy to hear them. Then he'd listen for four years.
(06:18):
He rose before dawn and sat in the shadow of
the gates a lion cloaked in Lamb's wool, and the
people one by one forgot the shepherd King and began
to dream of King Absalom. The wind whispered through the
(06:39):
shuttered windows of Absalom's estate, carrying with it the chill
of the oncoming winter. The room smelled of spiced wine
and cedar logs burning in the fireplace. Absalom was ruminating
over the hearth, eyes as sharp as a serpent's. The
door creaked open behind him. Absalom knew who it was.
(07:03):
A smirk twitched at the edges of his face.
Speaker 4 (07:07):
I knew you'd answer my call.
Speaker 1 (07:09):
A Hitherfel, the elderly general, slowly approached, his white beard
glowing orange from the firelight. He was a regal looking man,
sturdy and stately a Hitherefel, the grandfather of Bathsheba.
Speaker 4 (07:26):
Sit share a drink with me. We have much to discuss.
Speaker 1 (07:31):
A Hitherfel sat. Absalom poured him a cup and slid
it gently across the table. The two sat for a
while in silence, staring into the fire. Absalom loved the
game of politics. He was born for it.
Speaker 4 (07:47):
I've been wondering something. What was it like for you
when David wed? I mean, you must have known something
was awry when they united so soon after Uriah's tragic death.
Speaker 2 (08:04):
What do you want, Absalom?
Speaker 6 (08:06):
The same thing?
Speaker 2 (08:07):
You want?
Speaker 4 (08:07):
A hithethel David off the throne, so.
Speaker 2 (08:13):
Forward, so bold, You talk a treason so casually. What
makes you think I want David off the throne.
Speaker 4 (08:22):
Let's agree not to insult each other's intelligence. M I
know you've wanted David off the throne ever since Euriah's death.
I was there for the wedding. I saw the look
of disgust on your face. You hate David, but even
more you love Israel. Two traits we share, well, two out.
Speaker 2 (08:43):
Of three, and what's the third?
Speaker 4 (08:46):
We both know how the game is played. I can
buy all the hired hands I need to storm the
palace and seize the throne for myself. But you and
I both know that's not enough. We need to sway
the hearts of the people and the courts. I've already
done plenty of legwork for the former. It's the latter
(09:07):
I need help with someone trusted on the inside.
Speaker 1 (09:11):
The old general stroked his beard and released a ragged sigh,
one of resignation. He nodded, took a sip from the
spiced wine, and winced as it burned on the way down.
Speaker 2 (09:25):
It can't look like treason now. This must feel inevitable,
as if the Lord himself handed you the throne. That's
how David was able to ascend. But you, sir, don't
have profits anointing you with oil, no people singing songs
about you.
Speaker 4 (09:45):
Perhaps it could be arranged.
Speaker 2 (09:47):
Write the script and the city will play its part.
Find yourself. Two hundred men chosen for their tongues, not
their swords. They'll speak in every quarter, every alley, every house,
a meeting. Say the king himself is named as Heir Absalom.
Speaker 4 (10:04):
And what of the elders and courts.
Speaker 2 (10:07):
They'll think they've missed something vital, a meeting they weren't
invited to. If enough people proclaim it, the elders will
be too embarrass to question it.
Speaker 4 (10:17):
I'll send them out at dawn. The King has chosen Absalom,
they'll say it is done. Rejoice.
Speaker 1 (10:26):
Absalom smirked, then jabbed at the fire with an iron rod,
breaking the coals apart, as if imagining David beneath it.
Speaker 4 (10:35):
And once the chant is loud enough, loud enough to
drown out any truth, we strike.
Speaker 1 (10:43):
There was a bitterness in a Hitherfel's tone, one that
went beyond politics. Absalom caught it and raised an eyebrow.
Speaker 4 (10:53):
My my, a hither fewl you want him dead more
than I did.
Speaker 2 (11:01):
He ruined my house. That sheep was my granddaughter. Her
shame was my shape. Riah is worth ten of David.
Let the Lord judge between us, But let David die.
Speaker 1 (11:15):
Absalom leaned back.
Speaker 4 (11:17):
Considering his advisers must fall with him. But Nia Joshuabim
Abershi joe ab every pillar he leans upon must be
snapped at the root.
Speaker 2 (11:28):
Then you should go to Hibron, raise an altar, offer
a sacrifice, make the people see your platy, make them
see your holiness and reverence for the Lord. Once more,
David will be pleased to see you worship, while they
watch you with incense.
Speaker 4 (11:44):
And prayers will put the dagger in David's ribs.
Speaker 2 (11:48):
No one will suspect a man kneeling before the Lord
to be the one wielding the blade.
Speaker 1 (11:53):
And so they plotted by firelight. In the days that followed,
two hundred men were sent, each carrying whispers like poison
in their mouths, and the streets of Jerusalem, once loyal
to David, began to murmur the name of Absalom, as
if it were already written upon the crown. And so
(12:16):
the coup was not waged with swords or siege craft.
It was built on words, on whispers, on belief. The
moon hung cold and pale over Jerusalem. All was still,
save for the faint crackling of coals in the hearth.
(12:39):
David lay in peace beside Bathsheba, their breaths rising and falling,
with little Solomon between them. The great doors of his
chamber burst open. David shot up, sword in hand, before
his eyes were fully open. In the doorway stood Beniah,
wild eyed, and lit by torchlight.
Speaker 5 (13:01):
My King, arise, they're coming for you.
Speaker 2 (13:03):
What is the meaning of this?
Speaker 1 (13:05):
And then he heard it clamor distant at first, then closer,
the pounding at the palace gate, the shouting a name
carried in the wind like a curse. Absalom. Who's out there?
Speaker 2 (13:20):
Absolom? The people have turned, They chant his name in
the streets. He has declared himself king.
Speaker 1 (13:26):
David stood still, struck, silent, and then realization dawned on him.
Speaker 2 (13:33):
He used the sacrifice as a decoy. He's been plotting
this all along. It was all a lie, a mask.
Speaker 1 (13:42):
David sprang up and donned Jonathan's armor, weathered but still noble,
and strapped Goliath's sword across his back. The weight steadied him.
Are you going to fight them?
Speaker 2 (13:53):
No? I'll not see Jerusalem become a field of civil war.
That's what Absolom wants. We flee. Now, where's Joe ab gone?
Speaker 1 (14:05):
I don't know where, David nodded grimly.
Speaker 2 (14:08):
Then gather what men you can, wake the servants, escort
my household to the brook. Kildren Solomon and I will
be by your side. No, I'm too big a target.
Go with Beniah. My guards remain at their side. Solomon
must live. He's the key to Israel's future. Baniah, take
my wives and children, the company of guards. We'll cross
(14:31):
paths at the brook.
Speaker 1 (14:32):
The palace stirred with quiet panic as servants moved like
shadows in the halls, rousing wives and children. The concubines
remained behind, instructed to tend to the house. Absalom wouldn't
harm them. David dropped from the window into the gardens
below and mounted his horse. Hooms thudded on stone as
(14:54):
they rode for the gates. But it was too late.
Absalom's mercenaries breached the walls. David drew steel, ready to
fight them all himself, but before he could charge, two
riders broke through the smoke and steel of the fray,
Abishai and Jashabine, blades flashing in the firelight.
Speaker 4 (15:16):
Ride, my king, we'll cut your path.
Speaker 5 (15:19):
Be strong and courageous.
Speaker 1 (15:22):
David's eyes glinted with pride as his mighty men rode
by his side. They fell on the mercenaries like wolves
among cattle, carving a swathe through the chaos. Three of
Absalom's men rode with spears, poised to strike David. Joshabin
threw a dagger at the man's eye, retrieved the spear
(15:44):
and used it to flail the second with one swift swoop,
Abishi rode fiercely leaped off his horse and tackled the
other to the ground. They scrambled before Abishi was able
to gain the advantage. With his knee pressed again his throat,
the three of them rode past the gates towards the
(16:04):
Brook Kedron.
Speaker 7 (16:06):
Just like old times a jash hy this old man
needs another adventure.
Speaker 1 (16:12):
David, battered and broken hearted, rode from his own son.
The king was fleeing, the usurper was rising, and war
once more was coming to Israel. Under the hush of twilight,
(16:35):
King David stood at the edge of the brook Keedron.
Its course was steady, gentle, and tranquil. David looked out
over the brook. The olive groves and tall trees lay
before him, the place that would one day be known
as deathsemone. David then looked behind him, where his betrayers
(16:59):
hoarded and conspired to kill him. He was fleeing for
his life, but it didn't feel right. David's family stood
behind him, ready to follow wherever he led. He stepped
over the brook. Then came a rustling from the trees.
(17:19):
David turned soared ready, but it was no enemy. The Cheraphites,
the Pellaphites, the Gitthites, foreigners and former exiles, servants of
the king. They had come not to pillage, but to follow.
David stepped forward, brow furrowed, amazed. Then there was more movement.
(17:45):
Abiathar emerged from the trees, then Zadok, and behind them
the rest of the Levites. Upon their shoulders, cloaked in reverence,
rested the Ark of the Covenant. The presence of God
had followed David into exile.
Speaker 2 (18:06):
All do go back, serve the new king. There's only
paid where I go.
Speaker 1 (18:13):
Abiathar, no longer a boy, but the high Priest of Israel,
stepped forward. David stepped back, shaking his head with tears
brimming at the sides of his eyes.
Speaker 2 (18:26):
We go with you. You are the Lord's anointed.
Speaker 1 (18:30):
David turned his face to the brook. Its silver surface
mirrored his grief. He clenched his jaw and looked again
at the ark. There was something small speaking within David
and inkling that the Lord was at work somehow. David
turned to Zadok and Aviathar.
Speaker 2 (18:52):
No, carry the ark back to the city. If I
find favor in the Lord's eyes, you'll bring me home
again to see it live. Not here I am let
him do as he pleases. Then we will remain in
the city. We will send our sons to bring you word.
(19:13):
It will be your eyes and ears within the walls
of Jerusalem.
Speaker 1 (19:17):
David embraced them, whispered blessings, and sent them back. Then
he turned toward the forest, bleak and solemn under moonlight,
the mount of Olives awaited. His family waited at the
base of the mountain while David pressed in further to
be with the Lord. The sound of weeping faded as
(19:41):
he found a solitary place. David, under the dancing shadows
cast by moonlight through trees, prayed to God. This this
was the curse.
Speaker 2 (19:54):
Nathan spoke of violence, blood within my house. This is
what I disturb them. I asked, what have mercy on me?
Speaker 1 (20:08):
Just then a figure stumbled from the trees behind him.
David drew his blade, but the face that emerged from
the dark was no enemy.
Speaker 2 (20:18):
Hushai, is that you?
Speaker 1 (20:21):
One of David's most trusted counselors removed his hood. He
was caked in dirt, his garments torn, and his breath ragged.
Speaker 6 (20:31):
My king praised me to the Lord. You are safe,
I thought. Absolom had already struck you down. Why are
you here for him? Why not remain in the city.
Speaker 7 (20:42):
I could never serve that snake while you still drop breath.
I'm loyal to you till the very end.
Speaker 1 (20:49):
Hushai was a dutiful man, filled with integrity, nearly to
a fault. It is what made the other counselors, like
a Hitherfell, hate him so much. It's why David needed him.
Speaker 2 (21:02):
Does the council know you've gone to be with me?
Speaker 7 (21:05):
Heavens No, a Hitherfel has poisoned their minds. They have
no idea where I am good. Then I need you
to return to Jerusalem. No, no, my king.
Speaker 2 (21:19):
If you follow me up this mountain, you but another
mouth to feed. But if you go back, if you
serve Absalom, you may yet be the blade in his council.
Speaker 7 (21:31):
You want to spy for you, my king, I am
no spy.
Speaker 5 (21:37):
Lying makes me so nervous.
Speaker 7 (21:39):
By hands swift and nip. Begin to s s ss
stamp stammer.
Speaker 2 (21:47):
I need you to phocis sushi, frustrate the hitherm need him.
Blessed words. Learn Absalom's plans, say Doc and Abiemar will
send their sons to bring me what you discovery, it
will be done. The girl clean yourself and served the truth.
Speaker 1 (22:08):
Hushai vanished into the shadows, back toward Jerusalem, where chaos reigned.
Half the city cheered for the traitor prince, the other
half wept for the fleeing king. At his home, Hushai
washed the dirt from his face. He looked into the
mirror and saw not a fool, as others claimed, but
(22:31):
a servant of God and King. He tightened his belt,
squared his shoulders, and went out to greet Absalom. War
was coming, not of swords alone, but of whispers and
masks and counsel in candle lit haws, and Hushai would
be the dagger in the dark. David's jaw quivered at
(22:59):
the summit. It was cold and the air was unforgiving.
He closed his eyes and fell to the ground. He
clenched fistfuls of dirt and grass as he prayed vigorously
to the Lord. Tears streamed down his wincing face. He
lifted up his head to the skies and sang to God.
Speaker 2 (23:23):
Oh Lord, my poes are many. They're rising against me.
They say to my soul, there's no salvation for.
Speaker 5 (23:31):
Him and God.
Speaker 2 (23:33):
But you, o Lord, are a shield about me. You're
the lifter of my head.
Speaker 4 (23:39):
And my glory.
Speaker 2 (23:41):
You, oh Lord, are a shield about me. You're the
lifter of my head and my glory.
Speaker 8 (23:50):
I cried aloud to you, and you answered me from
your holy hill.
Speaker 1 (23:56):
David paused his singing and stood up his arms out
to the Lord. He raised his fists in the air
and sang with more fire and intensity than he had
ever before.
Speaker 8 (24:10):
I'll not be afraid of the thousands that will say
me arise, O Lord, save me, Save me, Oh my God,
Will you strike all my enemies on the cheek, You
break the teeth of the wicked arise, O Lord, horise,
(24:31):
save me, Oh my God.
Speaker 2 (24:34):
Salvation belongs to the Lord.
Speaker 5 (24:37):
Arise.
Speaker 3 (24:47):
If your faith has been kindled by this podcast and
it has affected your life, we'd love it if you
left her view. We read them, and me personally, I
cherish them as you venture forth, bull and faithfully. I
leave you with the biblical blessing from numbers sex ivarech
hashem vieschmerechra Yeah heir hashempanave ileha rocher ye sa hashempanave
(25:14):
lera vi Salon May the Lord bless you and keep you.
May the Lord make his face shine upon you. May
he be gracious to you. May the Lord turn his
face towards you and give you peace.
Speaker 1 (25:28):
Amen. You can listen to the Chosen People with Isle
Egstein add free by downloading and subscribing to the pray
dot Com app today. This prey dog comproduction is only
made possible by our dedicated team of creative talents. Steve Katina,
Max Bard, Zach Shellavaga and Ben Gammon are the executive
(25:50):
producers of the Chosen People with Yaele Estein, edited by
Alberto Avilla, narrated by Paul Coltefianu. Characters are voiced by
Jonathan Cotton, Aaron Salvado, Sarah Seltz, Mike Reagan, Stephen Ringwald,
Sylvia Zaradoc, Thomas Copeland Junior, Rosanna Pilcher, and the opening
prayer is voiced by John Moore. Music by Andrew Morgan Smith,
(26:14):
written by Aaron Salvado, bre Rosalie and Chris Baig. Special
thanks to Bishop Paulinier, Robin van Ettin, kayleb Burrows, Jocelyn
Fuller and the team at International Fellowship of Christians and Jews,
You can hear more Prey dot com productions on the
Prey dot Com app, available on the Apple App Store
and Google Play Store. If you enjoyed The Chosen People
(26:36):
with Yeile Eckstein, please rate and leave a review.
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