July 27, 2025 • 28 mins
# 201 - Absalom's Demise - In this episode of The Chosen People with Yael Eckstein, As rebellion boils over, King David’s son Absalom rides toward ruin, tangled in pride, betrayal, and the forest that swallows his fate. In this gripping chapter of 2 Samuel 17–18, justice crashes into heartbreak, and mercy hangs in the balance between a father's love and a warrior's spear.
Episode 201 of The Chosen People with Yael Eckstein is inspired by the Book of Joshua.
Sign up for The Chosen People devotionals at https://www.thechosenpeople.com/sign-up
For more information about Yael Eckstein and IFCJ visit https://www.ifcj.org/
Today's opening prayer is inspired by Isaiah 5:18, “Woe to those who draw sin along with cords of deceit, and wickedness as with cart ropes.”
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:
(02:07) Intro with Yael Eckstein
(02:56) Absalom's Demise
(27:01) Reflection with Yael Eckstein
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Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
Speaker 1 (00:00):
Previously on the chosen people. The elderly general slowly approached,
his white beard glowing orange from the firelight. He was
a regal looking man, sturdy and stately, a Hitherfel, the
grandfather of Bathsheba.
Speaker 2 (00:19):
What do you want, Absalom?
Speaker 3 (00:21):
The same thing you want?
Speaker 4 (00:23):
A hither fell David? Off the throne, my king, arise,
they're coming for you. What is the meaning of this, Absolom?
Speaker 1 (00:33):
The people are turned.
Speaker 4 (00:35):
They chant his name in the streets. He has declared himself, King.
Speaker 1 (00:41):
Are you going to fight them?
Speaker 4 (00:42):
No?
Speaker 5 (00:43):
Or not?
Speaker 2 (00:44):
See Jerusalem become a field of civil war.
Speaker 4 (00:47):
That's what Abslom wants.
Speaker 2 (00:49):
We flee now, where's Joe ab.
Speaker 1 (00:53):
Under the hush of twilight, King David stood at the
edge of the Brookhedron. 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 Gethsemone. David then looked behind him,
(01:18):
where his betrayers hoarded and conspired to kill him. He
was fleeing for his life, but it didn't feel right?
Speaker 4 (01:31):
Was that you?
Speaker 5 (01:33):
I could never serve that snake?
Speaker 4 (01:35):
While you still drop breath. I'm loyal to you to
the very end.
Speaker 2 (01:40):
Good that I need you to return to Jusie.
Speaker 4 (01:45):
You wanted to spy for you.
Speaker 5 (01:50):
I need you to focus.
Speaker 1 (01:51):
Shin frustrate by them needing pleasant words.
Speaker 2 (01:55):
Learn absolute plans, say Doc and Ebah. I will send
their sons, bring me what you discover it.
Speaker 4 (02:03):
It will be done.
Speaker 6 (02:09):
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, stories
filled with timeless lessons of faith, love, and the meaning
of life. Through Israel's story, we will find this truth
(02:31):
that we are all chosen for something great.
Speaker 4 (02:35):
So take a moment.
Speaker 6 (02:36):
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 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 (03:00):
Chariots thundered through the gates of Jerusalem, the hoofs of
Absalom's war horses crushed the garden paths beneath them, scattering
petals like chaff in the wind. From the walls and windows,
voices cried out, King Absalom, King Absalom, King Absalom. The
(03:23):
Prince dismounted slowly and with an air of regality. He
took a breath and smiled.
Speaker 3 (03:31):
Ah, yes, King Absalom, Oh, and what a great king
I shall.
Speaker 1 (03:39):
Be behind him. A Hitherfel walked with hands clasped. He
didn't bask in any of the victory. He knew nothing
would be truly won until David was dead.
Speaker 3 (03:53):
A hitherfell gathered the remaining council. Any man who remained here,
instead of following my father into the dust, is welcome
to swear fealty to me.
Speaker 1 (04:03):
Ahitherfel bowed and did as he was commanded. Soon the
throne room filled with murmuring men. All of them were
former loyalists of David. Some remained out of fear, but
many remained for the new opportunity for power and influence
under Absalom's rule. Among them was one who bowed lower
(04:27):
than all the rest, Hushai. He had been commanded by
David to remain as his eyes and ears. The thought
of playing such a crucial role made Hushai's stomach churn,
but he was determined. Nonetheless, Hushai entered ready for the
battle of politics.
Speaker 4 (04:48):
Long live King Absalom, may his reign eclipse that of
his father. David.
Speaker 1 (04:54):
Absalom narrowed his eyes.
Speaker 3 (04:57):
Hushai, I find your company strange. My father was fond
of you. Why did you not retreat with him?
Speaker 1 (05:06):
Hush I blinked, feigning sorrow.
Speaker 4 (05:10):
My loyalty is to the throne, not the man. The
Lord has clearly chosen you. The people have obviously favored you.
That makes you king, and so I am yours as
I was your father's. Use me as you will.
Speaker 1 (05:27):
Absalom grinned. He wanted to believe it needed to. His
ego lapped it up very well.
Speaker 3 (05:36):
Let us discuss how I might solidify my rule. The
people know I've taken the throne, but how do we
make them believe it belongs to me?
Speaker 1 (05:45):
He looked to a hitherfel the old fox leaned forward,
voice low and sharp as a dagger.
Speaker 2 (05:54):
Total claim, nothing more, nothing less, If anything in this
palace remained King David's then he'll have a football here.
You must disgrace your father in the eyes.
Speaker 1 (06:05):
Of the nation.
Speaker 2 (06:06):
Take what was his, not only a city in his seat,
but also a servants, his bed, his women, his concubines
remain in the palace. Ravish them. Do so in the
light of the sun. Let all Israel see that you're
no pretender, and neither are you a bleeding hard hypocrite
like your father. Everything you do you do in the light.
(06:29):
No secrets, no feigned righteousness. You're the king.
Speaker 1 (06:34):
Do what pleases you, and never beg forgiveness. The room
fell still. Hoshai held his breath, and Absalom laughed.
Speaker 3 (06:45):
Oh, you've always had a taste for the dramatic, old man,
but you're right. Pitch a tent on the palace roof.
I'll show them who rules Jerusalem now.
Speaker 1 (06:57):
And so it was done. By noon, The crimson banners
of the House of David fluttered from the heights, and
beneath them Absalom defiled his father's concubines one by one.
The city whispered, the kingdom watched the air stand of
(07:17):
smoke and sin. It was a bold move, too bold.
Hushai saw cracks in Absalom's cool demeanor. He had been
thrown in this plan for years, allowing it to ferment,
but now he was drunk on it. He was a fool,
and Hushie would capitalize on every mistake. Absalom sat slouched
(07:45):
on the throne like a serpent, curled atop a warm stone.
Behind him, a Hitherefel and Hushie stood still as statues.
This was no court of peace. It was a council
of war. Hush I watched a Hitherfel's eyes. There was
hunger in them, not ambition obsession. The old counselor clung
(08:09):
to Absalom's shadow like a starved leech. It was clear
he'd staked everything on the success of this coup. Hush
I knew that was dangerous. Men like a Hitherfel did
not forgive failure, not even their own a Hitherofel.
Speaker 4 (08:27):
Yes, my Lord, David and his men are.
Speaker 3 (08:31):
Hiding somewhere beyond Kidra. I fear every moment there away
is a moment they have to plan.
Speaker 5 (08:39):
Is it time we strike?
Speaker 2 (08:41):
Choose twelve thousand men. I'll lead them myself. David's weary,
his men scattered, and his numbers view We attack swiftly,
with precision, and strike only at him what the kings did.
His followers will have no heart left to resist. Let
me bring the people back, dear, like a bride.
Speaker 1 (09:01):
Poor husband. Absalom liked the sound of it, glory, vengeance,
a swift, surgical end. He turned to Hushai, expecting agreement,
but Hushaie stepped forward and bowed his head. What he
was about to do was more dangerous than drawing a blade.
Speaker 4 (09:21):
A Hithophelius wife, But today he is a fool.
Speaker 1 (09:28):
What did you say? Rat a hither fell stiffened, his
lips pulled tight. Hushai ignored the old man and met
Absalom's gaze.
Speaker 4 (09:40):
Every enemy of Israel has made the same grave mistake,
underestimating David and his men. Your father is not a
wounded dear, but a lion. He is cornered. I'm willing
to bet he isn't sleeping whereas people sleep. He is
probably hidden, watching, waiting for you to striking secret. If
(10:01):
you strike now, you will kill farmers, priests and children,
knots not David, and the people will see you for
what they fear, a butcher of your own blood.
Speaker 3 (10:15):
Then we wait, We give him more time to rally support.
Speaker 4 (10:21):
No, you assemble a host, an army greater than any
scene in Israel. You must march at its head with
banners and trumpets, no secrecy, no fear, don't don't have
a Hitthrofeldt do the work for you. You'll come across
as a spoiled prince. March upon David with a flood.
He will not withstand it. And if, by some curse
(10:44):
a chance he reaches the city, then all Israel shall
bring ropes to drag him from its gates until dust
does not remain.
Speaker 1 (10:52):
That made Absalom smile vanity one where reason wavered.
Speaker 3 (10:58):
Well said, prepare the man. I will ride at the front,
and when we find my father, we shall grind his
name into the earth.
Speaker 1 (11:08):
He swept from the hall, giddy with visions of triumph.
A Hitherefel did not follow. Immediately. He and Hushai stood alone.
The silence between them crackled like embers. You think yourself clever?
Speaker 4 (11:25):
No, only loyal ms, but to.
Speaker 1 (11:31):
Whom they held each other's gaze like swords locked at
the cross guard. Then a Hitherfel turned and left in silence.
Hushaie moved. He rushed to the house of Abiathar and Zadok.
His breath fast, his thoughts faster.
Speaker 4 (11:50):
Send word to David, absolute marches with the full might
of Israel. If the king terrors near the Jordan, he dies,
he must cross tonight.
Speaker 1 (11:59):
The least suns took the message at once. The river's
edge was quiet, but war thundered in the distance. The
game was in motion. The blood would follow. The night
was still save for the soft ripple of water and
(12:19):
the distant crackle of camphires. The moon cast a pale
silver veil across the Jordan, and David, knee deep in
its chilled waters, felt its gaze like judgment. He splashed
water on his face, rinsing away the filth of exile.
His breath fogged in the night air. A chew, o Lord,
(12:45):
A shield about me, my glory, and the lifter of
my head behind him, the camp dozed in uneasy peace.
Hundreds had followed him, his household, his guards, his loyal men.
He didn't understand it, not truly, not after everything. He
caught sight of Bathsheba, stepping from the shadows, Solomon cradled
(13:10):
in her arms. The boy bleaked sleepily, curls, sticking to
his brow. David approached gently, pressing a kiss to his
son's forehead.
Speaker 2 (13:22):
Sleep, my little lion. May the Lord God your dreams,
because I cannot.
Speaker 1 (13:28):
When he returned to the fire, Abishai and the others
sat waiting, but there was a notable absence from the men. Joab,
David's commander, hadn't come to meet David. David wondered if
Joab had abandoned him for Absalom, given their messy past.
David supposed it was possible. How are you, Joab when
(13:51):
I need you most? You're gone? Then came the thunder
of hoofs. Two messengers sent from Hushy dismounted in a
storm of dust and breathless, warning, my King Absolom is
on a march. The host is past, the blood is hot.
They will cross in days. David stood, the fire painted
(14:12):
him in bronze and black where Gilead. David looked across
the river at the shadowed bank beyond Gilead was familiar ground,
but it would not be a homecoming. It would be
a reckoning. David wrapped his cloak tighter, his face set
(14:34):
against the east wind as he and his captains marched
the ridge below them sprawled the valley vast and open,
treacherous in its promise. At the edge of the forest
of Ephraim, tents of enemy banners fluttered like vultures, circling
the carcass of a kingdom. Absalom was there somewhere beneath
(14:57):
those canopies of silk and steel, plotting the fall of
his father. David's eyes narrowed.
Speaker 5 (15:06):
If we strike here, we lose.
Speaker 2 (15:09):
He has the numbers, but the forest has ground.
Speaker 3 (15:12):
We can control, yes, narrowing the terrain well, even the odds,
but we still won't get out of this without bleeding.
Speaker 2 (15:22):
Then we bleed together.
Speaker 1 (15:24):
As he spoke, the sound of horns rang out behind them.
David and his men drew their swords, prepared for an ambush.
Then he burst from the shadows. Joe ab rode in
like thunder, flanked by hundreds of battlehardened men in scarred armor,
(15:44):
dust rising behind them. He dismounted with a smirk and
opened his arms.
Speaker 4 (15:51):
Were you going to ride without me?
Speaker 2 (15:54):
I'm hurt, Joem you're here? Do you think me a traitor?
Speaker 1 (16:02):
Ha ha?
Speaker 4 (16:03):
The boy burned my fields.
Speaker 5 (16:05):
That's not a slight.
Speaker 1 (16:06):
I'll forget David clasped his forearms and laughed in return.
Ha ha, Then we are whole again together. The men
stood over the map. The forest would be their battle ground.
Speaker 2 (16:21):
We're split in the three companies. Abershei, you lead the charge, Gita,
I will flank Joe, ab lie in wait strike. Once
the battles joined, I'll ride in the front.
Speaker 1 (16:32):
But his captains did not cheer. They exchanged glances.
Speaker 5 (16:37):
No, you will not.
Speaker 4 (16:40):
I must.
Speaker 2 (16:41):
I'll not hide like a coward while others fight.
Speaker 3 (16:43):
My war is not your presence that would save us,
my king, it is your absence.
Speaker 5 (16:49):
If you fall, we fall. They will ignore us for
a chance at your head. You're worth ten thousand of us,
and you know it. Besides, if I saw my son
in the fray, I'm not sure I could do what
must be done. I won't make you watch your son die, David.
Speaker 1 (17:08):
David clenched his fists, then drew a deep breath. Do
wish you think best?
Speaker 2 (17:15):
I trust you all?
Speaker 1 (17:17):
But David turned toward the enemy camp. Among them was Absalom.
His enemy, yes, but his son.
Speaker 2 (17:27):
Please deal gently with Absolom. Do not kill him, capture him,
but please spare his life if you can.
Speaker 1 (17:40):
It was a king's command, but it sounded far more
like a father's plea. The captains bowed, and then they
vanished into the trees. The storm had begun. The false
(18:00):
king sat atop his horse, golden laced armor shimmering in
the dimmed light. Absalom's once poised and calculated demeanor was cracking.
He should have known better than to challenge David's mighty men,
but pride had moved him where his mind knew he
shouldn't go, and pride kept him from turning back. Pride
(18:25):
is the death of us. All the wind tore east
to west, and the forest before him howled with fury.
As storm was awaiting him, Absalom called for his men
to charge the forest.
Speaker 4 (18:41):
No mercy, no glory ah.
Speaker 1 (18:47):
Absalom charged with Israel's host in front of him. The
armies clashed in chaos. David's men were few, but they
were devils in the trees. From the first glow, Absalom
knew he had made a grave miscalculation. Habish Eye's vanguard
fell upon them like wolves loosed from the cage. Archers
(19:10):
were perched in the trees, and spearmen lunged from the
shadows of each oak. Absalom, watching from behind the front,
felt the chill creep into his chest.
Speaker 4 (19:22):
Well back threefour raids.
Speaker 1 (19:26):
Absalom turned. As he did, he saw Joab with his men,
ready to pursue.
Speaker 4 (19:33):
What scatter.
Speaker 3 (19:34):
Men scatter him regrouve with the gates.
Speaker 1 (19:38):
But the forests swallowed orders. Shouts were lost to the wind.
Arrows hissed like serpents from the trees. Men screamed and vanished.
The woods turned on them. Trees became traps, shadows became enemies.
Then came Joab. His men were fierce and fast, crashing
(20:02):
through brush with brutal precision. They hid Absalom's line like
a boulder dropped from heaven. Shields cracked, swords, splinted, men fell.
Absalom turned. This wasn't a battle, This was a reckoning.
His pride was a noose tightening with every blow struck
(20:24):
by David's men.
Speaker 5 (20:26):
So he fled.
Speaker 1 (20:29):
Absalom tore through the trees on his mount. The thunder
roared and rain began to fall, light at first, then heavy,
blurring his vision. Branches lashed his cheeks, tore at his robe.
He knew low over his horse, urging it faster, right, right,
(20:51):
don't stop. Behind him, came pursuit. The shouts of Joab's
men rose in crescendo. Swords ran in the distance. He
knew they were coming. He had to escape. He would
live and fight again, regroup, rebuild, and take the throne properly.
(21:12):
But the forest did not let him go. The trees
closed around him. A tunnel of oak and brambles stretched ahead.
The branches twisted together in a wicked embrace. Absalom ducked
one branch, sliced through another, but he could not see
the snare waiting above. With a sickening crack, his head
(21:34):
struck between two thick limbs. The horse galloped forward that
Absalom did not. The momentum tore him backward. His neck
wrenched as the full weight of his body snapped into suspension.
The world spun, His arms flailed, his legs kicked at
the air. Absalom was hanging there, caught between two branches, choking, gasping,
(22:01):
fingers clawing for freedom. The rain poured, now, soaking his cloak,
blinding his eyes. He writhed like a fish caught in
a net.
Speaker 5 (22:12):
Below.
Speaker 1 (22:13):
The battle raged on, but he was alone. Absolom, son
of David, dangled like a cursed idol in the forest,
and the Lord who sees all things looked down from
the storm with silence. Joab gripped the hilt of his
(22:37):
spear as he strode through the muden moss. Each step
was a beat in the drama of judgment. The men
had found Absalom, but dared not touch him. The king
had given orders not to harm the prince.
Speaker 4 (22:54):
You're all cowards. I would have given you riches and
metals if you'd killed the boy.
Speaker 1 (23:00):
Her head hanging like cursed fruit from twisted branches was Absalom,
his cloak tangled in the limbs of the oak, his
body dangling, royal garments torn and smeared in sweat and blood.
The prince was still alive, barely gasping, gagging, clawing for breath.
(23:24):
Joeab stepped into the clearing, boots, cracking over the wet roots.
Your Majesty, Absalom's eyes found him wide with fear. Roab,
can't it beats out?
Speaker 5 (23:43):
Your wish is my command?
Speaker 1 (23:47):
Joab wound his arm back and hurled the first spear
with deadly precision. It struck Absalom clean through the shoulder,
cracking the limb that held him. The prince tumbled to
the ground in a heap, coughing and choking. He rolled
onto his hands and knees, limbs trembling. For a heartbeat,
(24:08):
he could breathe.
Speaker 4 (24:10):
Oh no, lor Joy please shot up.
Speaker 1 (24:20):
Joe Ab slammed a second spear into Absalom's back and
punched through his side. The screen that followed was more
animal than man. Blood gushed, soaking the earth. Still, Absalom
moved barely, dragging himself backwards, leaving a crimson trail in
(24:41):
the forest soil. Joe Ab approached, slow and steady. The
rain had gone, the clouds were beginning to part. A
single ray of sunlight broke through, bouncing off Absalom's armor.
Speaker 5 (24:57):
You want to know something, After all all this, your
father still wanted me to spare you.
Speaker 4 (25:05):
Please please it.
Speaker 5 (25:11):
You received mercy, Absolom, your father gave it twice.
Speaker 1 (25:17):
He raised the third spear high over his shoulder and
thrust it down with a brutal grunt. The iron points
sank deep into Absalom's gut. The prince jerked, gasped, and
then slowly fell still. Joab watched the life drain from
(25:37):
his eyes. He stepped back and gestured to the soldiers.
Speaker 5 (25:41):
Behind him finish him.
Speaker 1 (25:45):
They came forward without a word, One after another, they
drove their blades into the body. When it was done,
Joab stood alone above the body of the usurper prince.
He ordered a to be dug. They rolled the corpse
in and heaped stones over it, not as an honor,
(26:06):
but as a warning. And then silence. The men who
had followed Absalom, the soldiers who once bore his banner,
gathered in silence, waiting for Joab's judgment. He didn't give
them a speech, he didn't raise his voice. He just
(26:27):
turned eyes.
Speaker 5 (26:28):
Cold, back to your homes, and they went.
Speaker 1 (26:34):
Silent, ashamed, defeated. Joab remained behind for a moment, longer,
standing in the rain beside the mound of stones. The
thunder rumbled like the wrath of God, rolling across the heavens.
He spat at the grave, then turned his back on it.
Speaker 5 (26:56):
Long live the King.
Speaker 6 (27:04):
If your faith has been kindled by this podcast and
it has affected your life, we'd love it if you
left her review. We read them, and me personally I
cherish them. As you venture forth boldly and faithfully. I
leave you with the Biblical blessing from numbers six Iva
hashem vischmerchra Yeah Heir hashempanave ele y sa hashempanavelera.
Speaker 1 (27:33):
Shaloon.
Speaker 6 (27:34):
May the Lord bless you and keep you. May the
Lord make his face shine upon you. May he be
gracious to you. Made the Lord turn his face towards
you and give you peace.
Speaker 1 (27:45):
Amen. You can listen to the Chosen People with You
isl Exstein add free by downloading and subscribing to the
pray dot Com app today. This prey dot Com production
is only made possible by OURNT dedicated team of creative talents.
Steve Gattina, Max Bard, Zach Shellabarger and Ben Gammon are
(28:06):
the executive producers of the Chosen People with Yiele Eckstein,
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voiced by Jonathan Cotten, Aaron Salvado, Sarah Seltz, Mike Reagan,
Stephen Ringwold, Sylvia Zaradoc, Thomas Copeland, Junior, Rosanna Pilcher, and
(28:26):
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Previously on the chosen people. The elderly general slowly approached,
his white beard glowing orange from the firelight. He was
a regal looking man, sturdy and stately, a Hitherfel, the
grandfather of Bathsheba.
Speaker 2 (00:19):
What do you want, Absalom?
Speaker 3 (00:21):
The same thing you want?
Speaker 4 (00:23):
A hither fell David? Off the throne, my king, arise,
they're coming for you. What is the meaning of this, Absolom?
Speaker 1 (00:33):
The people are turned.
Speaker 4 (00:35):
They chant his name in the streets. He has declared himself, King.
Speaker 1 (00:41):
Are you going to fight them?
Speaker 4 (00:42):
No?
Speaker 5 (00:43):
Or not?
Speaker 2 (00:44):
See Jerusalem become a field of civil war.
Speaker 4 (00:47):
That's what Abslom wants.
Speaker 2 (00:49):
We flee now, where's Joe ab.
Speaker 1 (00:53):
Under the hush of twilight, King David stood at the
edge of the Brookhedron. 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 Gethsemone. David then looked behind him,
(01:18):
where his betrayers hoarded and conspired to kill him. He
was fleeing for his life, but it didn't feel right?
Speaker 4 (01:31):
Was that you?
Speaker 5 (01:33):
I could never serve that snake?
Speaker 4 (01:35):
While you still drop breath. I'm loyal to you to
the very end.
Speaker 2 (01:40):
Good that I need you to return to Jusie.
Speaker 4 (01:45):
You wanted to spy for you.
Speaker 5 (01:50):
I need you to focus.
Speaker 1 (01:51):
Shin frustrate by them needing pleasant words.
Speaker 2 (01:55):
Learn absolute plans, say Doc and Ebah. I will send
their sons, bring me what you discover it.
Speaker 4 (02:03):
It will be done.
Speaker 6 (02:09):
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, stories
filled with timeless lessons of faith, love, and the meaning
of life. Through Israel's story, we will find this truth
(02:31):
that we are all chosen for something great.
Speaker 4 (02:35):
So take a moment.
Speaker 6 (02:36):
Today to follow the podcast. If you're feeling extra grateful
for these stories, we would love it if you left
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Speaker 1 (03:00):
Chariots thundered through the gates of Jerusalem, the hoofs of
Absalom's war horses crushed the garden paths beneath them, scattering
petals like chaff in the wind. From the walls and windows,
voices cried out, King Absalom, King Absalom, King Absalom. The
(03:23):
Prince dismounted slowly and with an air of regality. He
took a breath and smiled.
Speaker 3 (03:31):
Ah, yes, King Absalom, Oh, and what a great king
I shall.
Speaker 1 (03:39):
Be behind him. A Hitherfel walked with hands clasped. He
didn't bask in any of the victory. He knew nothing
would be truly won until David was dead.
Speaker 3 (03:53):
A hitherfell gathered the remaining council. Any man who remained here,
instead of following my father into the dust, is welcome
to swear fealty to me.
Speaker 1 (04:03):
Ahitherfel bowed and did as he was commanded. Soon the
throne room filled with murmuring men. All of them were
former loyalists of David. Some remained out of fear, but
many remained for the new opportunity for power and influence
under Absalom's rule. Among them was one who bowed lower
(04:27):
than all the rest, Hushai. He had been commanded by
David to remain as his eyes and ears. The thought
of playing such a crucial role made Hushai's stomach churn,
but he was determined. Nonetheless, Hushai entered ready for the
battle of politics.
Speaker 4 (04:48):
Long live King Absalom, may his reign eclipse that of
his father. David.
Speaker 1 (04:54):
Absalom narrowed his eyes.
Speaker 3 (04:57):
Hushai, I find your company strange. My father was fond
of you. Why did you not retreat with him?
Speaker 1 (05:06):
Hush I blinked, feigning sorrow.
Speaker 4 (05:10):
My loyalty is to the throne, not the man. The
Lord has clearly chosen you. The people have obviously favored you.
That makes you king, and so I am yours as
I was your father's. Use me as you will.
Speaker 1 (05:27):
Absalom grinned. He wanted to believe it needed to. His
ego lapped it up very well.
Speaker 3 (05:36):
Let us discuss how I might solidify my rule. The
people know I've taken the throne, but how do we
make them believe it belongs to me?
Speaker 1 (05:45):
He looked to a hitherfel the old fox leaned forward,
voice low and sharp as a dagger.
Speaker 2 (05:54):
Total claim, nothing more, nothing less, If anything in this
palace remained King David's then he'll have a football here.
You must disgrace your father in the eyes.
Speaker 1 (06:05):
Of the nation.
Speaker 2 (06:06):
Take what was his, not only a city in his seat,
but also a servants, his bed, his women, his concubines
remain in the palace. Ravish them. Do so in the
light of the sun. Let all Israel see that you're
no pretender, and neither are you a bleeding hard hypocrite
like your father. Everything you do you do in the light.
(06:29):
No secrets, no feigned righteousness. You're the king.
Speaker 1 (06:34):
Do what pleases you, and never beg forgiveness. The room
fell still. Hoshai held his breath, and Absalom laughed.
Speaker 3 (06:45):
Oh, you've always had a taste for the dramatic, old man,
but you're right. Pitch a tent on the palace roof.
I'll show them who rules Jerusalem now.
Speaker 1 (06:57):
And so it was done. By noon, The crimson banners
of the House of David fluttered from the heights, and
beneath them Absalom defiled his father's concubines one by one.
The city whispered, the kingdom watched the air stand of
(07:17):
smoke and sin. It was a bold move, too bold.
Hushai saw cracks in Absalom's cool demeanor. He had been
thrown in this plan for years, allowing it to ferment,
but now he was drunk on it. He was a fool,
and Hushie would capitalize on every mistake. Absalom sat slouched
(07:45):
on the throne like a serpent, curled atop a warm stone.
Behind him, a Hitherefel and Hushie stood still as statues.
This was no court of peace. It was a council
of war. Hush I watched a Hitherfel's eyes. There was
hunger in them, not ambition obsession. The old counselor clung
(08:09):
to Absalom's shadow like a starved leech. It was clear
he'd staked everything on the success of this coup. Hush
I knew that was dangerous. Men like a Hitherfel did
not forgive failure, not even their own a Hitherofel.
Speaker 4 (08:27):
Yes, my Lord, David and his men are.
Speaker 3 (08:31):
Hiding somewhere beyond Kidra. I fear every moment there away
is a moment they have to plan.
Speaker 5 (08:39):
Is it time we strike?
Speaker 2 (08:41):
Choose twelve thousand men. I'll lead them myself. David's weary,
his men scattered, and his numbers view We attack swiftly,
with precision, and strike only at him what the kings did.
His followers will have no heart left to resist. Let
me bring the people back, dear, like a bride.
Speaker 1 (09:01):
Poor husband. Absalom liked the sound of it, glory, vengeance,
a swift, surgical end. He turned to Hushai, expecting agreement,
but Hushaie stepped forward and bowed his head. What he
was about to do was more dangerous than drawing a blade.
Speaker 4 (09:21):
A Hithophelius wife, But today he is a fool.
Speaker 1 (09:28):
What did you say? Rat a hither fell stiffened, his
lips pulled tight. Hushai ignored the old man and met
Absalom's gaze.
Speaker 4 (09:40):
Every enemy of Israel has made the same grave mistake,
underestimating David and his men. Your father is not a
wounded dear, but a lion. He is cornered. I'm willing
to bet he isn't sleeping whereas people sleep. He is
probably hidden, watching, waiting for you to striking secret. If
(10:01):
you strike now, you will kill farmers, priests and children,
knots not David, and the people will see you for
what they fear, a butcher of your own blood.
Speaker 3 (10:15):
Then we wait, We give him more time to rally support.
Speaker 4 (10:21):
No, you assemble a host, an army greater than any
scene in Israel. You must march at its head with
banners and trumpets, no secrecy, no fear, don't don't have
a Hitthrofeldt do the work for you. You'll come across
as a spoiled prince. March upon David with a flood.
He will not withstand it. And if, by some curse
(10:44):
a chance he reaches the city, then all Israel shall
bring ropes to drag him from its gates until dust
does not remain.
Speaker 1 (10:52):
That made Absalom smile vanity one where reason wavered.
Speaker 3 (10:58):
Well said, prepare the man. I will ride at the front,
and when we find my father, we shall grind his
name into the earth.
Speaker 1 (11:08):
He swept from the hall, giddy with visions of triumph.
A Hitherefel did not follow. Immediately. He and Hushai stood alone.
The silence between them crackled like embers. You think yourself clever?
Speaker 4 (11:25):
No, only loyal ms, but to.
Speaker 1 (11:31):
Whom they held each other's gaze like swords locked at
the cross guard. Then a Hitherfel turned and left in silence.
Hushaie moved. He rushed to the house of Abiathar and Zadok.
His breath fast, his thoughts faster.
Speaker 4 (11:50):
Send word to David, absolute marches with the full might
of Israel. If the king terrors near the Jordan, he dies,
he must cross tonight.
Speaker 1 (11:59):
The least suns took the message at once. The river's
edge was quiet, but war thundered in the distance. The
game was in motion. The blood would follow. The night
was still save for the soft ripple of water and
(12:19):
the distant crackle of camphires. The moon cast a pale
silver veil across the Jordan, and David, knee deep in
its chilled waters, felt its gaze like judgment. He splashed
water on his face, rinsing away the filth of exile.
His breath fogged in the night air. A chew, o Lord,
(12:45):
A shield about me, my glory, and the lifter of
my head behind him, the camp dozed in uneasy peace.
Hundreds had followed him, his household, his guards, his loyal men.
He didn't understand it, not truly, not after everything. He
caught sight of Bathsheba, stepping from the shadows, Solomon cradled
(13:10):
in her arms. The boy bleaked sleepily, curls, sticking to
his brow. David approached gently, pressing a kiss to his
son's forehead.
Speaker 2 (13:22):
Sleep, my little lion. May the Lord God your dreams,
because I cannot.
Speaker 1 (13:28):
When he returned to the fire, Abishai and the others
sat waiting, but there was a notable absence from the men. Joab,
David's commander, hadn't come to meet David. David wondered if
Joab had abandoned him for Absalom, given their messy past.
David supposed it was possible. How are you, Joab when
(13:51):
I need you most? You're gone? Then came the thunder
of hoofs. Two messengers sent from Hushy dismounted in a
storm of dust and breathless, warning, my King Absolom is
on a march. The host is past, the blood is hot.
They will cross in days. David stood, the fire painted
(14:12):
him in bronze and black where Gilead. David looked across
the river at the shadowed bank beyond Gilead was familiar ground,
but it would not be a homecoming. It would be
a reckoning. David wrapped his cloak tighter, his face set
(14:34):
against the east wind as he and his captains marched
the ridge below them sprawled the valley vast and open,
treacherous in its promise. At the edge of the forest
of Ephraim, tents of enemy banners fluttered like vultures, circling
the carcass of a kingdom. Absalom was there somewhere beneath
(14:57):
those canopies of silk and steel, plotting the fall of
his father. David's eyes narrowed.
Speaker 5 (15:06):
If we strike here, we lose.
Speaker 2 (15:09):
He has the numbers, but the forest has ground.
Speaker 3 (15:12):
We can control, yes, narrowing the terrain well, even the odds,
but we still won't get out of this without bleeding.
Speaker 2 (15:22):
Then we bleed together.
Speaker 1 (15:24):
As he spoke, the sound of horns rang out behind them.
David and his men drew their swords, prepared for an ambush.
Then he burst from the shadows. Joe ab rode in
like thunder, flanked by hundreds of battlehardened men in scarred armor,
(15:44):
dust rising behind them. He dismounted with a smirk and
opened his arms.
Speaker 4 (15:51):
Were you going to ride without me?
Speaker 2 (15:54):
I'm hurt, Joem you're here? Do you think me a traitor?
Speaker 1 (16:02):
Ha ha?
Speaker 4 (16:03):
The boy burned my fields.
Speaker 5 (16:05):
That's not a slight.
Speaker 1 (16:06):
I'll forget David clasped his forearms and laughed in return.
Ha ha, Then we are whole again together. The men
stood over the map. The forest would be their battle ground.
Speaker 2 (16:21):
We're split in the three companies. Abershei, you lead the charge, Gita,
I will flank Joe, ab lie in wait strike. Once
the battles joined, I'll ride in the front.
Speaker 1 (16:32):
But his captains did not cheer. They exchanged glances.
Speaker 5 (16:37):
No, you will not.
Speaker 4 (16:40):
I must.
Speaker 2 (16:41):
I'll not hide like a coward while others fight.
Speaker 3 (16:43):
My war is not your presence that would save us,
my king, it is your absence.
Speaker 5 (16:49):
If you fall, we fall. They will ignore us for
a chance at your head. You're worth ten thousand of us,
and you know it. Besides, if I saw my son
in the fray, I'm not sure I could do what
must be done. I won't make you watch your son die, David.
Speaker 1 (17:08):
David clenched his fists, then drew a deep breath. Do
wish you think best?
Speaker 2 (17:15):
I trust you all?
Speaker 1 (17:17):
But David turned toward the enemy camp. Among them was Absalom.
His enemy, yes, but his son.
Speaker 2 (17:27):
Please deal gently with Absolom. Do not kill him, capture him,
but please spare his life if you can.
Speaker 1 (17:40):
It was a king's command, but it sounded far more
like a father's plea. The captains bowed, and then they
vanished into the trees. The storm had begun. The false
(18:00):
king sat atop his horse, golden laced armor shimmering in
the dimmed light. Absalom's once poised and calculated demeanor was cracking.
He should have known better than to challenge David's mighty men,
but pride had moved him where his mind knew he
shouldn't go, and pride kept him from turning back. Pride
(18:25):
is the death of us. All the wind tore east
to west, and the forest before him howled with fury.
As storm was awaiting him, Absalom called for his men
to charge the forest.
Speaker 4 (18:41):
No mercy, no glory ah.
Speaker 1 (18:47):
Absalom charged with Israel's host in front of him. The
armies clashed in chaos. David's men were few, but they
were devils in the trees. From the first glow, Absalom
knew he had made a grave miscalculation. Habish Eye's vanguard
fell upon them like wolves loosed from the cage. Archers
(19:10):
were perched in the trees, and spearmen lunged from the
shadows of each oak. Absalom, watching from behind the front,
felt the chill creep into his chest.
Speaker 4 (19:22):
Well back threefour raids.
Speaker 1 (19:26):
Absalom turned. As he did, he saw Joab with his men,
ready to pursue.
Speaker 4 (19:33):
What scatter.
Speaker 3 (19:34):
Men scatter him regrouve with the gates.
Speaker 1 (19:38):
But the forests swallowed orders. Shouts were lost to the wind.
Arrows hissed like serpents from the trees. Men screamed and vanished.
The woods turned on them. Trees became traps, shadows became enemies.
Then came Joab. His men were fierce and fast, crashing
(20:02):
through brush with brutal precision. They hid Absalom's line like
a boulder dropped from heaven. Shields cracked, swords, splinted, men fell.
Absalom turned. This wasn't a battle, This was a reckoning.
His pride was a noose tightening with every blow struck
(20:24):
by David's men.
Speaker 5 (20:26):
So he fled.
Speaker 1 (20:29):
Absalom tore through the trees on his mount. The thunder
roared and rain began to fall, light at first, then heavy,
blurring his vision. Branches lashed his cheeks, tore at his robe.
He knew low over his horse, urging it faster, right, right,
(20:51):
don't stop. Behind him, came pursuit. The shouts of Joab's
men rose in crescendo. Swords ran in the distance. He
knew they were coming. He had to escape. He would
live and fight again, regroup, rebuild, and take the throne properly.
(21:12):
But the forest did not let him go. The trees
closed around him. A tunnel of oak and brambles stretched ahead.
The branches twisted together in a wicked embrace. Absalom ducked
one branch, sliced through another, but he could not see
the snare waiting above. With a sickening crack, his head
(21:34):
struck between two thick limbs. The horse galloped forward that
Absalom did not. The momentum tore him backward. His neck
wrenched as the full weight of his body snapped into suspension.
The world spun, His arms flailed, his legs kicked at
the air. Absalom was hanging there, caught between two branches, choking, gasping,
(22:01):
fingers clawing for freedom. The rain poured, now, soaking his cloak,
blinding his eyes. He writhed like a fish caught in
a net.
Speaker 5 (22:12):
Below.
Speaker 1 (22:13):
The battle raged on, but he was alone. Absolom, son
of David, dangled like a cursed idol in the forest,
and the Lord who sees all things looked down from
the storm with silence. Joab gripped the hilt of his
(22:37):
spear as he strode through the muden moss. Each step
was a beat in the drama of judgment. The men
had found Absalom, but dared not touch him. The king
had given orders not to harm the prince.
Speaker 4 (22:54):
You're all cowards. I would have given you riches and
metals if you'd killed the boy.
Speaker 1 (23:00):
Her head hanging like cursed fruit from twisted branches was Absalom,
his cloak tangled in the limbs of the oak, his
body dangling, royal garments torn and smeared in sweat and blood.
The prince was still alive, barely gasping, gagging, clawing for breath.
(23:24):
Joeab stepped into the clearing, boots, cracking over the wet roots.
Your Majesty, Absalom's eyes found him wide with fear. Roab,
can't it beats out?
Speaker 5 (23:43):
Your wish is my command?
Speaker 1 (23:47):
Joab wound his arm back and hurled the first spear
with deadly precision. It struck Absalom clean through the shoulder,
cracking the limb that held him. The prince tumbled to
the ground in a heap, coughing and choking. He rolled
onto his hands and knees, limbs trembling. For a heartbeat,
(24:08):
he could breathe.
Speaker 4 (24:10):
Oh no, lor Joy please shot up.
Speaker 1 (24:20):
Joe Ab slammed a second spear into Absalom's back and
punched through his side. The screen that followed was more
animal than man. Blood gushed, soaking the earth. Still, Absalom
moved barely, dragging himself backwards, leaving a crimson trail in
(24:41):
the forest soil. Joe Ab approached, slow and steady. The
rain had gone, the clouds were beginning to part. A
single ray of sunlight broke through, bouncing off Absalom's armor.
Speaker 5 (24:57):
You want to know something, After all all this, your
father still wanted me to spare you.
Speaker 4 (25:05):
Please please it.
Speaker 5 (25:11):
You received mercy, Absolom, your father gave it twice.
Speaker 1 (25:17):
He raised the third spear high over his shoulder and
thrust it down with a brutal grunt. The iron points
sank deep into Absalom's gut. The prince jerked, gasped, and
then slowly fell still. Joab watched the life drain from
(25:37):
his eyes. He stepped back and gestured to the soldiers.
Speaker 5 (25:41):
Behind him finish him.
Speaker 1 (25:45):
They came forward without a word, One after another, they
drove their blades into the body. When it was done,
Joab stood alone above the body of the usurper prince.
He ordered a to be dug. They rolled the corpse
in and heaped stones over it, not as an honor,
(26:06):
but as a warning. And then silence. The men who
had followed Absalom, the soldiers who once bore his banner,
gathered in silence, waiting for Joab's judgment. He didn't give
them a speech, he didn't raise his voice. He just
(26:27):
turned eyes.
Speaker 5 (26:28):
Cold, back to your homes, and they went.
Speaker 1 (26:34):
Silent, ashamed, defeated. Joab remained behind for a moment, longer,
standing in the rain beside the mound of stones. The
thunder rumbled like the wrath of God, rolling across the heavens.
He spat at the grave, then turned his back on it.
Speaker 5 (26:56):
Long live the King.
Speaker 6 (27:04):
If your faith has been kindled by this podcast and
it has affected your life, we'd love it if you
left her review. We read them, and me personally I
cherish them. As you venture forth boldly and faithfully. I
leave you with the Biblical blessing from numbers six Iva
hashem vischmerchra Yeah Heir hashempanave ele y sa hashempanavelera.
Speaker 1 (27:33):
Shaloon.
Speaker 6 (27:34):
May the Lord bless you and keep you. May the
Lord make his face shine upon you. May he be
gracious to you. Made the Lord turn his face towards
you and give you peace.
Speaker 1 (27:45):
Amen. You can listen to the Chosen People with You
isl Exstein add free by downloading and subscribing to the
pray dot Com app today. This prey dot Com production
is only made possible by OURNT dedicated team of creative talents.
Steve Gattina, Max Bard, Zach Shellabarger and Ben Gammon are
(28:06):
the executive producers of the Chosen People with Yiele Eckstein,
edited by Alberto Avilla, narrated by Paul Coltofianu. Characters are
voiced by Jonathan Cotten, Aaron Salvado, Sarah Seltz, Mike Reagan,
Stephen Ringwold, Sylvia Zaradoc, Thomas Copeland, Junior, Rosanna Pilcher, and
(28:26):
the opening prayer is voiced by John Moore. Music by
Andrew Morgan Smith, written by Aaron Salvato, bre Rosalie and
Chris Baig. Special thanks to Bishop Paul Lanier, Robin van Ettin,
Kayleb Burrows, Jocelyn Fuller, and the team at International Fellowship
of Christians and Jews. You can hear more Prey dot
(28:46):
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