C. DAVID'S FLIGHT FROM ISRAEL
And David said in his heart, "I shall now perish one day by the hand of Saul: there is nothing better for me than that I should escape into the land of the Philistines; and Saul shall despair of me, to seek me any more in all the borders of Israel: so shall I escape out of his hand."
And David arose, and passed over, he and the six hundred men that were with him, unto Achish the king of Gath. And David dwelt with Achish at Gath, he and his men. And it was told Saul that David was fled to Gath: and he sought no more again for him.
THE MEANING OF THE STORY
244. It was clear to David that Saul had determined to kill him. He therefore decided to flee to his own tribe of Judah and to dwell in the mountains where it would be hard for Saul to reach him. The caves in the Judean hills have been the refuge all through the centuries for those who were in danger from the government. In thus fleeing from the king, David became an outlaw, that is, one who refuses to be under the law. Of course he was obliged to do so by the king's tyranny.
245 (§72A). Adullam was probably about twelve miles from Bethlehem. David would have friends near his own town. He gathered to him all his own relatives, who otherwise might have been killed by the king. Three classes of people are mentioned as joining him: who are they? The first would be those who were oppressed, the second those who were likely to be sold as slaves for debt, the third those who had some grievance. It has often happened in countries where there was no free government that men have banded together in sufficient strength to defy the rulers. In English history we read of Robin Hood and his outlaws, who made the rich pay tribute, when they caught them in the forest. Of course in our modern free states there is no excuse for any such life, and we rightly put down all bandits as criminals. How many men did David have at the first?
246 (§72A). News soon came to David that the people of Keilah, a few miles south of Adullam, were being robbed by the old enemies, the Philistines. They had come when the people were threshing the grain, and intended to steal it. How did David use his band of adventurers against the Philistines? What food supply did he secure?
247 (§72A). How was David's expedition brought to an end? How large had his band grown to be? He must have been an able chieftain to attract these men to him. The next story shows how he provided for them.
248 (§72B). Find Maon and Carmel on the map, just south of Hebron. Who was the rich sheep owner? What kind of man was he and what kind of wife had he? It is evident that David's men had protected the shepherds. What request did he make at the time of the shearing feast? Was this a reasonable request? There were so many bands of robbers abroad that it was a great advantage to the Judean shepherds to have David's protection. Of course he in turn needed supplies for his men.
249 (§72B). What answer did Nabal send back? How did he sneer at David's band? What did David decide to do? How did he divide his men?
250 (§72C). What report was brought to Abigail? What did the shepherds think of David? What did Abigail immediately do? David was in a great rage with Nabal, though of course he really had no right to any pay from the man. What vengeance had he decided to take? What do you think of that? How thankful it makes us feel that we live in times when we have strong laws, and no man is permitted to take the law in his own hands.
251 (§72C). Notice how beautifully Abigail speaks to David, telling him that she knows he will never be sorry that he was merciful. How does David respond? What do you think of a man who gives up his purpose so suddenly?
252 (§72D). Note the character of the drunken fellow and his cowardice when he learned of his escape. Probably his drunkenness and the shock of his terror seriously affected him. How long afterward did he die? When David heard the news, what message did he send to the beautiful Abigail? How did she reply?
253 (§73A). Saul had not given up his determination to kill David. He had made several unsuccessful attempts to capture him. At last he heard of David's hiding-place. How many men did he take with him? But David was ever on the watch. How did he discover that Saul was coming?
254 (§73A). Tell the story of the sleeping camp, of David's stealthy approach with a single companion, of the proposal of Abishai, of David's reply, of the spear and the jug of water. What did we mean when we said Abraham was "magnanimous"? Would you say that David was magnanimous? Read Rom. 12:19-21. Where does David appear best—when he threatens Nabal or when he spares Saul?
255 (§73B). Tell the story of the conversation with Saul: David's summons to the sleepers, his reproach of the captain, Saul's recognition, David's appeal, Saul's repentance, the peaceful separation.
256 (§73C). David knew that he could not trust Saul. There was constant danger from the jealous king, so he decided to leave the country. We are surprised to find that he found refuge with Israel's enemies. Where did he go? Locate the city on the map. How was he received? What did Saul decide? But David could afford to wait. In a little while everything was going to turn to his advantage.
WRITTEN REVIEW
Imagine that you were Abishai. Write the story as though you were telling your brother Joab about that night when you crept with David to the sleeping camp. Describe all that happened and tell what you thought of David.
XXIV. DAVID, THE KING
THE STORY
§74. The Way to the Throne (I Sam. 31:1-6; II Sam. 1:1-4, 17, 19, 20, 23, 24, 26, 27; 2:1-4, 8-11; 3:1; 5:1-3)
A. THE BATTLE OF GILBOA
Now the Philistines fought against Israel: and the men of Israel fled from before the Philistines, and fell down slain in mount Gilboa. And the Philistines followed hard upon Saul and upon his sons; and the Philistines slew Jonathan, and Abinadab, and Malchi-shua, the sons of Saul. And the battle went sore against Saul, and the archers overtook him; and he was greatly distressed by reason of the archers. Then said Saul to his armorbearer, "Draw thy sword, and thrust me through therewith; lest these Philistines come and thrust me through, and abuse me."
But his armorbearer would not; for he was sore afraid. Therefore Saul took his sword, and fell upon it. And when his armorbearer saw that Saul was dead, he likewise fell upon his sword, and died with him. So Saul died, and his three sons, and his armorbearer, and all his men, that same day together.
B. DAVID'S DIRGE OVER SAUL AND JONATHAN
And it came to pass after the death of Saul, that a man came out of the camp from Saul with his clothes rent, and earth upon his head: and so it was, when he came to David, that he fell to the earth, and did obeisance. And David said unto him, "From whence comest thou?"
And he said unto him, "Out of the camp of Israel am I escaped."
And David said unto him, "How went the matter? I pray thee, tell me."
And he answered, "The people are fled from the battle, and many of the people also are fallen and dead; and Saul and Jonathan his son are dead also."
And David lamented with this lamentation over Saul and over Jonathan his son:
How are the mighty fallen!
Publish it not in the streets of Ashkelon;
Lest the daughters of the Philistines rejoice,
Lest the daughters of the enemy triumph.
And in their death they were not divided;
They were swifter than eagles,
They were stronger than lions.
Who clothed you in scarlet delicately,
Who put ornaments of gold upon your apparel.
Very pleasant hast thou been unto me:
Thy love to me was wonderful,
Passing the love of women.
And the weapons of war perished!
C. DAVID MADE KING
And it came to pass after this, that David enquired of the Lord, saying, "Shall I go up into any of the cities of Judah?"
And the Lord said unto him, "Go up."
And David said, "Whither shall I go up?"
And he said, "Unto Hebron."
So David went up thither, and his men that were with him did David bring up: and they dwelt in the cities of Hebron. And the men of Judah came, and there they anointed David king over the house of Judah.
Now Abner, the captain of Saul's host, had taken Ish-bosheth the son of Saul, and made him king over Israel. But the house of Judah followed David. And the time that David was king in Hebron over the house of Judah was seven years and six months.
Now there was long war between the house of Saul and the house of David: and David waxed stronger and stronger, but the house of Saul waxed weaker and weaker, and when Ish-bosheth was dead, then came all the tribes of Israel to David unto Hebron, and spake, saying, "Behold, we are thy bone and thy flesh. In times past, when Saul was king over us, it was thou that leddest out and broughtest in Israel: and the Lord said to thee, 'Thou shalt feed my people Israel, and thou shalt be prince over Israel.'"
So all the elders of Israel came to the king to Hebron; and king David made a covenant with them in Hebron before the Lord: and they anointed David king over Israel.
§75. David's Great Reign (I Chron. 11:4-9; II Sam. 5:17-25; 8:2-6, 13, 14; 10:6, 17-19; 11:1; 12:29-31; 5:11, 12; 23:14-17)
A. THE NEW CAPITAL
And David and all Israel went to Jerusalem, where the Jebusites were, the inhabitants of the land. And the inhabitants said to David, "Thou shalt not come hither."
Nevertheless David took the stronghold of Zion. And David said, "Whosoever smiteth the Jebusites first shall be chief and captain."
So Joab the son of Zeruiah went up first, and was chief. And David dwelt in the stronghold; therefore they called it the city of David. And he built the city round about, from Millo, even round about: and Joab repaired the rest of the city. So David waxed greater and greater: for the Lord of hosts was with him.
B. DAVID'S WARS OF DEFENSE
And when the Philistines heard that they had anointed David king over Israel, they went up and spread themselves in the valley of Rephaim.
And David enquired of the Lord, saying, "Shall I go up against the Philistines? wilt thou deliver them into my hand?"
And the Lord said unto David, "Go up; for I will certainly deliver the Philistines into thy hand."
And David went up and smote them; and he said, "The Lord hath broken down mine enemies before me like the breaking of waters."
And the Philistines came up yet again, and spread themselves in the valley of Rephaim. And when David enquired of the Lord, he said, "Thou shalt not go up. Go about to their rear and come upon them opposite the mulberry trees. And it shall be, when thou hearest the sound of marching in the tops of the mulberry trees, that then thou shalt bestir thyself; for then is the Lord gone out before thee to smite the host of the Philistines."
And David did so as the Lord commanded him, and smote the Philistines, and subdued them.
And he smote Moab. And the Moabites became servants to David and brought tribute.
And David put garrisons in Damascus; and the Syrians became servants to David, and brought tribute. And the Lord gave victory to David whithersoever he went.
And David got him a name when he returned from smiting Edom in the valley of salt, even eighteen thousand men. And he put garrisons in Edom; and all the Edomites became servants to David.
And the children of Ammon hired the Syrians. And it was told David; and he gathered all Israel together, and passed over the Jordan. And the Syrians set themselves in array against David, and fought with him. And the Syrians fled before Israel; and David slew the men of seven hundred chariots of the Syrians, and forty thousand horsemen, and smote the captain of their host.
And when all the kings saw that they were smitten before Israel, they made peace with Israel, and served them. So the Syrians feared to help the children of Ammon any more.
And it came to pass, at the return of the year, that David sent Joab, and his servants with him, and all Israel; and they destroyed the children of Ammon. And David went to Rabbah, and fought against it, and took it. And he brought forth the spoil of the city exceeding much. And thus did he unto all the cities of the children of Ammon.
And Hiram king of Tyre sent messengers to David, and cedar trees, and carpenters, and masons: and they built David a house. And David perceived that the Lord had established him king over Israel, and that he had exalted his kingdom for his people Israel's sake.
C. DAVID'S KNIGHTS
And at one time David was in the stronghold, and the garrison of the Philistines was then in Bethlehem. And David longed, and said, "Oh that one would give me drink of the water of the well of Bethlehem, which is by the gate!"
And the three mighty men brake through the host of the Philistines, and drew water out of the well of Bethlehem, that was by the gate, and took it, and brought it to David: nevertheless he would not drink thereof, but poured it out unto the Lord. And he said, "Be it far from me, O Lord, that I should do this: shall I drink the blood of the men that went in jeopardy of their lives?" therefore he would not drink it.
These things did these three mighty men.
THE MEANING OF THE STORY
257. David spent many years as captain of his outlaw band, first in the mountains of Judah and then in Philistia. The Philistines thought he had given up his own people and become one of them. Fortunately, however, they did not wish him to fight against Saul, so he was not obliged to meet that difficulty. He had simply to wait till the end of Saul's reign. It came very tragically.
258 (§74A). The battles of Israel were generally fought on the broad plain of Esdraelon. Find it on the map southeast of Mt. Carmel. In this case, however, Saul had entrenched his army on the high ground to the south of the plain. But the terrible enemies who had troubled Israel so long were too strong for him. How did the battle result? Who were killed? How did Saul die?
259 (§74B). David was still in the Philistine town of Ziklag. He had been fighting the Amalekites who had attacked him. How was the news of the battle of Gilboa brought to him? How would you expect him to feel about Saul's death? how about Jonathan's? As a matter of fact he forgot all his wrongs, and remembered only how he had loved Saul and honored him in the early days, and of course he remembered his great friendship with Jonathan. Was this "magnanimous"?
260 (§74B). A dirge means a song for the dead. David was a fine poet and he sang this beautiful song of lamentation over the king and the prince. Notice the six stanzas. The first and the last are a refrain. The second is a hope that the Philistines will not know the sad news. The third is a praise of Saul and Jonathan. The fourth is a special praise of Saul, whose victories had brought spoil to Israel. The fifth is the tender lament of the singer for his friend. This would be a noble poem to learn by heart.
261 (§74C). After Saul's death, it was a question whether David should return home. Tell what happened. Find Hebron on the map in the south. But Saul's general had another policy. What did he do? So there was war between the north and south. At last Ish-bosheth, Saul's son, was murdered by two men who thought they would get reward from David. He punished them of course, but the way was open for David to be king of the whole land. Tell how David was elected king.
262 (§75A). When the thirteen American colonies adopted the Constitution and became the United States, it was necessary to have a capital that should not be in any one state. So two of the states gave a piece of land, which was called a District: what is its full name? What is the name of the city that was built to be the capital of our country? Does it belong to any one of the states in particular? Saul had not had a definite capital, except his own town. David had his headquarters at the old town of Hebron. But it would not do to have a town of Judah as capital of all Israel. There was a strong town that had never been conquered and occupied by the Israelites, but was still inhabited by the old Jebusites. David decided to capture this city and make it his capital. What is the name of the city that is still after 3,000 years the chief city in Palestine? Find it on the map. The fortress was so strong that there was a proverb that it could be defended even by the blind and the lame. Tell the story of the capture.
263 (§75B). The first necessity was to prevent the enemies all around Israel from interfering with the new kingdom. Who was the first enemy subdued? Locate their territory. In several campaigns these old enemies were prevented from giving any more trouble. The next enemy was in the southeast: who were they? Locate their territory. The next was an old city in the north, then a people in the south, then a nation to the east who hired northern allies. Locate all these, and note that David subdued all his troublesome neighbors. One people was left on the northwest coast, but they were a commercial and not a military people. What alliance did David make with them?
264 (§75C). David was able to conquer all these enemies because he had a noble company of knights about him. They were brave and loyal to their king. We study one fine passage that tells of a heroic deed during one of the Philistine campaigns. What do you think of the bravery of the heroes and the conduct of the king?
WRITTEN REVIEW
Draw an outline map of Canaan. Mark Jerusalem which David made his capital. Mark the territory of each of the enemies whom David conquered. You will find that you will have to go all around the map showing that David had to defend his people on every side.
XXV. DAVID AND HIS REBEL SON
THE STORY
§76. The Treacherous Son and the Loyal Friends (II Sam. 14:25, 26; 15:1-15, 18-37)
A. ABSALOM'S BEAUTY AND TREACHERY
Now in all Israel there was none to be so much praised as Absalom for his beauty: from the sole of his foot even to the crown of his head there was no blemish in him. And when he cut the hair of his head, (now it was at every year's end that he cut it: because the hair was heavy on him, therefore he cut it:) he weighed the hair of his head at two hundred shekels, after the king's weight.
And Absalom prepared him a chariot and horses, and fifty men to run before him. And Absalom rose up early, and stood beside the way of the gate: and it was so, that when any man had a suit which should come to the king for judgment, then Absalom called unto him, and said, "Of what city art thou?"
And he said, "Thy servant is of one of the tribes of Israel."
And Absalom said unto him, "See, thy matters are good and right; but there is no man deputed of the king to hear thee." Absalom said moreover, "Oh that I were made judge in the land, that every man which hath any suit or cause might come unto me, and I would do him justice!"
And it was so, that when any man came nigh to do him obeisance, he put forth his hand, and took hold of him, and kissed him. And on this manner did Absalom to all Israel that came to the king for judgment: so Absalom stole the hearts of the men of Israel.
And it came to pass at the end of four years, that Absalom said unto the king, "I pray thee, let me go and pay my vow, which I have vowed unto the Lord, in Hebron."
And the king said unto him, "Go in peace."
So he arose, and went to Hebron. But Absalom sent spies throughout all the tribes of Israel, saying, "As soon as ye hear the sound of the trumpet, then ye shall say, 'Absalom is king in Hebron.'"
And with Absalom went two hundred men out of Jerusalem, that were invited, and went in their simplicity; and they knew not any thing. And Absalom sent for Ahithophel the Gilonite, David's counselor, from his city, even from Giloh, while he offered the sacrifices. And the conspiracy was strong; for the people increased continually with Absalom.
B. DAVID'S FLIGHT
And there came a messenger to David, saying, "The hearts of the men of Israel are after Absalom."
And David said unto all his servants that were with him at Jerusalem, "Arise, and let us flee; for else none of us shall escape from Absalom: make speed to depart, lest he overtake us quickly, and bring down evil upon us, and smite the city with the edge of the sword."
And the king's servants said unto the king, "Behold, thy servants are ready to do whatsoever my lord the king shall choose."
And the king went forth, and all his household after him. And all his servants passed on beside him; and all the Cherethites, and all the Pelethites, and all the Gittites, six hundred men which came after him from Gath, passed on before the king.
Then said the king to Ittai the Gittite, "Wherefore goest thou also with us? return, and abide with the king: for thou art a stranger, and also an exile; return to thine own place. Whereas thou camest but yesterday, should I this day make thee go up and down with us, seeing I go whither I may? return thou, and take back thy brethren; mercy and truth be with thee."
And Ittai answered the king, and said, "As the Lord liveth, surely in what place my lord the king shall be, whether for death or for life, even there also will thy servant be."
And David said to Ittai, "Go and pass over."
And Ittai the Gittite passed over, and all his men, and all the little ones that were with him. And all the country wept with a loud voice, and all the people passed over: the king also himself passed over the brook Kidron, and all the people passed over, toward the way of the wilderness.
And, lo, Zadok also came, and all the Levites with him, bearing the ark of the covenant of God; and they set down the ark of God, until all the people had done passing out of the city.
And the king said unto Zadok, "Carry back the ark of God into the city: if I shall find favor in the eyes of the Lord, he will bring me again, and show me both it, and his habitation: but if he say thus, 'I have no delight in thee;' behold, here am I, let him do to me as seemeth good unto him."
C. DAVID'S PLAN
The king said unto Zadok the priest, "Return into the city in peace. See, I will tarry at the fords of the wilderness, until there come word from you." Zadok therefore carried the ark of God again to Jerusalem: and they abode there.
And David went up by the ascent of the mount of Olives, and wept as he went up; and he had his head covered, and went barefoot: and all the people that were with him covered every man his head, and they went up, weeping as they went up.
And one told David, saying, "Ahithophel is among the conspirators with Absalom."
And David said, "O Lord, I pray thee, turn the counsel of Ahithophel into foolishness."
And it came to pass, that when David was come to the top of the ascent, behold, Hushai came to meet him with his coat rent, and earth upon his head: and David said unto him, "If thou passest on with me, then thou shalt be a burden unto me: but if thou return to the city, and say unto Absalom, 'I will be thy servant, O king; as I have been thy father's servant in time past, so will I now be thy servant': then shalt thou defeat for me the counsel of Ahithophel. And hast thou not there with thee Zadok and Abiathar the priests? therefore it shall be, that what thing soever thou shalt hear out of the king's house, thou shalt tell it to Zadok and Abiathar the priests. Behold, they have there with them their two sons; and by them ye shall send unto me everything that ye shall hear."
So Hushai, David's friend, came into the city.
§77. The Folly and Fate of Absalom (II Sam. 16:15, 16, 20; 17:1-16, 22, 24; 18:1-17, 21, 24, 25, 31-33)
A. ABSALOM'S COUNCIL OF WAR
And Absalom, and all the people, the men of Israel, came to Jerusalem, and Ahithophel with him. And it came to pass, when Hushai, David's friend, was come unto Absalom, that Hushai said unto Absalom, "God save the king, God save the king."
Then said Absalom to Ahithophel, "Give your counsel what we shall do."
And Ahithophel said unto Absalom, "Let me now choose out twelve thousand men, and I will arise and pursue after David this night: and I will come upon him while he is weary and weak-handed, and will make him afraid: and all the people that are with him shall flee; and I will smite the king only: and I will bring back all the people unto thee: so all the people shall be in peace."
And the saying pleased Absalom well, and all the elders of Israel.
Then said Absalom unto Hushai, "Ahithophel hath spoken after this manner: shall we do after his saying? if not, speak thou."
And Hushai said unto Absalom, "The counsel that Ahithophel hath given this time is not good. Thou knowest thy father and his men, that they be mighty men, and they be chafed in their minds, as a bear robbed of her whelps in the field: and thy father is a man of war, and will not lodge with the people. Behold, he is hid now in some pit, or in some other place: and it will come to pass, when some of them be fallen at the first, that whosoever heareth it will say, 'There is a slaughter among the people that follow Absalom.' And even he that is valiant, whose heart is as the heart of a lion, shall utterly melt: for all Israel knoweth that thy father is a mighty man, and they which be with him are valiant men. But I counsel that all Israel be gathered together unto thee, from Dan even to Beer-sheba, as the sand that is by the sea for multitude; and that thou go to battle in thine own person. So shall we come upon him in some place where he shall be found, and we will light upon him as the dew falleth on the ground: and of him and of all the men that are with him we will not leave so much as one. Moreover, if he be gotten into a city, then shall all Israel bring ropes to that city, and we will draw it into the river, until there be not one small stone found there."
And Absalom and all the men of Israel said, "The counsel of Hushai is better than the counsel of Ahithophel."
Then said Hushai unto Zadok and to Abiathar the priests, "Thus and thus did Ahithophel counsel Absalom and the elders of Israel; and thus and thus have I counselled. Now therefore send quickly, and tell David, saying, 'Lodge not this night at the fords of the wilderness, but in any wise pass over; lest the king be swallowed up, and all the people that are with him.'"
Then David arose, and all the people that were with him, and they passed over Jordan: by the morning light there lacked not one of them that was not gone over Jordan. And when Ahithophel saw that his counsel was not followed, he saddled his ass, and arose, and gat him home, unto his city, and set his house in order, and hanged himself; and he died, and was buried in the sepulchre of his father.
B. THE BATTLE AND THE DEATH OF ABSALOM
And David numbered the people that were with him, and set captains of thousands and captains of hundreds over them. And David sent forth the people, a third part under the hand of Joab, and a third part under the hand of Abishai, Joab's brother, and a third part under the hand of Ittai the Gittite. And the king said unto the people, "I will surely go forth with you myself also."
But the people said, "Thou shalt not go forth: for if we flee away, they will not care for us; neither if half of us die, will they care for us: but thou art worth ten thousand of us: therefore now it is better that thou be ready to succor us out of the city."
And the king said unto them, "What seemeth you best I will do."
And the king stood by the gate side, and all the people went out by hundreds and by thousands. And the king commanded Joab and Abishai and Ittai, saying, "Deal gently for my sake with the young man, even with Absalom."
And all the people heard when the king gave all the captains charge concerning Absalom. So the people went out into the field against Israel: and the battle was in the forest of Ephraim. And the people of Israel were smitten there before the servants of David, and there was a great slaughter there that day of twenty thousand men. For the battle was there spread over the face of all the country: and the forest devoured more people that day than the sword devoured. And Absalom chanced to meet the servants of David. And Absalom rode upon his mule, and the mule went under the thick boughs of a great oak, and his head caught hold of the oak, and he was taken up between the heaven and the earth; and the mule that was under him went on.
And a certain man saw it, and told Joab, and said, "Behold, I saw Absalom hanging in an oak."
And Joab said unto the man that told him, "And, behold, thou sawest it, and why didst thou not smite him there to the ground? and I would have given thee ten pieces of silver, and a girdle."
And the man said unto Joab, "Though I should receive a thousand pieces of silver in mine hand, yet would I not put forth mine hand against the king's son: for in our hearing the king charged thee and Abishai and Ittai, saying, 'Beware that none touch the young man Absalom.' Otherwise if I had dealt falsely against his life, (and there is no matter hid from the king,) then thou thyself wouldest have set thyself against me."
Then said Joab, "I may not tarry thus with thee." And he took three darts in his hand, and thrust them through the heart of Absalom, while he was yet alive in the midst of the oak. And ten young men that bare Joab's armor compassed about and smote Absalom, and slew him. And Joab blew the trumpet, and the people returned from pursuing after Israel: for Joab held back the people. And they took Absalom, and cast him into the great pit in the forest, and raised over him a very great heap of stones: and all Israel fled every one to his tent.
C. DAVID'S GRIEF
Then said Joab to the Cushite, "Go tell the king what thou hast seen." And the Cushite bowed himself unto Joab, and ran.
Now David sat between the two gates: and the watchman went up to the roof of the gate unto the wall, and lifted up his eyes, and looked, and, behold, a man running alone. And the watchman cried, and told the king. And the king said, "If he be alone, there is tidings in his mouth." And, behold, the Cushite came; and the Cushite said, "Tidings for my lord the king: for the Lord hath avenged thee this day of all them that rose up against thee."
And the king said unto the Cushite, "Is it well with the young man Absalom?"
And the Cushite answered, "The enemies of my lord the king, and all that rise up against thee to do thee hurt, be as that young man is."
And the king was much moved, and went up to the chamber over the gate, and wept: and as he went, thus he said, "O my son Absalom, my son, my son Absalom! would God I had died for thee, O Absalom, my son, my son!"
THE MEANING OF THE STORY
265. David did not bring up his sons well and there were very bad family quarrels. At last Absalom murdered one of his brothers and was obliged to flee. The king allowed him to return, but the wicked young man planned to rebel against his father.
266 (§76A). What are we told of this handsome young man? Beauty of face and figure is very desirable, but it frequently makes a person vain and selfish. Probably Absalom had been admired and spoiled, and had come to think only of himself.
267 (§76A). How did the young prince make a fine appearance? We see that people were accustomed to come to the king to have their matters of law decided. He was the supreme court. Of course it was not always possible to hear all the cases at once. How did Absalom persuade the people that he would make a better king than his father? Note how the prince pretended to be democratic. What do you think of all this conduct?
268 (§76A). This deceitful conduct continued for four years until Absalom thought he was ready to strike the blow. He decided to make Hebron the headquarters of his rebellion. Locate Hebron. It was where David had his capital when he was king of Judah. Can you think of any reason why that city might have been dissatisfied? What excuse did Absalom give for a journey to Hebron? How did he plan to gather an army? How many innocent men went with him? What wise man did Absalom get on his side?
269 (§76B). What did David decide upon as soon as he heard the news? Notice that he had a body guard of 600 Philistine soldiers. The old enemies were good warriors and he had taken them into his service. David had a wonderful way of gaining friends. Tell the story of Ittai. How did the people feel about the flight of the old king?
270 (§76B). It was customary for the ark to be taken when the army went to battle (§61A). So the priest thought he ought to carry it with David. But the king sent it back again, saying that he would trust in the Lord. Moreover he was glad to have a friend in the city. How did he arrange with Zadok to have news sent to him? Describe the sad journey up the Mount of Olives. What signs of grief did they show?
271 (§76C). Whom did David hear had joined Absalom? How did he plan that bad advice might be given to Absalom? How did he arrange for news to be brought to him? Let us get the movement of the story before us. Absalom is marching from Hebron with his counselor and his army; David is in flight with his 600 guards and some faithful friends, but he has left some friends in the city to send him news; presently Absalom marches into the city.
272 (§77A). The first act of the new king is to decide what to do. Ahithophel advised immediate pursuit of David. Tell what he said. Absalom decided to ask the wise old Hushai his advice also. Whose side was Hushai really on? What advice did he give? How did he frighten Absalom and how did he flatter him? Why was this advice good for David? What was decided?
273 (§77A). How was David informed of the council? He decided to cross the river at once, so as to have the swift stream between himself and his pursuers. Locate the Jordan. Did he succeed in getting his whole company over? What became of Ahithophel? Meantime Absalom was gathering a considerable army. After a lapse of a little time he followed his father, who had been gathering all the people that were loyal to him. The matter could only be settled by battle.
274 (§77B). How many divisions were there of David's army? Why did he not go himself to battle? Notice how he reviewed the troops as they went forth. What special command did he give to the captains? Why did he do this? Give an account of the battle.
275 (§77B). In the battle, which was going against him, Absalom met David's guards. What accident happened to him as he was trying to escape? What dispute took place between the soldier and Joab? What did Joab do? There was no need for further pursuit, so Joab called back his troops. What was done with Absalom? We see that with the death of the leader the rebels fled to their homes. Joab called a Cushite, that is a negro slave: what command did he give him?
276 (§77C). Where was David during the battle? What conversation took place between the king and the Cushite? How was David affected? What do you think of David in all this matter?
A REVIEW OF DAVID
David was one of those men who loved others and could make them love him. It will be interesting to make a list of all those of whom we have studied who felt the influence of his winning disposition. Read I Sam. 16:12, 21; 18:1, 20; 24:16; 25:42; II Sam. 1:26; 2:4; 5:3; 15:21, 32; 18:3; 23:15, 16. Write a little paper telling of all the people who loved David.
REVIEW
| XXVI. | Ten Heroes of Israel |
XXVI. TEN HEROES OF ISRAEL
After we had studied the heroes of Israel's wanderings we looked back over the stories and tried to remember the great characters we had learned to know. Now we have added ten more heroes to our acquaintance since Moses. Let us look back over the stories of these ten, and see if we can remember about them.
277. Moses brought the people near to Canaan and then sent twelve spies into the land to find out about it. Ten of the men were afraid, and said that the Hebrews could not conquer it, but two men were brave, and told their countrymen to trust in the Lord and go up. Tell the story of these two and what happened to them later. (§44; Josh. 1:1, 2; 14:13.[1])
278. After the Hebrews had settled in Canaan they were greatly troubled by enemies. Many heroes arose who delivered them. One, who was called by the Lord, gathered a large army, then sent home all who were not fit and reduced his army to 300 men. He then devised a strange plan to frighten the enemy. Tell the story. (§46; Judg. 7:19, 20.)
What reward did this hero refuse? (§47; Judg. 8:22, 23.)
279. One of the heroes of Israel was a man of enormous strength. What were some of the stories told about him? How did he foolishly sin and lose his strength? (§51; Judg. 15:14, 15; 16:18, 19.)
280. Who was the heroine of whom we studied? Tell what you remember of her. (§54.)
281. Do you remember the story of the good old priest who had two wicked sons, and of the little boy who came to live with him? Tell the story of how the boy came, and what happened one special night, and how the old priest died. (§§60, 61; I Sam. 3:10, 11; 4:18.)
282. The little boy grew up to be a great prophet. He saw that the people could never be saved from their enemies without a strong king. One day a young man who was seeking some straying animals came to see him. Tell the story of what happened. What great blow for liberty did this young man strike and so become king? (§64; I Sam. 11:6-11.)
283. The new king had a brave son. This young man determined to help free his people from their oppressors. Tell the story of his bold attack upon the Philistines. (§65; I Sam. 14:13.) How did Saul follow up the attack?
284. The young man who was to be the great king of Israel performed a wonderful feat of arms. One of the Philistine heroes challenged the Hebrews to send a single man against him. Who accepted the challenge and how did the combat turn out? (§68; I Sam. 17:48,49.)
285. Who were the two hero friends? Tell the story of their parting. (§71; I Sam. 20:35-39.)
286. Why was David an outlaw? Tell the story of his sparing the king's life. (§73; I Sam. 26:9-12.)
287. David had a company of heroes about him. Tell the story of the knights who brought him the drink of water. (§75C; II Sam. 23:14-17.)
288. David had a bitter trial in his wicked son who rebelled against him. But many loyal friends stood by him: who were these, and how did they show their loyalty? (§76; II Sam. 15:19-34.)
289. Write down the names of the ten heroes in a column. How many were great patriots? How many trusted God? How many showed fine leadership? How many showed weakness of character? Who showed a great love? How many were unselfish? Which of them do you think the greatest?
SOLOMON
| XXVII. | Solomon, the Wise King |
XXVII. SOLOMON, THE WISE KING
THE STORY
§78. Solomon's Wise Choice (I Kings 2:12; 3:3-15)
Solomon sat upon the throne of David his father; and his kingdom was established greatly. And Solomon loved the Lord, walking in the statutes of David his father.
And the king went to Gibeon to sacrifice there; for that was the great high place: a thousand burnt offerings did Solomon offer upon that altar. In Gibeon the Lord appeared to Solomon in a dream by night: and God said, "Ask what I shall give thee."
And Solomon said, "Thou hast showed unto thy servant David my father great kindness, according as he walked before thee in truth, and in righteousness, and in uprightness of heart with thee; and thou hast kept for him this great kindness, that thou hast given him a son to sit on his throne, as it is this day. And now, O Lord my God, thou hast made thy servant king instead of David my father: and I am but a little child; I know not how to go out or come in. And thy servant is in the midst of thy people which thou hast chosen, a great people, that cannot be numbered nor counted for multitude. Give thy servant therefore an understanding heart to judge thy people, that I may discern between good and evil; for who is able to judge this thy great people?"
And the speech pleased the Lord, that Solomon had asked this thing. And God said unto him, "Because thou hast asked this thing, and hast not asked for thyself long life; neither hast asked riches for thyself, nor hast asked the life of thine enemies, but hast asked for thyself understanding to discern justice; behold, I have done according to thy word: lo, I have given thee a wise and an understanding heart; so that there hath been none like thee before thee, neither after thee shall any arise like unto thee. And I have also given thee that which thou hast not asked, both riches and honor, so that there shall not be any among the kings like unto thee, all thy days. And if thou wilt walk in my ways, to keep my statutes and my commandments, as thy father David did walk, then I will lengthen thy days."
And Solomon awoke, and, behold, it was a dream: and he came to Jerusalem, and stood before the ark of the covenant of the Lord, and offered up burnt offerings, and offered peace offerings, and made a feast to all his servants.