2 Samuel 13:38

Arabic 2018 (الترجمة الكاثوليكيّة (اليسوعيّة))

وكانَ أَبشالومُ قد هَرَبَ وذَهَبَ إِلى جَشور ولَبِثَ هُناكَ ثَلاثَ سَنَوات.

What Does This Mean?

This verse describes Absalom's flight to Geshur after committing a crime, where he stayed for three years. The verse is a straightforward narrative without any dialogue, detailing Absalom's exile and the duration of his stay.

Explained for Children

Imagine if you did something really wrong and had to leave your home for a long time. That's what happened to Absalom. He went to stay with some friends far away for three whole years!

Historical Background

The Books of Samuel were written by prophets, likely Samuel, Nathan, and Gad, and compiled into their final form by the time of Ezra. This verse is part of the historical narrative of Israel's monarchy, written for the Israelites to understand their kings and the consequences of their actions.

Living It Out Today

When we make mistakes, sometimes we need to take time away from our usual environment to reflect and grow. For example, if a person acts out at work, taking some time off might help them understand their actions and return with new insight.

Topics

• exile
• consequences
• repentance
• forgiveness
• restoration
• kingship

Related Verses

• 1 Samuel 26:20
• 1 Kings 1:6
• 2 Samuel 19:8
• Genesis 31:18
• Luke 15:15

Frequently Asked Questions

What was Absalom's crime that led to his exile?

Absalom committed a grave crime of raping his half-sister Tamar, which resulted in his father David's initial reluctance to punish him directly, but Absalom chose to flee to Geshur.

Where is Geshur located?

Geshur is located in the northern part of the territory that would later become Israel, near the modern-day border between Israel and Syria.

What was the purpose of Absalom's three-year stay in Geshur?

Absalom's stay in Geshur was likely a form of exile and reflection, where he could distance himself from his crime and the royal court until he could return with a new perspective.

How does this verse relate to the broader story of Absalom?

This verse is a pivotal point in Absalom's story, marking a period of exile and reflection that precedes his eventual return and uprising against his father David.