2 samuel 13:29 - The servants of Absalom did to Amnon as Absalom had commanded. Then all the king’s sons arose, and every man got up on his mule, and fled.

Generated Verse: 2 samuel 13:29

What does "2 samuel 13:29" mean?


This verse is a pivotal moment in the story of Amnon's death and Absalom's revenge. Let's break it down:

"The servants of Absalom did to Amnon as Absalom had commanded." This is the key point. Absalom had orchestrated the murder of his half-brother, Amnon. Amnon had raped Absalom's sister, Tamar, and Absalom had been harboring intense anger and a thirst for revenge for two years. This verse confirms that Absalom's plan was carried out: his servants killed Amnon. This was likely a violent act, carried out at a specific signal during a sheep-shearing feast Absalom hosted.

"Then all the king’s sons arose..." This indicates that all of David's other sons were present at this feast, or at least a significant number of them. They witnessed, or at least immediately became aware of, Amnon's murder.

"...and every man got up on his mule, and fled." The sons, presumably fearing for their own lives, panicked and fled the scene. Mules were common riding animals, suggesting that they were prepared to ride and, possibly, that Absalom had planned this event with some forethought. This escape is important because it signifies the chaos and fear that Absalom's actions unleashed. Their flight also spreads the news of Amnon's death back to David and the palace. They might have feared that Absalom would try to kill them all to seize the throne, or feared David's wrath.

In summary, the verse means:

Absalom's revenge on Amnon was successfully executed by his servants, resulting in Amnon's death. This act caused widespread panic and fear among the rest of David's sons, who immediately fled the scene, anticipating further violence or retribution. This event sets in motion a series of dramatic consequences, including Absalom's flight into exile and the eventual rebellion against his father, King David. The verse signifies a breakdown of order within the royal family and the beginning of a period of intense turmoil in David's kingdom.