2 samuel 14:25 - Now in all Israel there was no one 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 defect in him.

Generated Verse: 2 samuel 14:25

What does "2 samuel 14:25" mean?


This verse from 2 Samuel 14:25 is a direct commentary on Absalom's extraordinary physical appearance and its impact on how he was perceived. Let's break it down:

"Now in all Israel there was no one to be so much praised as Absalom for his beauty." This establishes that Absalom was considered the most handsome man in the entire nation of Israel. His beauty was widely acknowledged and admired. This wasn't just a personal opinion; it was a generally accepted fact.

"From the sole of his foot even to the crown of his head there was no defect in him." This emphasizes the perfection of his beauty. It means that he was considered flawless from head to toe. This is hyperbole, of course, but the writer uses it to drive home the point that Absalom possessed an exceptional and captivating appearance.

Meaning and Significance:

Emphasis on Physical Appearance: The verse highlights the importance placed on physical beauty in ancient Israel. Absalom's looks contributed to his popularity and charisma.

Foreshadowing: In the story of Absalom, his beauty becomes part of his downfall. It contributes to his vanity and pride, which ultimately lead to his rebellion against his father, King David. He used his charm and good looks to gain support for his plot to overthrow David.

Character vs. Appearance: The verse creates a contrast between Absalom's outward appearance and his inner character. While he was strikingly beautiful, he was also ambitious, manipulative, and ultimately, a traitor.

Irony: The verse is ironic because while he's described as without defect physically, he is deeply flawed in his character.

In summary, the verse describes Absalom's remarkable physical beauty, highlighting its significance in his society and foreshadowing how his appearance would contribute to his ambition and eventual downfall. It also sets up a contrast between his perfect outward appearance and his flawed character.

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