This verse from 2 Samuel 15:2 describes the beginning of Absalom's calculated plan to usurp the throne from his father, King David. Let's break it down:
"Absalom rose up early, and stood beside the way of the gate." This establishes Absalom's actions. "Rising up early" suggests diligence and concern for the people. "Beside the way of the gate" is a significant location. The gate of the city was the place where legal matters and petitions to the king were addressed. By standing there, Absalom was positioning himself as an accessible and attentive figure.
"When any man had a suit which should come to the king for judgment, then Absalom called to him..." This explains Absalom's purpose. He was intercepting people who were on their way to see the king with their legal cases.
"...and said, “What city are you from?” He said, “Your servant is of one of the tribes of Israel.”" This shows Absalom engaging with the people. By asking about their origin, he was establishing a personal connection. The response, "Your servant is of one of the tribes of Israel," emphasizes the person's identity as a member of the nation, which Absalom likely used to his advantage in gaining their sympathy.
In essence, this verse depicts Absalom actively trying to win the favor of the people by positioning himself as more accessible and interested in their problems than the king. It is the beginning of his calculated effort to undermine David's authority and steal the hearts of the people of Israel. He wanted them to see him as their champion, someone who cared about their individual concerns. The question about their city was likely used as a conversation starter that led into criticizing David's administration.
This verse from 2 Samuel 15:2 describes the beginning of Absalom's calculated plan to usurp the throne from his father, King David. Let's break it down:
"Absalom rose up early, and stood beside the way of the gate." This establishes Absalom's actions. "Rising up early" suggests diligence and concern for the people. "Beside the way of the gate" is a significant location. The gate of the city was the place where legal matters and petitions to the king were addressed. By standing there, Absalom was positioning himself as an accessible and attentive figure.
"When any man had a suit which should come to the king for judgment, then Absalom called to him..." This explains Absalom's purpose. He was intercepting people who were on their way to see the king with their legal cases.
"...and said, “What city are you from?” He said, “Your servant is of one of the tribes of Israel.”" This shows Absalom engaging with the people. By asking about their origin, he was establishing a personal connection. The response, "Your servant is of one of the tribes of Israel," emphasizes the person's identity as a member of the nation, which Absalom likely used to his advantage in gaining their sympathy.
In essence, this verse depicts Absalom actively trying to win the favor of the people by positioning himself as more accessible and interested in their problems than the king. It is the beginning of his calculated effort to undermine David's authority and steal the hearts of the people of Israel. He wanted them to see him as their champion, someone who cared about their individual concerns. The question about their city was likely used as a conversation starter that led into criticizing David's administration.