Absalom, the third son of King David, is a prominent figure in the Old Testament, known for his striking appearance and tumultuous relationship with his father. His response to various events in his life is marked by a blend of ambition, vengeance, and rebellion, which ultimately leads to his tragic downfall.

1. Response to Amnon's Crime:

Absalom's response to the crime committed by his half-brother Amnon against his sister Tamar is one of calculated vengeance. After Amnon violated Tamar, Absalom harbored a deep-seated hatred for him. The Bible records that Absalom did not speak to Amnon, either good or bad, for two years, indicating a simmering anger (2 Samuel 13:22). Eventually, Absalom orchestrated Amnon's murder during a feast, an act that he had meticulously planned. This response highlights Absalom's willingness to take justice into his own hands, reflecting both his protective nature towards his sister and his capacity for cold-blooded revenge.

2. Response to Exile and Return:

Following Amnon's murder, Absalom fled to Geshur, where he stayed for three years. During this time, King David longed to go to Absalom, indicating a complex mix of grief and paternal affection (2 Samuel 13:39). Joab, David's military commander, eventually facilitated Absalom's return to Jerusalem. However, Absalom's response to his return was marked by impatience and a desire for full restoration to his former status. After two years in Jerusalem without seeing the king's face, Absalom took drastic measures by setting Joab's field on fire to secure an audience with him (2 Samuel 14:28-33). This act underscores Absalom's determination and his willingness to use extreme measures to achieve his goals.

3. Response to David's Kingship:

Absalom's ambition and desire for power culminated in his rebellion against King David. He began by winning the hearts of the people of Israel through charm and political maneuvering, as described in 2 Samuel 15:1-6. Absalom's response to his father's kingship was one of usurpation, as he declared himself king in Hebron and garnered significant support. His actions forced David to flee Jerusalem, highlighting the depth of Absalom's ambition and his strategic acumen.

4. Response to Counsel:

During the rebellion, Absalom's response to counsel was pivotal. He received advice from Ahithophel, a trusted advisor, and Hushai, a spy loyal to David. Absalom chose to follow Hushai's counsel over Ahithophel's, which ultimately led to his downfall (2 Samuel 17:14). This decision reflects Absalom's susceptibility to flattery and his misjudgment in assessing the best course of action.

5. Response to Defeat:

Absalom's final response came during the battle in the forest of Ephraim, where his forces were defeated by David's men. As he fled on a mule, his hair became entangled in the branches of a large oak tree, leaving him hanging in midair (2 Samuel 18:9). Despite David's explicit instructions to deal gently with Absalom, Joab killed him, ending the rebellion. Absalom's response in his final moments is not recorded, but his death marked the tragic end of a life characterized by ambition and rebellion.

Absalom's responses throughout his life reveal a complex character driven by a mix of personal vendettas, ambition, and a desire for power, ultimately leading to his downfall and a period of turmoil in the kingdom of Israel.