Background:
Absalom, the third son of King David, is a prominent figure in the narrative of 2 Samuel. He is known for his striking appearance and charismatic personality. Absalom's sister, Tamar, was violated by their half-brother Amnon, David's firstborn son. This incident sets the stage for Absalom's calculated revenge, which unfolds over the course of two years.

The Incident:
The account of Absalom's revenge is found in 2 Samuel 13. Amnon, infatuated with his half-sister Tamar, deceives her into visiting his quarters under the pretense of illness. Once alone, he overpowers and rapes her. Tamar, devastated and disgraced, seeks refuge with her brother Absalom. "Her brother Absalom said to her, 'Has your brother Amnon been with you? Be quiet for now, my sister; he is your brother. Do not take this to heart.' So Tamar lived as a desolate woman in the house of her brother Absalom" (2 Samuel 13:20).

Absalom's Anger and Plot:
Absalom harbors a deep-seated anger towards Amnon for the violation of Tamar. Despite King David's anger upon hearing of the incident, he does not take action against Amnon. Absalom, however, remains silent, biding his time. "And Absalom never said a word to Amnon, either good or bad; for Absalom hated Amnon because he had disgraced his sister Tamar" (2 Samuel 13:22).

The Revenge:
Two years later, Absalom orchestrates a plan to avenge his sister. He invites all the king's sons to a sheep-shearing festival at Baal Hazor, near Ephraim. Absalom persuades King David to allow Amnon to attend the feast. During the festivities, Absalom commands his servants to kill Amnon once he is in high spirits from wine. "Now Absalom had commanded his young men, 'Watch Amnon until his heart is merry with wine, and when I say to you, "Strike Amnon down," then kill him! Do not be afraid. Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous!'" (2 Samuel 13:28). The servants follow Absalom's orders, and Amnon is slain.

Aftermath:
Following the murder, the other sons of King David flee in fear. Initially, a false report reaches David that all his sons have been killed, but Jonadab, David's nephew, clarifies that only Amnon is dead. "But Jonadab, the son of David’s brother Shimeah, spoke up: 'My lord must not think they have killed all the young men, the king’s sons, for only Amnon is dead. Indeed, Absalom has planned this from the day Amnon violated his sister Tamar'" (2 Samuel 13:32).

Absalom flees to Geshur, where he stays for three years. During this time, King David mourns for Amnon but also longs for Absalom. "And the spirit of the king longed to go out to Absalom, for he was consoled over Amnon’s death" (2 Samuel 13:39).

Significance:
Absalom's revenge on Amnon is a pivotal moment in the narrative of David's family, highlighting themes of justice, vengeance, and the complexities of familial relationships. The incident sets off a chain of events that lead to further turmoil and conflict within David's household, ultimately contributing to Absalom's rebellion against his father.