Topical Bible: Falsehood in False Professions to Absalom

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In the biblical narrative, falsehood and deceit are recurrent themes, often leading to significant consequences. One notable instance of falsehood is found in the account of Absalom, the son of King David, whose life and actions are recorded in the books of 2 Samuel and 1 Kings. Absalom's account is a cautionary tale of ambition, betrayal, and the destructive power of deceit.

Absalom's rebellion against his father, King David, is marked by a series of false professions and deceitful actions. Absalom, known for his striking appearance and charisma, used these traits to win the hearts of the people of Israel. In 2 Samuel 15:1-6, Absalom strategically positioned himself at the city gate, where he would intercept those coming to seek justice from the king. He would express sympathy and suggest that their grievances were valid, but lament that there was no one appointed by the king to hear them. Absalom would then say, "Oh, that I were appointed judge in the land, then every man with a grievance or dispute could come to me, and I would ensure that he receives justice" (2 Samuel 15:4). This false profession of concern for justice was a calculated move to undermine David's authority and win the loyalty of the people.

Absalom's deceitful nature is further revealed in his manipulation of a religious vow to advance his rebellion. In 2 Samuel 15:7-10, Absalom requested permission from King David to go to Hebron to fulfill a vow he claimed to have made to the LORD. In reality, this was a ruse to gather his supporters and declare himself king. Absalom's false profession of piety was a cover for his treacherous intentions, demonstrating how deceit can be cloaked in the guise of religious devotion.

The consequences of Absalom's falsehoods were severe, leading to a civil war that caused great turmoil in Israel. His rebellion ultimately ended in his death, as recorded in 2 Samuel 18:9-15. Absalom's account serves as a stark reminder of the destructive power of falsehood and the importance of integrity and truthfulness.

The biblical narrative also highlights the role of others who were complicit in Absalom's deceit. Ahithophel, David's counselor, betrayed the king by siding with Absalom and offering strategic advice to strengthen the rebellion (2 Samuel 15:12, 31). This betrayal underscores the theme of false professions, as Ahithophel's actions were a profound breach of loyalty and trust.

In contrast, the loyalty and truthfulness of those who remained faithful to David, such as Hushai the Archite, who acted as a double agent to thwart Ahithophel's counsel (2 Samuel 15:32-37; 17:1-14), highlight the biblical principle that truth ultimately prevails over deceit.

The account of Absalom and the falsehoods surrounding his rebellion is a powerful illustration of the biblical teaching that "a lying tongue hates those it crushes, and a flattering mouth causes ruin" (Proverbs 26:28). It serves as a warning against the seductive nature of falsehood and the inevitable consequences that follow when truth is abandoned for personal gain.

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2 Samuel 16:16-19
And it came to pass, when Hushai the Archite, David's friend, was come to Absalom, that Hushai said to Absalom, God save the king, God save the king.
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