Old Testament
2 Samuel 13:23
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
After two long years of waiting, Absalom decided it was time to take action.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Samuel, Nathan, and Gad
- Written
- Around 930 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- The Israelites of the early monarchy
Two full years went by. Then Absalom arranged for his sheep to be sheared at Baal Hazor, near Ephraim, and he invited all the king's sons to come.
And it came to pass after two full years, that Absalom had sheepshearers in Baalhazor, which is beside Ephraim: and Absalom invited all the king’s sons.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
After two long years of waiting, Absalom decided it was time to take action. He organized a sheep-shearing event at Baal Hazor, a place near Ephraim. This was not just a simple gathering; it was a strategic move. Absalom invited all of King David's sons, which included his brother Amnon, who had wronged him. The sheep-shearing was a festive occasion, often associated with celebration and feasting. However, for Absalom, it was a cover for his deeper intentions. He had been harboring resentment and was ready to confront his brother. This moment marked a turning point in Absalom's story, as he prepared to execute his plan. The invitation to the king's sons was a way to gather everyone in one place, setting the stage for what was to come. It highlights how time can build up emotions and lead to significant actions, often with unforeseen consequences. Absalom's actions remind us that unresolved issues can fester and lead to drastic decisions, impacting many lives around us. Explore related family.
Related Bible verses
How to apply 2 Samuel 13:23 to your life
Consider how unresolved conflicts in your life can affect your relationships. Instead of letting resentment build, seek to address issues openly and honestly. Remember that time can amplify feelings, so take proactive steps to resolve disputes before they escalate into something more serious. Communication is key to maintaining healthy relationships and preventing misunderstandings from growing larger than they need to be. Be proactive.
Curated for this public verse page. 2 Samuel Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does 2 Samuel 13:23 reveal about Absalom's character?
2 Samuel 13:23 shows that Absalom is strategic and patient, having waited two full years before taking action. His decision to host a sheep-shearing event indicates he is calculating and uses social gatherings to mask his true intentions. This verse highlights his deep-seated resentment towards his brother Amnon and foreshadows the violent confrontation that follows, illustrating how unresolved emotions can lead to drastic actions.
Why did Absalom invite all the king's sons to the sheep-shearing?
Absalom invited all the king's sons to the sheep-shearing as a way to gather them in one place, particularly to confront his brother Amnon, who had wronged him. The festive occasion provided a cover for his true motives, allowing him to execute his plan without raising suspicion. This strategic move underscores the theme of family conflict and the lengths to which Absalom would go to address his grievances.
What can we learn about conflict resolution from this verse?
From 2 Samuel 13:23, we learn that unresolved conflicts can fester over time, leading to serious consequences. Absalom's two-year wait before taking action illustrates how resentment can build if not addressed. The verse serves as a reminder to confront issues openly and honestly before they escalate, emphasizing the importance of communication and proactive conflict resolution in maintaining healthy relationships.
How does this verse connect to the theme of revenge?
This verse connects to the theme of revenge as it sets the stage for Absalom's planned retaliation against Amnon. After two years of harboring resentment, Absalom uses the sheep-shearing event as a cover to execute his revenge. It highlights how feelings of betrayal and anger can lead to drastic decisions, emphasizing the destructive nature of revenge and its impact on family dynamics.
The Book of 2 Samuel
2 Samuel 1: David Mourns Saul and Jonathan
The book of 2 Samuel opens with David at Ziklag, having just returned from his victory over the Amalekites. An Amalekite man arrives from Saul's camp with his clothes torn and dust on his head, bringing news of the battle at Mount Gilboa. He tells David that the Israelites have been defeated and that Saul and his son Jonathan are dead. To prove his story, he presents David with the crown and bracelet from Saul's arm. The man claims that he came upon the wounded Saul, who asked to be killed, and that he mercifully ended the king's life. He likely expects a reward for this news and for his role in the king's death.
Unlock the full 2 Samuel summary
Continue reading every chapter — themes, structure, and turning points.
The complete summary of 2 Samuel — a chapter-by-chapter breakdown covering all 24 chapters.
What you get
Every chapter of 2 Samuel summarized in clear, modern English
How each section connects — narrative flow, key themes, and turning points
Permanent access — read anytime, on any device
Best value • Save over 90%
One-time purchase • Access anytime
ClearBible summaries are proprietary content and may not be copied, republished, or resold.
Checkout works as a guest. After payment, you create an account to claim your unlock.