So Joab came to the king, and told him: and when he had called for Absalom, he came to the king, and bowed himself on his face to the ground before the king: and the king kissed Absalom.
So Joab went to the king and told him everything. When the king called for Absalom, Absalom came to him and bowed down with his face to the ground before the king. Then the king kissed Absalom.
This verse shows King David finally reconciling with his son Absalom after years of separation, welcoming him back with a kiss of forgiveness and acceptance.
📚 Historical Context
In the biblical narrative of 2 Samuel, Absalom had been in exile for killing his half-brother Amnon in revenge for the rape of their sister Tamar, which created deep family division under King David's reign. Joab, as David's trusted army commander, intervened by arranging Absalom's return to Jerusalem, using a wise woman to appeal to David's sense of mercy and family loyalty. When David finally reconciled with Absalom, the king's kiss symbolized forgiveness and the restoration of their relationship, though this foreshadowed future conflicts.
Explore Similar Verses
Ask the AI Assistant
Have a question about this chapter or verse? Ask below for a clear explanation.