1) You may wish to review the events here. How Absalom was in exile for killing his brother in defending his sister Tamar. How he built up a following as did his father. How he took over the palace. How David uses treachery to give Absaloim poor advice.

 

2)Consider carefully some reasons David is willing to be gentle with Absalom (father of peace)

 

3) David's reaction can be linked to the reaction of God when jesus is crucified.

 

4) Notice the narrative art in holding off the news for the anxious David

 

5) What do you think of Joab's response to Absalom and later to David's grief?

 

6) The ending is a marvelous way to enter into a discussion of grief.

 

7) We do not get the lyrical David of other losses. Sometimes grief has to be wordless for a while.

 

8) David is both parent and ruler. When do our roles conflict?

 

9) Could Absolom's being suspended between ground and sky indicate a psychological issue? David too is between battle and the safety of the city walls.