Avshalom and Yoav

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1. The Woman from Tekoa

   Chapter 14 (I)

   Rabbi Amnon Bazak

   The parable of the woman from Tekoa leads David to return Avshalom to Jerusalem. This lesson will examine the rhetorical elements used by the Tekoite woman to reinforce her words, and discuss the vague statement she made after receiving David’s approval. Does the meaning of the parable correlate with the parable?

2. Avshalom in Jerusalem

   Chapter 14 (II)

   Rabbi Amnon Bazak

   The biblical text describes Avshalom’s unique beauty at length. What is the purpose of this lengthiness? Why does this description interrupt the story of Avshalom settling in Jerusalem? How did Avshalom force Yoav to bring him before David? Was his decision wise?

3. Between War and Peace

   Rabbi Alex Israel

   Yoav's murders of Avner and Amassa exhibit the simple act of dishonor to the king, and also jeopardize the prospect of national peace and unity. Yoav's bloody ways characterize the reign of David but are not appropriate for the peaceful reign of Shlomo.

   Shimi Ben Gera's venture to "Akhish ben Ma'akha, King of Gat" may be hinting that this is a venture of political maneuvering on Shimi's part, an appointment with a rival king and not a simple return of slaves. 

   The description in Divrei HaYamim of the transition between David and Shlomo is formal, regal, ceremonial, public, and sedate in contrast to the description in Melakhim.