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Absalom’s Revenge
In 2 Samuel 13:20-39, Tamar’s brother Absalom is furious after learning how Amnon mistreated her. He comforts Tamar but secretly plans revenge. Two years later, he invites Amnon to a feast and has his servants kill him. Fearing King David’s reaction, Absalom flees and stays away for three years. David is heartbroken over Amnon’s death but eventually longs to see Absalom again. This story shows how unresolved anger and injustice can lead to even more pain and conflict.
Absalom’s Rebellion
In 2 Samuel 15:1-37, Absalom, King David’s son, secretly wins the hearts of the people and declares himself king. As his support grows, David is forced to flee Jerusalem to avoid conflict. Many loyal followers go with him, but he sends some trusted advisors back to gather information. Heartbroken but trusting in God, David leaves the city, weeping as he goes. This story shows the pain of betrayal and the importance of relying on God during difficult times.
Absalom’s Defeat
In 2 Samuel 18:1-18, David’s army prepares to fight against Absalom and his followers. Before the battle, David asks his men to spare Absalom’s life. However, as Absalom flees on his mule, his hair gets caught in a tree, leaving him hanging helplessly. Joab, David’s commander, ignores David’s request and kills Absalom. The rebellion is crushed, but Absalom’s death brings no joy.
Adonijah’s Attempt to Take the Throne
In 1 Kings 1:5-27, Adonijah, one of King David’s sons, declares himself king without his father’s approval. He gathers important supporters and holds a feast to celebrate. However, the prophet Nathan and Bathsheba, Solomon’s mother, warn David about Adonijah’s actions. They remind the king that he had promised Solomon would be the next ruler. Concerned about what might happen if Adonijah takes power, they urge David to act.
Solomon Becomes King
In 1 Kings 1:28-53, King David responds to the news of Adonijah’s attempt to take the throne. He immediately commands that Solomon be anointed as the true king of Israel. Solomon is placed on David’s mule and publicly declared king, causing great celebration among the people. When Adonijah hears this, he becomes afraid and seeks refuge at the altar, fearing Solomon will punish him. However, Solomon spares his life, warning him to remain loyal.
Solomon Asks for Wisdom
In 1 Kings 3:1-15, Solomon becomes king and wants to lead well. One night, God appears to him in a dream and tells him to ask for anything he wants. Instead of riches or power, Solomon asks for wisdom to rule the people fairly. God is pleased with his request and gives him great wisdom, along with wealth and honor. God also promises him a long life if he follows His ways.
Solomon’s Wise Judgment
In 1 Kings 3:16-28, two women come to King Solomon with a difficult case. They both claim to be the mother of the same baby. To reveal the truth, Solomon suggests cutting the baby in two and giving each woman half. One woman agrees, but the other begs the king to give the baby to the other woman instead, just to save its life. Solomon immediately knows she is the real mother and gives the baby to her.
Solomon Builds the Temple
In 1 Kings 6:1-38, Solomon begins building a magnificent temple for God, following the instructions given to him. The temple is made of stone, cedar, and gold, with intricate designs and decorations. It takes seven years to complete, and everything is done with great care and skill. God reminds Solomon that His presence will remain with Israel if they follow His commands.
The Queen of Sheba Visits Solomon
In 1 Kings 10:1-13, the Queen of Sheba hears about Solomon’s great wisdom and wealth, so she travels to Jerusalem to see for herself. She asks him many difficult questions, and he answers them all with wisdom. Impressed by his knowledge, the beauty of his palace, and the way his kingdom is run, she praises God for blessing Israel with such a wise ruler. She gives Solomon valuable gifts of gold, spices, and precious stones before returning home.
The Kingdom Divides
In 1 Kings 12:1-24, after King Solomon dies, his son Rehoboam becomes king. The people ask him to lighten the heavy workload that Solomon had placed on them. Instead of listening to wise advice to be kind, Rehoboam follows his friends’ advice and threatens to make their burdens even heavier. Angry, ten of the twelve tribes of Israel rebel and choose Jeroboam as their king, dividing the nation into two kingdoms. Though Rehoboam prepares for war, God sends a prophet to stop him, saying the division is part of His plan.