2 Samuel 18 — Overview

Matthew Henry's Commentary on the Whole Bible · Matthew Henry (1662–1714) · Public Domain

This chapter puts a period to Absalom's rebellion and life, and so makes way for David to his throne again, whither the next chapter brings him back in peace and triumph. We have here, I. David's preparations to engage the rebels, ver. 1-5. II. The total defeat of Absalom's party and their dispersion, ver. 6-8. III. The death of Absalom, and his burial, ver. 9-18. IV. The bringing of the tidings to David, who tarried at Mahanaim, ver. 19-32. V. His bitter lamentation for Absalom, ver. 33.

Preparations for Battle. (b. c. 1023.)

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2 Samuel 18 — Overview2 Samuel 18 · Treasury of Scripture Knowledge2 Samuel 18:1, David viewing the armies in their march gives them charge of Absalom; 2 Samuel 18:6, The Israelites are sorely smitten in the wood of Ephraim; 2 Samuel 18:9, Absalom, hanging in an oak is slain by Joab,…2 Samuel 18 — Overview2 Samuel 18 · John Gill's Exposition of the Entire BibleIn this chapter is an account of David's review of his army, preparing it for battle with Absalom, and those with him, 2Sa 18:1; and of the defeat and flight of the rebels, 2Sa 18:6; and of the death of Absalom, and the…2 Samuel 18:1-82 Samuel 18:1-8 · Matthew Henry's Commentary on the Whole BibleWhich way David raised an army here, and what reinforcements were sent him, we are not told; many, it is likely, from all the coasts of Israel, at least from the neighbouring tribes, came in to his assistance,…2 Samuel 18:1-332 Samuel 18:1-33 · The Pulpit CommentaryEXPOSITION 2 Samuel 18:1 And David numbered. The verb really means that he organized his army, and arranged it in companies and divisions. As Absalom gathered all Israel to him, there would be some delay; and David,…2 Samuel 18:1-332 Samuel 18:1-33 · The Pulpit CommentaryThe remarkable space given in the sacred history to the life and conduct of Absalom in their relation to David may arouse the question as to the reason. It is not easy to assign all the reasons that may have operated in…2 Samuel 18:1-332 Samuel 18:1-33 · The Pulpit CommentaryIII. THE DEATH OF OFFSPRING PRESUMABLY RECKLESS AND IMPENITENT IS THE GREATEST OF PARENTAL TROUBLES. To die is the common lot, and natural affection, though strong and pure, does not face death without consolations. But…

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