And it came to pass after two full years, that Absalom had sheepshearers in Baalhazor, which is beside Ephraim: and Absalom invited all the king's sons.
2 SAMUEL 13:23KJVWhat does 2 Samuel 13:23 mean?
2 Samuel 13:23 describes how, after two years had passed, Absalom organized a sheep-shearing event at Baalhazor near Ephraim and invited all the sons of King David to attend. This sets the stage for a significant gathering among David’s family.
The verse is part of a larger story involving Absalom, one of King David’s sons, and his brothers. Sheep-shearing was a major event in ancient Israel, often celebrated with a feast. Absalom’s invitation to all the king’s sons hints at a plan or motive beyond just a family celebration, especially given the tension from earlier events in the chapter.
The Hebrew behind 2 Samuel 13:23
- "full" (יָמִים, yamim): This word, translated as "full," emphasizes that a complete period of two years had passed, not just a general span of time.
- "sheepshearers" (גֹּזְזִים, gozzim): Sheep-shearing was a festive and important agricultural occasion, often involving large gatherings and celebrations, which helps explain why Absalom could use it as a pretext for inviting his brothers.
- "invited" (קָרָא, qara): This word means to call or invite, showing that Absalom took the initiative to gather all the king’s sons, which was a deliberate and purposeful action.
Why 2 Samuel 13:23 matters
- The verse marks a turning point in the narrative, signaling that Absalom has been waiting and planning for two years since the previous conflict involving his family.
- Understanding the cultural importance of sheep-shearing helps clarify why this event could serve as a believable reason for a family gathering, making Absalom’s invitation seem natural to those involved.
- This verse connects directly to the unfolding drama in David’s household, setting up the events that follow and highlighting the ongoing tension and unresolved issues among David’s sons.