But Absalom pressed him, that he let Amnon and all the king's sons go with him.

2 SAMUEL 13:27KJV
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2 Samuel 13:27 (KJV)

What does 2 Samuel 13:27 mean?

2 Samuel 13:27 describes how Absalom insisted that his father, King David, allow Amnon and all the king’s sons to join him for a feast. Despite any hesitation, Absalom was persistent until David agreed to send them all.

In this scene, Absalom is speaking to his father, King David, and pressing him to let all his brothers—including Amnon—attend a gathering he is hosting. The context is important: Absalom’s insistence is part of a larger plan, as tensions exist because Amnon had wronged Absalom’s sister Tamar. This verse sets up the events that follow, showing Absalom’s determination and hinting at his underlying motives.

The Hebrew behind 2 Samuel 13:27

  • "Pressed" (פָּרַץ, pārats): This word means to urge strongly or to push forcefully. Absalom is not just making a casual request; he is persistently urging his father, showing determination and perhaps hidden intent.
  • "Go" (שָׁלַח, shālach): This word often means "to send." Here, it emphasizes that David is not just giving permission, but actively sending his sons at Absalom’s urging.

Why 2 Samuel 13:27 matters

  • This verse highlights Absalom’s persistence, which is key to understanding his character and the seriousness of his intentions.
  • The detail that all the king’s sons, including Amnon, are sent at Absalom’s request connects directly to the tragic events that follow, providing crucial setup for the narrative.
  • The verse helps clarify that David’s decision was not casual—he was pressed by Absalom, which may explain why he agreed despite any reservations.

Where else these words appear

“Amnon” Hebrew H550 · used in 22 verses

  • 2 Samuel 3:2 And unto David were sons born in Hebron: and his firstborn was Amnon, of Ahinoam the Jezreelitess;
  • 2 Samuel 13:8 So Tamar went to her brother Amnon's house; and he was laid down. And she took flour, and kneaded it, and made cakes in his sight, and did bake the cakes.
  • 2 Samuel 13:28 Now Absalom had commanded his servants, saying, Mark ye now when Amnon's heart is merry with wine, and when I say unto you, Smite Amnon; then kill him, fear not: have not I commanded you? be courageous, and be valiant.

“pressed” Hebrew H6555 · used in 48 verses

  • Genesis 28:14 And thy seed shall be as the dust of the earth, and thou shalt spread abroad to the west, and to the east, and to the north, and to the south: and in thee and in thy seed shall all the families of the earth be blessed.
  • 1 Chronicles 4:38 These mentioned by their names were princes in their families: and the house of their fathers increased greatly.
  • Job 1:10 Hast not thou made an hedge about him, and about his house, and about all that he hath on every side? thou hast blessed the work of his hands, and his substance is increased in the land.

“Absalom” Hebrew H53 · used in 92 verses

  • 2 Samuel 3:3 And his second, Chileab, of Abigail the wife of Nabal the Carmelite; and the third, Absalom the son of Maacah the daughter of Talmai king of Geshur;
  • 2 Samuel 15:2 And Absalom rose up early, and stood beside the way of the gate: and it was so, that when any man that had a controversy came to the king for judgment, then Absalom called unto him, and said, Of what city art thou? And he said, Thy servant is of one of the tribes of Israel.
  • 2 Samuel 17:18 Nevertheless a lad saw them, and told Absalom: but they went both of them away quickly, and came to a man's house in Bahurim, which had a well in his court; whither they went down.