And on this manner did Absalom to all Israel that came to the king for judgment: so Absalom stole the hearts of the men of Israel.

2 SAMUEL 15:6KJV
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2 Samuel 15:6 (KJV)

What does 2 Samuel 15:6 mean?

2 Samuel 15:6 describes how Absalom won over the people of Israel by acting in a way that made them favor him instead of King David, so that he “stole the hearts of the men of Israel.” This means Absalom gained their loyalty and affection, drawing them away from their allegiance to the king.

In this verse, the focus is on Absalom’s actions as he met with people who came to King David for judgment. Absalom positioned himself as approachable and sympathetic, making the people feel heard and valued. This strategy was part of Absalom’s larger plan to undermine his father David’s rule and prepare for his own attempt to take the throne.

The Hebrew behind 2 Samuel 15:6

  • “Stole” (גָּנַב, ganav): This word means to steal or take away secretly. The verse uses it to show that Absalom’s influence over the people was not open rebellion at first, but a subtle winning over of their loyalty.
  • “Hearts” (לֵב, lev): In Hebrew thought, the “heart” often refers to a person’s inner self, including their mind, will, and emotions. Absalom didn’t just win their affection—he captured their trust and decision-making.
  • “Judgment” (מִשְׁפָּט, mishpat): This word means legal decisions or justice. The people were coming to the king for fair rulings, and Absalom used these moments to present himself as a better alternative.

Why 2 Samuel 15:6 matters

  • This verse clarifies that Absalom’s rebellion began with manipulation and charm, not open conflict, showing the power of influence and persuasion in leadership struggles.
  • The focus on Absalom “stealing the hearts” highlights how loyalty can shift quietly, and how public opinion can be swayed by personal attention and promises.
  • Understanding this verse helps explain the coming events in the story, where Absalom’s actions lead to a full-scale revolt against King David.

Where else these words appear

“stole” Hebrew H1589 · used in 36 verses

  • Genesis 30:33 So shall my righteousness answer for me in time to come, when it shall come for my hire before thy face: every one that is not speckled and spotted among the goats, and brown among the sheep, that shall be counted stolen with me.
  • Exodus 21:16 And he that stealeth a man, and selleth him, or if he be found in his hand, he shall surely be put to death.
  • 2 Chronicles 22:11 But Jehoshabeath, the daughter of the king, took Joash the son of Ahaziah, and stole him from among the king's sons that were slain, and put him and his nurse in a bedchamber. So Jehoshabeath, the daughter of king Jehoram, the wife of Jehoiada the priest,(for she was the sister of Ahaziah,) hid him from Athaliah, so that she slew him not.

“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 15:1 And it came to pass after this, that Absalom prepared him chariots and horses, and fifty men to run before him.
  • 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.