And it came to pass after this, that Absalom prepared him chariots and horses, and fifty men to run before him.
After Absalom was brought back into David's presence through Joab's gaining his readmission, the reconciliation remained only outward and did not stop his plotting. Preparing chariots and horses with fifty men to run before him was his assuming an almost royal state in order to cultivate public attention and influence. That display was part of continued ambitious scheming to take the throne for himself. It took place while David was more and more inclined toward retirement and solitude, while Absalom deliberately courted the favor of the people with personal appeals to win their sympathy.
The wrong course introduced here worked by stirring discontent and turning people against those in authority. The account therefore warns against encouraging complaints or grievances to win support and create division. Absalom's self-serving appeal contrasts with a true friend, who is firm, open, and unselfish.
After Absalom was brought back into David's presence through Joab's gaining his readmission, the reconciliation remained only outward and did not stop his plotting. Preparing chariots and horses with fifty men to run before him was his assuming an almost royal state in order to cultivate public attention and influence. That display was part of continued ambitious scheming to take the throne for himself. It took place while David was more and more inclined toward retirement and solitude, while Absalom deliberately courted the favor of the people with personal appeals to win their sympathy.
The wrong course introduced here worked by stirring discontent and turning people against those in authority. The account therefore warns against encouraging complaints or grievances to win support and create division. Absalom's self-serving appeal contrasts with a true friend, who is firm, open, and unselfish.