2 Samuel Chapter 15

Absalom secretly builds support among the people of Israel by presenting himself as a caring and accessible leader while undermining confidence in King David. After gaining the loyalty of many Israelites, Absalom declares himself king in Hebron, and the conspiracy against David grows strong. David chooses to leave Jerusalem with his household and loyal followers rather than risk destruction and bloodshed in the city. As David flees, he receives expressions of loyalty from servants and friends, including Ittai the Gittite. David sends the Ark of the Covenant back to Jerusalem, trusting that God—not possession of the Ark—will determine whether he returns. David then climbs the Mount of Olives barefoot and weeping, while Hushai is sent back to Jerusalem to oppose the counsel of Ahithophel. Main theme: Absalom’s rebellion forces David to flee Jerusalem, but David responds with humility, concern for others, and trust in God during a time of betrayal and uncertainty.