Definition: And they took Absalom, and cast him into a great pit in the wood, and laid a very great heap of stones upon him: and all Israel fled every one to his tent.
Explanation: Okay, let's break down this biblical passage. It’s a really intense and dramatic scene from the Old Testament, and it speaks about a terrible betrayal. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Story: Absalom’s Rebellion: The verse tells us that Absalom, the son of King David, had become incredibly defiant and rebellious against his father. He refused to listen to his father's advice and started making decisions on his own. The Punishment: His rebellion led to a terrible punishment. His father, King David, ordered his men to imprison him in a very deep pit – a massive, enclosed space filled with stones. They then piled a huge amount of stones on top of him. Fear and Flight: The entire Israel nation – all the people of Judah – panicked and fled in terror. Everyone ran to their own shelters, fearing for their safety. What it's about – A Message of Justice & God’s Wrath: This story is a powerful warning from God about the consequences of disobedience and rebellion. Here’s what it suggests: God’s Judgment: It wasn’t just about punishing Absalom; it was about God’s judgment on those who defy him and his will. The Importance of Obedience: The story emphasizes that obedience to God is crucial . Absalom's rebellion directly challenged God’s authority and caused a great deal of fear and disruption. Fear as a Response: The people’s fear wasn’t just about the punishment; it was a sign that they understood the seriousness of the situation – they knew God was angry. Key Takeaway: It's a story about God’s righteous anger, his desire to protect His people, and the devastating consequences when individuals refuse to submit to Him. --- Do you want me to explain any specific part of this passage in more detail? For example, I could go into more detail about: The context of Absalom's rebellion within the larger story of David’s reign. The symbolism of the pit and stones (perhaps representing a difficult or inescapable situation).