Loss of a Son, a Reflection on 2 Samuel 18:5-9, 15

As David had once been close to Saul then in revolt against him while still being emotionally attached, now he is in a parallel situation with his son and heir.

His heir, because Absalom has murdered his older brother Amnon out of revenge (2 Samuel 13).

Absalom after years in exile has mustered a large rebel army to overthrow David as king. Even though David had ordered mercy for his son, Absalom is killed.

As we read this terrible, tragic story of a suffering country and suffering family, we should remember how Samuel had responded initially to Israel's desire for a king (1 Samuel 8).
The compilers of our Bible wanted us to reflect on the truth of Samuel's prophecy.

And, we can read in this terrible tragic tale a reminder of the pain in families as well as in nations.