Meaning
Absalom is a Hebrew masculine personal name meaning “father of peace.”
Biblical Usage
Absalom was a son of David and the brother of Tamar. After Amnon assaulted Tamar, Absalom arranged Amnon’s death and fled. David later permitted Absalom to return to Jerusalem.
Absalom subsequently sought the support of the people and rebelled against David. During the battle between David’s forces and Absalom’s men, Joab killed Absalom. David mourned deeply when he learned of his son’s death.
Key References
- 2 Samuel 13:1–39 — Absalom, Tamar, and Amnon.
- 2 Samuel 14:21–33 — Absalom returns to Jerusalem.
- 2 Samuel 15:1–18 — Absalom’s rebellion begins.
- 2 Samuel 18:9–18 — Absalom is killed.
- 2 Samuel 18:31–33 — David mourns Absalom.
- 1 Chronicles 3:2 — Absalom is listed among David’s sons.
Related Terms
- David — Absalom’s father and the king against whom he rebelled.
- Amnon — Absalom’s brother whom he had killed.
- Tamar — Absalom’s sister.
- Joab — The commander who killed Absalom.