Catholic Dictionary

Term

ABSALOM

Definition

The third son of King David, he was noted for his handsome appearance and his abundant hair (II Samuel 14:25). He fled from Jerusalem after killing his half-brother (II Samuel 14:33). Later he organized the malcontents of Judah to make an effort to seize his father's throne, but the attempt failed (II Samuel 15). In fleeing, Absalom's horse rode under a tree and either his head or his hair became caught in a low branch. He was killed by one of his pursuers (II Samuel 18) to the dismay and sorrow of his father (II Samuel 19).