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Narrator
Previously on the Chosen People.
David
Absalom is to be exiled from Jerusalem if he dares step foot in my city. If I so much as hear the hooves of his donkeys cross my gates, he shall die. Mark it, Benaiah. Let the walls know he is banished. Mourn the living like the dead. Bring Absalom home and end this. And if I did, what would I say? It doesn't have to be poetry, David.
Narrator
Invite Absalom back. Then Absalom fell to his knees. He spread his arms wide, his face turned to the ground. A single tear traced his cheek as he whispered.
Absalom
Father, I am here.
Narrator
Forgive me. It was a perfect performance.
David
I forgive you, my son. Welcome home.
Narrator
The stage was set. Let the game begin.
David
This is an iHeart podcast.
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Yael Eckstein
Shalom, my friends. From here in the Holy Land of Israel, I'm Yael Eckstein with International Fellowship of Christians and Jews. And welcome to the chosen People. Each day we'll hear a dramatic story inspired by the Bible. Stories filled with timeless lessons of faith, love and the meaning of life. Through Israel's story, we will find this truth that we are all chosen for something great. So take a moment today to follow the podcast. If you're feeling extra grateful for these stories, we would love it if you left us a review. I read every single one of them and if you're interested in hearing more about the prophetic life saving work of the fellowship, you can visit ifcj.org let's begin.
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Narrator
The sun hung low over Jerusalem, painting the stones of the city gold. But the true light that day was Absalom. Glorious, charming, deadly. Absalom was at the gates, waiting, searching for something. Someone. He saw an old farmer approaching the gates and smiled wide.
Absalom
You there, traveler. Where do you come from?
Narrator
The old man turned, startled, squinting beneath his hand.
David
I'm a farmer from Shiloh, of the tribe of Ephraim.
Absalom
Ah, yes, Ephraim. The ruby crown of Israel. Come, drink, my friend. Water from the well of Hezekiah. And wine to ease your legs. You've come a long way.
David
Well, yes, I thank you, my lord. But I must hurry. I've a matter for the king.
Narrator
Absalom tilted his head, feigning regret.
Absalom
Blast it. I'm afraid you've wasted the trip, my poor friend. You see, the king no longer sees petitioners. Too troubled, they say. Burdened with grief, sorrow, and age.
Narrator
But. But I. Absalom placed a hand on the man's shoulder. His brow was low and earnest, meeting the farmer's gaze with compassion.
Absalom
I am a son. Perhaps I can be of service to you.
David
You the son of King David?
Absalom
Yes, good fellow, I am Absalom, heir to the throne. Perhaps you've heard the name.
David
Forgive me, my prince, I did not know.
Absalom
Oh, please, no apologies necessary. You've been toiling in the soil of Israel with your head low and heart sturdy. Of course you wouldn't recognize me. Now please tell me your trouble.
Narrator
And so the man told his tale. Absalom listened with a deep fright frown, like a man burdened with sorrow for every wound in Israel.
Absalom
Oh, this is grievous indeed. I'm glad you brought this to me. Had I been king, you would never have needed to make such a journey. Every village would have had a voice in the court. Every voice would be heard. But alas, I am not. King David still sits on the throne, plucking his lyre and reading with the pampered Prince Solomon.
David
I wish you were king, Lord Absalom. You're a man of the people. Perhaps we'd have justice if you were king.
Absalom
Yes. One day. One day the Lord may see fit to raise me up for the People deserve a king who sees them. Until then, you know you have a prince. Prince at your side.
Narrator
The farmer left and Absalom wore a tight grin on his face as he watched him leave. One of Absalom's guards tilted his head in confusion.
David
My prince, why linger out here like a beggar?
Absalom
This is where I make my play for the throne.
David
You already have enough men to storm the castle. Why talk to peasants at the here?
Narrator
Absalom scoffed and shook his head.
Absalom
Because swords cannot cut what the heart holds dear. The throne is not one with blades alone. It is one with love. When the people no longer remember the feel of David's hand, but only the warmth of mine, then and only then will the city be ripe for the taking.
Narrator
Each morning, Absalom came to the gates and did the same thing again and again. He stood with his guards, his robes flowing, his smile ever ready. When men came to seek David, he told them the king was too busy to hear them. Then he'd listen. For four years he rose before dawn and sat in the shadow of the gates, a lion cloaked in lamb's wool. And the people, one by one, forgot the shepherd king and began to dream of King Absalom. The wind whispered through the shuttered windows of Absalom's estate, carrying with it the chill of the oncoming winter. The room smelled of spiced wine and cedar logs burning in the fireplace. Absalom was ruminating over the hearth, eyes as sharp as a serpent's. The door creaked open behind him. Absalom knew who it was. A smirk twitched at the edges of his face.
Absalom
I knew you'd answer my call, Ahithophel.
Narrator
The elderly general slowly approached, his white beard glowing orange from the firelight. He was a regal looking man, sturdy and stately. Ahithophel, the grandfather of Bathsheba.
Absalom
Sit. Share a drink with me. We have much to discuss.
Narrator
Ahithophel sat. Absalom poured him a cup and slid it gently across the table. The two sat for a while in silence, staring into the fire. Absalom loved the game of politics. He was born for it.
Absalom
I've been wondering something. What was it like for you? When David wed, I mean. You must have known something was awry when they united so soon after Uriah's tragic death.
David
What do you want, Absalom?
Absalom
The same thing you want. Ahithophel. David off the throne.
David
So forward, so bold. You talk of treason so casually. What makes you think I want David off the throne?
Absalom
Let's agree not to insult each other's intelligence. Hmm. I know you've wanted David off the throne ever since Uriah's death. I was there for the wedding. I saw the look of disgust on your face. You hate David, but even more, you love Israel. Two traits we share. Well, two out of three.
David
And what's the third?
Absalom
We both know how the game is played. I can buy all the hired hands I need to storm the palace and seize the throne for myself. But you and I both know that's not enough. We need to sway the hearts of the people and the courts. I've already done plenty of legwork for the former. It's the latter I need help with. Someone trusted on the inside.
Narrator
The old general stroked his beard and released a ragged sigh, one of resignation. He nodded, took a sip from the spiced wine and winced as it burned on the way down.
David
It can't look like treason.
Absalom
No.
David
This must feel inevitable, as if the Lord himself handed you the throne. That's how David was able to ascend. But you, sir, don't have prophets anointing you with oil. No people singing songs about you.
Absalom
Perhaps it could be arranged.
David
Write the script and the city will play its part. Find yourself 200 men. Chosen for their tongues, not their swords. They'll speak in every quarter, every alley, every house. A meeting. They'll say the king himself is named his heir. Absalom.
Absalom
And what of the elders and courts?
David
They'll think they've missed something vital, a meeting they weren't invited to. If enough people proclaim it, the elders will be too embarrassed to question it.
Absalom
I'll send them out at dawn. The king has chosen.
David
Absurd.
Absalom
They'll say.
Narrator
It is done.
Absalom
Rejoice.
Narrator
Absalom smirked, then jabbed at the fire with an iron rod, breaking the coals apart as if imagining David beneath it.
Absalom
And once the chant is loud enough, loud enough to drown out any truth we strike.
Narrator
There was a bitterness in Ahithophel's tone, one that went beyond politics. Absalom caught it and raised an eyebrow.
David
My.
Absalom
My Ahithophel. You want him dead more than I do.
David
He ruined my house. As sheep as my granddaughter. Her shame was my shame. Uriah was worth 10 of David. Let the Lord judge between us, but let David die.
Narrator
Absalom leaned back, considering.
Absalom
His advisors must fall with him. Benaiah, Jashubim, Abishai, Joab. Every pillar he leans upon must be snapped at the root.
David
Then you should go to Hebron. Raise an altar. Offer a sacrifice. Make the people see your piety. Make them see your holiness and reverence for The Lord once more, David will be pleased to see you worship. While they watch you with incense and prayers will put the dagger in David's ribs. No one will suspect a man kneeling before the Lord to be the one wielding the blade.
Narrator
And so they plotted by firelight. In the days that followed, 200 men were sent, each carrying whispers like poison in their mouths. And the streets of Jerusalem, once loyal to David, began to murmur the name of Absalom as if it were already written upon the crown. And so the coup was not waged with swords or siegecraft. It was built on words, on whispers, on belief. The moon hung cold and pale over Jerusalem. All was still, save for the faint crackling of coals in the hearth. David lay in peace beside Bathsheba, their breaths rising and falling. With little Solomon between them, the great doors of his chamber burst open. David shot up, sword in hand, before his eyes were fully open. In the doorway stood Benaiah, wild eyed and lit by torchlight.
David
My king, arise.
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David
What is the meaning of this?
Narrator
And then he heard it clamor, distant at first, then closer. The pounding at the palace gate, the shouting. A name carried in the wind like a curse. Absalom.
Advertiser
Who's out there?
David
Absalom. The people have turned. They chant his name in the streets.
Narrator
He has declared himself king. David stood still, struck silent. And then realization dawned on him.
Advertiser
He used the sacrifice as a decoy. He's been plotting this all along.
David
It was all a lie. A mask.
Narrator
David sprang up and donned Jonathan's armor, weathered but still noble, and strapped Goliath's sword across his back. The weight steadied him.
David
Are you going to fight them? No. I'll not see Jerusalem become a field of civil war. That's what Absalom wants. We flee now. Where's Joab?
Narrator
Gone. I don't know where. David nodded grimly.
David
Then gather what men you can. Wake the servants. Escort my household to the brook.
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David
No, I'm too big a talk. Go with Benaiah and my guards remain at their side. Solomon must live. He's the key to Israel's future. Benaiah, take my wives and children with a company of guards. We'll cross paths at the brook.
Narrator
The palace stirred with quiet panic as servants moved like shadows in the halls, rousing wives and children. The concubines remained behind, instructed to tend to the house. Absalom wouldn't harm them. David dropped from the window into the gardens below and mounted his horse hooves thudded on stone as they rode for the gates. But it was too late. Absalom's mercenaries had breached the walls. David drew steel, ready to fight them all himself. But before he could charge, two riders broke through the smoke, smoke and steel of the fray. Abishai and Jashabim, blades flashing in the firelight. Ride, my king.
Absalom
We'll cut your path.
David
Be strong and courageous.
Narrator
David's eyes glinted with pride as his mighty men rode by his side. They fell on the mercenaries like wolves among cattle, carving a swathe through the chaos. Three of Absalom's men rode with spears poised to strike David. Jashabim threw a dagger at the man's eye, retrieved the spear and used it to flail the second. With one swift swoop. Abishai rode fiercely, leaped off his horse and tackled the other to the ground. They scrambled before Abishai was able to gain the advantage. With his knee pressed against his throat, the three of them rode past the gates towards the Brook Kedron.
Absalom
Just like old times, eh, Josh?
David
Hey, this old man needs another adventure.
Narrator
David, battered and brokenhearted, rode from his own son. The king was fleeing, the usurper was rising, and war once more was coming to Israel. Under the hush of twilight, King David stood at the edge of the Brook Kedron. Its course was steady, gentle and tranquil. David looked out over the brook. The olive groves and tall trees lay before him, the place that would one day be known as Gethsemane. David then looked behind him where his betrayers hoarded and conspired to kill him. He was fleeing for his life, but it didn't feel right. David's family stood behind him, ready to follow wherever he led. He stepped over the brook. Then came a rustling from the trees. David turned, sword ready, but it was no enemy. The kerethites, the pelethites, the gittites. Foreigners and former exiles, servants of the king. They had come not to pillage, but to follow. David stepped forward, brow furrowed, amazed. Then there was more movement. Abiathar emerged from from the trees, then Zadok, and behind them, the rest of the Levites. Upon their shoulders, cloaked in reverence, rested the Ark of the Covenant. The presence of God had followed David into exile.
David
What are you all doing? Go back. Serve the new king. There's only pain where I go.
Narrator
Abiathar, no longer a boy but the high priest of Israel, stepped forward. David stepped back, shaking his head with tears brimming at the sides of his eyes.
Absalom
We go with you.
Narrator
You are the Lord's Anointed, David turned his face to the brook. Its silver surface mirrored his grief. He clenched his jaw and looked again at the Ark. There was something small speaking within David. An inkling that the Lord was at work somehow. David turned to Zadok and Abiathar.
David
No. Carry the Ark back to the city. If I find favor in the Lord's eyes, he'll bring me home again to see it. But if not, here I am. Let him do as he pleases.
Absalom
Then we will remain in the city.
David
We will send our sons to bring you word. We will be your eyes and ears within the walls of Jerusalem.
Narrator
David embraced them, whispered blessings, and sent them back. Then he turned toward the forest. Bleak and solemn under moonlight, the Mount of Olives awaited. His family waited at the base of the mountain while David pressed in further to be with the Lord. The sound of weeping faded as he found a solitary place. David, under the dancing shadows cast by moonlight through trees, prayed to God.
David
This. This was the curse. Nathan spoke of violence and blood within my house. This I deserve. Them I ask. Lord, have mercy on me.
Narrator
Just then, a figure stumbled from the trees behind him. David drew his blade. But the face that emerged from the dark was no enemy.
David
Hushai, is that you?
Narrator
One of David's most trusted counselors removed his hood. He was caked in dirt, his garments to torn and his breath ragged.
David
My king. Praise be to the Lord. You are safe. I thought Absalom had already struck you down. Why are you here, friend? Why not remain in the city? I could never serve that snake while you still draw breath. I am loyal to you till the very end.
Narrator
Hushai was a dutiful man, filled with integrity nearly to a fault. It is what made the other counselors like Ahithophel, hate him so much. It's why David needed him.
David
Does the council know you've gone to be with me? Heavens, no. Ahithophel has poisoned their minds. They have no idea where I am. Good. Then I need you to return to Jerusalem. No. No, my king. If you follow me, I this mountain, you're but another mouth to feed. But if you go back, if you serve Absalom, you may yet be the blade in his council. You want me to spy for you, my king? I am no spy. Lying makes me so nervous. My hands Schmidt and I begin to stab. Stabilize hammer. I need you to focus Ushai. Frustrate the hitherfelm. Feed him poison words. Learn Absolim's plans. Zadok and Ebbie Athar will send their sons to bring me what you discovered, it will it will be done. Then go clean yourself and serve your true king.
Narrator
Hushai vanished into the shadows, back to toward Jerusalem, where chaos reigned. Half the city cheered for the traitor prince. The other half wept for the fleeing king. At his home, Hushai washed the dirt from his face. He looked into the mirror and saw not a fool, as others claimed, but a servant of God and king. He tightened his belt, squared his shoulders, and went out to greet Absalom. War was coming, not of swords alone, but of whispers and masks and counsel in candlelit halls. And Hushai would be the dagger in the dark. David's jaw quivered at the summit. It was cold and the air was unforgiving. He closed his eyes and fell to the ground. He clenched fistfuls of dirt and grass as he prayed vigorously to the Lord. Tears streamed down his wincing face. He lifted up his head to the skies and sang to God, O Lord.
David
My foes are many, they're rising against me. They say to my soul there's no, no salvation for him and God. But you, O Lord, are a shield about me. You're the lifter of my head and my glory. You, O Lord, are a shield about me. You're the lifter of my head and my glory. I cried aloud to you and you answered me from your holy hill.
Narrator
David paused his singing and stood up, stretching his arms out to the Lord. He raised his fists in the air and sang with more fire and intensity than he had ever before.
David
I'll not be afraid of the thousands that pursue me. Arise, O Lord, save me, save me, O my God. For you strange strike all my enemies on the cheek, you break the teeth of the wicked. Arise, O Lord, arise. Save me, O my God. Salvation belongs to the Lord.
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Yael Eckstein
If your faith has been kindled by this podcast and it has affected your life, we'd love it if you left a review. We read them and me personally, I cherish them. As you venture forth boldly and faithfully, I leave you with the biblical Blessing from Numbers 6. May the Lord bless you and keep you. May the Lord make His face shine upon you. May he be gracious to you. May the Lord turn His face towards you and give you peace.
David
Amen.
Narrator
You can listen to the Chosen People with Yael Eckstein ad free by downloading and subscribing to the pray.com app today. This pray.com production is only made possible by our dedicated team of creative talents. Steve Cattina, Max Bard, Zach Schellewager and Ben Gammon are the executive producers of the Chosen People with Yael Eckstein. Edited by Alberto Avila Narrated by Paul Coltofianu Characters are voiced by Jonathan Cotton, Aaron Salvato, Sarah Seltz, Mike Reagan, Stephen Ringwald, Sylvia zaradoc, Thomas Copeland Jr. Rosanna Pilcher and the opening prayer is voiced by John Moore. Music by Andrew Morgan Smith Written by Aaron Salvato, Bree Rosalie and Chris Baig. Special thanks to Bishop Paul Lanier, Robin Van Etten, Caleb Burrows, Jocelyn Fuller and the team at International Fellowship of Christians and Jews. You can hear more Pray.com productions on the Pray.com app available on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. If you enjoyed the Chosen People with Yael Eckstein, please rate and leave a review.
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David
This is an I Heart podcast.
Summary of "Absalom’s Attack" Episode from The Chosen People with Yael Eckstein
In the "Absalom’s Attack" episode of The Chosen People with Yael Eckstein, listeners are immersed in a dramatic retelling of one of the Old Testament’s most compelling narratives. This episode delves into the tumultuous relationship between King David and his son Absalom, exploring themes of power, betrayal, and forgiveness. Through vivid storytelling and rich dialogue, Yael Eckstein brings the ancient story to life, offering timeless lessons for contemporary faith and leadership.
The episode opens with a tense proclamation from King David, ordering the exile of his son Absalom from Jerusalem:
David (00:03): "Absalom is to be exiled from Jerusalem if he dares step foot in my city. If I so much as hear the hooves of his donkeys cross my gates, he shall die. Mark it, Benaiah. Let the walls know he is banished."
This declaration sets the stage for the ensuing conflict, highlighting the strained father-son relationship and the political instability it introduces into David's reign.
Despite David's orders, Absalom seeks reconciliation, performing a heartfelt plea to his father:
Absalom (00:49): "Father, I am here."
David forgives him, temporarily mending their relationship:
David (00:57): "I forgive you, my son. Welcome home."
However, this fragile peace is short-lived. Absalom harbors ambitions beyond reconciliation and begins plotting his ascent to the throne. His strategic approach involves winning the hearts of the people rather than overt military action.
Absalom engages in subtle tactics to undermine David's authority. He interacts with commoners, presenting himself as a compassionate and accessible leader:
Absalom (09:39): "Because swords cannot cut what the heart holds dear. The throne is not won with blades alone. It is won with love."
His strategy emphasizes the importance of public perception and the power of influence over brute force. Absalom’s approach is further solidified through his alliance with the seasoned general Ahithophel, who assists in orchestrating the coup.
In a clandestine meeting with Ahithophel, Absalom outlines his plan to usurp David’s throne without arousing suspicion:
Absalom (12:10): "The same thing you want. Ahithophel. David off the throne."
They devise a scheme involving fabricated meetings and false narratives to convince the elders and courts that Absalom is the rightful heir, thereby sowing discord and confusion within David’s administration.
As Absalom’s influence grows, David becomes aware of the brewing rebellion. His attempts to maintain peace and protect his lineage lead him to drastic measures, including fleeing the city to prevent civil war:
David (17:57): "Are you going to fight them? No. I'll not see Jerusalem become a field of civil war. That's what Absalom wants."
David’s internal conflict is palpable as he grapples with the betrayal from his son and the potential downfall of his kingdom. His prayers reflect his desperation and reliance on divine intervention:
David (27:28): "My foes are many, they're rising against me. They say to my soul there's no, no salvation for him and God. But you, O Lord, are a shield about me."
Amidst the chaos, loyalists like Hushai emerge as pivotal figures in David’s efforts to reclaim his throne. Hushai’s covert operations aim to thwart Absalom’s plans from within, illustrating the theme of loyalty and the moral complexities of political intrigue.
The episode also underscores the presence of the Ark of the Covenant, symbolizing God's enduring support for David despite his trials:
David (22:33): "You are the Lord's Anointed."
This divine element reinforces the idea that leadership and righteousness are ultimately guided by higher moral and spiritual principles.
As Absalom’s forces breach Jerusalem’s defenses, the episode builds to a climactic confrontation. David, though physically unprepared, demonstrates resilience and strategic foresight:
David (17:57): "I'll not be afraid of the thousands that pursue me. Arise, O Lord, save me, save me, O my God."
The ensuing battle is depicted with intense action, highlighting the futility of Absalom’s rebellion when faced with David’s unwavering faith and the loyalty of his men. The episode concludes on a poignant note, emphasizing themes of mercy, redemption, and the enduring impact of righteous leadership.
Power and Ambition: The episode explores the destructive nature of unchecked ambition through Absalom’s quest for power, contrasting it with David’s more measured and faith-driven leadership.
Forgiveness and Reconciliation: David’s willingness to forgive Absalom, despite the latter’s betrayal, highlights the strength and importance of forgiveness in healing personal and political rifts.
Loyalty and Betrayal: Characters like Hushai represent unwavering loyalty, while figures like Ahithophel embody betrayal, illustrating the complexities of human relationships in times of crisis.
Divine Providence: The presence of the Ark of the Covenant and David’s heartfelt prayers underscore the belief in divine guidance and support amidst human struggles.
Public Perception and Influence: Absalom’s strategy to win the people’s hearts rather than using force emphasizes the significant role of public opinion and influence in leadership and governance.
"Absalom’s Attack" masterfully weaves a tale of familial discord, political intrigue, and spiritual resilience. Through its engaging narrative and profound dialogues, the episode offers listeners a deeper understanding of the complexities of leadership and the enduring power of faith and forgiveness. By bringing ancient scriptures to life, Yael Eckstein not only entertains but also imparts valuable lessons applicable to modern-day challenges.
The Chosen People with Yael Eckstein continues to be a compelling resource for those seeking to explore the rich narratives of the Old Testament, drawing connections between timeless biblical lessons and contemporary life.