The Man Who Betrayed His City

It was a hot afternoon in ancient Bethel.

A man came running from the city of Bethel, a small speck on the horizon. He ran towards a group of men hidden in the bushes. They looked at him anxiously. "Quick! What news have you got?"

The man was sweating. He was still catching his breath. He took a seat and asked for some water. Then he briefly reported his findings. "The city is well fortified. I observed it from within, and it was peaceful. There was no garrison, but still ... the walls are without weakness."

The men of ancient Judah had been despatched to attack a city called Bethel. Their scout had gone ahead to gather intelligence. But the news did not sound good. The city seemed invulnerable to attacks. It would be difficult trying to attack Bethel.

The commander of the small army of Judah was not intimidated. God would help him.

"Keep watching," he said. "Something may crop up."

The city was fortified and well guarded. The men were looking for a way in.

Three Lessons from Absalom's Life and Death

Quick Note:

Absalom was a son of King David. This piece was based on his life as portrayed in the Bible.

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Absalom was David's favourite son.

Absalom was charming, handsome, and King David's favourite son. Some said, Absalom was the most handsome man in King David's kingdom.

But he was the third child born to King David. That meant that he wouldn't become king, not when his eldest brother was still alive.

King David's eldest son was called Amnon, a brother from another mother. Amnon had the same father as Absalom: King David. They all lived in King David's house, one big happy family.

Absalom was handsome and his father's favourite son. He would rebel against his father and declare himself king.