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How to Cite
Manser, Martin H. "Absalom." Writer's Reference Center. Facts On File, Inc. Web. 5 May 2025. <http://fofweb.infobase.com/wrc/Detail.aspx?iPin=DOA00016>.
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Absalom

Pronunciation pronunciation key
absălom

Definition 
Archetype of a rebellious son, especially one who meets a tragic end. Absalom is identified in 2 Samuel 13–18 as the third son of King David, remarkable for his great beauty and adored by both his father and his people. Unfortunately, he sided with Ahithophel in rebellion against David and was consequently slain by Joab after getting his long hair entangled in the branches of a tree while trying to escape. David's grief over his slain son was overwhelming and gave rise to his famous lament "O my son Absalom, my son, my son Absalom! Would God I had died for thee!" (2 Samuel 18:33). "Sometimes, the worthy gentleman would reprove my mother for being over-indulgent to her sons, with a reference to old Eli, or David and Absalom, which was particularly galling to her feelings" (Anne Brontë, The Tenant of Wildfell Hall, 1848).

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