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It happened at the end of forty years, that Absalom said to the king, please let me go and pay my vow, which I have vowed to Yahweh, in Hebron.

Verse Takeaways

1

A Scribal Error Explained

Scholars unanimously point out that the "forty years" mentioned is a well-known scribal error. Ancient manuscripts and historical context suggest the correct reading is "four years," likely dating from Absalom's reconciliation with David. This clarifies the timeline of his rebellion, showing it was a more immediate plot.

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Book Overview

2 Samuel

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4

Albert Barnes

Albert Barnes

On 2 Samuel 15:7

18th Century

Theologian

Forty years - An obvious clerical error for "four years," though a very ancient one, which may date from Absalom’s return from Geshur, his r…

Charles Ellicott

Charles Ellicott

On 2 Samuel 15:7

19th Century

Bishop

After forty years. —The reading is certainly incorrect. Absalom was born after David began his reign in Hebron, and his w…

John Gill

John Gill

On 2 Samuel 15:7

17th Century

Pastor

And it came to pass after forty years
Or four years; so long it was from the reconciliation of Absalom to David, as …

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Matthew Henry

Matthew Henry

On 2 Samuel 15:7–12

17th Century

Minister

See how willing tender parents are to believe the best concerning their children. But how easy and how wicked it is for children to take advantage …