Saul Weinreb - Let the Prophets Speak

Samuel 2:20a - Amasa is Assassinated by Yo’av

Yo'av leads the Army on a chase throughout Israel to find the rebel Sheva ben Bichri.  On the chase he encounters Amasa and assassinates him.

Samuel2:19b - David Tries to Reunite the Kingdom

David takes a path of reconciliation and generosity towards his previous detractors, in an attempt to reunite the kindgom.  However, the forces of jealousy and inter tribal squabbling lay the seeds for more rebellion.

Samuel 2:19a - David Starts to Pick up the Pieces

David mourns the loss of his son, but the hard work of reassembling his kingdom after the rebellion is crushed begins.

Samuel 2:18b - The News of Avshalom’s Death Reaches David

Achima'atz and a Cushite soldier bring the news of Avshalom's death and the army's victory to David.

Samuel 2:18a - David’s Army Defeats Avshalom

David's army wins decisively in battle, and despite David's explicit instructions, Yoav and his men kill Avshalom.

Samuel 2:17b - David and his Men Find Refuge

Avshalom follows Chushai's advice and he musters a large Army, which gives David and his men time to regroup in Machanayim.

Samuel 2:17a - Conflicting Advice for Avshalom

Achitofel and Chushai give Avshalom conflicting advice on how to defeat David and his supporters.

Samuel 2:16 - David on the Run

David old enemies come back to haunt him while he runs from Jerusalem. He encounters two people who bring back memories from the days of Saul.  We then read of Achitofel's horrific advice to Avshalom regarding David's concubines.

Samuel 2:15b - David Set’s Up His Spy Network

David's Gittite followers remain loyal to him and the refugees continue their flight into he desert.  But not before David sets up his spy network in Jerusalem.

Samuel 2:15a - Avshalom’s Rebellion Begins

Avshalom gathers his support and travels to Hebron to begin his rebellion against David.