ABSALOM'S PLAN TO BE KING - The IN SEASON Lifestyle

close up shot of king s crown on brown box — Photo by Dmitry Sidorov on Pexels.com

ABSALOM’S PLAN TO BE KING

We last left Absalom traveling to Hebron. He was very busy conspiring to gain more favor with the people. It was Absalom’s plan to overthrow King David so that he could be king. When Absalom felt very secure in his own self-importance, he sent spies throughout Israel with a message.

The message said: “When you hear the sound of the horn, you are to say, ‘Absalom reigns in Hebron!’”

I can’t read the scriptures from 2 Samuel 15 without noticing something hiding in these significant words of Absalom’s story. The first thing I wonder upon reading these particular words is whether the antichrist will arrive on the scene at some future year’s Feast of Trumpets. It is these chilling words from Absalom that make me ponder this thought.

A KING WHO ISN’T TRULY A KING

Please don’t misunderstand this statement. I’m NOT making a prediction of the coming of the antichrist. Only God could give us that answer. I’m only noticing this wording of the passage where Absalom, who was rebelling against the King, seems to be like one who is a shadow of the antichrist. Those profound words he chose to use said, “When you hear the sound of the horn.”

Typically in Isreal the word “trumpet” is used instead of that word “horn.” Why is this word used differently in the translation of Absalom’s instructions?

“TRUMPET” VS. “HORN”

If we turn to scriptures referring to “horns” we find a few more clues. A horn was used in describing one or many who held power in certain situations. For instance silver horns were typically blown whenever the King was approaching. It was as if to say, get ready. Show the King respect. Everyone was warned ahead of time. Since Absalom was faking his kingship, it would have made sense that he was also using the silver horns to announce a false presence.

SYMBOL OF JUDGEMENT

In certain biblical texts, the horns also symbolize God’s judgment. For instance, when God declares that the horns of the altar would fall off, it signifies His intention to judge the idolatry of Israel. Absalom had fallen into the idolatry of self-worship. He saw himself above everyone. His concept of his own identity was that he was privileged and should be treated with honor and respect because of it. That concept, of course, was false.

Even though David had pardoned Absalom at a time when he was complegely guilty, it was only because of a father’s unconditional love. It wasn’t that he thought Absalom deserved to be privileged above other men in the kingdom. Perhaps Absalom had greatly misunderstood this action.

When he deserved judgement, Absalom had been pardoned by The King. This implores many of us to stop and realize the facts. If not for Yeshua’s unfailing mercy, we too would be a perfect image of Absalom. Without atonement, no man is innocent before God. Here again, we think of that concept of judgement, only David and Yeshua brought forth merciful judgements.

REFUGE FOR THE INNOCENT

Sometimes the “horn” was speaking of Jesus and His power over God’s enemies. As is always the case, discernment is needed. Many of these scriptures speak of references to the “horns of the altars.” Of course, these particular passages do not relate to how Absalom was acting toward David. Using the power of the horns of the altar required that one was willing to be humble. It was often a humble request for refuge until a man could be proven innocent.

REBELLIOUS ACTION – ANTICHRIST

As other examples of horns, there are many passages which relate to the antichrist having a “horn.” These passages seem to be comparable with the actions we see in Absalom during his rebellion.

One particular scripture states how people with character traits similar to Absalom’s will be broken into pieces when God judges the earth.

I refer to 1 Samuel 2:10, The adversaries of the Lord shall be broken into pieces; out of heaven shall he thunder upon them: the Lord shall judge the ends of the earth; and he shall give strength unto his king, and exalt the horn of his anointed.”

Rebelliousness like Absalom showed requires harsh judgement. One day all antichrists will be judged. On the other hand, God will exalt His anointed. This could be referring to King David, or it could refer to Yeshua. Actually, it refers to both. David was the shadow of Yeshua which God was revealing through this story.

A FEAST FOR BLOWING TRUMPETS

Of course, my hebraic thinking brain could not help but question if this message proclaimed by Absalom’s instructions was a shadow passage referring to a day we celebrate annually by blowing the shofar. Many believers have joined in this very ancient practice of old which consists of blowing the shofar on the high holy days.

The sound of the shofar blasts are particularly noticed on every annual Feast of Trumpets/Yom Teruah/Rosh Hashanah. If after much prayer, I still conclude that these thoughts are revelant, I intend to study this subject further. It would be best to do so before we reach this feast day which is fast approaching.

This year (2026) the annual Feast of Trumpets begins with Yom Teruah at sunset on Sunday, September 13. The annual gathering for this year lasts through Tuesday, September 15, 2026. These are two whole days which are considered as one long day. The thought is to confuse the enemy and keep him guessing as to which time is accurate. To add to the confusion, these holy days are a day’s difference for those of us who reside outside of Israel.

The hidden day is a way to keep Satan from finding out the true appointed time. It is that important. There were some things done by David that hid his attempts to find out what Absalom was up to. We will discuss those soon. This pattern of “hidden things” seems to exist both in the day called The Feast of Trumpets as well as the time that David was fleeing from Absalom. We will discuss these things more in days to come.

RELATED FACTS

I think the above facts may also parallel a part of our next week’s discussion. Next week we will be speaking of the role Ahithophel played in this story. Do you remember him? One thing to keep in mind is the fact that Ahithophel is the father of Eliam, who was the father of Bathsheba. In other words Ahithophel was Bathsheba’s grandfather.

Do you think that could have led Ahitophel to distrust and not like David? After all, David had killed Bathesheba’s first husband who was innocently serving David’s causes with all of his heart. I can see where this type of situation could cause great distress for an adoring and devoted grandfather.

This certainly helps us to understand Ahitophel’s negativity toward David. To be negative is one thing. But, to let negativity overcome our actions as it turns to bitterness and hate, is quite another matter. Tuck these facts under your hat, because they will be expanded as we go.

SELF IDOLATRY

At any rate, we often talk about how certain individuals are guilty of “blowing their own horn.” That is exactly what Absalom did. He visualized himself as King. He acted as if it were true. Many responded as if it were true with absolutely no regard for the fact that King David was God’s anointed King at the time.

Apparently, this is how many people will respond to the antichrist in the end times. We all must pray to God for wisdom and discernment. It has never been more important. Stories in the scriptures, like this one where we can see the patterns of the antichrist in Absalom’s motives, are excellent sources. God gave us stories to help us understand and respond to His sovereignty with love.

WHEN YOU HEAR THE SOUND OF THE HORN

The people had been trained from the days of Moses to respond to the sounds of a shofar. For example there were four different types of shofar blasts used. Each different blast of sound of the shofar was meant to define the actions the people were to take when they heard that particular sound.

The four types of blasts which a shofar player typically used were:

Tekiah – long, clear blast signifying an undivided, complete awakening.
Shevarim – a series of broken sounds symbolizing lament and reflection.
Teruah – a rapid, staccato sequence inviting urgent contemplation.
Tekiah Gedolah – a concluding, extended blast to cap the day with clarity and resolve.

The scriptures do not define which of these sounds the horn blown at Absalom’s instructions were to be. Perhaps it would have been very revealing.

THE TURN OF THE YEAR

In ancient Israel, the shofar was always blown on a new year. Also, the new year was the time of the coronation of kings. This fact is yet another reason to wonder if Yeshua is going to return on Yom Teruah at The Feast of Trumpets. He will be very unlike Absalom. He is the true King of all Kings.

The true day of this announcement will not be like the false set up for this emotional display Absalom was trying to provoke from the people. All judgements will be accurate and correct when this day happens. The powers of Heaven will be residing and holding court when this announcement is made.

BE READY BY THE DAY OF ATONEMENT

This is a very good reason to begin to resolve all of your earthly mistakes and sins as The Feast of Trumpets arrives. This sound of the shofar is our warning to be ready. After The Feast of Trumpets, we have ten days of Awe to prepare our hearts for repentance and the receiving of God’s divine mercy.

By the tenth day, The Day of Atonement, we must be ready to do any spiritual battle our Father requires of us. This is what was demanded of David’s true followers. They had to stand faithful as Absalom’s false party moved in and consumed the rule of the land. We will need to follow the directions of Yeshua just as David’s true followers did for him. They were all prepared to leave Jerusalem with him. That meant leaving all that they loved and owned and moving to a place that would not be very comfortable for anyone. We must be ready to go with our Messiah at any given moment. All of our worldly goods and acquaintances may need to stay behind. We must be willing to give up everything and follow Messiah.

For a short time the antichrist may appear to be real. Many will be deceived. This is what Absalom represents in our story. He brings a spirit of division and chaos to a once peaceful, fruitful and safely ruled kingdom.

A CALL TO ACCOUNTABILITY

As we mentioned earlier, the people were trained to respond to the sounds of a shofar. The different blasts function as a call to attention and a reminder of accountability. Absalom had falsely persuaded many that David was no longer accountable. This ungrateful son stood at the gate every day and proclaimed his desire to be a judge over Israel. This message of the blast of a horn would have reminded the people that God was going to hold them accountable for their actions.

I wonder how many would be deceived into the wrong actions by Absalom’s huge attempts which were always full of dramma? Isn’t this what we are told will happen when the final antichrist arrives on the scene? Yeshua asked us not to be deceived. Scriptures make the facts about this antichrist very plain. He will deny Yeshua’s divinity and humanity. In comparison, Absalom was busy denying David’s abilities as a King.

Also, the scriptures say during end times the antichrist will promote teachings contrary to scriptures. Falsehoods will abound. Wasn’t Absalom promoting falsehoods against his father, David?

We can also tell from deep biblical studies that the coming antichrist will lead God’s people away from biblical truth. The shadow of Absalom’s actions in this story show how he was leading people away from their trust of King David. The antichrist will lure the people away from Messiah. This is a definite reason to do all within your power to develop a strong and sure relationship with Yeshua Messiah. Relationship is the answer to not being deceived.

ABSALOM GAINS SUPPORT

Two hundred men backed Absalom up with this deceptive plan. They were invited as guest to go with him to Hebron. However, most of them did not know what he was truly planning against David. That came later. Most of these men thought Absalom was so dedicated to God that he was going to Hebron to make a religious sacrifice he had vowed in the past. What reason would they have for not supporting such a devout and righteous citizen as their next king? It was all a carefully laid trap.

Ironically, Hebron was the very place where David was first proclaimed a King. The people who loved King David also welcomed Absalom. They had no inkling of Absalom’s rebellious plans. Some very useful people fell right in line with Absalom’s schemes.

MANY TURNED ON DAVID

The charismatic Absalom had many pet subjects who were practically eating from his hands. They followed Absalom like little pet animals who simply needed stroking. All of these deceived masses danced and sang whenever Absalom wanted them to. It appeared that he was in complete control.

On the other hand, the plans to overthrow his father’s reign played right into the plots and schemes of many of the most powerful, selfish and ambitious men in the Kingdom. Some of the highest ranking men in Jerusalem didn’t see Absalom as a threat at all. Many of them planned to use Absalom’s selfish ambitions in ways which would eventually help them to gain their own power. Little did Absalom know of their plots. Apparently Absalom wasn’t the only one who thought he could be king.

One such man was named Ahithophel. We will hear more about Ahithophel next week.

SUMMARY

These elements portrayed in the story of Absalom turning against David serve as a warning for believers to test the spirits. How well do you discern the messages around you? Are they rooted in the truth of Jesus?

VERSE

1 John 4:1, Dear friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world.