II Samuel 19

 II Samuel 19

1 And they said unto Joab, Behold, the king goeth weeping, and mourneth for Absalom.

2 Then the victory turned that very day into grief for all the people: for that very day the people had heard it said, The king is grieved because of his son.

3 And that same day the people crept into the city, as people flee from the battle in shame.

4 So the king had his face covered; and the king cried with a loud voice, Absalom my son, Absalom my son, my son!

5 Then Joab went in to the king's house, and said, "Today you have shamed the faces of all your servants, who have saved your life this day, and the lives of your sons and daughters, and the lives of your wives, and the life of your concubines;

6 Loving you that hate you, and hating those that love you: because you make it known today that captains and servants are worthless to you: because I understand today that if Absalom lived, and we all died today, then it would seem good in your eyes.

7 Now therefore, arise, go out, and speak according to the heart of your servants: for I swear to you by the Lord, if you do not go out, not one man will remain with you tonight; and this will be greater evil to you than all the evil that has befallen you from your youth until now.

8 Then the king arose, and sat in the gate; and they told all the people, saying, Behold, the king sitteth in the gate. Then all the people came to present themselves before the king; but Israel fled every man to his tents.

9 And all the people, in all the tribes of Israel, were quarreling among themselves, saying, The king delivered us out of the hand of our enemies, and he delivered us out of the hand of the Philistines; and now he fled from the land because of Absalom.

10 And Absalom, whom we anointed over us, is dead in the battle: now therefore why are you silent, and do not bring back the king?