What does 2 Samuel 15:5 mean?
"And it was so, that when any man came nigh to him to do him obeisance, he put forth his hand, and took him, and kissed him." - 2 Samuel 15:5

The Bible verse 2 Samuel 15:5 from the King James Version (KJV) states, "And it was so, that when any man came nigh to him to do him obeisance, he put forth his hand, and took him, and kissed him." This verse is found in the context of the rebellion of Absalom, the son of King David. Absalom had won the hearts of the people through his charm, good looks, and promises of justice. He used these traits to gain the favor of the people and plotted to overthrow his father and take the throne for himself.
In this verse, we see the deceitful and manipulative nature of Absalom's actions. When anyone came to him to show respect and honor, he would extend his hand to take them and kiss them. This was a hypocritical act of feigned affection and it serves as a poignant example of the depths of his deception. Absalom was cunning and made use of his charisma to manipulate and win over the people, and this verse serves as a demonstration of his deviousness and insincerity.
This verse can be seen as a reflection of the larger themes of power, manipulation, and betrayal that are present in the story of Absalom's rebellion. It serves as a warning against the dangers of flattery and feigned affection, and the consequences of being led astray by smooth words and false promises. Absalom's actions serve as a cautionary tale about the corrupting influence of power and the destructive nature of deceit and betrayal.
The context of this verse is important for understanding its significance within the larger narrative of Absalom's rebellion. Absalom's actions were fueled by his desire for power and his resentment towards his father, King David, for not addressing the injustices that had been committed against him. Absalom's rebellion was a direct challenge to the established order and a threat to the stability of the kingdom. This verse serves as an example of the tactics Absalom employed to subvert the loyalty of the people and garner support for his own ambitions.
Symbolically, the act of Absalom taking people and kissing them can be seen as a metaphor for the deceptive nature of his actions. It represents the false facade he presented to the people, using charm and flattery to win them over while secretly plotting to overthrow his father. Absalom's actions serve as a cautionary reminder of the dangers of being seduced by outward appearances and empty promises, and the importance of discerning the true intentions of those in positions of power.
In conclusion, 2 Samuel 15:5 from the King James Version provides a significant insight into the character of Absalom and the nature of his rebellion against King David. It serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of deceit, manipulation, and betrayal, and the destructive consequences of being led astray by smooth words and false promises. The verse highlights the corrupting influence of power and the importance of discerning the true intentions of those who seek to lead and influence others. Absalom's actions serve as a warning about the dangers of flattery and the importance of remaining vigilant against the deceptive tactics of those who seek to subvert and manipulate others for their own gain.
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2 Samuel 15:5 - "And it was so, that when any man came nigh to him to do him obeisance, he put forth his hand, and took him, and kissed him."
"And it was so, that when any man came nigh to him to do him obeisance, he put forth his hand, and took him, and kissed him." - 2 Samuel 15:5
2 Samuel 5:15 - "Ibhar also, and Elishua, and Nepheg, and Japhia,"
"Ibhar also, and Elishua, and Nepheg, and Japhia," - 2 Samuel 5:15
1 Samuel 15:5 - "And Saul came to a city of Amalek, and laid wait in the valley."
2 Samuel 5:12
2 Samuel 5:16 - "And Elishama, and Eliada, and Eliphalet."
2 King 5:15
2 Samuel 2:15 - "Then there arose and went over by number twelve of Benjamin, which pertained to Ish-bosheth the son of Saul, and twelve of the servants of David."
2 Samuel 15:15 - "And the king's servants said unto the king, Behold, thy servants are ready to do whatsoever my lord the king shall appoint."
2 Samuel 16:15 - "¶ And Absalom, and all the people the men of Israel, came to Jerusalem, and Ahithophel with him."
2 Samuel 15:13 - "¶ And there came a messenger to David, saying, The hearts of the men of Israel are after Absalom."
2 Samuel 15:37 - "So Hushai David's friend came into the city, and Absalom came into Jerusalem."
2 Samuel 15:29 - "Zadok therefore and Abiathar carried the ark of God again to Jerusalem: and they tarried there."
2 Samuel 22:15 - "And he sent out arrows, and scattered them; lightning, and discomfited them."
"And Saul came to a city of Amalek, and laid wait in the valley." - 1 Samuel 15:5
2 Samuel 5:18 - "The Philistines also came and spread themselves in the valley of Rephaim."
2 Samuel 5:21 - "And there they left their images, and David and his men burned them."
2 Samuel 5:7 - "Nevertheless David took the strong hold of Zion: the same is the city of David."
2 Samuel 10:15 - "¶ And when the Syrians saw that they were smitten before Israel, they gathered themselves together."
2 Samuel 5:10 - "And David went on, and grew great, and the LORD God of hosts was with him."
2 Samuel 15:17 - "And the king went forth, and all the people after him, and tarried in a place that was far off."
2 Samuel 15:9 - "And the king said unto him, Go in peace. So he arose, and went to Hebron."
2 Samuel 11:5 - "And the woman conceived, and sent and told David, and said, I am with child."
2 Samuel 5:22 - "¶ And the Philistines came up yet again, and spread themselves in the valley of Rephaim."
"And Elishama, and Eliada, and Eliphalet." - 2 Samuel 5:16
2 Samuel 3:5 - "And the sixth, Ithream, by Eglah David's wife. These were born to David in Hebron."
2 Samuel 18:15 - "And ten young men that bare Joab's armour compassed about and smote Absalom, and slew him."
2 Samuel 6:15 - "So David and all the house of Israel brought up the ark of the LORD with shouting, and with the sound of the trumpet."
2 Samuel 15:33 - "Unto whom David said, If thou passest on with me, then thou shalt be a burden unto me:"