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Q3. (2 Samuel 15:1-6) What are the elements of Absalom’s public relations campaign to win over the people to his side? How effective is it? What should David have done differently? Which of David’s weaknesses does Absalom exploit?

Absaom sent spies to go before him shouting Absalom is king in Hebron!’” Two hundred men went with Absalom from Jerusalem. But they had been called together knowing nothing of the plot and made the trip innocently. While Absalom was offering sacrifices, he managed also to involve Ahithophel the Gilonite, David’s advisor, calling him away from his hometown of Giloh. The conspiracy grew powerful and Absalom’s supporters multiplied.

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What are the elements of Absalom's public relations campaign to win over the people to his side? RAISE HIMSELF UP, SHOW FAVOR TO THE PEOPLE, AND PUT HIS FATHER DOWN.

How effective is it? VERY

What should David have done differently? BROUGHT HIM BACK WITH CONDITIONS AND CONTROLS

Which of David's weaknesses does Absalom exploit? TRUST, TOLERANCE, AND LOVE OF FAMILY; WANTS TO SEE THE GOOD IN FAMILY

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What are the elements of Absalom's public relations campaign to win over the people to his side?

Lies, deceit, looks, contacts, plotting, confusion and patients. He would have been a very good modern politician.

How effective is it? It worked

What should David have done differently?

He should have been a proper father, raised his children accourding to Biblical teaching, disciplined them, guided and taught them, showed them love, ect

When Absalon came back he should have accepted Absalon back into his house and sorted the problems out there and then, in fact he should have reacted right after Absalon murdered his brother.

Which of David's weaknesses does Absalom exploit?

His lack of discipline and action. His lack of seeking God's will and guidence.

His lack of observing what is happening around him.

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Absalom dressed the part; he undermined his father by being at the gates & solving peoples' problems; he acted like a politician trying to get people's votes (by kissing hands, etc).

It is all pretty effective.

David should have dealt with his sons, as he would have anyone else who had committed those deeds.

He exploits David's age and softness to a wealthy man's life and his sexual corruption.

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Abalsom's chariots and horses, fifty men to run before him is intended to attract attention to himself and remind the people of his relationship to David as heir to the throne.

Absalom was playing on the people's emotions when he presented himself as the answer to their need for justice.

Yes! very effective Absalom's stole their hearts through flattery and promises, he also managed to win the affection of the Israelites.

Absalom sought David's permission to move to Hebron, about 20 miles south of Jerusalem, where he would have more freedom to start a rebellion.

One of the most serious problems is David's inability --or unwillingness-- to discipline his family and his officers

He has been coasting on the achievements and the faith of his vital years. He had become a victim of court intrigue and the accommodations he has made to stay In power and to reward his supporters. Instead of being a team payer, David is payed by Joab, by Amnon, and by Absalom.

Absalom exploits David's : Age

Corruption

Softness to wealthy life style

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Q3. (2 Samuel 15:1-6) What are the elements of Absalom's public relations campaign to win over the people to his side?

The first element I believe began when "HATRED" filled the heart of Absalom and he had his brother murdered.

After being reconciled with the king and latter admitted to court again, he prepared himself chariots and horses, an entourage appropriate for a king, he was appealing to the eye of the people.

Absalom would rise up early and would stand at the gate ready to greet those who came to have the king hear their controversy and make a judgment call.

Absalom would have a personal conversation with them, appearing to them to be sympathetic to their cause, and then he confided in them of personal family issues of the king, suggesting to them, if he was in commission he would attend to their needs.

Absalom was appealing to them, to their need of justice that he cared as he would offer to them his hand along with a kiss, fastening upon them the feeling of strength and trust.

How effective is it?

Absalom's deceit worked, the people looked on the outward appearance that Absalom presented to them, and they believed his phony promises, promises that he cared, touching the heart of Israel.

What should David have done differently?

I do not seem to have the same view point of David as you all seem to have.

I see David as an "IMPERFECT" man whose hearts desire is to be obedient to the call of God; you cannot read the Psalms without seeing the heart of David.

I see a man who does not have all the answers to life, nor does he claim to have them.

I see a tender hearted man towards others, especially towards his loved ones.

I see a man who did allow the **** of the flesh to rule, and I see the devastating results of his "SIN".

Although David is forgiven by God, I see a man who has lost the confidence he once had, when once he was strong in the LORD, and in that weakness I see a heart that is open up to that of naivety.

What should David have done differently?

What David should “NOT HAVE DONE” was to put spiritual discernment aside, allowing his heart to rule instead of God and his laws.

Therefore in his weakness I see the results of a man who longed to see and be reconciled to his son, and as his son came and bowed before the king, forgiveness filled his heart, overlooking the void of a repentant heart, or that of great remorse that sin calls for forgiveness to be given.

Which of David's weaknesses does Absalom exploit?

I believe this is one time David should not have followed the desire of his heart, the weakness that Absalom exploited.

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Q3. (2 Samuel 15:1-6)

What are the elements of Absalom's public relations campaign to win over the people to his side?

How effective is it?

What should David have done differently?

Which of David's weaknesses does Absalom exploit?

Absalom is a smooth talker and uses charm to sway the people and steal their hearts away from David. A real trouble-maker and an absolute fake. We see him exalting himself and manipulating people. These actions do not demonstrate Godliness, instead they reveal his true motive in doing all this was to get power for himself. His whole campaign is very effective as it took only four years for Absalom's magnetism to draw together a large number of devoted followers throughout the whole land. The people love him and fall for his deception so much so that he manages to stir up trouble in Jerusalem. David must have been aware of Absalom’s actions and that they were done to undermine the king’s authority – as seen at the city gate. Perhaps, at this time, David was ill and not completely in control of the affairs of the kingdom, and had allowed Absalom to carry on with his deception. Absalom exploited David’s weakness in not disciplining his family and subjects. As soon as he became aware of Absalom’s efforts to undermine his authority he should have taken the appropriate action to stop it.

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Q3. (2 Samuel 15:1-6) What are the elements of Absalom’s public relations campaign to win over the people to his side?

Similar political "glad handing" as is used today....adding that" there is a vacuum I can fill, as the King is not doing his job!" Kissing hands instead of today's "kissing babies". The big motorcade with him in a chariot and 50 secret service....er 50 men to run before him. He stole the hearts of the men of Israel through manipulation and flattery. (otherwise known as witchcraft)

How effective is it?

This deception is very effective...tell the people what they want to hear, and promise to give them what they want, will get you elected, every time.

What should David have done differently?

David, instead of running in guilt induced fear and confusion, should have taken a stand and quelled the coup....better to discipline late than never!

Which of David’s weaknesses does Absalom exploit?

David reverted to his old default mode....Fear: run for your life when threatened. It felt familiar, as he had done this a number of times, but this time it was the wrong tactic. Once again, he made a decision, by not making a decision! (another example of impotence, and apathy and fear)

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Q3. (2 Samuel 15:1-6) What are the elements of Absalom’s public relations campaign to win over the people to his side?

Firstly, Absolom starts riding everywhere in his chariot with a 50-man bodyguard to make himself look really important.

Secondly, he sets up a judge's seat at the gate to Jerusalem to give the impression he cares for the common people's problems.

Thirdly, he actually kisses everyone who approaches him to give him respect. They bow to him and he kisses them, a way of giving the impression he loves everyone and that they have found favor with him.

How effective is it?

The Bible says he stole the hearts of the men of Israel.

What should David have done differently?

David should have curbed Absolom's excesses. Particularly the chariot. Also, David must have known Absolom was sitting at the city gate. He should have kept a much closer eye on his son.

Which of David’s weaknesses does Absalom exploit?

Absolom exploited David's inability to discipline his own famly.

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Q3. (2 Samuel 15:1-6) What are the elements of Absalom’s public relations campaign to win over the people to his side? How effective is it? What should David have done differently? Which of David’s weaknesses does Absalom exploit?

Absalom uses "politics" to win the people over to his side. First he sets up his "public" image and makes sure he looks important, successful and confident. He then panders to the people's perceived "needs". He pleases them by getting them to believe he's "on their side." He promises justice and hints at the lack of justice with the King. He convinces them they have no representation with the current leadership and then he kisses them to show his sincerity of love for them. He pandered to emotions and perceptions and he was good at it!

He was extremely effective. He won the hearts of the people.

What should David had done differently? First, he should have been more authoritative early on in Absalom's life. He let him do anything he wanted! Sooner or later, that was bound to be turned against him and it was. Absalom wanted the kingdom and he set about taking it. Why not? He took his own brother's life and got away with it. Who was going to stop him now? The man who "allowed" him to get away with it? There was no respect cultivated there. Not only had David not disciplined Absalom but he had allowed Amnon to get away with other crimes like rape. Absalom saw that first hand and probably despised David's weakness in not carrying out justice. Isn't it interesting that Absalom ran his campaign on justice and David's lack of giving it? Tamar's plight made a lasting impression on Absalom, but he used that for evil instead of good. I think he saw David as weak all around and Absalom had become bitter and out of control with delusions about his own power and attributes. He was so deceptive in it too. Manipulating the people not to mention being two faced with David and undermining him.

I think Absalom exploited David's weakness in lack of giving out justice. He suffered from it first hand and he played on that theme with the people. Bitterness drove him and lack of discipline or authority over him allowed him to get away with it, but I think his platform was justice.

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(2 Samuel 15:1-6) What are the elements of Absalom’s public relations campaign to win over the people to his side?

He rose up early and stood beside the gateway. and bad mouth his father by saying: “Look, you’ve got a strong case; but the king isn’t going to listen to you.” Then he’d say, “Why doesn’t someone make me a judge for this country?

How effective is it?

It worked for him

What should David have done differently?

He was suppose to discipline him from the beginning.

Which of David’s weaknesses does Absalom exploit?

Disciplining his own son. before he judged everyone accordingly.

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What are the elements of Absalom's public relations campaign to win over the people to his side?

Absalom is very cunning, he begins by setting the stage, he projects and promotes a fitting image. A physical image and also an image of endearment. The people saw him as a striking affluent man and he also listened to their concerns. He also tickled their ears, he said things that would satisfy them upon listening to their concerns. Followed with a promise or a subtle suggestion if he were in charge the individual would have justice. He provided a sentiment that was the icing on the cake, sealing conversations with a kiss, supplanting the idea that he was genuinely concerned for their welfare.

How effective is it?

v. 6 "b" clause - "so Absalom stole the hearts of the men of Israel." He was very effective!

What should David have done differently?

Taken his head out of the sand. All that Absalom did was out in the open, it may not have been in the direct presence of David. Absaloms' motive were hidden, however the chariot, 50 men before the chariot, his rising up early standing at the gate providing counsel could not have gone unnoticed. It is highly unlikely that David would not have been informed of his son’s activities. The number of people coming to see David surely would have decreased, secondly their concerns would now be presented differently.

Perhaps David was proud that his son took an interest in kingly duties, since Absalom was not the king David should have been concerned enough to observed if actions were appropriated. If not involved He should have been engaged. If not from a grooming vantage then from moral or judicial stand point.

Which of David's weaknesses does Absalom exploit?

David did not exercise proper wisdom and judgment when it came to family members. Absalom plot from the beginning was to exact justice, verses 2-5 conveys justice, judgment being carried out. I believe that the surface weakness however beneath the surface Absalom takes advantage of David obscene. David checks out when he has to make decisions concerning those close to him, he removes himself. Instead of acting on the issue he focus on something this else that could be perceived as kingdom business. This also fueled the bitterness within Absalom, specifically for Absalom he did not satisfactorily care for Tamar and it has been years since he had returned to Jerusalem and he had not been in his dad's presence.

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Q3. (2 Samuel 15:1-6) What are the elements of Absalom’s public relations campaign to win over the people to his side?

Strategy - he exalts himself in the eyes of the people. Using his good looks, his material wealth and deluding them into believing he is a man of justice

How effective is it?

He is very effective.

What should David have done differently?

At this point, I don't think David had much control over Absalom. Absalom is a grown man, anything David could say or do as a father would probably fall of deaf ears. However, he could have exercised his power as king and had Absalom killed or exiled, though Absalom knew he wouldn't. Absalom took advantage of the fact that David loved him. David could of been paying more attention to Absalom motives instead of indulging in his every little whim!

Which of David’s weaknesses does Absalom exploit?

I think he tried to play on what he saw was ALL of David's weaknesses. His father had committed adultery, he was a murderer. David thought he could set his own standard of justice for himself and his sons ( Absalom is 'one' to undermined this)? He is no better. David was old and it was not 'his time' anymore. He has become ineffective, frail, weak, and disillusioned. At a point in his life David was revered for his greatness. But, now all that is a distant memory, a new generation is emerging. David is obsolete, he is foreboding. All of Israel feels David's time has come to relinquish the crown to a more powerful, just

( or so they are deceived into believing) leader.

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The elements of Absalom's public relations campaign were to win the people over to him by:

-Taking their hand, kissing them, empty promise and flattery.

His effort is Very effective.

David should have stopped Absalom public relations scam.

Absalom exploits: David' lack of action, and being out of touch with the people.

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Q3. (2 Samuel 15:1-6) What are the elements of Absalom’s public relations campaign to win over the people to his side? How effective is it? What should David have done differently? Which of David’s weaknesses does Absalom exploit

Absalom made himself likeable and sympathetic to the people. Seems like some things don't change over the generations.

It was and is very effective.

David should have set rules and order in his family or should I say families (what a mess) a long time ago. There has to be limits and boundaries. And enforced.

Absalom exploited David's preoccupation with what ever and also his unwillingness to see irresponsibility in his children at whatever age. He took advantage of David's rose colored glasses and the fact that everyone seemed to do whatever they wanted and get away with it. He assumed he would too, Terrible tragedy! Very depressing!

God Bless!

Jen

Romans 15:13

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Q3. (2 Samuel 15:1-6) What are the elements of Absalom's public relations campaign to win over the people to his side? How effective is it? What should David have done differently? Which of David's weaknesses does Absalom exploit?

He started by meeting people at the city gate who had complaints to find out who they were, what their complaints were and the lamented before them the absence of justice in the king's court adding that he would be a better judge if given the opportunity. he took another step of been a kind and loving person by welcoming people with a kiss.

These stategies worked as people began to love/ like him.

Absalom exploited David's non action where necessary such as not punishing his Amnon for rape, not punishing Joab and other for murder and even his failure to punish him (Absalon) for murder of Amnom

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What are the elements of Absalom's public relations campaign to win over the people to his side? How effective is it? What should David have done differently? Which of David's weaknesses does Absalom exploit?

Absalom was the crown prince and he used this to his advantage. He went everywhere with a chariot, with bodyguards running head of him, giving the impression that he was a very important and great man. When people had complaints or a case, he would bemoan about the failings of the judicial system. He even went further to imply that if he were apppointed judge, he would ensure that justice would be servied. It was like asking people to vote for him and give him the ultimate power. This went on for four long years. Absolom also endeared himself to the common man. Whenever someone bow down before him, Absolom would take hold of him and kiss him. Through such actions, he was seen as a "people-person" - an approachable leader. His actions though hypocritical were effective. He managed to garner the support of the people. David, though he loved his son very much, should have punished Absalom once and for all by stripping him of all his powers and benefits as son of the King. Absalom knew his father loved him very much and by this time, his father was tired, aging and even grieving that his own household was in shambles.

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The elements of Absalom’s public relations campaign to win over the people to his side are to undermine the king. One way that he is doing this is by telling them that they are not getting justice for their problem. The other way is by showing people how compassionate he is.

This was a pretty effective campaign because the people starting liking him over his father. David should have corrected the things that Absalom was doing and maybe even banish him again. But Absalom knew David’s weakness of not disciplining his family.

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Q3. (2 Samuel 15:1-6)

What are the elements of Absalom's public relations campaign to win over the people to his side?

The elements of Absalom's public relations campaign to win over the people to his side are exalting himself by riding in a chariot whenever he goes; undermining king David's justice system and babby-kissing the people who bowed before him.

How effective is it?

This was effective as he became a man of the people.

What should David have done differently?

David should have stopped these acts of Absalom, but he saw them as no harm.

Which of David's weaknesses does Absalom exploit?

I think the David's weakness that Absalom expoits is that of failing to take any action against a member of the family for whatever he does.

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Q3. (2 Samuel 15:1-6) What are the elements of Absalom’s public relations campaign to win over the people to his side? How effective is it? What should David have done differently? Which of David’s weaknesses does Absalom exploit?

Absalom gives absolution to those needing justice. He belittles his father and promises to be better than him. These are just two snapshots of Absalom's PR campaign. It appears to be very effective, especially when he begins to give out kisses to the people. He exploits David's weakness for allowing unjustice to go on, or not thinking clearly.

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Q3. (2 Samuel 15:1-6)

What are the elements of Absalom's public relations campaign to win over the people to his side?


  • He presents himself to be more important than he is by riding in chariots and having men proceed before him.

  • He would criticize David's government while making it look like he was interested in learning about how the system worked.

  • He would kiss the hand of those who would bow before him so it looked like he had the interest of the common man.

How effective is it?

It worked well. He was able to organize and start the over throw of David.

What should David have done differently?

Nipped it in the bud.

Which of David's weaknesses does Absalom exploit?

His sensitivity and his desire to be Godly.


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What are the elements of Absalom’s public relations campaign to win over the people to his side?

1. Wherever Absalom goes he rides in a chariot with bodyguards jogging ahead of chariot. Makes an impression of him being a very important man. Absalom underminds his father's reputation and points out his father's weakness. He would kiss the hand of those who would bow before him so it looked like he loved the common man.

How effective is it?

2. It was very effective.

What should David have done differently?

3. David should have addressed things starting when Joab killed Abner.

Which of David’s weaknesses does Absalom exploit?

4. Absalom exploited the guilt that David carried and the love for him. I believe that David remembered what Nathan had told him that there would be calamity his his household and blamed himself for what was going on.

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Q3. (2 Samuel 15:1-6) What are the elements of Absalom’s public relations campaign to win over the people to his side?

Absalom sought the public's favor by granting them favor as sitting as judge in civil matters.

How effective is it?

Absalom's public relation campaign was very effective because the people began to favor him and saw his as a great and important man.

What should David have done differently?

David should have been a stronger leader, one who presented himself as a King and as a disciplinarian when necessary.

Which of David’s weaknesses does Absalom exploit?

Absalom exploited David's absence of providing judicial rulings in a timely manner.

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