Definition: And it came to pass after forty years, that Absalom said unto the king, I pray thee, let me go and pay my vow, which I have vowed unto the LORD, in Hebron.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 2 Samuel 15:7. It's a really significant moment in King David’s life and it speaks about a major shift in Absalom’s behavior. Here’s a simple explanation: The Basic Story: Absalom was rebellious: In the previous chapters, we’ve seen Absalom challenging David’s authority and refusing to obey his commands. He’s become increasingly defiant and disrespectful. He asks for a vow: Absalom, feeling ignored and unappreciated, makes a formal request – he wants to make a “vow” to God. A vow is essentially a promise or dedication made to God. He says he’ll go to Hebron: He wants to travel back to his hometown, Hebron, where he had a significant agreement with God. What it Means in Simple Terms: Absalom is essentially asking David to let him return to his home and fulfill this promise he made to God. He's demonstrating a desire for recognition and perhaps a sense of repentance – wanting to show that he’s changed his ways. The Significance: This verse is a key turning point in the book of 2 Samuel. It highlights: A broken relationship: David and Absalom are at odds, leading to conflict. Absalom's desire for favor: He’s seeking something that he believes will bring him more respect and recognition from God. David’s response (implied): The verse sets the stage for David to act decisively – likely to deal with Absalom’s rebellion and potentially lead to a major conflict. In essence, it's a plea for forgiveness and reconciliation, but also a moment of defiance that will have significant consequences. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse from 2 Samuel? Discuss the context of this verse within the larger story of the book? Give you some possible interpretations of Absalom’s motivations?