Definition: And when he polled his head, (for it was at every year’s end that he polled [it]: because [the hair] was heavy on him, therefore he polled it:) he weighed the hair of his head at two hundred shekels after the king’s weight.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 2 Samuel 14:26. It’s a really dramatic and somewhat unsettling passage about a king losing his throne. Here's a simple explanation: The Basic Story: King David had been having an affair with Bathsheba. He had a child with her, Absalom. But the boy was a sickly and troublesome child, and David’s wife, Joab, was furious. She plotted to kill David’s son, Absalom. So, she arranged for her servants to poison him. David, devastated by this loss, asks his advisors – including Nathan, who is also his brother – to find a way to end his life. The Verse Explained: “And when he polled his head, (for it was at every year’s end that he polled [it]: because [the hair] was heavy on him, therefore he polled it:) he weighed the hair of his head at two hundred shekels after the king’s weight.” “And when he polled his head…” – This means David lost his life. He had taken his own life with poison. “…for it was at every year’s end that he polled [it]:” - This is a really important point. David regularly ended his life on the anniversary of his death, specifically when the hair was heavy – meaning when the hair was plentiful. This is a very unusual and symbolic act. It suggests a deep sense of sorrow and impending doom. “because [the hair] was heavy on him…” - David was burdened by grief and guilt. The weight of this loss was immense. “…therefore he polled it:” – David, overwhelmed with sadness and remorse, actually killed himself . He took his own life, ending his reign. The Significance: This verse is a powerful example of the consequences of sin and betrayal. It highlights David’s deep sorrow and how his actions (or lack thereof) led to his downfall. It's also a reminder that sometimes, the weight of our choices can be unbearable. In short, this passage describes a king who lost his life because he was consumed by grief and remorse over a tragic event – a betrayal that ultimately cost him everything. --- Do you have any specific questions about this verse or would you like me to explain anything in more detail? For example, are you curious about: The symbolism of the "yearly end"? The context of David’s relationship with Bathsheba?