¹ Now it was clear to Joab, the son of Zeruiah, that the king's heart was turning to Absalom.

³⁹ And the heart of David was wasted with desire for Absalom: for he was comforted for the death of Amnon.

¹⁸ There were three sons of Zeruiah there, Joab and Abishai and Asahel: and Asahel was as quick-footed as a roe of the fields.

³³ Then the king was much moved, and went up into the room over the door, weeping, and saying, O my son Absalom, my son, my son Absalom! if only my life might have been given for yours, O Absalom, my son, my son!

² And the salvation of that day was changed to sorrow for all the people: for it was said to the people, The king is in bitter grief for his son.

⁴ But the king, covering his face, gave a great cry, O my son Absalom, O Absalom, my son, my son!

¹⁶ And their sisters were Zeruiah and Abigail. And Zeruiah had three sons: Abishai and Joab and Asahel.

²⁶ The approval of a ruler is desired by great numbers: but the decision in a man's cause comes from the Lord.