^{22 Ref} Absalom spoke to Amnon neither good nor bad; for Absalom hated Amnon, because he had forced his sister Tamar.

^{23 Ref} It happened after two full years, that Absalom had sheep-shearers in Baal Hazor, which is beside Ephraim: and Absalom invited all the king's sons.

^{24 Ref} Absalom came to the king, and said, See now, your servant has sheep-shearers; let the king, I pray you, and his servants go with your servant.

^{25 Ref} The king said to Absalom, No, my son, let us not all go, lest we be burdensome to you. He pressed him: however he would not go, but blessed him.

^{26 Ref} Then said Absalom, If not, please let my brother Amnon go with us. The king said to him, Why should he go with you?

^{27 Ref} But Absalom pressed him, and he let Amnon and all the king's sons go with him.

^{28 Ref} Absalom commanded his servants, saying, Mark you now, when Amnon's heart is merry with wine; and when I tell you, Smite Amnon, then kill him; don't be afraid; haven't I commanded you? be courageous, and be valiant.