They have reigned, but not by me: they have been princes, and I knew not: of their silver, and their gold they have made idols to themselves, that they might perish.
And Joab said: Not as thou wilt, but will set upon him in thy sight. So he took three lances in his hand, and thrust them into the heart of Absalom. And whilst he yet panted for life, sticking on the oak,
Arise, and let us go up to them; for we have seen the land which is exceeding rich and fruitful. Neglect not, lose no time: let us go and possess it. There will be no difficulty.
And all the people were at strife in all the tribes of Israel, saying: The king delivered us out of the hand of our enemies, and he saved us out of the hand of the Philistines; and now he is fled out of the land for Absalom.
And king David sent to Sadoc and Abiathar, the priests, saying: Speak to the ancients of Juda, saying: Why are you the last to bring the king back to his house? (For the talk of all Israel was come to the king in his house.)
So the king went on to Galgal, and Chamaam with him. Now all the people of Juda had brought the king over, and only half of the people of Israel were there.
And David said to his servants, that were with him in Jerusalem: Arise and let us flee; for we shall not escape else from the face of Absalom. Make haste to go out, lest he come and overtake us, and bring ruin upon us, and smite the city with the edge of the sword.