Named by God

Absalom

Meaning and Origin

The name Absalom originates from the Hebrew אַבְשָׁלוֹם (Avshalom), which translates to "Father of Peace" or "father of peace." It combines two elements: Ab (father) and Shalom (peace or well-being). This name reflects a deep-seated cultural and spiritual aspiration for harmony and stability, qualities highly valued in the ancient Hebrew worldview. The name’s linguistic construction underscores its association with leadership and familial roles, suggesting a figure of authority and reconciliation.

Leaf from the Morgan Picture Bible, "Scenes from the Life of David"

Leaf from the Morgan Picture Bible, "Scenes from the Life of David"

Name Absalom in languages of the Bible

Absalom in languages of the Bible

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Popularity Analysis

The name Absalom, though rooted in ancient Hebrew culture, has found resonance in various parts of the world. It is most popular in countries like Namibia, Martinique, and Eswatini, reflecting its enduring appeal across diverse cultures. In Christian communities, the name is often chosen for its biblical heritage and its association with themes of peace and reconciliation, despite the tragic undertones of its story.

In literature and art, Absalom’s narrative continues to inspire. From John Dryden’s Absalom and Achitophel to William Faulkner’s Absalom, Absalom!, the character’s legacy is reinterpreted to explore themes of rebellion, loyalty, and familial conflict. Today, the name retains a sense of historical and spiritual depth, appealing to those who value its rich biblical and cultural significance.

CountryVariantRank
NamibiaAbsalom333
MartiniqueAbsalon362
EswatiniAbsalom433
Papua New GuineaAbsalom971
IsraelAbsalom1181
KenyaAbsalom1279
NicaraguaAbsalon1444
ZambiaAbsalom1511
PeruAbsalon1565
ZimbabweAbsalom1655
ColombiaAbsalon2050
South AfricaAbsalom2121
ArgentinaAbsalon2341
MexicoAbsalon2567
MozambiqueAbsalão3295

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Biblical and Cultural Significance

Absalom holds a complex position in biblical history, embodying both promise and tragedy. With a Divine Proximity Index of 93.2/100, his story is deeply intertwined with themes of divine justice, familial loyalty, and human frailty. As the third son of King David, Absalom was born into a lineage closely connected to God’s covenant with Israel. His Jesus Circle Score of 94.1/100 further highlights his significance in the broader biblical narrative, as his life mirrors the consequences of sin, ambition, and rebellion against divine authority.

Culturally, Absalom’s life and death have been interpreted as cautionary tales about pride, vengeance, and filial disobedience. His striking physical beauty and charisma made him beloved among the Israelites, yet these attributes also contributed to his downfall, as they fueled his vanity and ambition. The name Absalom has thus become a symbol of both great potential and the dangers of unchecked desires, resonating through generations in art, literature, and theology.

Biblical Context

Absalom’s story is primarily detailed in the books of 2 Samuel and 1 Chronicles. As King David’s third son, he was of royal descent on both sides, born to Maacah, the daughter of the king of Geshur. His narrative is a dramatic arc of favor, rebellion, and tragedy. Initially, Absalom is portrayed as a devoted brother, avenging the rape of his sister Tamar by their half-brother Amnon. This act of vengeance sets off a chain of events, including Absalom’s exile and eventual return to Jerusalem.

Despite being one of David’s favorites, Absalom’s ambition led him to orchestrate a rebellion against his father. After gathering support and declaring himself king in Hebron, his revolt culminated in a decisive battle in the forest of Ephraim, where his forces were defeated. Absalom’s death, as he hung entangled in a tree, is one of the most poignant moments in the Bible. David’s lamentation, “O my son Absalom, my son, my son Absalom!” (2 Samuel 18:33), captures the profound grief of a father mourning both his son and the consequences of their fractured relationship. Absalom’s story serves as a profound exploration of justice, mercy, and the cost of rebellion against divine order.

Divine Proximity Metrics

God Proximity

SNA: 3.09 | Percentile: 93.19

Biblical References

  • 2 Samuel 15:34
  • 2 Samuel 14:31
  • 2 Samuel 13:6
  • 2 Samuel 13:8
  • 2 Samuel 13:15
Absalom | Biblical Name Meaning | Named by God