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33. Kissed Absalom. Absalom was not only admitted into the royal presence but was given such treatment as indicated an outward reconciliation at least. Compare Esau kissing Jacob, and Joseph, his brethren (Gen. 33:4; 45:15). David’s memory of his own guilt made him listless and irresolute. He apparently knew not which way to turn or what course to pursue. He recognized his duty, but the memory of his own transgression prevented him from doing what he knew should be done.

1. Chariots and horses. Absalom was secretly scheming to secure the crown. In order to impress the people he assumed an attitude that he thought befitted the heir apparent. Compare Adonijah, who followed the same course of action when he “exalted himself” with the purpose of taking the throne (1 Kings 1:5; see also 1 Sam. 8:11).

Fifty men to run before him. A bodyguard for the prince. By these measures Absalom appeared to be setting forth his claim to succeed to the throne. This was equivalent to issuing a general pronouncement that he considered himself the one who would next be king.