20. When her brother Absalom saw her, he asked, “Has Amnon molested you? Please, sister, don't let it upset you so much. He is your half-brother, so don't tell anyone about it.” So Tamar lived in Absalom's house, sad and lonely.
21. When King David heard what had happened, he was furious.
22. And Absalom hated Amnon so much for having raped his sister Tamar that he would no longer even speak to him.
23. Two years later Absalom was having his sheep sheared at Baal Hazor, near the town of Ephraim, and he invited all the king's sons to be there.
24. He went to King David and said, “Your Majesty, I am having my sheep sheared. Will you and your officials come and take part in the festivities?”
25. “No, my son,” the king answered. “It would be too much trouble for you if we all went.” Absalom insisted, but the king would not give in, and he asked Absalom to leave.
26. But Absalom said, “Well, then, will you at least let my brother Amnon come?”“Why should he?” the king asked.
27. But Absalom kept on insisting until David finally let Amnon and all his other sons go with Absalom.Absalom prepared a banquet fit for a king
28. and instructed his servants: “Notice when Amnon has had too much to drink, and then when I give the order, kill him. Don't be afraid. I will take the responsibility myself. Be brave and don't hesitate!”