21. King David heard the news and became very angry, but he did not want to say anything to upset Amnon, because he loved him since he was his firstborn son.
22. Absalom began to hate Amnon. Absalom did not say one word, good or bad, to Amnon, but he hated him because Amnon had raped his sister Tamar.
23. Two years later, Absalom had some men come to Baal Hazor to cut the wool from his sheep. He invited all the king’s sons to come and watch.
24. Absalom went to the king and said, “I have some men coming to cut the wool from my sheep. Please come with your servants and watch.”
25. King David said to Absalom, “No, son. We will not all go. It will be too much trouble for you.” Absalom begged David to go. David did not go, but he did give his blessing.
26. Absalom said, “If you don’t want to go, please let my brother Amnon go with me.” King David asked Absalom, “Why should he go with you?”