1. And it came to pass after this, that Absalom prepared himself chariots and horses, and fifty men to run before him.
2. And Absalom rose up early, and stood beside the way of the gate: and it was so, that when any man that had a controversy came to the king for judgment, then Absalom called unto him, and said, Of what city are you? And he said, Your servant is of one of the tribes of Israel.
3. And Absalom said unto him, See, your matters are good and right; but there is no man appointed of the king to hear you.
4. Absalom said moreover, Oh that I were made judge in the land, that every man who has any suit or cause might come unto me, and I would do him justice!
5. And it was so, that when any man came near to him to bow down to him, he put forth his hand, and took him, and kissed him.
6. And in this manner did Absalom to all Israel that came to the king for judgment: so Absalom stole the hearts of the men of Israel.
7. And it came to pass after forty years, that Absalom said unto the king, I pray you, let me go and pay my vow, which I have vowed unto the LORD, in Hebron.
8. For your servant vowed a vow while I abode at Geshur in Aram, saying, If the LORD shall bring me again indeed to Jerusalem, then I will serve the LORD.
9. And the king said unto him, Go in peace. So he arose, and went to Hebron.
10. But Absalom sent spies throughout all the tribes of Israel, saying, As soon as you hear the sound of the trumpet, then you shall say, Absalom reigns in Hebron.
11. And with Absalom went two hundred men out of Jerusalem, that were called; and they went along innocently, and they knew not any thing.
12. And Absalom sent for Ahithophel the Gilonite, David's counselor, from his city, even from Giloh, while he offered sacrifices. And the conspiracy was strong; for the people increased continually with Absalom.