English (YLT) 1898 Young's Literal Translation by Robert Young
2 Samuel 14:26 — English (YLT) 1898 Young's Literal Translation by Robert Young
and in his polling his head -- and it hath been at the end of year by year that he polleth [it], for it [is] heavy on him, and he hath polled it -- he hath even weighed out the hair of his head -- two hundred shekels by the king`s weight.
What Does This Mean?
This verse talks about Absalom, who had very long hair that he would cut off every year. After cutting it, he would weigh it, and it weighed 200 shekels. This verse highlights Absalom's attention to his appearance.
Explained for Children
Imagine having hair so long that you have to cut it every year because it gets too heavy! That's what Absalom did. He even weighed his hair afterward, and it was as heavy as 200 cookies! This verse shows how Absalom took care of his hair.
Historical Background
This verse is from the Book of 2 Samuel, written by the prophet Nathan or possibly the prophet Gad, around 900 BCE. It was written for the Israelites to understand the reign of King David and his family.
Living It Out Today
Just as Absalom cared for his hair, we should take care of our appearance and hygiene. In a modern scenario, this might mean regularly grooming ourselves and taking care of our health, which can boost our confidence and how others perceive us.
Absalom cut his hair every year because it was very heavy and long, which would have made it cumbersome and possibly uncomfortable.
How much did Absalom's hair weigh?
Absalom's hair weighed 200 shekels, which is a significant amount, showing that he had very long and heavy hair.
What can we learn from Absalom's grooming habits?
We can learn the importance of taking care of our appearance and hygiene, which can positively impact our confidence and how others perceive us.
What is the significance of weighing the hair?
The act of weighing the hair emphasizes the unusual length and thickness of Absalom's hair, possibly indicating his vanity or a cultural practice of the time.