Amnon
maleUnited KingdomMeaning: “Faithful; trustworthy”
David’s firstborn son, whose violent crime against his half-sister Tamar set in motion the tragedies of David’s house.
Biography
Amnon is the firstborn son of David, born to Ahinoam (2 Samuel 3:2). His name means "faithful," but his life was marked by destructive lust. He raped his half-sister Tamar and then cast her out in contempt (2 Samuel 13:14–15). David was angry but failed to act; two years later Tamar's full brother Absalom had Amnon killed in revenge (2 Samuel 13:28–29). His crime began the cycle of violence that tore David's family apart.
Life Timeline
Assaults his half-sister Tamar
Killed by Absalom in revenge
Family Tree
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Themes & lessons from Amnon
Biblical themes that run through the passages where Amnon appears.
People they appear with
Places in their story
Scripture Appearances
4 verses in 1 book2 Samuel4 verses
2 Samuel 3:2
And unto David were sons born in Hebron: and his firstborn was Amnon, of Ahinoam the Jezreelitess;
2 Samuel 13:1
And it came to pass after this, that Absalom the son of David had a fair sister, whose name was Tamar; and Amnon the son of David loved her.
2 Samuel 13:14
Howbeit he would not hearken unto her voice: but, being stronger than she, forced her, and lay with her.
2 Samuel 13:28
Now Absalom had commanded his servants, saying, Mark ye now when Amnon’s heart is merry with wine, and when I say unto you, Smite Amnon; then kill him, fear not: have not I commanded you? be courageous, and be valiant.
Frequently asked about Amnon
Who was Amnon in the Bible?
David’s firstborn son, whose violent crime against his half-sister Tamar set in motion the tragedies of David’s house.
What does the name Amnon mean?
The name Amnon means “Faithful; trustworthy”.
What did Amnon do in the Bible?
Amnon served as prince.
Who were Amnon's parents?
Amnon was the child of David.
Where does Amnon appear in the Bible?
Amnon is mentioned 4 times across 1 book: 2 Samuel.
What can we learn from Amnon?
The story of Amnon touches on themes of tamar, absalom, ahinoam, revenge — explore each to study the lessons drawn from Amnon's life.
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