שמואל ב, פרק י״ג, פסוק כ״ח

Absalom’s carefully calculated plot to assassinate his brother involves more than just a tactical plan; it requires overcoming the deep psychological and moral barriers of his servants. He selects the perfect moment to strike, instructing his men to wait until Amnon is thoroughly intoxicated. Once he is drunk, Amnon's mind will be clouded and his physical strength will drain away [ביאור שטיינזלץ]. In this vulnerable state, he will be completely caught off guard and unable to defend himself [מצודת דוד]. Absalom's directive is not merely a basic order to attack, but a strict demand to verify the kill, ensuring the men do not leave Amnon's side until his life has fully departed [אברבנאל].

Absalom is acutely aware of the massive burden he is placing on his men. Murdering a person without a trial is a heavy task on its own, but raising a hand against the king’s firstborn son is especially terrifying [אברבנאל, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. To counter their fear, Absalom offers urgent words of reassurance and strength [רדק]. The primary approach among commentators is that Absalom effectively removes all responsibility from his servants. He makes it clear that any guilt, blame, or demand for justice will fall entirely on his own shoulders. Because the servants are not acting on their own initiative but simply fulfilling their master's command, they will not face punishment.

To finalize his instructions, Absalom urges his men to be strong and brave. He expects them to act as courageous warriors who carry out their master's orders without fear [אברבנאל, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. At the same time, this call for bravery serves as a practical warning: they must be fully prepared just in case Amnon somehow manages to stand his ground and resist the attack [מצודת דוד].