שמואל ב, פרק י״ד, פסוק ל׳

Faced with Joab's persistent refusal to speak with him, Absalom decides to take extreme measures to force a response. His motivation stems from a deep sense of grievance, as Absalom feels that Joab actually wronged him by bringing him back from his exile in Geshur only to leave him completely isolated [מלבי״ם]. To break this silence, Absalom exploits the geographical closeness of their properties. He directs his servants to look closely and pay attention [מצודת דוד] to Joab's nearby estate [מצודת ציון].

The commentators agree that Joab's plot of land is directly adjacent to Absalom's own property. Furthermore, this closeness holds significant tactical value, as the field is well within Absalom's reach, giving him the practical ability to inflict real damage [רש״י]. Noting that this neighboring field is growing barley, Absalom orders his men to set it on fire [מצודת ציון].

A subtle detail in the written record suggests that Absalom initially intended to personally accompany his servants to set the field ablaze. However, the accepted reading presents the instruction as a direct command to his men, a version that flows more naturally with the unfolding events [רד״ק]. Ultimately, the servants set the field on fire, an act that demonstrates their absolute and unquestioning obedience to their master's every command [ביאור שטיינזלץ].