שמואל ב, פרק ט״ו, פסוק ה׳

Absalom engaged in a calculated display of fake humility and friendship toward the people seeking the king, aiming to win their loyalty. Whenever an individual approached to bow before him in a customary sign of respect [מצודת דוד, ביאור שטיינזלץ], Absalom would quickly intervene. Rather than allowing the person to lower themselves, he reached out, grasped the individual [רד״ק], and lifted them back up. He would then follow this gesture by kissing the person.

There is a general consensus among commentators that these physical actions were a deliberate strategy to project extraordinary closeness and modesty. By treating common citizens as equals and brothers, Absalom created a powerful illusion of deep, personal sympathy. Through this careful manipulation of public affection, he successfully stole the hearts of the Israelites [מלבי״ם, ביאור שטיינזלץ].