How did King David react to the news of Absalom's death?

King David's reaction to the news of Absalom's death is one of profound sorrow, illustrating his deep affection for his son despite the conflict that had arisen between them. David’s lamentation, which includes his famous cry, “O my son Absalom! My son, my son Absalom!” reflects not only his grief as a father but also the sense of loss over the relationship that could have been. This mourning is significant as it reveals the complexity of David’s feelings; he is heartbroken over the loss of his child, even though Absalom had rebelled against him. The emotional depth of his reaction showcases themes of parental love, loss, and the consequences of familial conflict, which are central to the narrative surrounding David and Absalom.