21 And the king said to Joab, “All right, I have granted this thing. Go therefore, bring back the young man Absalom.”

22 Then Joab fell to the ground on his face and bowed himself, and¹ thanked the king. And Joab said, “Today your servant knows that I have found favor in your sight, my lord, O king, in that the king has fulfilled the request of his servant.”  ‡

24 And the king said, “Let him return to his own house, but ^ado not let him see my face.” So Absalom returned to his own house, but did not see the king’s face.  ‡

25 Now in all Israel there was no one who was praised as much as Absalom for his good looks. ^aFrom the sole of his foot to the crown of his head there was no blemish in him.  ‡