2 Samuel 13:20

Amnon The Heb. form here, and here only, is Aminon, which has been explained as a diminutive intended to express contempt, but may possibly be only an accidental variation.

hold now thy peace Absalom urged her to bear the outrage patiently, and avoid a public scandal; feeling sure that David would not be persuaded to inflict an adequate punishment on Amnon, and intending to watch his own opportunity for revenge. To him, according to Oriental custom, belonged the duty of avenging his sister's wrongs. Cp. Genesis 34:27.

desolate Ruined and deserted. Cp. Isaiah 54:1, where "the desolate" is contrasted with the married wife.