The answer is: Absalom

2 Sam 14:26

Absalom, the son of King David, is a fascinating character with a complex story wrapped up in royal intrigue and personal turmoil. His infamous mane, described in 2 Samuel 14:26, is more than just a haircut—it symbolizes his vanity as well as his tragic fate. Absalom had such an impressive head of hair that he would cut it once a year, and after measuring it, the amount would weigh around 200 shekels! That’s over five pounds of hair! However, this attribute ultimately became a symbol of his downfall.

Interestingly, his luscious locks play a harrowing role in his later rebellion against his father, leading to a dramatic climax. When he’s fleeing from his own army—a result of his scheming and persistent discord following the family drama of Tamar and Amnon—his hair gets trapped in a tree, leaving him vulnerable to capture.

This isn't just a story of hair; it's echoed in tales throughout history where physical attributes signifying beauty or strength lead to unanticipated consequences. In a world where appearances often fool, Absalom's story beckons reflections on inner character versus outer beauty. Combing through tales like Absalom's can wake us up to the larger theme of consequence for our pride, making us ponder how we honor our narratives—both on the inside and out. Absalom's backstory serves as an intriguing lesson from the annals of ancient wisdom.