[Verse 1] Joab perceives that David's heart remains toward Absalom. The woman bows before David and tells of one son killing another. The woman turns the judgment toward David's treatment of the banished Absalom. The king orders Joab to bring Absalom back to Jerusalem. [Pre-Chorus] The warning stood where no one wished to see, And every hidden root became a tree. [Chorus] He Stole the Hearts of Israel, let the warning remain, Hidden sin still flowers into pain. The word of the LORD exposed what men concealed, And judgment stood where every heart was revealed. [Verse 2] He sends for Joab twice and finally burns Joab's barley field. Absalom demands either judgment or access to the king. David receives Absalom, who bows and is kissed. He rises early at the gate to intercept those seeking royal judgment. [Bridge] He embraces and kisses those who approach, stealing Israel's hearts. After forty years Absalom asks leave to fulfill a vow in Hebron. Secret messengers prepare the proclamation that Absalom reigns. Ahithophel joins the sacrifice, and the conspiracy grows strong. [Final Chorus] He Stole the Hearts of Israel, let the warning remain, Hidden sin still flowers into pain. The word of the LORD exposed what men concealed, And judgment stood where every heart stood revealed. [Outro] The warning did not vanish with the dust. The final line remembered judgment, fear, and trust.