The Absolute is mentioned both as male and female. I think it manifests itself as it chooses, to better manipulate the given figure (whether they answer better to a male or female authority figure). I agree with Harbs Narbs analyses that the Absolute is the Dead Three teaming up with a group of illithid. In the current timeline, the Dead Three are not full fledged deities so it makes sense for them to want to consolidate power.
That's just not true, and I thought it was but I think patch 5 removed all ambiguity in regards to the absolute's gender. Some minor spoilers: If you talk about the absolute to the goblin prisoner you have the option to call the absolute he, and the goblin will correct you
