Verse (Click for Chapter) New International Version Meanwhile, Absalom and all the men of Israel came to Jerusalem, and Ahithophel was with him. New Living Translation Meanwhile, Absalom and all the army of Israel arrived at Jerusalem, accompanied by Ahithophel. English Standard Version Now Absalom and all the people, the men of Israel, came to Jerusalem, and Ahithophel with him. Berean Standard Bible Then Absalom and all the men of Israel came to Jerusalem, and Ahithophel was with him. King James Bible And Absalom, and all the people the men of Israel, came to Jerusalem, and Ahithophel with him. New King James Version Meanwhile Absalom and all the people, the men of Israel, came to Jerusalem; and Ahithophel was with him. New American Standard Bible Then Absalom and all the people, the men of Israel, entered Jerusalem, and Ahithophel with him. NASB 1995 Then Absalom and all the people, the men of Israel, entered Jerusalem, and Ahithophel with him. NASB 1977 Then Absalom and all the people, the men of Israel, entered Jerusalem, and Ahithophel with him. Legacy Standard Bible Now Absalom and all the people, the men of Israel, had entered Jerusalem, and Ahithophel with him. Amplified Bible Then Absalom and all the people, the men of Israel, entered Jerusalem, and Ahithophel with him. Christian Standard Bible Now Absalom and all the Israelites came to Jerusalem. Ahithophel was also with him. Holman Christian Standard Bible Now Absalom and all the Israelites came to Jerusalem. Ahithophel was also with him. American Standard Version And Absalom, and all the people, the men of Israel, came to Jerusalem, and Ahithophel with him. Contemporary English Version By this time, Absalom, Ahithophel, and the others had reached Jerusalem. English Revised Version And Absalom, and all the people the men of Israel, came to Jerusalem, and Ahithophel with him. GOD'S WORD® Translation Meanwhile, Absalom and all Israel's troops came to Jerusalem, and Ahithophel was with him. Good News Translation Absalom and all the Israelites with him entered Jerusalem, and Ahithophel was with them. International Standard Version Right about then, Absalom and his entourage from the people of Israel entered Jerusalem, accompanied by Ahithophel. NET Bible Now when Absalom and all the men of Israel arrived in Jerusalem, Ahithophel was with him. New Heart English Bible Now Absalom and all the men of Israel arrived in Jerusalem, and Ahithophel was with him. Webster's Bible Translation And Absalom, and all the people the men of Israel, came to Jerusalem, and Ahithophel with him. Majority Text Translations Majority Standard BibleThen Absalom and all the men of Israel came to Jerusalem, and Ahithophel was with him. World English Bible Absalom and all the people, the men of Israel, came to Jerusalem, and Ahithophel with him. Literal Translations Literal Standard VersionAnd Absalom and all the people, the men of Israel, have come to Jerusalem, and Ahithophel with him, Young's Literal Translation And Absalom and all the people, the men of Israel, have come in to Jerusalem, and Ahithophel with him, Smith's Literal Translation And Absalom and all the people, the man Israel, came to Jerusalem, and Ahithophel with him. Catholic Translations Douay-Rheims BibleBut Absalom and all his people came into Jerusalem, and Achitophel was with him. Catholic Public Domain Version But Absalom and all his people entered into Jerusalem. Moreover, Ahithophel was with him. New American Bible In the meantime Absalom, with all the Israelites, entered Jerusalem, and Ahithophel was with him. New Revised Standard Version Now Absalom and all the Israelites came to Jerusalem; Ahithophel was with him. Translations from Aramaic Lamsa BibleAnd Absalom and all the people who were with him and all Israel came to Jerusalem, and Ahithophel with him. Peshitta Holy Bible Translated And Abishlum and all the people that were with him and all Israel came to Jerusalem, and Akhithuphil with him OT Translations JPS Tanakh 1917And Absalom, and all the people, the men of Israel, came to Jerusalem, and Ahithophel with him. Brenton Septuagint Translation And Abessalom and all the men of Israel went into Jerusalem, and Achitophel with him. Additional Translations ... Audio Bible Context The Counsel of Ahithophel and Hushai15Then Absalom and all the men of Israel came to Jerusalem, and Ahithophel was with him. 16And David’s friend Hushai the Archite went to Absalom and said to him, “Long live the king! Long live the king!”… Cross References 2 Samuel 15:12 While Absalom was offering the sacrifices, he sent for Ahithophel the Gilonite, David’s counselor, to come from his hometown of Giloh. So the conspiracy gained strength, and Absalom’s following kept increasing. 2 Samuel 15:31 Now someone told David: “Ahithophel is among the conspirators with Absalom.” So David pleaded, “O LORD, please turn the counsel of Ahithophel into foolishness!” 2 Samuel 17:1-4 Furthermore, Ahithophel said to Absalom, “Let me choose twelve thousand men and set out tonight in pursuit of David. / I will attack him while he is weak and weary; I will throw him into a panic, and all the people with him will flee; I will strike down only the king / and bring all the people back to you as a bride returning to her husband. You seek the life of only one man; then all the people will be at peace.” ... 2 Samuel 17:14 Then Absalom and all the men of Israel said, “The advice of Hushai the Archite is better than that of Ahithophel.” For the LORD had purposed to thwart the good counsel of Ahithophel in order to bring disaster on Absalom. 2 Samuel 19:9-10 And all the people throughout the tribes of Israel were arguing, “The king rescued us from the hand of our enemies and delivered us from the hand of the Philistines, but now he has fled the land because of Absalom. / But Absalom, the man we anointed over us, has died in battle. So why do you say nothing about restoring the king?” 1 Kings 1:5-10 At that time Adonijah, David’s son by Haggith, began to exalt himself, saying, “I will be king!” And he acquired chariots and horsemen and fifty men to run ahead of him. / (His father had never once reprimanded him by saying, “Why do you act this way?” Adonijah was also very handsome, born next after Absalom.) / So Adonijah conferred with Joab son of Zeruiah and with Abiathar the priest, who supported him. ... 1 Kings 2:15 “You know that the kingship was mine,” he said. “All Israel expected that I should reign, but the kingship has turned to my brother, for it has come to him from the LORD. Psalm 3:1-2 A Psalm of David, when he fled from his son Absalom. O LORD, how my foes have increased! How many rise up against me! / Many say of me, “God will not deliver him.” Selah Psalm 41:9 Even my close friend whom I trusted, the one who shared my bread, has lifted up his heel against me. Psalm 55:12-14 For it is not an enemy who insults me; that I could endure. It is not a foe who rises against me; from him I could hide. / But it is you, a man like myself, my companion and close friend. / We shared sweet fellowship together; we walked with the crowd into the house of God. Matthew 26:14-16 Then one of the Twelve, the one called Judas Iscariot, went to the chief priests / and asked, “What are you willing to give me if I hand Him over to you?” And they set out for him thirty pieces of silver. / So from then on Judas looked for an opportunity to betray Jesus. Matthew 26:47-50 While Jesus was still speaking, Judas, one of the Twelve, arrived, accompanied by a large crowd armed with swords and clubs, sent from the chief priests and elders of the people. / Now the betrayer had arranged a signal with them: “The One I kiss is the man; arrest Him.” / Going directly to Jesus, he said, “Greetings, Rabbi!” and kissed Him. ... Mark 14:10-11 Then Judas Iscariot, one of the Twelve, went to the chief priests to betray Jesus to them. / They were delighted to hear this, and they promised to give him money. So Judas began to look for an opportunity to betray Jesus. Mark 14:43-45 While Jesus was still speaking, Judas, one of the Twelve, arrived, accompanied by a crowd armed with swords and clubs, sent from the chief priests, scribes, and elders. / Now the betrayer had arranged a signal with them: “The One I kiss is the man; arrest Him and lead Him away securely.” / Going directly to Jesus, he said, “Rabbi!” and kissed Him. Luke 22:3-6 Then Satan entered Judas Iscariot, who was one of the Twelve. / And Judas went to discuss with the chief priests and temple officers how he might betray Jesus to them. / They were delighted and agreed to give him money. ... Treasury of Scripture And Absalom, and all the people the men of Israel, came to Jerusalem, and Ahithophel with him. Absalom 2 Samuel 15:37 So Hushai David's friend came into the city, and Absalom came into Jerusalem. Jump to Previous Absalom Ab'salom Ahithophel Ahith'ophel Entered Israel Jerusalem MeanwhileJump to Next Absalom Ab'salom Ahithophel Ahith'ophel Entered Israel Jerusalem Meanwhile2 Samuel 16 1. Ziba, by presents and false suggestions, obtains his master's inheritance5. At Bahurim, Shimei curses David 9. David with patience abstains, and restrains others, from revenge 15. Hushai insinuates himself into Absalom's counsel 20. Ahithophel's counsel Then Absalom and all the men of Israel came to Jerusalem Absalom's arrival in Jerusalem marks a significant moment in his rebellion against his father, King David. This event follows Absalom's successful campaign to win the hearts of the people of Israel, as described earlier in 2 Samuel. Jerusalem, the political and spiritual center of Israel, is a key location, symbolizing the seat of power. Absalom's entry into the city signifies his attempt to usurp David's throne. Historically, Jerusalem was a fortified city, making it a strategic target for any would-be ruler. The phrase "all the men of Israel" suggests widespread support for Absalom, highlighting the division within the nation and the extent of his influence. and Ahithophel was with him Persons / Places / Events 1. AbsalomThe third son of King David, who led a rebellion against his father to seize the throne of Israel. His actions were driven by ambition and a desire for power. 2. Ahithophel A highly esteemed counselor of King David, who defected to support Absalom's rebellion. His betrayal was significant due to his previous loyalty and wisdom. 3. Jerusalem The capital city of Israel, representing the political and spiritual center of the nation. Absalom's entry into Jerusalem symbolizes his temporary success in the rebellion. 4. The Men of Israel Refers to the followers of Absalom who supported his claim to the throne, indicating a significant division within the nation. 5. David Although not directly mentioned in this verse, King David is a central figure in the account, representing the legitimate and God-anointed king of Israel. Teaching Points The Consequences of AmbitionAbsalom's ambition led him to rebel against God's anointed king, resulting in division and conflict. Ambition unchecked by godly wisdom can lead to destructive outcomes. The Pain of Betrayal Ahithophel's betrayal of David serves as a reminder of the deep hurt caused by those we trust. It calls us to seek healing and forgiveness through Christ. The Sovereignty of God Despite Absalom's temporary success, God's sovereign plan for David's kingship ultimately prevailed. Trust in God's overarching plan, even when circumstances seem dire. The Importance of Loyalty Ahithophel's shift in loyalty underscores the value of steadfastness and faithfulness. As believers, we are called to remain loyal to God and His purposes. The Role of Jerusalem As the center of worship and governance, Jerusalem's significance in this account points to the importance of maintaining spiritual and moral integrity in leadership. Bible Study Questions and Answers 1. What is the meaning of 2 Samuel 16:15?2. How does Absalom's arrival in Jerusalem fulfill God's judgment on David's household? 3. What role does Hushai play in God's plan for David's protection? 4. How can we discern God's sovereignty in 2 Samuel 16:15's unfolding events? 5. Compare Absalom's actions with Proverbs 16:18 on pride and downfall. 6. How can we trust God's plan when facing betrayal like David did? 7. How does 2 Samuel 16:15 reflect God's sovereignty in political affairs? 8. What does Absalom's arrival in Jerusalem signify in 2 Samuel 16:15? 9. How does 2 Samuel 16:15 illustrate the consequences of David's sin? 10. What are the top 10 Lessons from 2 Samuel 16? 11. Who was Ahithophel in the Bible? 12. Why does 2 Samuel 17:23 describe Ahithophel's suicide differently from any later biblical references to suicides, and are there historical precedents for such a response? 13. (2 Samuel 16:15-22) How can an all-powerful God allow Absalom's public seizure of David's concubines, seemingly without immediate judgment? 14. Who was Hushai in the Bible? What Does 2 Samuel 16:15 Mean Then AbsalomAbsalom has reached the tipping point of his rebellion. • Prior chapters show him winning hearts through flattery and calculated charm (2 Samuel 15:1-6). • Scripture records that “David said to all his servants… ‘Arise and let us flee’ ” (2 Samuel 15:14), proving the threat is real, not symbolic. • God’s providence is still at work: David’s line has been promised an everlasting throne (2 Samuel 7:12-16), so even Absalom’s coup cannot derail God’s covenant. and all the men of Israel The phrase underscores the breadth of support Absalom has gathered. • The northern tribes and large segments of Judah have rallied to him (2 Samuel 15:10). • Mass participation gives the appearance of legitimacy, yet majority opinion does not equal divine approval—see the golden calf incident (Exodus 32:1-6). • This is a sobering reminder that entire populations can be swept into error when they abandon the Lord’s chosen leadership. came to Jerusalem The rebel prince enters the very city God selected for His Name (2 Samuel 5:6-9; Psalm 48:1-2). • Occupying Jerusalem implies seizing the throne, the palace, and the ark’s former resting place. • David’s earlier departure shows humility and trust: “If I find favor in the eyes of the Lord, He will bring me back” (2 Samuel 15:25). • While Absalom claims the capital, the true King—both David and ultimately Christ—will regain it in God’s timing (Revelation 11:15). and Ahithophel was with him Ahithophel, once David’s trusted counselor, now aids the usurper. • His defection fulfills David’s lament: “Even my close friend…has lifted up his heel against me” (Psalm 41:9). • His counsel is renowned: “The advice of Ahithophel…was like one who inquires of God” (2 Samuel 16:23). • Yet God answers David’s prayer to “turn Ahithophel’s counsel into foolishness” (2 Samuel 15:31) by prompting Hushai and Absalom to reject it, leading to Ahithophel’s despairing suicide (2 Samuel 17:14, 23). • Betrayal by a friend foreshadows Judas’s betrayal of Jesus (John 13:18), illustrating how God weaves even treachery into His redemptive plan. summary 2 Samuel 16:15 captures the moment Absalom’s revolt appears victorious: the charismatic son, the backing of Israel’s masses, the capture of Jerusalem, and the strategic genius of Ahithophel. Yet the verse also signals the limits of human rebellion. God’s covenant with David stands firm, His sovereignty directs every event, and those who oppose His anointed ultimately fall. The passage invites confidence that, regardless of appearances, the Lord’s purposes prevail. Hebrew Then Absalomוְאַבְשָׁל֗וֹם (wə·’aḇ·šā·lō·wm) Conjunctive waw | Noun - proper - masculine singular Strong's 53: Absalom -- 'my father is peace', two Israelites and all וְכָל־ (wə·ḵāl) Conjunctive waw | Noun - masculine singular construct Strong's 3605: The whole, all, any, every the men אִ֣ישׁ (’îš) Noun - masculine singular construct Strong's 376: A man as an individual, a male person of Israel יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל (yiś·rā·’êl) Noun - proper - masculine singular Strong's 3478: Israel -- 'God strives', another name of Jacob and his desc came בָּ֖אוּ (bā·’ū) Verb - Qal - Perfect - third person common plural Strong's 935: To come in, come, go in, go to Jerusalem, יְרוּשָׁלִָ֑ם (yə·rū·šā·lim) Noun - proper - feminine singular Strong's 3389: Jerusalem -- probably 'foundation of peace', capital city of all Israel and Ahithophel [was] וַאֲחִיתֹ֖פֶל (wa·’ă·ḥî·ṯō·p̄el) Conjunctive waw | Noun - proper - masculine singular Strong's 302: Ahithophel -- an adviser of David with him. אִתּֽוֹ׃ (’it·tōw) Preposition | third person masculine singular Strong's 854: Nearness, near, with, by, at, among Links 2 Samuel 16:15 NIV2 Samuel 16:15 NLT 2 Samuel 16:15 ESV 2 Samuel 16:15 NASB 2 Samuel 16:15 KJV 2 Samuel 16:15 BibleApps.com 2 Samuel 16:15 Biblia Paralela 2 Samuel 16:15 Chinese Bible 2 Samuel 16:15 French Bible 2 Samuel 16:15 Catholic Bible OT History: 2 Samuel 16:15 Absalom and all the people the men (2Sa iiSam 2 Sam ii sam) |