What is the meaning of 2 Samuel 17:15?

So Hushai told Zadok and Abiathar, the priests

Hushai, loyal to King David, stays in Jerusalem as David’s eyes and ears (2 Samuel 15:32–37). Here he immediately briefs Zadok and Abiathar, the two high–profile priests who have agreed to be the relay team in David’s intelligence network (2 Samuel 15:24–29).

•Hushai acts on the covert plan David set up earlier, proving that godly strategy and faith can work hand in hand (Matthew 10:16).

•The priests’ sons, Jonathan and Ahimaaz, stand ready outside the city to dash with any update to David (2 Samuel 17:17–21).

•The verse underscores how spiritual leaders sometimes carry life-and-death information, not just ceremonial duties (Joshua 3:3; 1 Samuel 23:9).

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This is what Ahithophel has advised Absalom and the elders of Israel

Hushai faithfully repeats Ahithophel’s counsel: a swift night raid with 12,000 men to strike only David (2 Samuel 17:1–4).

•Ahithophel’s plan, though brilliant militarily, is treacherous spiritually; it aims to kill the Lord’s anointed (1 Samuel 24:6; Psalm 2:2).

•The advice had earlier momentum because Ahithophel’s wisdom was “like one who inquires of God” (2 Samuel 16:23).

•Yet God was already answering David’s prayer: “O LORD, turn Ahithophel’s counsel into foolishness” (2 Samuel 15:31; Proverbs 21:30).

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and this is what I have advised

Hushai then outlines his own counter-proposal, urging Absalom to gather “all Israel” before attacking, buying David precious time (2 Samuel 17:5–14).

•Key contrasts

–Ahithophel: quick strike, small force, surgical kill

–Hushai: delayed strike, massive force, total annihilation

•Hushai’s plan caters to Absalom’s ego—subtly steering him into God’s larger purpose of preserving David (Proverbs 16:9; Job 5:12).

•The elders accept Hushai’s advice, “for the LORD had ordained to frustrate the good counsel of Ahithophel” (2 Samuel 17:14).

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summary

2 Samuel 17:15 captures a pivotal moment in David’s flight. Hushai transparently informs Zadok and Abiathar of both Ahithophel’s lethal strategy and his own delay tactic. This relay of intelligence activates the priestly network, allowing David to escape while God turns human schemes to fulfill His sovereign promise to David (2 Samuel 7:12–16). The verse highlights loyalty, wise communication, and divine providence—reminding us that even in political turmoil, God faithfully protects His anointed and keeps His Word.