Topical Encyclopedia Ahithophel, a prominent figure in the Old Testament, is best known for his role as a counselor to King David and later to David's son, Absalom, during Absalom's rebellion. His account is primarily found in the books of 2 Samuel.Background and Role as Counselor Ahithophel hailed from Giloh, a town in the hill country of Judah. He was renowned for his wisdom and insight, which made him a valuable advisor to King David. The Bible describes his counsel as highly esteemed, akin to seeking the word of God. In 2 Samuel 16:23 , it is written, "Now the advice of Ahithophel, which he gave in those days, was like one who inquires of the word of God; so was all the advice of Ahithophel both with David and with Absalom." Defection to Absalom Despite his esteemed position in David's court, Ahithophel's allegiance shifted during Absalom's rebellion. The reasons for his defection are not explicitly detailed in the Scriptures, but it is speculated that personal grievances or political ambitions may have influenced his decision. Ahithophel's betrayal is a significant turning point in the narrative of Absalom's revolt. When Absalom declared himself king in Hebron, Ahithophel joined him, providing strategic counsel to strengthen Absalom's claim to the throne. In 2 Samuel 15:12 , it is noted, "While Absalom was offering the sacrifices, he sent for Ahithophel the Gilonite, David’s counselor, to come from his city Giloh. And the conspiracy gained strength, and Absalom’s following kept increasing." Counsel to Absalom Ahithophel's advice to Absalom was both shrewd and ruthless. He suggested that Absalom publicly lay claim to David's concubines, an act that would solidify Absalom's claim to the throne and demonstrate a complete break with his father. This counsel was followed, as recorded in 2 Samuel 16:21-22 , "Ahithophel replied, 'Sleep with your father’s concubines, whom he left to keep the house. Then all Israel will hear that you have made yourself a stench to your father, and the hands of all who are with you will be strengthened.' So they pitched a tent for Absalom on the roof, and he slept with his father’s concubines in the sight of all Israel." Ahithophel also advised a swift and decisive attack on David, which could have potentially ended the conflict in Absalom's favor. However, this plan was thwarted by Hushai the Archite, another of David's counselors, who had infiltrated Absalom's court to undermine Ahithophel's influence. Hushai's counter-advice led Absalom to delay, giving David time to regroup and prepare for battle. Ahithophel's Demise Realizing that his counsel had been disregarded and foreseeing the likely failure of Absalom's rebellion, Ahithophel took his own life. His end is recorded in 2 Samuel 17:23 : "When Ahithophel saw that his advice had not been followed, he saddled his donkey and set out for his house in his hometown. He put his house in order and then hanged himself. So he died and was buried in his father’s tomb." Ahithophel's account serves as a poignant reminder of the complexities of human loyalty and the tragic consequences of betrayal. His life and actions are a testament to the intricate interplay of personal ambition, political intrigue, and divine providence in the biblical narrative. Nave's Topical Index 2 Samuel 15:31,34And one told David, saying, Ahithophel is among the conspirators with Absalom. And David said, O LORD, I pray you, turn the counsel of Ahithophel into foolishness. Nave's Topical Index 2 Samuel 16:15,20-23 2 Samuel 17:1-23 Library Concerning the Insurrection of Absalom against David and ... Discussion of the Subject of Permission Resources Who were the mighty men of David? | GotQuestions.orgWhat are the oracles of God? | GotQuestions.org What is the Christian view of suicide? What does the Bible say about suicide? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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