Topical Encyclopedia Ahithophel is a significant yet enigmatic figure in the Old Testament, known primarily for his role as a counselor to King David and later to Absalom during the latter's rebellion. His account is primarily found in the books of 2 Samuel, where his wisdom and eventual betrayal are highlighted.Background and Role Ahithophel hailed from Giloh, a town in the hill country of Judah, and was renowned for his counsel, which was esteemed as if one inquired of the word of God (2 Samuel 16:23). His advice was highly valued by King David, indicating a position of considerable influence and trust within the royal court. Betrayal and Alignment with Absalom The most notable aspect of Ahithophel's account is his betrayal of King David during Absalom's rebellion. Despite his previous loyalty, Ahithophel chose to side with Absalom, David's son, who sought to usurp the throne. This decision is often seen as a pivotal moment in the rebellion, as Ahithophel's counsel was considered crucial for Absalom's success. In 2 Samuel 15:12 , it is recorded, "While Absalom was offering sacrifices, he sent for Ahithophel the Gilonite, David’s counselor, to come from his city of Giloh. And the conspiracy gained strength, and Absalom’s following kept increasing." Ahithophel's defection was a significant blow to David, both strategically and personally. David's Response and Possible Reference David's response to Ahithophel's betrayal is captured in his prayer recorded in 2 Samuel 15:31 : "Now someone told David, 'Ahithophel is among the conspirators with Absalom.' So David prayed, 'O LORD, please turn the counsel of Ahithophel into foolishness.'" This prayer reflects David's reliance on divine intervention to counteract the wisdom of Ahithophel. Some scholars and theologians suggest that David may have referred to Ahithophel in Psalm 41:9 , where he laments, "Even my close friend whom I trusted, the one who shared my bread, has lifted up his heel against me." This verse is often interpreted as a prophetic foreshadowing of Judas Iscariot's betrayal of Jesus, but it may also reflect David's personal experience with Ahithophel's treachery. Ahithophel's Demise Ahithophel's account concludes with his tragic end. When his counsel was not followed by Absalom, who instead heeded the advice of Hushai, David's loyal friend, Ahithophel foresaw the failure of the rebellion. In 2 Samuel 17:23 , it is recorded, "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 suicide is a somber testament to his despair and the gravity of his betrayal. His life and actions serve as a complex narrative of wisdom, loyalty, and the consequences of turning against God's anointed king. Nave's Topical Index Psalm 55:12-14For it was not an enemy that reproached me; then I could have borne it: neither was it he that hated me that did magnify himself against me; then I would have hid myself from him: Nave's Topical Index Library Chastisements. The Influence of the King James Version on English Literature Resources What is the Christian view of suicide? What does the Bible say about suicide? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Ahimaaz in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible say about backstabbing? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
    |