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 Absalom during the latter's rebellion. His account is a poignant example of wisdom, betrayal, and ultimately, despair leading to suicide.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, and he held a position of significant influence within the royal court. The turning point in Ahithophel's life came during Absalom's rebellion against his father, King David. Ahithophel chose to side with Absalom, betraying David. This decision may have been influenced by personal grievances, as some scholars suggest a familial connection between Ahithophel and Bathsheba, David's wife, which could have fueled his animosity towards the king. During Absalom's revolt, Ahithophel's counsel was initially sought and followed. He advised Absalom to publicly assert his claim to the throne by taking David's concubines, a move intended to strengthen Absalom's position and demoralize David (2 Samuel 16:21-22). This advice was followed, demonstrating Ahithophel's continued influence. However, Ahithophel's subsequent counsel was rejected, marking the beginning of his downfall. He advised Absalom to pursue David immediately with a select group of men, aiming to strike while David was weary and vulnerable (2 Samuel 17:1-3). Instead, Absalom chose to follow the advice of Hushai, David's loyal friend, who had infiltrated Absalom's court to undermine Ahithophel's influence. Hushai's counsel was to gather all Israel for a more formidable attack, which appealed to Absalom's vanity and led to the rejection of Ahithophel's plan (2 Samuel 17:5-14). Realizing that his advice had been disregarded and foreseeing the inevitable failure of Absalom's rebellion, Ahithophel's response was one of despair. He returned to his hometown of Giloh, set his affairs in order, and took his own life by hanging himself (2 Samuel 17:23). This act of suicide was a tragic end for a man once esteemed for his wisdom and insight. Ahithophel's suicide is a somber reminder of the consequences of betrayal and the despair that can follow when one's plans and ambitions are thwarted. His account serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of harboring bitterness and the ultimate futility of opposing God's anointed. Nave's Topical Index 2 Samuel 17:1-14,23Moreover Ahithophel said to Absalom, Let me now choose out twelve thousand men, and I will arise and pursue after David this night: Nave's Topical Index Library Sixth Commandment Judas Iscariot The End of Self-Will David and Nathan The Betrayal The Influence of the King James Version on English Literature 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 Subtopics Ahithophel: One of David's Counsellors Ahithophel: Probably Referred to by David In Related Terms |
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