Cushi is a biblical figure mentioned in the context of King David's reign, specifically during the tumultuous period of Absalom's rebellion. His role is primarily as a messenger, delivering critical news to King David regarding the outcome of the battle between David's forces and those of his rebellious son, Absalom.

Biblical Account

The account of Cushi is found in 2 Samuel 18. After the battle in the forest of Ephraim, where Absalom's forces were defeated, Joab, the commander of David's army, needed to send news of the victory back to the king. Joab chose Cushi for this task, entrusting him with the sensitive message of both the victory and the death of Absalom.

In 2 Samuel 18:21 , Joab instructs Cushi: "Then Joab said to the Cushite, 'Go, tell the king what you have seen.' So the Cushite bowed to Joab and ran." This indicates Cushi's role as a trusted messenger, capable of delivering important news with the necessary discretion and respect.

The Race to Deliver News

Interestingly, another messenger, Ahimaaz the son of Zadok, also wished to carry the news to David. Despite Joab's initial reluctance, Ahimaaz was allowed to run after Cushi. Ahimaaz, being swifter, reached David first but hesitated to deliver the full message regarding Absalom's fate. Instead, he reported only the victory, leaving the more delicate news for Cushi.

When Cushi arrived, he delivered the complete message to David. In 2 Samuel 18:31-32 , it is recorded: "Then the Cushite arrived and said, 'May my lord the king hear the good news: The LORD has avenged you today against all who rose up against you.' The king asked the Cushite, 'Is the young man Absalom all right?' And the Cushite replied, 'May the enemies of my lord the king and all who rise up against you to harm you be like that young man.'"

Significance

Cushi's role is significant in the narrative for several reasons. Firstly, he is the bearer of both good and tragic news, highlighting the dual nature of victory and loss in the context of civil strife. His delivery of the message underscores the importance of truthfulness and duty, even when the news is difficult to bear.

Secondly, Cushi's interaction with David reveals the king's deep personal conflict. While David's forces were victorious, the death of Absalom, his son, brought profound grief. Cushi's message, therefore, serves as a catalyst for David's mourning, as seen in 2 Samuel 19:1 : "Then it was reported to Joab, 'The king is weeping and mourning over Absalom.'"

Cultural and Historical Context

The name "Cushi" suggests a connection to Cush, a region often associated with the area south of Egypt, possibly modern-day Sudan or Ethiopia. This implies that Cushi may have been of African descent, highlighting the diverse composition of David's army and court. His role as a messenger indicates a position of trust and reliability, essential qualities for someone tasked with conveying sensitive information.

In the broader biblical narrative, Cushi's account illustrates themes of loyalty, the complexity of human emotions in leadership, and the harsh realities of political and familial conflict. His presence in the text, though brief, contributes to the rich tapestry of characters who played pivotal roles in the history of Israel during the reign of King David.2 Samuel 18:21-32
Then said Joab to Cushi, Go tell the king what you have seen. And Cushi bowed himself to Joab, and ran.
Nave's Topical Index

How, when Absalom was Beaten, He was Caught in a Tree by his Hair ...
... did, for nobody knew it but himself, and he came before Cushi. ... So David was very
glad, and said he was a messenger of good tidings, and brought him some ...
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