Topical Encyclopedia The friendship between David and Hushai is a notable example of loyalty and strategic alliance in the Bible. Hushai the Archite is introduced as a friend and advisor to King David during a tumultuous period in David's reign. This relationship is particularly highlighted during the rebellion of Absalom, David's son, as recorded in the books of 2 Samuel.Background and Context Hushai is described as "David's friend" (2 Samuel 15:37), a title that signifies not only personal affection but also a position of trust and counsel. The narrative of their friendship unfolds during Absalom's conspiracy to usurp the throne from his father, King David. As Absalom's rebellion gains momentum, David is forced to flee Jerusalem to avoid confrontation and potential bloodshed. Hushai's Loyalty and Strategy When David flees Jerusalem, Hushai meets him with torn clothes and dust on his head, a sign of mourning and solidarity (2 Samuel 15:32). David, recognizing Hushai's loyalty, sends him back to Jerusalem with a strategic purpose: to counteract the counsel of Ahithophel, Absalom's advisor, whose advice was highly esteemed and often likened to consulting the word of God (2 Samuel 16:23). David instructs Hushai to present himself to Absalom as a supporter, thereby infiltrating Absalom's inner circle. Hushai's mission is to frustrate Ahithophel's counsel and provide intelligence to David through the priests Zadok and Abiathar and their sons (2 Samuel 15:34-36). Hushai's Role in Absalom's Court Upon returning to Jerusalem, Hushai approaches Absalom and declares his loyalty, saying, "Long live the king! Long live the king!" (2 Samuel 16:16). Absalom questions Hushai's allegiance, but Hushai cleverly asserts that he serves the one chosen by the LORD, the people, and all the men of Israel (2 Samuel 16:18). Hushai's most significant contribution comes when Absalom seeks counsel on how to pursue David. Ahithophel advises a swift attack, which could have led to David's defeat. However, Hushai offers an alternative plan, suggesting that Absalom gather all Israel for a massive assault, thus buying David time to regroup and prepare (2 Samuel 17:1-13). Hushai's counsel is accepted, as the LORD had ordained to thwart Ahithophel's good advice to bring disaster upon Absalom (2 Samuel 17:14). The Outcome Hushai's intervention proves crucial. His advice allows David to escape and organize his forces, ultimately leading to Absalom's defeat. Ahithophel, realizing his counsel has been disregarded and foreseeing the impending failure of Absalom's rebellion, takes his own life (2 Samuel 17:23). Significance The friendship between David and Hushai exemplifies the themes of loyalty, wisdom, and divine providence. Hushai's willingness to risk his life for David underscores the depth of their friendship and the importance of faithful allies in times of crisis. Through Hushai's actions, God's sovereignty is evident, as He uses human relationships and decisions to fulfill His purposes for David and the kingdom of Israel. Nave's Topical Index 2 Samuel 15:32-37And it came to pass, that when David was come to the top of the mount, where he worshipped God, behold, Hushai the Archite came to meet him with his coat rent, and earth on his head: Nave's Topical Index 2 Samuel 16:1 2 Samuel 17:1-22 Library The Antiquities of the Jews Aron, Brother of Moses, 486, 487. A Treatise of the Fear of God; Resources What is friendship evangelism? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is true friendship according to the Bible? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible say about friends? | GotQuestions.org Friendship: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Friendship: Daniel and his Three Companions Friendship: David and Abiathar Friendship: David and Jonathan Friendship: General Scriptures Concerning Friendship: Job and his Three "Friends" Friendship: Luke and Theophilus Friendship: Mary, Martha, and Lazarus, With Jesus Friendship: Paul and his Nephew Friendship: Paul, Priscilla, and Aquila Friendship: Paul, Timothy, and Epaphroditus Friendship: The Marys, and Joseph of Arimathaea, for Jesus Related Terms |
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