The term "Gilonite" refers to an inhabitant of the ancient city of Giloh, a town in the hill country of Judah. The most notable biblical figure associated with this designation is Ahithophel, a counselor to King David. The Gilonite is mentioned in the context of Ahithophel's lineage and his role in the narrative of King David's reign.

Ahithophel the Gilonite

Ahithophel is introduced in the Bible as a trusted advisor to King David. His wisdom and counsel were highly esteemed, as noted in 2 Samuel 16:23 : "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."

Ahithophel's designation as "the Gilonite" is mentioned in 2 Samuel 15:12 : "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."

Role in Absalom's Rebellion

Ahithophel's most significant biblical role occurs during the rebellion of Absalom, David's son. Despite his previous loyalty to David, Ahithophel chose to support Absalom in his attempt to usurp the throne. This decision is a pivotal moment in the narrative, as Ahithophel's counsel was considered invaluable. His defection is seen as a severe blow to David's reign.

In 2 Samuel 17:1-4 , Ahithophel advises Absalom to pursue David immediately, suggesting a strategy that could have led to David's defeat. However, Absalom ultimately rejects this counsel in favor of Hushai's advice, which was secretly intended to aid David. This rejection leads to Ahithophel's downfall.

Ahithophel's Demise

The Bible records Ahithophel's tragic end following the rejection of his counsel. In 2 Samuel 17:23 , it states: "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 conclusion to his account, reflecting the gravity of his betrayal and the personal devastation he experienced when his counsel was disregarded.

Legacy and Interpretation

Ahithophel the Gilonite is often remembered for his wisdom and the dramatic shift in his loyalty from David to Absalom. His account serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of betrayal and the fleeting nature of political power. The narrative of Ahithophel underscores themes of loyalty, wisdom, and the divine providence that ultimately guided the events of David's reign.

The Gilonite's account is a reminder of the complexities of human character and the profound impact of personal choices within the biblical narrative.The Gilonite

native of Giloh. (2 Samuel 15:12; 23:34)

1526. Giloni -- an inhabitant of Giloh
... an inhabitant of Giloh. Transliteration: Giloni Phonetic Spelling: (ghee-lo-nee')
Short Definition: Gilonite. ... of Giloh NASB Word Usage Gilonite (2). Gilonite. ...
/hebrew/1526.htm - 6k

Pardoned Sin Punished
... 12. And Absalom sent for Ahithophel the Gilonite, David's counsellor, from
his city, even from Giloh, while he offered sacrifices. ...
/.../maclaren/expositions of holy scripture f/pardoned sin punished.htm

Concerning the Insurrection of Absalom against David and ...
... 2. Among them came Ahithophel the Gilonite, a counsellor of David's, and two hundred
men out of Jerusalem itself, who knew not his intentions, but were sent ...
/.../josephus/the antiquities of the jews/chapter 9 concerning the insurrection.htm

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