2 Samuel 17
Meaning of 2 Samuel 17
2 Samuel 17 is a passage in the Old Testament of the Bible, specifically in the book of 2 Samuel. This chapter is part of the narrative about King David’s reign.
Following the narrative, it describes the events and plans after David’s son, Absalom, has rebelled against his father. It opens with Ahithophel, one of David’s former allies who has defected to Absalom, advising Absalom to attack David immediately while he and his men are weary and weak. He suggests that with a surprise attack, they could create fear and panic, which would lead to David’s defeat.
However, Absalom seeks another opinion from Hushai, another advisor who, unknown to Absalom, is actually a spy loyal to David. Hushai advises against Ahithophel’s plan, suggesting instead to wait and gather a larger army from all of Israel to ensure supposed victory.
Absalom chooses to follow Hushai’s advice, which inadvertently saves David. Hushai secretly sends word to David about Absalom’s plans, warning him to cross the Jordan River and put some distance between himself and Absalom’s forces.
The chapter ends with Ahithophel realizing that his advice was not followed, and seeing the likely failure of Absalom’s rebellion. He goes home, puts his affairs in order, and dies by hanging himself.
2nd Samuel 17, therefore, is a chapter filled with strategy and secrecy, highlighting the tensions and conflicts during King David’s reign. As with other biblical chapters, interpretations may vary based on one’s religious viewpoints or personal beliefs.
2 Samuel 17 kjv
2 Samuel 17 is a chapter from the Old Testament, specifically from the second book of Samuel. In the King James Version (KJV), it continues the narration of Absalom’s rebellion against his father King David.
Here’s a concise summary of 2 Samuel 17:
The chapter starts when Absalom calls for advice from both Ahithophel and Hushai, who are King David’s counselors. Ahithophel advises Absalom to pursue David immediately, while he is still weak from fleeing, with a select group of soldiers. Ahithophel believes they can easily overthrow David if they act quickly and decisively.
But Hushai, who is faithful to David, gives contrary advice, suggesting that David and his men are fierce and might not be easily defeated. He recommends that Absalom gather a large army from all of Israel to ensure victory.
Absalom and the elders of Israel decide to follow Hushai’s advice. At this point, Hushai sends messengers to David warning him of Absalom’s plot against his life. David and his followers cross the Jordan River to avoid this threat.
Ahithophel is disheartened when his counsel is not heeded. He leaves the city, puts his house in order, and then hangs himself.
Meanwhile, Absalom follows Hushai’s advice and begins to assemble a large army. The chapter concludes with Absalom appointing Amasa over the army in place of Joab. The chapter ends with events portending the impending battle between David and Absalom.
The chapter is part of the larger story in 2 Samuel, telling of the complex political and personal struggles of King David’s rule. It illustrates the consequences of disloyalty, political intrigue, and the wise tactic of David (through Hushai) that saves his life.
2 Samuel 17 nkjv
2 Samuel 17 in the New King James Version (NKJV) continues the narrative of the rebellion of Absalom, King David’s son, against his father’s rule.
In the beginning of this chapter (verses 1-14), Ahithophel, Absalom’s counselor, advises Absalom to pursue David with an army while David is weary and weak. Ahithophel suggests that he should strike David only and bring all the people back. Absalom thinks this advice is good but decides to also consult Hushai, David’s friend who is actually loyal to David and is pretending to serve Absalom to thwart any plans against David. Hushai suggests the opposite, advising Absalom to wait until he has gathered a larger army to ensure a sure victory. Absalom finds Hushai’s advice more compelling, a decision the text attributes to the LORD’s intention to bring disaster on Absalom.
Verses 15-23 describe Hushai sending word to David via two individuals, Jonathan and Ahimaaz, about Absalom’s plans. They warn David not to spend the night at the plains but to cross over the Jordan River to escape Absalom. They are seen but manage to hide and deliver the news to David, who then crosses the Jordan. Meanwhile, when Ahithophel sees that his advice has not been followed, he goes home, puts his affairs in order, and hangs himself.
In the last part of the chapter (verses 24-29), David goes to Mahanaim and Absalom crosses the Jordan with his men. Despite his dire situation, David still receives supplies and support from his allies in the region, showing his remaining influence and the loyalty of his followers. The chapter ends on this note, setting up for the ensuing conflict in the following chapter.
2 Samuel 17 niv
2 Samuel 17 is a chapter in the Bible that describes a portion of the conflict between King David and his son Absalom who had rebelled against him.
At the start of this chapter, we see Absalom seeking counsel from Ahithophel and Hushai. Ahithophel encouraged Absalom to pursue David immediately with 12,000 men. He felt David was weak and they could easily strike and put an end to the rebellion.
However, Absalom also asked Hushai for his advice. Hushai, who was actually loyal to David, warned against Ahithophel’s plan. He argued that David and his men were experienced warriors and would not be easily defeated. Instead, Hushai advised gathering a larger force from all Israel, which would surely overwhelm David and his men.
Absalom agreed with Hushai’s plan, which is actually God’s doing in order to bring disaster on Absalom as Hushai is secretly loyal to David and aims to thwart Ahithophel’s sound advice. Upon hearing that his advice was not taken, Ahithophel left the city, put his affairs in order, and hanged himself.
Meanwhile, Hushai sends word to David about Absalom’s plan, advising him to cross the Jordan river to put distance between them.
David and his people did just that, moving to a place called Mahanaim. They were assisted and supplied by several people: Shobi, Makir, and Barzillai provided bedding, bowls, cooking pots, wheat, barley, flour, roasted grain, beans, lentils, honey, curds, sheep, and cheese. The chapter ends with their care for David and his people.
This chapter mostly portrays the use of wisdom, loyalty, and strategic advice in times of conflict and how it leads to the fulfillment of God’s plans.
What is 2 Samuel 17 all about?
2 Samuel 17 is a part of the Old Testament in the Holy Bible. This chapter continues the narrative of Absalom’s rebellion against his father, King David.
The chapter begins with Ahithophel, a counselor, advising Absalom to pursue David immediately and kill only him to demoralize his followers and end the rebellion quickly and with minimal bloodshed. Ahithophel’s advice was considered as if one had consulted the word of God at that time.
However, for some reason, Absalom decides to seek the counsel of another advisor, Hushai, who was actually a spy for David. Hushai advises the opposite, recommending that Absalom not rush into battle, but instead, gather the whole of Israel and lead them himself, in a grand and comprehensive approach. Hushai’s motive was to buy time for David to regroup and bolster his forces against Absalom.
Absalom and the elders of Israel prefer Hushai’s advice over Ahithophel’s. After this, Hushai informs the priests, Zadok and Abiathar, of the plans. The priests’ sons, Ahimaaz and Jonathan, carry the message to David, warning him of Absalom’s large-scale attack.
Upon hearing that his advice was not taken, Ahithophel, despondent, returns home, puts his affairs in order and hangs himself.
The chapter concludes with Absalom crossing the Jordan River with his men, and the chapter introduces Amasa, newly appointed commander of Absalom’s army.
In this chapter, we see notions of military strategy, loyalty, deceit, despair, and the effects of pride and ambition.
What does 2 Samuel 17 teaches?
2 Samuel 17 is part of the Old Testament in the Bible and continues the story of King David’s conflict and estrangement with his son, Absalom.
Here’s a brief summary of its teachings:
1. Wisdom in leadership – The chapter opens with Absalom seeking counsel from two advisors, Ahithophel and Hushai— who give conflicting advice. Ahithophel’s counsel is intelligent but deadly, pursuing David immediately and killing only him to reconcile the nation. Hushai’s counsel is slower, more cautious, and designed to protect David. Absalom chooses Hushai’s advice, demonstrating the importance of wisdom in leadership decisions
2. God’s sovereignty over human plans – Ahithophel’s good advice was not heeded, which is described in the scripture as part of God’s plan. Even the decisions which from a human perspective might seem unreasonable can be guided by God’s greater purpose.
3. Loyalty and faithfulness – Hushai, Zadok, and Abiathar display their loyalty to David by risking their lives to send him information about Absalom’s plans. This chapter exemplifies the value of loyalty even in difficult circumstances.
4. The outcome of wicked plans – Ahithophel ends his life by his own hands after his advice was not taken, showing the tragic end that can come from aligning against God’s anointed king.
5. Protection of Divine – Despite all the odds, David is kept safe from Absalom’s plans, which further acknowledges the Hand of God in protecting David.
In a larger spiritual context, the teachings can be seen to reflect the importance of wise leadership, loyalty, understanding God’s larger goals, and the consequences of rebelling against God’s anointed.
A Sermon on 2 Samuel 17
2 Samuel 17 falls under the second book of Samuel in the Old Testament of the Bible. It presents a story of power, betrayal and political intrigue, centered on the lives of King David and his son Absalom.
In this chapter, Absalom, who has staged a rebellion against his father King David, seeks counsel from two advisors – Ahithophel and Hushai. Ahithophel advises Absalom to pursue David immediately, but Hushai (a secret supporter of David sent to confuse Absalom) suggests a different plan, building a massive army first before attacking David. Absalom accepts Hushai’s counsel.
Hushai quickly sends word to David about Absalom’s plan, allowing David and his troops to make necessary preparations for the upcoming battle. Ahithophel, realizing that his counsel was rejected and his life might be at risk, commits suicide.
The lessons often drawn from this chapter are about God’s divine guidance and protection, loyalty, and the consequences of deceit. David’s trust in God is evident as God influences Absalom’s choice. Hushai, in his loyalty to David, serves as God’s instrument in delivering David from danger. Ahithophel’s suicide shows the desperation and hopelessness of aligning against God’s anointed.
So, if a pastor were giving a sermon based on this text, they may emphasize God’s provision, sovereignty and ultimate control over circumstances, even when things seem most desperate. They might also discuss the importance of loyalty and godly wisdom, and the consequences of moving away from God’s path. This chapter highlights the impact of decisions we make and the futility of trying to overthrow God’s plans.
Please note that sermons can vary greatly based on the denomination, theological perspective and the particular message the pastor wants to underline.
Key people in 2 Samuel 17
1. Ahithophel: He was King David’s counselor who switched his allegiance to Absalom when Absalom rebelled against his father. Ahithophel advised Absalom to sleep with his father’s concubines, and then to pursue and kill David which reflects his vindictive personality. However, when his counsel was not followed, he hanged himself.
2. Absalom: Absalom was King David’s son who rebelled against his father to seize his throne. He is a pivotal figure in 2 Samuel 17 as he rejects Ahithophel’s counsel to pursue David immediately and, instead, heeds the advice of Hushai.
3. Hushai: Hushai is described as David’s friend. He was sent by David to undermine the counsel of Ahithophel. David sent Hushai back to Jerusalem to serve Absalom and to counter the counsel of Ahithophel with bad advice.
4. David: David was the king of Israel who was betrayed by his son Absalom. While David is not active in this chapter, his influence is felt as he used Hushai to save him from Absalom’s rebellion and the counsel of Ahithophel. David’s life is under threat during this chapter.
5. Zadok and Abiathar: They were priests who acted as messengers for David. They used a female servant and later their sons to pass information to David.
6. Ziba and Jonathan: Sons of the priests Zadok (Jonathan) and Abiathar (Ahimaaz), they are crucial in this chapter as they were the ones risking their lives to carry Hushai’s message to David.
7. An unnamed woman from Bahurim: She is credited with saving the lives of Jonathan and Ahimaaz by hiding them in a well when Absalom’s men pursued them.
Real world examples on 2 Samuel 17
2 Samuel 17 is a chapter in the Bible that narrates part of the story of David and his son Absalom. Here are some real-world examples or applications based on the themes and lessons from the chapter.
1. **Seeking Wise Counsel**: In 2 Samuel 17, Hushai, David’s friend, is able to overturn the counsel of Ahithophel, Absalom’s advisor, by offering a more appealing strategy. He does this to buy time for David to escape and gather forces. It teaches us the importance of seeking wise counsel in times of decision-making. In the real world, such wise counsel may be offered by family, friends, mentors, or professionals.
2. **Betrayal and Consequences**: Absalom’s rebellion against his own father David is a clear example of betrayal. Such actions can also be seen in real-world scenarios, where people betray each other over money, power, or personal gains. But, as in the case of Absalom, the consequences often lead to negative outcomes.
3. **Effects of Bad Decisions**: Ahithophel’s decision to side with Absalom leads to devastation when Hushai’s advice is taken over his own. Ahithophel eventually takes his own life over the despair of seeing his plans not working out. This is a stark reminder of the effects our decisions can have on our lives. It’s crucial to consider the moral aspects and long-term consequences of our actions.
4. **Loyalty and Faithfulness**: Hushai remains loyal to David throughout Absalom’s plot. He risks his life to ensure David is given time to escape. In real life, this can be reflected in being loyal to your loved ones, staying faithful to your partners, and sacrificing for your team to ensure their success.
Of course, interpretation and application of Biblical passages can vary greatly depending on one’s own perspectives and beliefs.
Brief Explanation of 2 Samuel 17
2 Samuel 17 recounts another episode in the ongoing struggle between King David and his rebellious son Absalom. Here, Absalom seeks advice from two counsel, Ahithophel and Hushai. Ahithophel, Absalom’s primary counselor, advises him to pursue David with a small selected group of men immediately, while he is weary. This advice pleases Absalom and his officers.
However, Absalom also asks Hushai, David’s loyal friend, for his counsel. Hushai, aiming to undermine Absalom and to protect David, advises against Ahithophel’s plan. Instead, he suggests gathering a large army from all over Israel before attacking David, with the rationale that David and his men are mighty warriors and shouldn’t be underestimated. Absalom agrees to Hushai’s advice, which gives David time to regroup and strengthens his position.
Meanwhile, Hushai sends word to David about Absalom’s plans, warning him to cross over Jordan to avoid attack. David and all his people pass over Jordan, while Absalom and his men prepare for the battle.
Ahithophel, realising that his counsel was not followed and foreseeing the inevitable defeat of Absalom’s rebellion, puts his affairs in order and hangs himself.
The chapter concludes with Absalom crossing the Jordan with all the men of Israel, setting up his camp, and appointing Amasa over the army in place of Joab.
Frequently asked questions for 2 Samuel 17
Sure, here are some frequently asked questions about 2 Samuel 17:
1. Who are the main characters in this chapter?
Answer: The main characters in this chapter are David, Absalom, Hushai, Ahithophel, and an unnamed woman of Bahurim.
2. What is the significance of Hushai’s role in 2 Samuel 17?
Answer: Hushai is David’s friend and advisor who manages to dissuade Absalom from following Ahithophel’s advice, which would have led to the immediate attack and probable capture of David. This gives David more time to prepare his forces for the battle against Absalom.
3. Can you explain the significance of Ahithophel’s advice and his subsequent suicide?
Answer: Ahithophel’s advice to Absalom to pursue David immediately was rejected in favor of Hushai’s advice. Ahithophel probably realized that his counsel being ignored was a sign of Absalom’s doom and perhaps also a sign that God was not in Absalom’s cause. Hence, he hanged himself.
4. What was Hushai’s advice to Absalom in this chapter?
Answer: Hushai advises Absalom to wait and gather all Israel from Dan to Beersheba. He suggests a large-scale attack which will crush David and his men, rather than a swift surprise attack as proposed by Ahithophel.
5. How does this chapter contribute to the overall plot of 2 Samuel?
Answer: This chapter advances the plot of 2 Samuel by guiding the events toward a military showdown between David’s forces and those of his son Absalom. The fact that Hushai’s advice was taken over that of Ahithophel leads to Absalom’s defeat and death in the chapters that follow.
6. Who were the informants that passed Hushai’s message to David?
Answer: Jonathan and Ahimaaz were the informants who passed on Hushai’s words to David. However, they were seen and had to hide in a well to avoid capture, and a woman covered the well to hide them.
7. What does the actions of the unnamed woman in Bahurim signify?
Answer: The woman’s actions are a heroic act that demonstrates the loyalty of some individuals to David. She protects Jonathan and Ahimaaz from Absalom’s forces by hiding them in a well, ensuring that Hushai’s message could be delivered to David.
Remember that some of these questions and answers could vary based on different interpretations of the biblical text.
Possible References for 2 Samuel 17
2 Samuel 17 is a chapter in the Old Testament of the Bible, which is part of the historical books. The book of 2 Samuel primarily records the reign of King David.
In Chapter 17, several notable events occur.
1. Ahithophel’s advice to Absalom: Ahithophel, who had been a counselor for David but had defected to Absalom, advises Absalom to sleep with his father’s concubines publicly, to fully break with his father.
2. Hushai’s advice to Absalom: Hushai, a loyal agent of David, who stayed in Jerusalem to thwart Absalom’s plans, is able to sway Absalom to not follow Ahithophel’s advice. Instead, Hushai advises a full-scale military action, giving David more time to prepare his defenses.
3. Ahithophel’s suicide: Ahithophel, distressed that his advice was not taken, goes home puts his affairs in order and hangs himself.
4. David’s escape: Thanks to the successful efforts of Hushai, David and his men escape across the Jordan River.
5. Absalom’s death (provided ahead in 2 Samuel 18): Consequence of Hushai’s advice, not covered in chapter 17 but provided to connect the importance of decisions made in this chapter.
These references illustrate the sedition and turmoil that took place under King David’s reign, as well as the often-deadly politics of the time. They tell a story of advice, loyalty, betrayal, and the consequences of certain actions. These events show the continuing saga of David, his troubled reign, and the consequences of his actions.
Conclusion on 2 Samuel 17
2 Samuel 17 tells of Absalom’s rebellion against his father, King David, and the strategies of Ahithophel and Hushai, both advisers, regarding this situation. Ahithophel, who is on Absalom’s side, suggests attacking David immediately, while Hushai, who secretly supports David, suggests waiting to gather a larger army. Under God’s control, Absalom follows Hushai’s advice, which allows David to escape and prepare.
In the final part of 2 Samuel 17, Ahithophel, once he realizes his advice was rejected and sensing the impending failure of Absalom’s rebellion, kills himself. Meanwhile, David travels, and his supporters supply him generously to help him regain his throne.
The conclusion of 2 Samuel 17 tells of Ahithophel’s suicide, Absalom’s misguided strategy, and David’s continued loyalty from his supporters, illustrating themes of loyalty, strategy, prophecy, and the tragic end for those who strictly followed their own plans without considering God’s will. Overall, it’s a turning point where David’s fortunes begin to improve while Absalom’s rebellion starts to falter, mainly due to God’s intervention.